ASTANA – Kazakhstan is positioning itself as a key land corridor between China, Central Asia, the Caucasus and Europe while seeking to deepen cooperation with Beijing in trade, technology and investment, Kazakh political scientist and historian Daniyar Ashimbayev wrote in his Telegram channel, commenting on President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s Sept.1 interview with Xinhua.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev with Xi Jinping. Photo credit: Akorda Ashimbayev noted that Tokayev’s interview strongly emphasized Xi Jinping’s policy and the development of Kazakhstan-China relations, highlighting trade, Chinese investment, humanitarian cooperation and the importance of ensuring Chinese transit through Kazakhstan.
The analyst also pointed to a broader strategic context. As global competition intensifies and international economic routes evolve, Kazakhstan is seeking to secure its position as a major land bridge between China and European markets. Middle Corridor strengthens Kazakhstan’s strategic role Tokayev described Kazakhstan-China relations as being at an “unprecedentedly high level” and reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s readiness to consistently strengthen the two countries’ “eternal comprehensive strategic partnership.” Trade and investment remain central to the relationship, with China ranking first among Kazakhstan’s external trade partners.
At the same time, transport and logistics have become a strategic pillar. “Together with our Chinese partners, we are transforming this geographical advantage into modern transport and logistics infrastructure of Eurasian scale,” Tokayev said. Kazakhstan is developing the Middle Corridor, including new railways, dry ports, logistics terminals and border infrastructure.
The President stressed the need to make the route more competitive through “smart customs,” digital documentation, synchronized information systems and automated border procedures. For Kazakhstan, this means turning its geographic position into a long-term economic advantage rather than relying solely on transit potential.
Technology emerges as the next growth area Ashimbayev highlighted another key point from the interview: Tokayev’s assessment of China as a global leader in artificial intelligence, digital technologies, robotics, new energy and high-tech manufacturing.