Central Asia and China Deepen Relations at Almaty Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
Strengthening Ties: Central Asia-China Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Almaty
ASTANA — The sixth meeting of foreign ministers in the Central Asia–China format took place in Almaty on April 26, 2025, highlighting key issues such as enhancing political dialogue, trade and economic cooperation, transportation connectivity, regional security challenges, and sustainable development initiatives.
Key figures at the meeting included Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Murat Nurtleu, alongside his counterparts: China’s Wang Yi, Zheenbek Kulubaev from the Kyrgyz Republic, Sirojiddin Mukhriddin from Tajikistan, Bakhtiyor Saidov from Uzbekistan, and a representative from Turkmenistan.
The discussions emphasized the importance of mutual respect and equality among Central Asian nations and China, as they explored strategies to address modern challenges collaboratively. All parties recognized the necessity for balanced approaches to foster development that benefits all stakeholders involved.
During the meeting, Nurtleu reinforced the value of the multilateral framework, indicating intentions to expand cooperation across essential sectors to promote regional stability. He remarked, “We are creating all conditions for our format to become a flagship among the mechanisms of Central Asia+. The upcoming meeting of leaders will mark a new chapter in eternal friendship and prosperity.”
The ministers unanimously agreed on the need for ongoing regular meetings to maintain constructive dialogue in light of global challenges, showcasing their commitment to prioritizing cooperative efforts.
By the conclusion of the meeting, an Information Communiqué was adopted, reaffirming a shared dedication to good-neighborliness, sustainable development, and a stronger multilateral partnership within the Central Asia-China framework.
Prior to this significant gathering, Almaty also hosted the Kazakhstan-China Strategic Dialogue on April 25, where Nurtleu and Wang Yi focused on bolstering trade and economic relations. Wang Yi expressed, “We regard Kazakhstan as a priority partner in China’s foreign policy toward neighboring countries. China firmly supports Kazakhstan’s sovereignty and its development aligned with national characteristics.”
As part of this diplomatic momentum, both nations signed a memorandum of cooperation between their foreign ministries for 2026-2028 and exchanged notes on establishing a Consulate General of Kazakhstan in Guangzhou.
In recent years, the trade relationship has flourished, with bilateral trade reaching $43.8 billion in 2024. Both countries aim to double this volume in forthcoming years, underscoring the depth of their economic partnership, which currently includes 224 projects amounting to approximately $66.4 billion.
As Central Asia and China continue to forge a path of collaboration, the recent meetings highlight a concerted effort to tackle mutual challenges and encourage sustained growth and development in the region.
