‘China’: President Xi Jinping Praises Unique China-Kazakhstan Partnership in 2024!
Overview
Chinese President Xi Jinping has highlighted the special relationship between China and Kazakhstan, calling it a “unique, permanent comprehensive strategic partnership.” Xi made these comments during his visit to Astana, Kazakhstan, where he is also attending the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
History of Friendship
- Long-Standing Ties: The bond between China and Kazakhstan dates back over 2,000 years to the ancient Silk Road, which linked the two countries and started a history of mutual exchanges and friendship.
- Continued Cooperation: This historical relationship has evolved into a modern-day partnership based on solidarity, mutual benefit, and support.
Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
- Initiative Launch: In 2013, President Xi proposed the Silk Road Economic Belt in Kazakhstan, alongside the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, which together form the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
- Successful Collaboration: The BRI has strengthened economic and trade cooperation, cultural exchanges, and international collaboration between China and Kazakhstan, benefiting both nations and contributing positively to regional and global stability.
Current Visit
- Meetings with Kazakh Leadership: During his state visit, Xi plans to meet with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to discuss the future of China-Kazakhstan relations and various international and regional issues.
- SCO Summit: Xi will also attend the SCO summit in Astana, where he will engage in discussions about the organization’s future and ways to enhance multilateral cooperation.
Welcome Ceremony
- Warm Reception: President Xi was warmly welcomed upon arrival in Astana, with Kazakh President Tokayev hosting a grand ceremony at the airport. Kazakh children sang a Chinese song, “Ode to the Motherland,” and three Kazakh Air Force fighter jets escorted Xi’s plane into the country.
- Dinner Meeting: On Tuesday evening, Xi and Tokayev shared a friendly dinner, discussing the China-Kazakhstan relationship and other topics of mutual interest.
Significance of the Partnership
- Unique and Strategic: Xi emphasized that the partnership between China and Kazakhstan is not unique but also comprehensive and permanent, with both countries benefiting from close economic, cultural, and international cooperation.
- Positive Impact: This relationship has brought about significant improvements in the well-being of both nations’ peoples and added stability and positivity to the broader region.
Looking Forward
- Future Plans: Xi expressed his eagerness to further strengthen ties with Kazakhstan and work together on new initiatives and cooperation efforts.
References:
- Xinhua News Agency – Xi Jinping’s State Visit to Kazakhstan
- Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) – 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State
- Kazinform – China-Kazakhstan Relations