During the China-Central Asia Summit in northwest China, President Xi Jinping outlined an extensive development plan for Central Asia. This blueprint encompasses a range of initiatives, including infrastructure construction and trade expansion, marking China’s increased involvement in a region that has historically been dominated by Russian influence. Xi emphasized China’s willingness to collaborate on development strategies with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, aiming to foster the modernization of these nations.
In a joint press conference with Central Asian leaders, President Xi Jinping expressed that the summit has infused fresh momentum into the development and revitalization of the six countries while contributing to regional peace and stability. He further emphasized the commitment to cultivating a new model of mutually beneficial cooperation marked by deep complementarity and high-level collaboration.
China’s active engagement in Central Asia positions it at the forefront of the race for political influence and access to energy resources in this region abundant in resources. The geopolitical landscape, with Russia preoccupied with the conflict in Ukraine and the diminished presence of US forces in Afghanistan, has created an opportunity for China to assert itself. The strategic significance of the five former Soviet republics lies in their trade corridors, which offer China alternative transportation routes for essential commodities like fuel and food, particularly in the event of disruptions elsewhere. The promises of support and cooperation made during the two-day summit stand in stark contrast to the critical portrayal of China at the recent Group of Seven (G7) summit in Japan.
Xi Jinping, along with the presidents of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, convened at the China-Central Asia Summit in Xian, China on May 19, 2024, for a  Joint press conference.(Photo: AFP/Florence Lo/pool)
Xi Jinping expressed the intention to promote job creation, warehouse construction, and the establishment of a dedicated train service by Chinese-funded businesses in Central Asia. Additionally, China plans to extend financial support and grants amounting to 26 billion yuan (US$3.8 billion) to facilitate cooperation and development in Central Asian countries. Last year, bilateral trade between China and Central Asia reached a record-breaking US$70 billion, with Kazakhstan leading the way at US$31 billion. This surge in trade highlights China’s pursuit of enhanced food and energy security, driving its desire for closer ties with the region.
Xi emphasized the need to expedite the construction of Line D in the China-Central Asia natural gas pipeline. Furthermore, he called for intensified oil and gas trade between China and Central Asia, as well as the development of energy cooperation along industrial supply chains. The Chinese President also emphasized the importance of collaboration in the field of new energy and the peaceful utilization of nuclear energy.
Xi Jinping affirmed China’s long-term support for the development of a cross-Caspian Sea international transport corridor. He emphasized the commitment to bolstering the construction of transport hubs for China-Europe freight train services. This vision reflects China’s strategic interest in facilitating seamless connectivity and enhancing trade links between Asia and Europe.
The proposed cross-Caspian Sea transport corridor holds the potential to significantly improve transportation efficiency and promote greater economic integration between the regions. By strengthening the infrastructure and logistics networks associated with China-Europe freight train services, China aims to streamline the movement of goods and enhance the competitiveness of this vital trade route.
Through these efforts, China seeks to advance its broader goal of promoting regional connectivity and expanding its economic influence on a global scale. The realization of an efficient cross-Caspian Sea transport corridor and the development of robust transport hubs will play a crucial role in realizing this vision and deepening the ties between China, Central Asia, and Europe.
