China strengthens ties with Central Asia amidst shifting regional dynamics.

Central Asian heads of state are meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Xian to strengthen economic and political ties, with a regional pact expected to be signed. China is increasing its engagement with former Soviet states on Chinese soil as Russia focuses on the war in Ukraine. Two-way trade between China and Central Asia reached a record $70 billion last year, with Kazakhstan leading with $31 billion. The meetings come as the Group of Seven leaders in Japan discuss Beijing's use of "economic coercion" in its dealings abroad.