In a recent article published in Kazakh media, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the promising future of China-Kazakhstan bilateral cooperation. Speaking from Beijing before departing for the 24th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Astana, Xi outlined a vision of enhanced collaboration between the two nations.
Reflecting on the origins of the Silk Road Economic Belt, Xi reminisced about proposing the initiative in Kazakhstan 11 years ago. He praised the warm reception from various sectors in Kazakhstan, marking a significant chapter in Belt and Road cooperation. According to Xi, China-Kazakhstan relations have since entered a new and dynamic phase.
Highlighting economic achievements, Xi noted that last year marked a record high in two-way trade at $41 billion, with China becoming Kazakhstan's largest trading partner and top export destination. He emphasized the untapped potential in new energy and transportation infrastructure, advocating for accelerated development in these sectors.
Beyond economics, Xi stressed the importance of people-to-people and cultural exchanges. Initiatives such as a Chinese university campus in Kazakhstan, the Luban Workshop, and a center for traditional Chinese medicine have been successfully implemented, fostering deeper mutual understanding. With mutual visa-exemption arrangements facilitating 600,000 cross-border trips last year, Xi envisions even more frequent interactions between the two peoples.
Looking ahead, Xi expressed China’s commitment to promoting greater synergy between Belt and Road initiatives and Kazakhstan's economic policies. He called for expanded cooperation in traditional sectors like business, trade, industrial capacity, investment, energy, mining, and agriculture. Additionally, Xi highlighted the importance of enhancing customs efficiency and advancing the construction of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route to create a more diverse and efficient connectivity network.
Xi also underscored the role of cultural and educational collaborations in strengthening bilateral ties. He encouraged joint education programs, research projects, and closer interactions between higher education institutions and think tanks. By fostering twinning between provinces and cities and expanding cooperation in education, tourism, archaeology, arts, and media, Xi aims to deepen the cultural bonds between China and Kazakhstan.
Concluding his message, Xi affirmed China’s readiness to collaborate with Kazakhstan in addressing global challenges. He emphasized the importance of upholding an international system centered around the United Nations, advocating for true multilateralism, and opposing hegemonism and power politics. Through these efforts, Xi envisions a stable and cooperative international landscape.
Reference(s):
Xi: China, Kazakhstan will accomplish a great deal in cooperation
cgtn.com
