Kazakhstan, China Pledge Deeper Trade and Connectivity Cooperation

Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov and Chinese Premier Li Qiang met to bolster the comprehensive strategic partnership between their nations, focusing on expanding cooperation across trade, investment, transport, and agriculture. The discussions reviewed existing agreements and set priorities for future economic collaboration, as reported by the Prime Minister’s press service on June 23.

China stands as one of Kazakhstan’s most significant trade and investment partners. In 2025, bilateral trade surpassed $48 billion, while Chinese direct investment flowed into Kazakhstan amounting to $2.8 billion. Agricultural trade also saw substantial growth, increasing by 36% to over $1.9 billion.

The leaders also underscored the importance of growing transport connectivity. Kazakhstan plays a crucial role in overland cargo routes between China and Europe, with over 85% of such transit passing through its territory. Rail freight volumes between the two countries reached 35.6 million tons in 2025, an 11% year-on-year increase.

During a session on the Belt and Road Initiative, Bektenov highlighted Kazakhstan's strategic position as a vital Eurasian transport hub. He outlined key priorities including infrastructure development, the advancement of the Middle Corridor, digitalization, green growth, and the expansion of trade and investment ties. Bektenov remarked, “The implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative has clearly demonstrated one thing: when connectivity expands, opportunities multiply. Kazakhstan and China are a vivid example of this. The Silk Road has always thrived on openness, trust, and a willingness to work together.”

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The implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative has clearly demonstrated one thing: when connectivity expands, opportunities multiply. Kazakhstan and China are a vivid example of this. The Silk Road has always thrived on openness, trust, and a willingness to work together.