#China #Kazakhstan #Astana #Central Asia

Anticipating the Future: Insights from the Kazakh Ambassador

The second China-Central Asia Summit is on the horizon, with significant expectations surrounding the discussions that will take place. Following the successful first summit in Xi'an in May 2023, the upcoming summit is set to occur in Astana and promises to deepen ties between China and Central Asian nations. In an exclusive interview with Global Times, Shakhrat Nuryshev, Kazakhstan's Ambassador to China, elaborated on the expected outcomes of this key diplomatic event.

A New Era of Cooperation

Since the inaugural summit, relationships among Central Asian nations and China have evolved significantly. The ambassador believes the first summit initiated a new model of collaboration, establishing strong foundations for further cooperation. Nuryshev expressed that the forthcoming summit seeks to sustain this momentum, emphasizing Kazakhstan's commitment to enhancing practical cooperation across various sectors, such as transportation, logistics, and digital transformation.

Kazakhstan aims to carry forward initiatives launched in the first summit, focusing on specific cooperation mechanisms. The ambassador pointed out the importance of educational, cultural, and youth exchanges as vital components of this collaboration, which will ensure a holistic approach to regional development.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Evaluation of the past decade reveals substantial growth in China-Kazakhstan relations. Previously serving as ambassador, Nuryshev highlighted the significant transformations taking place within both countries. China has modernized its industries and embraced digitalization and green technologies. This evolution has provided Kazakhstan with diverse opportunities for strategic partnerships.

Kazakhstan has consistently been a significant partner for China in the region, particularly highlighted by its participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The ambassador noted, “Kazakhstan is China's largest trading partner in Central Asia, with bilateral trade reaching a record of $43.8 billion in 2024.” Emphasizing the strong bonds between the two nations, he expressed optimism about doubling trade figures in the near future, driven by synchronized efforts under the BRI and Kazakhstan's economic policies.

The Role of Infrastructure and Connectivity

One of the hallmarks of the Kazakhstan-China partnership is the emphasis on infrastructure and connectivity, which Nuryshev described as pivotal for enhancing trade and collaboration. From the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route to the various ongoing infrastructure projects, Kazakhstan serves as a critical hub for land connectivity between China and Europe. The ambassador emphasized, “Over 80 percent of land-based container transport passes through our country.” This capacity creates opportunities not only for trade but also for cultural exchanges that benefit both nations.

Embracing Multilateralism

Beyond bilateral cooperation, Kazakhstan and China actively engage in various multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Nuryshev emphasized shared values between the two countries on international issues, advocating for a just and balanced world order that promotes mutual respect and benefits.

The ambassador expressed that recent years have witnessed significant progress in cultural and educational exchanges between Kazakhstan and China. With numerous Kazakh students studying in China and the establishment of cultural centers in both countries, these exchanges will only grow stronger, fostering deeper understanding and long-term cooperation.

Conclusion

Nuryshev's insights paint a picture of a future rich in potential for Kazakhstan-China relations, fueled by collective efforts to achieve practical outcomes from the forthcoming summit. As both countries navigate complex geopolitical trends, their partnership serves as a beacon of regional stability and cooperation. The second China-Central Asia Summit stands to crystallize this vision, paving the way toward a unified cooperative ecosystem across Eurasia.