Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has highlighted the strength and evolution of Kazakhstan-China relations, which are deeply anchored in centuries of neighborly interaction, characterized by mutual trust, support, and understanding.
Over time, this longstanding friendship has matured into a benchmark for strategic partnership and interstate collaboration, The Caspian Post reports via China Daily.
The two countries are bound by a peaceful and cooperative 1,700-kilometer shared border. This solid foundation is consistently reinforced through frequent high-level exchanges and sustained political dialogue.
President Tokayev praised the impressive development of modern China under the guidance of President Xi Jinping, describing him as “an outstanding politician of the global scale,” and acknowledged the wide-ranging benefits and opportunities this progress brings to neighboring nations, including Kazakhstan.
As the relationship enters a new and promising phase, President Tokayev emphasized the need to reflect on the depth and resilience of this trusted partnership. In recent years, their bilateral ties have gained renewed momentum, underpinned by a shared vision and enhanced cooperation in all areas.
Despite challenges in the global economy, trade and economic relations between Kazakhstan and China continue to thrive. In 2024, bilateral trade reached a record-breaking $44 billion, confirming China’s position as Kazakhstan’s largest trading and economic partner.
Since 2005, Chinese companies have invested more than $27 billion in Kazakhstan. Currently, around 6,000 Chinese firms operate in the country, playing a crucial role in driving technological progress and industrial growth.
The historical bond between the two nations stretches back to the Silk Road era. Today, that legacy is being revitalized through new transportation and trade links. The Belt and Road Initiative, launched by President Xi Jinping in Astana in 2013, stands as a clear testament to this enduring partnership.
This modern infrastructure network has bolstered Kazakhstan’s status as a major Eurasian transit hub while showcasing China’s confidence in its economic strength.
One standout project is the rapid progress of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor - the most efficient and sustainable route for continuous cargo movement connecting China, Central Asia, and Europe.
In 2024, Kazakhstan is set to increase its transit potential along the China-Europe corridor fivefold with the opening of additional railway lines between Dostyk and Moyynty. Additionally, a new trade and logistics center was jointly launched in Xi’an last year, further improving regional connectivity.
Maritime collaboration has also advanced. A container hub developed at Kazakhstan’s Aktau port - in partnership with China’s Lianyungang port - has established a dedicated container fleet for Central Asia and the Caspian region, providing comprehensive logistics services.
Energy remains a key area of cooperation, especially through the expansion of the Kazakhstan-China oil pipeline and the modernization of refining and petrochemical facilities.
Agriculture, too, is witnessing rapid growth. In 2024, Kazakhstan’s agro-food exports to China increased by 10%. Chinese investors are actively pursuing projects in food processing, spanning products such as grain, corn, cotton, and vegetables.
The partnership extends beyond economic ties. Cultural connections remain strong. Following the success of the 2024 “Kazakh Tourism Year in China”, the current year has been designated the “Year of Chinese Tourism in Kazakhstan”. This initiative ushers in a new phase of tourism collaboration, inviting both nations to explore each other’s rich traditions, historical heritage, and natural beauty.
On the diplomatic front, Kazakhstan and China maintain active and productive engagement through the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). The SCO has grown into a key platform for multilateral cooperation across Eurasia, promoting peace, economic development, and cultural interaction. As founding members, both countries have been instrumental in advancing the organization’s wide-ranging regional agenda.
Under China’s current presidency, the SCO has intensified initiatives to enhance regional security, promote economic cohesion, and expand humanitarian and cultural ties - goals that align closely with Kazakhstan’s regional priorities.
The upcoming SCO Summit in Tianjin is expected to be a defining moment for the organization. It presents an opportunity to align on urgent global challenges and implement essential reforms. The summit will help solidify the SCO’s role as a vital source of regional stability in an increasingly unpredictable world. In such a context, the SCO’s commitment to “mutual respect and shared development” is more significant than ever.
As President Xi Jinping rightly said, China and Kazakhstan are “traveling companions on the path to modernization.” Through continued cooperation and mutual support, the two nations demonstrate how a shared vision and coordinated efforts can effectively address the pressing challenges of our time.
Standing at a historical juncture, Kazakhstan and China are poised to deepen their partnership even further. Guided by mutual respect, common goals, and a long-term vision, both countries are well-positioned to transform this relationship into lasting achievements that bring real benefits to their people and support broader regional and global prosperity.
