Xi Jinping strengthens ties with Central Asia as Russian influence declines.

Central Asian leaders are meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Xian to strengthen economic and political ties, with an "important" political document set to be signed. China is increasing its engagement with the 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 summit coincides with a meeting of the Group of Seven leaders in Japan, where Beijing's "economic coercion" is expected to be discussed.