Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart
Tokayev gave an extensive interview to the Xinhua news agency. The Head of
State highly praised the close and comprehensive partnership with China, noting
Kazakhstan’s ongoing interest in further strengthening bilateral relations,
including in the business sector, which is evidenced by the figures. Last year,
China invested nearly $2 billion in Kazakhstan’s economy, making it one of the
top four largest foreign investors in the country. Mutual trade has increased a
hundredfold over 30 years, exceeding $40 billion in 2023.
«Kazakhstan fully supports the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative and is ready to continue active participation in aligning our national strategies in the future. I would like to emphasize that we have ambitious plans to further deepen our multifaceted relations with China. To this end, all necessary prerequisites and conditions are being created. I believe that reaching mutual trade turnover of up to $100 billion is entirely feasible given the current strong growth in our interaction,» the Head of State stressed.
President Tokayev expressed confidence that the state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Astana will be fruitful, especially since the distinguished guest will participate in the SCO Summit. The Head of State highlighted that the Organization will start operating with a full membership of 10 countries at the upcoming summit and conveyed high hopes for the event. According to him, the outcomes of the SCO Summit should reflect fundamental principles of the «Shanghai spirit,» including mutual trust, benefit friendship, and respect for each other’s interests.
