Kazakhstan, China Chart New Course for Economic Cooperation Through 2030

Kazakhstan and China are charting a new course for economic cooperation, signing a roadmap that will guide their partnership through 2030. The agreement, reached during talks between President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Shanghai on July 16, aims to deepen collaboration across key sectors including trade, investment, artificial intelligence, and regional security.

The meeting occurred just ahead of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference, where Tokayev was scheduled to attend on July 17 at Xi's invitation. This highlights the growing importance of AI in the bilateral agenda. The leaders reaffirmed their countries' "eternal comprehensive strategic partnership."

Trade and investment ties between the two nations are robust. China stands as Kazakhstan's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade hitting a record $49 billion last year. Chinese investment in Kazakhstan has surpassed $30 billion, supporting over 8,500 Chinese-funded enterprises involved in various industries such as energy, gas processing, machinery manufacturing, and agriculture.

President Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan's commitment to strengthening this strategic partnership, noting a significant increase in political dialogue in recent years. Beyond economic ties, the countries are also fostering cultural and educational exchanges, with over one million Chinese citizens visiting Kazakhstan last year. Coordination within international bodies like the UN, SCO, and CICA further solidifies their relationship.

“

Kazakhstan remains committed to further strengthening its eternal strategic partnership with China.