China is steadfast in its collaboration with the Central Asian nations to swiftly finalize the strategic corridor, ensuring mutual advantages for all involved countries and the wider region, China Daily reported.
President Xi Jinping of China extended congratulations on June 6 following the signing of an intergovernmental agreement on the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, heralding it as a step towards regional connectivity and economic development. The agreement, signed in Beijing, stresses the commitment of the three nations to enhance cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
The virtual ceremony saw the participation of President Xi Jinping alongside Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
President Xi emphasized the strategic importance of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway as a vital component of China's connectivity with Central Asia. He described the project as emblematic of the collaborative efforts fostered under the Belt and Road Initiative, highlighting its potential to bolster economic and social development in the region.
The signing of the intergovernmental agreement, President Xi noted, provides a solid legal framework for the construction of the railway, signaling the transition of the project from vision to reality. China stands ready to work closely with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan to expedite the project's completion for the benefit of all involved.
The railway, spanning approximately 523 kilometers and originating from Kashgar in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, holds the promise of extending connectivity towards West Asia and South Asia in the future. Upon completion, it is poised to enhance connectivity among the three countries, fostering economic growth and cooperation.
President Japarov of Kyrgyzstan hailed the railway as a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative, envisioning it as a pivotal transportation route linking Asia to Europe and the Gulf countries. He expressed optimism for the swift completion of the project, foreseeing its transformative impact on regional development and prosperity.
President Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan stressed the historic significance of the agreement, emphasizing its role in promoting regional connectivity and fostering closer cooperation between countries. He highlighted the railway's potential to deepen friendships and align with the long-term interests of all parties involved.
The signing of the trilateral agreement marks a milestone in regional cooperation, reflecting the shared vision of China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan to create a more connected and prosperous future for their peoples and the broader region.
In the early months of 2024, Uzbekistan experienced a surge in its trade ties with China, evidenced by an uptick in foreign trade turnover. The volume soared to $2.1bn between January and February, marking a 61.5% surge compared to the same period in the previous year when it stood at $1.3bn.
China's role in this growth is substantial, accounting for 21.5% of Uzbekistan's total trade turnover. Specifically, Uzbekistan's exports to China amounted to $349.4mn, while imports from China reached $1.7bn.
Similarly, Kyrgyzstan's trade relationship with China has witnessed remarkable expansion, culminating in a mutual trade turnover of $19.8bn by the end of 2023. This figure reflects a 30% increase from the preceding year.
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