In a significant diplomatic engagement, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a meeting in Shanghai during the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference. The discussion between the two leaders centered around reinforcing the strategic partnership that has long existed between China and Kazakhstan.
President Xi emphasized the importance of aligning the development strategies of both nations to foster deeper cooperation. He highlighted key areas such as expanding trade, cross-border e-commerce, and initiatives in energy, transport, and the digital economy. Furthermore, Xi called for collaboration in more specialized fields including artificial intelligence, education, healthcare, science, and culture. He also stressed the need for joint efforts on multilateral platforms like the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
President Tokayev, on his part, acknowledged China as Kazakhstan’s foremost partner in foreign policy. He expressed a strong commitment to enhancing cooperation in various sectors, particularly trade, investment, transportation, agriculture, energy, and the governance of artificial intelligence. Tokayev’s remarks underscored the mutual benefits that both countries could reap from increased collaboration.
Following their discussions, the two leaders participated in a signing ceremony for several agreements designed to bolster cooperation in trade, transport, finance, and media. These agreements are expected to lay the groundwork for expanded economic and technological partnerships between China and Kazakhstan, reflecting the shared vision of both nations to strengthen their ties further.