Leaders from China and Central Asian countries are set to gather for the second China-Central Asia Summit, where they will chart a new course for future cooperation.
A spokesperson from China’s Foreign Ministry announced that the summit will open up new opportunities for the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), fostering an even closer community between China and Central Asia.
“Central Asia is not only where the BRI was first proposed but also a frontrunner in high-quality cooperation,” the spokesperson stated during a press conference on Monday. All five Central Asian countries have signed BRI cooperation agreements with China, leading to a series of projects aimed at boosting development and improving people’s lives.
Trade between China and Central Asian countries reached a record high of 674.15 billion yuan (about $94 billion) recently, marking a 116 percent increase compared to 2013. Projects like the China-Kazakhstan Crude Oil Pipeline and the China-Central Asia Gas Pipeline exemplify the mutually beneficial cooperation between the regions.
Additionally, infrastructure projects such as the China-Tajikistan highway, the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan highway, and the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway have significantly enhanced regional connectivity.
The spokesperson highlighted that the focus of cooperation is expanding into digital economy and green transition. Mutual visa exemption agreements with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are facilitating easier travel, while educational initiatives like the Luban Workshops are gaining momentum.
“People-to-people and cultural exchanges are moving onto the fast lane, bringing our peoples closer,” the spokesperson added.
