A ceremony has been held in Shanghai to mark the launch of a new direct flight between Almaty and Shanghai, operated by Kazakhstan’s national carrier Air Astana.

The new route is expected to strengthen economic and trade ties between Kazakhstan and China, while also expanding investment cooperation and cultural exchange between the two countries, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

The launch ceremony was attended by Kazakhstan’s Consul General in Shanghai, Nurlan Akkoshkarov, who described the direct connection as a strategically important step for deepening bilateral relations and enhancing people-to-people contacts.

Officials noted that the timing of the launch carried symbolic significance, coinciding with the visit of Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng to Kazakhstan from April 7 to 10. The two cities established sister-city relations in June 2025, further reinforcing their growing partnership.

The event brought together representatives of Air Astana, Shanghai’s Foreign Affairs Office, government agencies, and business leaders, reflecting strong interest in expanding regional cooperation.

Beyond convenience for travelers, the new route is also expected to enhance Kazakhstan’s position as a key transit hub linking China with Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Middle East, and Europe. Another direct route between Almaty and Tashkent is also planned, signaling further expansion of regional air connectivity.