Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized on Tuesday that China and Kazakhstan have forged a unique and enduring comprehensive strategic partnership.
Xi made these remarks in a written statement upon arriving in Astana for an official state visit to Kazakhstan, where he will also participate in the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
Reflecting on the 32-year diplomatic relationship between China and Kazakhstan, Xi highlighted the resilience of their partnership amidst global changes and dynamics. He underscored the distinctiveness of their permanent comprehensive strategic partnership, rooted in a longstanding history of friendship and exchange.
Xi noted that over 2,000 years ago, the ancient Silk Road connected China and Kazakhstan, laying the foundation for enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
The Chinese president credited this historical bond as a testament to the solidarity and mutual benefits shared by the neighboring countries, setting a positive example of cooperation and success.
In September 2013, Xi Jinping proposed the Silk Road Economic Belt during his visit to Kazakhstan, which later evolved into the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), encompassing the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.
Xi Jinping praised the fruitful cooperation under the Belt and Road framework between China and Kazakhstan, which has strengthened economic and trade ties, fostered cultural exchanges, and facilitated effective collaboration on international issues.
He emphasized that these efforts have not only enhanced the well-being of both nations but have also contributed positively to global and regional stability.
During his visit, Xi Jinping expressed eagerness to engage in discussions with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to deepen bilateral relations, expand cooperation across various sectors, and address international and regional challenges of mutual interest. He aims to chart a new course for the continuous development of the China-Kazakhstan comprehensive strategic partnership.
Xi Jinping also looked forward to participating in the SCO summit in Astana, where he intends to collaborate with other SCO member states to advance cooperation and bolster the multilateral mechanism’s role in promoting development.
In his statement, Xi Jinping conveyed warm regards and best wishes to President Tokayev and the people of Kazakhstan on behalf of the Chinese government and its people.
Upon his arrival, President Tokayev welcomed Xi Jinping with a grand ceremony at the airport, accompanied by Kazakh children singing “Ode to the Motherland” in Chinese. Fighter jets from the Kazakh Air Force escorted Xi Jinping’s plane upon entering the country’s airspace.
Later in the evening, Xi Jinping and President Tokayev engaged in a friendly and productive dinner meeting, discussing bilateral relations and mutual concerns in a warm and cordial atmosphere.
