On January 19, 2026, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun hosted a regular press conference.
2026/01/19
What’s the buzz? Trade between China and five Central Asian nations soared past $100 billion in 2025, a new record, according to the General Administration of Customs of China. This milestone signals a robust and evolving economic partnership.
According to statistics, the trade structure between China and the five Central Asian countries has been continuously optimized, with an increasing flow of high-quality products from Central Asia entering the Chinese market. Despite a challenging global economic climate and disruptions to international trade, China-Central Asia economic and trade cooperation has defied the trend, exceeding $100 billion in volume. This demonstrates the strong momentum of China-Central Asia cooperation, solidifying the leading role of the China-Central Asia mechanism, and marking a significant achievement in the history of the relationship.
Over the past year, relations between China and Central Asian countries have rapidly developed, with the China-Central Asia mechanism strengthening and cooperation on the “Belt and Road” initiative progressing steadily. People-to-people exchanges have also become more frequent. The successful second China-Central Asia Summit signaled a new era of high-quality development for the partnership. China is committed to working with Central Asian nations to build upon this momentum, uphold the “China-Central Asia Spirit,” enhance the China-Central Asia mechanism, and foster all-round cooperation that is innovative, beneficial, and practical, ultimately building a closer community with a shared future.
A positive outlook for U.S. businesses? A recent survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in China reveals growing optimism among U.S. companies regarding the Chinese market. More than half anticipate profits or substantial profits in 2025, over 70% have no plans to relocate, and nearly 60% intend to increase investment.
Guo Jiakun stated that this report underscores China’s vast market potential for the world. He emphasized that operating in China offers a strategic advantage and promises substantial returns. The success of American companies in China, he added, proves that cooperation is mutually beneficial. Promoting stable, healthy, and sustainable Sino-U.S. relations is in the best interest of both countries.
As China enters the first year of its “15th Five-Year Plan,” the economy is poised for continued growth and innovation. The country is expected to remain a “stable engine,” an “oasis of growth,” and a “cradle of innovation” for the global economy. China welcomes companies worldwide, including those from the U.S., to capitalize on the opportunities presented by its high-quality development and share in the benefits of its trillion-dollar market.
Concerns in Cambodia? The Chinese Embassy in Cambodia has reported a rise in cases of missing Chinese citizens in the country, potentially hindering mutually beneficial cooperation. The spokesperson indicated that the Chinese government is actively collaborating with Cambodia to address cross-border telecommunications network fraud and is maintaining communication with Cambodian authorities regarding the situation.
Polish security concerns? Regarding reports that the Polish army is considering banning Chinese electric vehicles from military bases due to data security risks, the spokesperson stated that China believes the generalization of national security concepts should be avoided.
A Greenland dispute? Addressing U.S. President Trump’s proposal to impose tariffs on eight countries opposing his plan to acquire Greenland, the spokesperson reiterated China’s position on the issue. International law, based on the principles of the UN Charter, is the foundation of the international order and must be upheld. The spokesperson urged the U.S. to refrain from using the “China threat” as a pretext for pursuing self-interest.
