As the second China-Central Asia Summit approaches in June 2025, a Kazakh youth voice emerges as a symbol of cross-border cultural collaboration. Milla, a Tsinghua University student from Kazakhstan, emphasizes the transformative power of music and digital platforms in connecting young people across regions.
"Melodies transcend language barriers," Milla told KhabarAsia.com, noting how Chinese pop songs and viral social media content have sparked curiosity about China\u2019s culture among her peers. "Platforms like Douyin and Instagram aren\u2019t just apps \u2013 they\u2019re modern Silk Roads for ideas."
Her insights come as China and Central Asian nations deepen economic and political cooperation, with cultural exchange becoming a strategic pillar. Milla highlighted collaborative youth projects, including virtual music festivals and language exchange programs, as evidence of grassroots diplomacy in action.
Analysts suggest such people-to-people connections could complement the summit\u2019s official agenda, particularly in strengthening the Belt and Road Initiative\u2019s cultural dimensions. For the 1.3 million Kazakhs studying abroad \u2013 with China being a top destination \u2013 these exchanges represent both personal growth opportunities and bridges for international understanding.
