四川以城会友助力加快构筑向西向南开放战略高地 与中亚国家的国际友城和友好合作关系增至20对 川行中亚 友城花开

Core Points - The second China-Central Asia Five Countries Summit was held in Astana, Kazakhstan, from June 16 to 18, where Sichuan Province established a friendly province-city relationship with Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, marking a significant achievement in Sino-Central Asian relations [1][2] - Sichuan's engagement with Central Asian countries has intensified under the Belt and Road Initiative, leading to increased economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and strategic partnerships [1][4] Group 1: Diplomatic Relations - Sichuan Province's agreement with Bishkek represents a breakthrough in establishing international friendship cities with Kyrgyzstan, increasing the total number of friendly cities between China and Central Asian countries to over 100 [2] - The province has made significant efforts to enhance international friendship city relationships, achieving a total of 20 friendly partnerships with Central Asian nations [2][3] Group 2: Economic Cooperation - Since 2016, Sichuan and Kyrgyzstan have seen substantial economic collaboration, with a total import-export volume of 770 million yuan last year [3] - In 2024, the projected import-export volume between Sichuan and Central Asian countries is expected to reach 6.18 billion yuan, with direct investments amounting to 18.3 billion yuan [5] Group 3: Cultural Exchanges - Sichuan universities have established friendly relations with higher education institutions in Central Asia, fostering academic cooperation and student exchanges [5] - The establishment of the Almaty University Alliance in 2023, involving 47 universities, highlights the commitment to educational collaboration [5] Group 4: Future Prospects - The successful hosting of the fifth China-Central Asia Foreign Ministers' meeting in Sichuan showcases the province's role in promoting friendly exchanges and practical cooperation with Central Asian countries [6] - Sichuan plans to continue expanding its network of friendly cities and enhancing trade cooperation, leveraging its geographical advantages and economic influence [7]