Astana hosted high-level talks between the leaders of Kazakhstan and China, where the potential construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan by China was on the agenda, Sputnik Kazakhstan reports.
The negotiations were part of celebrations marking the “Golden 30th Anniversary” of diplomatic relations between the two nations, which also includes joint uranium exploration projects.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev congratulated Chinese President Xi Jinping on his birthday and emphasized the symbolism of the visit to Astana.
“China is a good neighbor, close friend, and reliable partner of Kazakhstan. Our shared history has always been rooted in friendship and cooperation, without conflicts or obstacles,” Tokayev said.
He expressed interest in involving China’s CNNC in Kazakhstan’s plans to build several nuclear power plants, praising the company's expertise in the sector. Tokayev also highlighted Kazakhstan’s role as a uranium and nuclear fuel supplier to China.
Tokayev emphasized the resilience of bilateral ties, which remain unaffected by geopolitical pressures, and thanked China for respecting Kazakhstan’s sovereignty and for its cooperation without political conditions.
President Xi Jinping commended Kazakhstan’s progress and expressed satisfaction with the strong development of relations. He noted that the partnership enriches the “China-Kazakhstan community of shared destiny” and benefits both nations.
The talks concluded with the signing of 24 intergovernmental and interagency agreements spanning energy, space, digitalization, agriculture, and other sectors.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
June 17, 2025