Xi Jingping praises China-Kazakhstan relations after signing $13bn in deals

Written by journalist Danylo Aleksandrov

President of China Xi Jingping and his Kazakhstan colleague Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed more than 70 commercial agreements during the World AI Conference held in Shanghai.

Xi Jingping praised what he called “a new level” in relations between China and Kazakhstan, as more than 70 different agreements were signed. Moreover, these deals are valued at around $13bn(€11.4bn). Aside from this, Chinese leader also noted, that there is room for cooperation in the sphere of AI.

It is estimated, that trade between countries is valued at $49 billion (€42.8bn), while Kazakhstan received cumulative Chinese investment exceeding $30 billion (€26.2bn). As China is the largest trade partner of Kazakhstan, it is not surprising that almost 9000 Chinese companies operate in the country.

From his side, Tokayev assured that his country is eager to attract more Chinese investors and ensure necessary legal protection for their investments and provide them with infrastructure and workers.

One of the highlights among the signed commercial agreements is the one to build battery manufacturing plant – the first on in Central Asia – with Chinese company CATL as the main partner.

The crucial importance of Kazakhstan for China lies in its geographic position. 85% of rail freight between China and Europe in 2025 passed through Kazakhstan. Tokayev emphasized this logistical advantage. As the country is located at a major crossroad, connected to a number of other regions through ports, airports and rail, the potential looks promising.

The future partnership between Beijing and Astana will be organized by a 2027–2030 trade and economic cooperation roadmap, also signed during Shanghai World AI Conference.