Astana: Kazakhstan's Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov held a crucial meeting on Friday to expedite joint projects with China, following the recent visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping, which resulted in billions of dollars in new investment agreements.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Central Asia-China Forum in Astana saw the signing of 58 agreements worth $24 billion between Chinese and Kazakh companies. These agreements span various sectors, including green energy, transport, farming, and industry, and are expected to significantly bolster economic ties between the two nations.

Prime Minister Bektenov emphasized the importance of these agreements, stating that they provide "strong momentum" to the bilateral economic relationship. He also mentioned that President Tokayev has set an ambitious goal to attract at least $150 billion in foreign investment by 2029, with China being identified as a key partner.

Kazakhstan's Foreign Ministry reports that Chinese companies have already contributed to the creation of 50,000 jobs within the country. Currently, there are 224 industrial projects valued at over $66 billion being developed in collaboration with Chinese partners. From 2005 to 2024, China has invested $26.4 billion in Kazakhstan, underscoring the deepening economic ties between the two countries.