​Statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Due to speculations and misinterpretation in some media regarding the outcome of negotiations between the foreign ministers of Kazakhstan and China, we consider it important to explain the following.

First. Kazakhstan has always supported China in the fight against the “three evils” - terrorism, extremism and separatism, which has been repeatedly reflected in various bilateral documents, including the Joint Statement of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the People's Republic of China, signed on June 7, 2018. This was discussed during the Kazakh-Chinese talks in Beijing within the official visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Beibut Atamkulov. It was in this context that the statement of the Foreign Minister of China was made.

Second. As for the ethnic Kazakhs living in China, Kazakhstan considers them as an important factor in friendly bilateral relations. We have a common opinion with China on this subject. At the meeting in Beijing, mutual interest was expressed in resolving emerging issues through working contacts between the foreign ministries of the two countries, and an agreement was reached on the intensification of consular services' activity. This work will continue.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan urges the media to convey statements correctly, not to distort or misrepresent information and not to quote out of context, particularly on issues that are sensitive for the public.

Kazakhstan and China will continue to strengthen the strategic partnership and friendship between the two nations, promoting peace and sustainable development in the region and in the world.