Xi was welcomed by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and other senior officials at the airport.

After Xi’s plane entered Kazakh airspace, fighter jets of Kazakhstan’s air defense forces took off to escort it.

Kazakh teenagers and children, holding the national flags of China and Kazakhstan, warmly welcomed Xi’s visit.

Accompanied by Tokayev, Xi watched the march-past performed by the guard of honor, as helicopters bearing the flags of both countries flew over the airport. Inside the airport VIP lounge, the two heads of state also enjoyed performances by Kazakh teenagers and children.