Tokayev signed 20 documents in Tianjin at once, covering energy, technology, education, and sports. This is not just a simple handshake; it's putting the country's destiny on China's fast train.
43.8 billion USD trade volume accounts for nearly half of Central Asia. Kazakhstan wants to exchange oil, gas, and minerals for technology, markets, and job opportunities.
China wants stable upstream supply and a western passage. Both sides have mutual needs and it's a perfect match.
Kazakhstan including new energy and artificial intelligence in the list means telling old Europe: I'm finding another master to learn new skills.
The 13 billion USD in the second half is just an appetizer. The real show is starting railway, pipeline, and data center projects together. Local farmers can sell grain to China with their mobile phones, and workers get RMB wages from Chinese companies.
Tokayev clearly knows that old allies can't provide the future. Only China can turn minerals into electricity and wheat into bread factories.
Do you think Kazakhstan's bet on China was correct?
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1842270825961543/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.