Xi Arrives in Astana for China-Central Asia Summit
Astana, Kazakhstan – Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived today (Monday, June 16, 2025) in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, to attend the second China-Central Asia Summit.
Summit Details and Goals
The summit is scheduled to take place on June 17 in Astana and will bring together Chinese leader Xi Jinping and the heads of state from the five Central Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The inaugural summit was held in May 2023 in Xi’an, China.
Warm Welcome in Astana
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev personally welcomed Xi Jinping at Astana Airport. Fighter jets from the Air Force escorted Xi’s plane as soon as it entered Kazakh airspace. The welcoming ceremony also featured children in traditional attire and a military brass band.
Significance of Xi’s Visit
This visit marks Xi’s sixth trip to Kazakhstan since assuming the presidency, and his third overseas trip this year. The summit is expected to address topics aimed at deepening solidarity, mutual trust, and supporting each other on core interests between China and Central Asian countries. Discussions will also include advocating for multilateralism and upholding international trade rules.
Strengthening Economic and Strategic Partnership
This summit provides an important platform to further advance the economic cooperation and strategic partnership between China and Central Asia. Last year, the total trade volume between China and Central Asian countries reached a record high of 94.8 billion US dollars, highlighting the growing economic ties in the region.
