ECONOMIC COOPERATION BETWEEN KAZAKHSTAN AND CHINA: PREREQUISITES, FACTORS AND POSSIBILITIES

Economic cooperation between Kazakhstan and China is based on geographical proximity, mutual interest in developing trade and investment projects, as well as historically established ties. China's rapid economic growth and high demand for energy resources make Kazakhstan an important partner in the supply of oil, gas and minerals. Kazakhstan, in turn, is interested in Chinese investments in infrastructure and high-tech industries, contributing to the diversification of the country's economy. The implementation of the Silk Road Economic Belt initiative strengthens Kazakhstan's transit potential, turning it into an important link in international logistics. The development of cooperation is accompanied by an increase in bilateral trade and joint investment projects, emphasizing the importance of the Kazakh-Chinese partnership for sustainable economic growth. In addition to the energy sector, there is an intensification of cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing and digital technologies, strengthening the economic resilience of Kazakhstan. The purpose of the study is to analyze the prerequisites, trends and features of Kazakh-Chinese economic cooperation, as well as to identify the factors influencing its development and sustainability. Research methods include analytical, historical-comparative and statistical approaches to analyze trade, investment and energy aspects of Kazakh-Chinese cooperation, using data from international organizations and statistical agencies of Kazakhstan and China.