China, Central Asian nations sign over $17B in business deals in Astana

Agreements span energy, trade, logistics as region deepens ties with Beijing

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - China and five Central Asian countries signed more than 35 memoranda of understanding worth over $17 billion during the second meeting of China–Central Asia Business Council held in the Kazakh capital Astana, officials said Tuesday.

Murat Karymsakov, the deputy chairman of the board of Kazakhstan’s Atameken National Economic and Trade Enterprise, said the deals span green energy, infrastructure, logistics, and trade, including the creation of a regional hub.

“This format was launched in Xi’an in 2023 and supported by the leaders of the Central Asian states and China,” Karymsakov told reporters.

“Over 1,000 delegates from six countries attended today’s event, which included plenary and panel sessions, exhibitions, and business meetings, concluding with these major agreements.”

The business forum came ahead of a summit later in the day with the participation of heads of state from the region and China.

Trade between China and Central Asia continues to grow, reaching $94.8 billion in 2024, with Kazakhstan alone contributing nearly $44 billion.

Kaynak: