Page 54 - RusRPTAug24

54 I Eurasia bne August 2024
Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (right) welcomes China's Xi Jinping to Astana. / akorda.kz
China’s Xi uses SCO summit trip to further build Central Asia ties
bne IntelliNews
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Kazakhstan on July 2, at the start of a trip to Central Asia, where he will attend the 24th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit as well as bolstering bilateral ties during state visits to three countries in the region.
Due to its location, Central Asia plays a crucial role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and Beijing has been building its influence in the region for years, securing access to raw materials and transport routes.
Upon arrival in Astana, Xi was warmly received by Kazakh President Kassym- Jomart Tokayev and other senior officials. This visit is Xi's fifth trip to Kazakhstan and his second in less than two years.
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Alongside Tokayev, he spoke of the “unique permanent comprehensive strategic partnership” established by the two countries.
“I would like to confirm that China always views relations with Kazakhstan from a strategic height and with a long-term perspective, considering Kazakhstan a priority of its foreign policy in relations with neighbouring
countries and an important partner in Central Asia,” Xi said. “Our will and determination to ensure Chinese- Kazakh relations remain unshakable.”
Tokayev said the visit was “of exceptional importance”. “The People's Republic of China is a friendly neighbouring state, an important strategic partner and one of our main allies,” he said according to a statement from the presidency.
“Due to its location, Central Asia plays a crucial role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI),
and Beijing has been building its influence in the region for years, securing access to raw materials and transport routes”