Xi Jinping And Tokayev Deepen Cooperation As Chinese Observers Monitor Referendum In Kazakhstan

An ongoing national referendum on Kazakhstan’s draft new Constitution is being monitored by international observers, including representatives from China, Orda.kz reports.

One polling station in Almaty was visited by Su Fanqiu, head of the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China, who, together with his colleagues, assessed how the vote was being conducted.

According to Su, the Chinese side is grateful to Kazakhstan for the invitation and has already visited several polling stations.

We are pleased to take part as international observers in Kazakhstan. We have already visited three polling stations, and this is our fourth. We have no complaints — everything is calm and well organized.Su Fanqiu said. 

He noted that Chinese diplomats taking part in the observation mission are not only from the Consulate General in Almaty. Representatives of the Chinese Embassy in Astana, as well as staff from China’s Foreign Ministry who are part of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization observer mission, have also joined the process.

Su Fanqiu stressed that China’s participation is also tied to the close relationship between the two countries.

China and Kazakhstan are friendly countries and strategic partners. The leaders of our states maintain very close contact. Chinese President Xi Jinping has visited Kazakhstan, and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has repeatedly visited China. Our countries consistently support each other on issues affecting fundamental interests. the diplomat said. 

Earlier, the Central Referendum Commission reported that 359 international observers from 38 countries and 11 international organizations were monitoring the vote.

Original author: Natalya Ovchinnikova

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