Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi just wrapped up a three-day tour of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan from November 19 to 22, 2025, and laid out a roadmap for deeper ties with Central Asia.
He said China is ready to work with its neighbors on win-win cooperation to deliver benefits for people across the region. This push ties directly into the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), set to launch next year.
Key highlights from Wang's media interview:
- Trade on the rise: In the first three quarters of 2025, two-way trade hit nearly $80 billion, up 15.6% year on year, and is on track to top $100 billion for the full year 📈
- Growing investments: China has poured over $50 billion into Central Asian markets, becoming a major investor 🤝
- People-to-people buzz: Travelers from the five Central Asian states to the Chinese mainland jumped 37.7%, while trips from the Chinese mainland to Central Asia soared 50% ✈️
Wang also stressed the impact of President Xi Jinping's flagship Global Development, Security, Civilization and Governance Initiatives. Central Asian partners say these ideas match global needs and plan to join related friends groups soon.
With shared principles—equality, mutual trust and no political strings—China and Central Asia aim to tackle regional challenges together and build a community with a shared future.
As 2026 approaches, Wang Yi's vision could spark fresh momentum in trade, investment and cultural exchanges, bringing the neighborhood closer than ever. Stay tuned as this story unfolds! 🌍✨
Reference(s):
Wang Yi says China to advance common development with Central Asia
cgtn.com
