A vibrant cultural exchange event between China and Central Asian nations lit up Astana on Monday, bringing together over 150 guests from the realms of politics, economics, culture, media, and education. The 2025 China-Central Asia people-to-people exchange event, co-hosted by China Media Group (CMG) and the TV and Radio Complex of the President of Kazakhstan, marked a significant step in strengthening ties among the younger generations of these regions.
Held at the Kazakhstan Presidential Center, the gathering saw the launch of the China-Central Asia Media Cooperation Initiative. This groundbreaking proposal aims to deepen collaboration among media organizations in joint reporting, content sharing, technological innovation, and talent development. A key highlight is the establishment of a China-Central Asia Media Cooperation Alliance, designed to amplify the voices of China and Central Asian countries and foster mutual understanding and friendship among their peoples.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev sent a congratulatory message, emphasizing the enduring principles of good neighborliness and mutual support between Kazakhstan and China. He noted that the bilateral partnership has reached a strategic level, with culture serving as a vital bridge connecting nations. President Tokayev expressed confidence that the event would lead to productive discussions on fundamental values, culture, and information security, further strengthening interstate relations.
Shen Haixiong, vice minister of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and president of CMG, attended the event. He highlighted CMG’s role in promoting the Belt and Road Initiative and its commitment to nurturing friendly exchanges between China and Central Asia. “We have co-produced a range of high-quality programs that vividly portray the story of China-Central Asia cooperation and mutual benefit,” Shen said.
He added that CMG is eager to collaborate with Central Asian media partners to deepen exchanges across multiple sectors. “We will continue to serve as messengers of friendship, contributing wisdom and strength to the development of the China-Central Asia media partnership and the building of a community with a shared future for mankind,” Shen stated.
The event underscored the importance of youth engagement in fostering international relationships. With a focus on cultural exchange and media cooperation, the initiative aims to inspire the next generation to build stronger connections and understanding between China and Central Asian countries.
