Chinese President Xi Jinping on June 17 signed a treaty to further elevate China’s ties with the five countries of Central Asia. At a summit held in the Kazakh capital of Astana, Xi made it plain that Beijing is keen to further expand and deepen cooperation across areas including trade,

Accompanied by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit was marked by ceremonial honours, including a fighter jet escort and a vibrant display of national pride.

Xi Jinping celebrated China's "eternal friendship" with Central Asia at a summit in Kazakhstan on Tuesday, as the Chinese leader blasted tariffs and sought to assert Beijing's influence in a