In a significant step towards strengthening regional ties, China and five Central Asian countries—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—officially launched the secretariat of the China-Central Asia cooperation mechanism during a ceremony in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, this Saturday.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, alongside top officials from the Central Asian nations, sent their congratulatory letters to mark the establishment. Wang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, praised the robust cooperation that has flourished over the past four years under this mechanism.
The formation of the secretariat underscores the commitment of the six countries to deepen their collaborative efforts. Wang emphasized that this move not only embodies the consensus reached by the heads of state but also signals to the international community their unwavering determination to foster development and cooperation.
Foreign ministers from the Central Asian countries expressed high hopes for the secretariat, anticipating that it will invigorate China-Central Asia relations and drive mutual benefits for their populations. Sun Weidong, China's Vice Foreign Minister, highlighted the secretariat's role in implementing the consensus from the China-Central Asia Summit, preparing for future summits, and supporting key areas of cooperation.
Wu Yingqin, the executive director of the secretariat, stated that the organization will focus on enhancing rules and regulations, fully executing summit outcomes, and pushing for new achievements in their collaborative endeavors.
With the support of all member countries, the secretariat is expected to operate smoothly and effectively, paving the way for a stronger and more prosperous China-Central Asia partnership.
Reference(s):
Secretariat of China-Central Asia mechanism launched in Xi'an
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