President H.E.Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev commends Xi Jinping’s initiative on a “Community of Shared Future for Neighboring Countries”
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev praised the initiative of President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping to establish a “community of shared future for neighboring countries,” noting that it reflects the principles of equitable partnership, mutual benefit, and respect.
The Head of State expressed satisfaction that these principles are reflected in the Treaty of Eternal Friendship, Good-Neighborliness, and Cooperation, which is set to be signed following the summit.
Kazakhstan advocates for Central Asia to become a hub of peace, sustainable security, and productive engagement. The country remains committed to combating religious extremism, terrorism, separatism, drug trafficking, illicit arms trade, illegal migration, and human trafficking. Particular attention, he stressed, should be given to countering international cybercrime. In this regard, the President proposed establishing regular contacts between the heads of relevant government agencies.
The President also highlighted the positive momentum in cultural and humanitarian cooperation between the peoples of Central Asia and China.
The opening of joint cultural centers, the development of the creative industry, and the promotion of tourism were cited as important steps in this direction.
“We welcome the launch of the first tourist train from Xi’an to Almaty. This event, held within the framework of the Year of Chinese Tourism in Kazakhstan, serves as a vivid embodiment of the spirit of the Great Silk Road, which for centuries facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas across Eurasia,” the President stated.
President Tokayev also welcomed the establishment of sister-city relations between Almaty and Shanghai, as well as between other regions of Kazakhstan and China. Supporting China’s initiative to hold thematic years of cooperation between the PRC and Central Asia, he proposed declaring 2026 the “Year of Education and Scientific Research” to further enhance humanitarian cooperation.
In his speech, President Tokayev also emphasized the importance of developing a long-term strategy for the “Central Asia – China” format for the period 2026–2030.
In conclusion, the President noted that today’s summit reaffirmed a shared commitment to strengthening good-neighborly relations, mutually beneficial cooperation, and sustainable development across the region. He expressed confidence that the initiatives proposed would serve as a solid foundation for enduring friendship and strategic partnership. He also underscored that, through joint efforts, the “Central Asia – China” format has now been successfully institutionalized.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
