The China-Central Asia Spirit Unveiled at the Summit

At the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, experts underscored the essence of the China-Central Asia Spirit, which is based on a mutual benefit approach and friendly policies. This principle has been pivotal in enhancing collaboration and fostering enduring friendships between China and the Central Asian countries.

President Xi Jinping articulated this spirit during the summit, expressing a vision rooted in mutual respect, trust, and support for collective modernization through quality development. He urged participants to revitalize cooperation with actionable strategies, promote the Belt and Road Initiative's growth, and work towards a closely connected China-Central Asia community.

The summit was attended by leaders from five Central Asian nations, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, who collectively recognized the strategic importance of the partnership. Khalid Taimur Akram, from the Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future, noted that Xi's address illustrated a bold framework for regional collaboration, emphasizing the Chinese-Central Asian relationship as a blueprint for diplomatic engagement amidst global tensions.

Najla Alzarooni, a researcher from the University of Sharjah, acknowledged that the spirit aimed at modernization through high-quality development is both necessary and logical for the region. She recognized that Xi’s vision reflects China's ongoing efforts to promote global norms inclusively and cooperatively, which resonates well in the Middle East.

As part of the summit's outcomes, President Xi declared a financial commitment of 1.5 billion yuan (approximately $209 million) for projects focused on improving livelihoods and fostering development within Central Asian nations. This pledge includes offering 3,000 training opportunities over the next two years. Three cooperation centers addressing poverty reduction, education, and desertification, alongside a trade cooperation platform, were also unveiled, showcasing China's practical commitment to solving regional challenges.

Various officials, such as Salman Bashir and Christopher Campbell-Holt, highlighted the significance of Xi's initiatives, viewing them as wise and beneficial to both China and its neighbors. The proposals are seen as important steps in solidifying trust with Chinese investors and enhancing investment opportunities within the Central Asian economies.