Kazakhstan's capital today became the centre of international attention, hosting the second 'Central Asia — China' summit with the participation of the region's heads of state and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The scale of the event and its significance for the geopolitical landscape are drawing the eyes of the international community, which views this meeting as an important alternative to Western formats of multilateral cooperation.
The summit's agenda covers a wide range of issues: from strengthening regional interaction and expanding political dialogue to deepening trade and economic ties and developing transport and transit integration. A special place in the discussions is occupied by issues of energy, innovation and sustainable development, reflecting the modern challenges and opportunities for the region.
Regional security remains one of the key priorities for summit participants. The coordination of joint efforts to counter transnational threats is becoming increasingly relevant in the changing global environment. The Chinese side has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty of the region's states, which creates a foundation for a trusting partnership.
Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping, whom Kazakh officials characterise as an outstanding contemporary statesman, arrived in Astana on an official visit. During his years of leadership, China has transformed from a developing country into a technological giant, holding leading positions in the fields of digitalisation and artificial intelligence. China's achievements in fighting poverty and in economic development have become an example for many countries around the world.
It is worth noting that China's approach to international cooperation is characterised by the absence of political conditions when discussing major economic projects. This feature of Chinese diplomacy is especially valued by regional partners, who see in it a manifestation of equal cooperation in the spirit of a strategic partnership.
The cultural and humanitarian dimension of relations between our countries, which demonstrates steady growth, merits special attention. The interest of young people in studying the Chinese language and pursuing education at Chinese universities is constantly growing. Tourism exchanges are also gaining momentum, and the agreements reached on holding cultural days in both countries promise new opportunities for mutual understanding between peoples.
During the visit, it was announced that China would provide a grant of 200 million yuan for Kazakhstan's development. In turn, the Kazakh side decided to transfer one and a half thousand saiga antelopes to the Chinese government to restore the population of this unique ancient animal in the western regions of China.
Following the summit, it is planned to sign the Astana Declaration and the Treaty on Eternal Friendship, Good-Neighbourliness and Cooperation. These documents are intended to consolidate the parties' desire to further deepen comprehensive partnership based on the principles of mutual respect, trust and shared responsibility.
It should be noted that the history of the format began back in May 2023 in the Chinese city of Xi'an, where the first 'Central Asia — China' summit was held. At that time, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined in his speech the main directions for future interaction between the Central Asian countries and China, and put forward a number of initiatives that are now finding their practical implementation.
The results of the Astana summit could become a new milestone in the development of relations between Central Asia and China, demonstrating that comprehensive cooperation brings tangible benefits to the peoples of all participating countries.