DKnews.kz presents an exclusive interview with Ms. Jiang Wei, Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Almaty. In a candid conversation, the diplomat shared her views on the outcomes of the historic "China–Central Asia" Summit held in Astana and offered her vision of the future of regional cooperation under the framework of a shared community with a common destiny.
– Ms. Jiang Wei, how would you assess the significance of the recent summit in Astana for China–Central Asia relations?
– This summit was truly historic. In the heart of summer, Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana, became a symbol of political unity and mutual trust. For the first time, the leaders of China and the five Central Asian countries gathered in such a format—not only to discuss cooperation but also to outline a long-term development agenda. The summit resulted in the signing of more than 100 agreements and the adoption of the Astana Declaration, which established the "China–Central Asia Spirit" as a moral and political compass for a new stage of engagement.
– What does this concept of the "China–Central Asia Spirit" entail?
– It’s not just a slogan — it’s the value foundation of our cooperation. It’s rooted in mutual respect, equality, shared benefit, and a commitment to high-quality development. It’s a spirit of trust, support, openness, and friendship. This spirit enables not only dialogue between governments, but also the building of bridges between our peoples.
Kazakhstan plays a special role in this — it was on Kazakh soil, in fact, that President Xi Jinping first introduced the Belt and Road Initiative to the world in 2013.
– What concrete results were achieved at the summit?
– First and foremost, we reached an unprecedented level of political understanding. All six leaders reaffirmed their support for each other’s sovereignty and chosen path of national development. The Central Asian countries once again declared their firm commitment to the One-China principle, emphasizing that Taiwan is an inseparable part of Chinese territory. This sends a strong message of stability and unity in a world full of geopolitical challenges.
Secondly, there was a breakthrough in practical cooperation. The years 2025–2026 have been designated the Years of High-Quality Development. Our focus now is on six key areas: trade, industry, transportation, green economy, agriculture, and people-to-people exchanges. For the first time ever, China signed a Belt and Road Action Plan with an entire region — a truly unprecedented step.
– What new platforms are being created to strengthen cooperation?
– Several new centers are being established: a poverty alleviation center, an education exchange center, a desertification prevention center, and a trade promotion center. These initiatives are aimed at developing human capital, protecting natural resources, improving livelihoods, and strengthening the economic foundation of our partnership.
– But the summit went beyond economics and diplomacy. What progress was made in the humanitarian sphere?
– Indeed. One of the most heartfelt moments was the signing of the Treaty of Eternal Friendship and Good-Neighborliness, which legally enshrines the spirit of sincere friendship between our peoples. That’s extremely valuable. More than 100 agreements were also signed to establish sister-city partnerships, helping to deepen cultural and humanitarian ties.
We also agreed to open cultural centers, Luban Workshops, branches of Chinese universities, and centers for traditional Chinese medicine across Central Asian countries. These are investments in the future — in youth, in knowledge, and in mutual understanding.
– It’s clear that Kazakhstan is receiving special attention. Why is that?
– Kazakhstan is a reliable partner and a good neighbor of China. From the very beginning, Kazakhstan was the first country to support the Belt and Road Initiative after it was launched. President Xi Jinping held a separate meeting with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Over 60 bilateral agreements were signed, covering everything from investment to culture. Our two countries are experiencing a “golden period” in their relations — and believe me, this momentum is only growing stronger.
– Ms. Jiang Wei, how would you describe the overall atmosphere after the summit?
– I would say: confidence and inspiration. We are like a shared vessel, sailing forward with the sails of humanitarian understanding and the oars of economic pragmatism. In a world of global change, we rely on the strategic vision of our leaders and the spirit of mutual respect. And in this journey, Central Asia holds a key place — as a neighbor, as a partner, and as a friend.
– Thank you for your time and such insightful answers.
– Thank you. Believe me, we share a common future — peaceful, sustainable, and prosperous.
