Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Astana by special plane to attend the second China-Central Asia Summit at the invitation of President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kasym-Zomart Tokayev.

After the plane entered Kazakh airspace, Kazakh Air Force fighter jets flew in to provide it with an honorary escort.

When Xi Jinping arrived at Nazarbayev International Airport in Astana, President Tokayev led the President's Chief of Staff, Dajiebai, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Nurtreu, Presidential Adviser on Foreign Affairs Kazihan, Astana Mayor Kasembek and other senior officials to give him a warm welcome.

Chinese and Kazakh flags fly high on Astana's main streets. In front of the airport, electronic screens display welcome slogans in honour of the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

CMG