Upon arrival in this city, Xi stressed the importance of historic ties and opportunities for future collaboration between China and Kazakhstan.

The Chinese head of State recalled the friendship that dates back more than 2,000 years, when the ancient Silk Road connected the two countries.

The Chinese leader stressed that since the establishment of diplomatic relations 32 years ago, China and Kazakhstan have forged a unique comprehensive and permanent strategic partnership while overcoming international challenges and fluctuations.

“Eleven years ago in Kazakhstan, I first proposed the initiative to build the ‘Silk Road Economic Belt’ together,” Xi noted.

The Chinese president noted that bilateral cooperation within the framework of this mega-project has brought about maximums in the scale of economic and trade exchanges, as well as a boom in cultural dialogue.

“I look forward to attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit to discuss with all parties the future of the organization, explore major cooperation plans and promote new and further development of this important multilateral mechanism,” he stressed.

President Xi’s visit to Kazakhstan and his participation in the SCO summit underscore China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation in an effort to promote regional and global stability and development.

After his stay in Kazakhstan, the president will continue with another state visit to Tajikistan, as part of an agenda that will last until July 6.

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