On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in Almaty, scientists from the Institute of Philosophy, Political Science and Religious Studies of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan took part in the opening ceremony of the new Belt and Road Scientific and Educational Center. This event marks a significant step in the development of scientific ties between Kazakhstan and China, and also contributes to strengthening bilateral relations in the field of academic research, educational initiatives and international projects. Key reports on the current state and prospects of Kazakh-Chinese cooperation were made by:

- A.S. Kaukenov, Director of the Belt and Road Scientific and Educational Center;

- S.T. Seidumanov, Director of the Center for the Study of Russia, China and Central Asian Countries, Chief Researcher at the Institute of Philosophy, Political Science and Religious Studies;

- Amrebaev A.M., Director of the PPRS Center for Political Studies;

The Belt and Road Scientific and Educational Center was established on the basis of the Alatau Creative Hub and has ambitious goals to organize the processes of strengthening bilateral ties in the field of science, education and investment.

As part of its activities, the center covers the following areas:

- implementation of research projects dedicated to the study of socio-economic, political and cultural aspects of Kazakh-Chinese cooperation.

- consulting support for joint initiatives and projects, as well as assistance in attracting foreign investment.

- organization of specialized educational programs, including Chinese language courses, training of professional guides and summer schools in China.

- holding exhibitions, scientific conferences, symposiums and other events aimed at popularizing Chinese and Kazakh cultures.

- advising Kazakhstani students on admission to leading universities in China.

The creation of this center was dictated by the need to expand the infrastructure of existing educational platforms: the Laoshi Chinese Language Center and the Center for Chinese Studies. Due to the high workload, they could not fully meet the growing demands of students, researchers, and business representatives. The new Belt and Road Center was supposed to fill this gap by providing comprehensive interaction with all stakeholders. As part of the opening ceremony, a traditional Chinese tea ceremony was held for the guests and participants of the event, symbolizing the cultural exchange between Kazakhstan and China. An excursion to the Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments was also held, where guests could enjoy the virtuoso performance of folk works on dombra and zhetygen.

An important event of the event was the signing of the first memorandum of cooperation between the Belt and Road Scientific and Educational Center and the Center for the Study of Russia, China and Central Asian Countries. This document laid the foundation for long-term cooperation between academic and expert circles aimed at the joint implementation of scientific projects and educational programs. The signing of the memorandum opens up new horizons for productive bilateral cooperation between the flagships of the Russian scientific and expert community.

PPRS Center for Political Studies