In Beijing, within the framework of the opening of the Kazakhstan-China Cross-Cultural Year, a meeting took place between Aida Balayeva, Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and Li Shulei, Head of the Propaganda Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China.

During the negotiations, the parties discussed prospects for developing cultural and humanitarian cooperation and the implementation of joint initiatives. Aida Balayeva emphasized the high level of Kazakhstani-Chinese relations and expressed interest in their further expansion.

"Kazakhstani-Chinese relations today are at an unprecedentedly high level of comprehensive strategic partnership. This is, undoubtedly, the merit of the Heads of our states. We, for our part, are interested in further deepening cooperation and expanding integration between our countries. Within the framework of the Year of Cultural Exchange, we propose to consider the possibility of implementing a number of joint projects. In particular, these include holding a festival of creative industries, and theater and circus festivals. I note that last year we opened the Kazakhstan Cultural Center in Beijing, which creates additional opportunities for strengthening cultural ties," emphasized the Minister of Culture and Information.

In turn, Li Shulei expressed confidence that the holding of the Cross-Cultural Year will be an important factor in the further rapprochement of the peoples of the two countries.

"China and Kazakhstan are loyal friends and strategic partners. Our relations have entered a new stage of strategic partnership. The Heads of our states have declared the current year as the Year of Cultural Exchange, and we attach great importance to this event and are ready to discuss activities that can be organized," Shulei welcomed.

During the meeting, the parties put forward a number of initiatives for the development of joint projects. Special attention was paid to cooperation in the film industry. Aida Balayeva noted the high audience potential of China for Kazakhstani cinematography and the potential for cooperation with major film companies.

The participants also discussed the creation of joint documentary and feature films with subsequent promotion in both countries. Li Shulei invited Kazakhstani filmmakers to participate in the Shanghai International Film Festival, emphasizing its role in promoting cinema and strengthening cultural ties.

In addition, the parties noted the prospects for cooperation in the field of fine arts, including holding joint open-air painting sessions and exhibitions, as well as developing exchanges between artists of the two countries.

Issues of mutual translation of works by Kazakhstani and Chinese authors were also discussed. The potential for screening literary works was emphasized. Also, issues of theatrical cooperation, including tours and joint productions, were touched upon.

Among the priority areas, the development of tourism was also identified, including through the organization of familiarization tours for media representatives.