China Strengthens Ties with Central Asia Through Investments and Diplomacy at Kazakhstan Summit
Xi reinforces connections with Central Asian countries during Kazakhstan meeting - Deepened bonds with Central Asian nations solidified at summit held in Kazakhstan by Xi.
Kazakhstan hosted a summit attended by China's president, Xi Jinping, where he emphasized the need for stronger economic ties with Central Asian states. According to China's state-run news agency Xinhua, Xi expressed the desire to boost cooperation through increased entrepreneurship and practical measures.
The five Central Asian countries - formerly heavily dependent on Russia following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 - have been pursuing relationships with powerful nations such as China, the United States, and the European Union. China has been eager to invest in significant infrastructure projects in the region.
The region's allure extends beyond its natural resources to its strategic location between China, Russia, the Middle East, and Europe, making these nations crucial logistics hubs. Aware of their importance, the five countries have consistently presented a united front during regular summits with China and Russia to attract investors. They have also participated in meetings with the EU, Turkey, and other Western states in the "5+1" format.
While Russia remains a vital partner, relations have eased since the start of the war in Ukraine. The Kremlin downplayed concerns about China’s growing influence in Central Asia, considering China a "privileged strategic partner" and Central Asian states as "natural historical partners."
Now, China has established itself as the leading trade partner of Central Asia, surpassing both the EU and Russia. Some of China's planned investments include the construction of a railway from Uzbekistan through Kyrgyzstan to China and a highway from China to Tajikistan. These projects will improve regional connectivity and trade.
As the partnership between China and Central Asia strengthens, it not only enhances China's presence in the region but also affects the regional balance of power involving other major players such as Russia, the EU, and the USA. China's investments in infrastructure and technology have positioned it as a significant economic force in Central Asia, while Russia remains influential in security and energy sectors.
In this complicated geopolitical landscape, Central Asian countries are carefully navigating various partnerships to prevent over-reliance on any single partner. The strategic location of these nations makes them critical players in the ongoing struggle for influence among powerful countries.
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- The cooperation policy between China and Central Asian states, as emphasized by Xi Jinping at the Kazakhstan summit, involves boosting economic ties through increased entrepreneurship and practical measures, as reported by China's state-run news agency Xinhua.
- Recognizing their strategic importance, China has been investing in significant infrastructure projects in Central Asia, positioning itself as the leading trade partner of the region, surpassing both the EU and Russia, a shift that significantly influences the regional balance of power involving other major players such as Russia, the EU, and the USA.
