Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — China will allocate 1.5 billion yuan in non-repayable aid to Central Asian countries for the implementation of projects aimed at improving the quality of life. This announcement was made by Chinese President Xi Jinping on June 17 during the “China–Central Asia” Summit in Astana.

“This year, we are prepared to offer grant support totaling 1.5 billion yuan to the countries of Central Asia to implement key initiatives that enhance citizens’ well-being and promote the sustainable development of the five states,” the Chinese leader stated.

In addition, over the next two years, Beijing plans to allocate 3,000 training quotas for Central Asian citizens to participate in professional development programs.

Xi Jinping also announced the establishment of a number of specialized institutions to deepen cooperation with regional countries. These include a poverty alleviation center, an education exchange and cooperation hub, a desertification prevention initiative, and a trade and economic platform designed to improve conditions for mutual trade within the framework of “China–Central Asia.”

He emphasized China’s commitment to strengthening multifaceted engagement with the region, including through legislative exchanges, cooperation between political parties, women’s and youth organizations, media, think tanks, and knowledge-sharing in public governance.

Following the summit, the leaders of China and the five Central Asian countries signed the Astana Declaration and a Treaty of Eternal Friendship, Good-Neighborliness, and Cooperation between China and Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

Additionally, twelve agreements were signed across a range of areas — from jointly advancing the Belt and Road Initiative and easing mutual travel, to fostering sustainable use of natural resources, improving customs procedures, strengthening transport connectivity, and expanding industrial cooperation.