Putin and Xi Engage in Regional Diplomacy Amid Competition for Influence in Central Asia

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) held a meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan, where Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized their strengthened ties. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, both countries have deepened their political, military, and economic cooperation. The SCO serves as a platform for advancing their foreign policy agendas. The summit is also seen as part of China's efforts to establish a "multilateral" world order, challenging the U.S.-led international system. China is actively expanding its influence in Central Asia, a region historically within Russia's sphere of influence. Beijing is investing in infrastructure development, such as new rail lines, and increasing trade and investment in the region.