Today, the international seminar “The Path of Modernization and the Role of Trade Unions” began in Beijing. The Kazakh delegation is headed by the Chair of the Federation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakhstan (FTURK), Satybaldy Dauletalin. The seminar is also attended by leaders of the national trade union centers of the People’s Republic of China and Central Asian countries.
Opening the seminar, Vice Chairman of the All-China Federation of Trade Unions Wei Dichun addressed the trade union leaders of Central Asia. He emphasized the need to strengthen mutual cooperation and share experiences in protecting workers’ interests amid global changes in the labor market brought on by the introduction of new technologies. According to him, this international seminar in Beijing should serve as a starting point for interaction between trade union organizations in the region.
Leaders of national trade union centers delivered welcoming remarks to the seminar participants.
In his speech, FTURK Chairman Satybaldy Dauletalin emphasized that the foundations of cooperation between the trade union federations of Kazakhstan and China remain rooted in key trade union values — solidarity and mutual support.
“We will never forget how, in the most difficult times — at the height of the pandemic — it was the Chinese trade unions who were the first to extend a helping hand. It was not just a humanitarian act — it was a gesture of genuine solidarity, confirming the strength of human and professional connections. This wasn’t diplomacy. It was humanity. And humanity — it cannot be translated. It is felt with the heart. ‘When there is sincerity, distance disappears,’ said Confucius. These words are especially relevant today, as countries, trade unions, and societies search for answers to the challenges of the globalized world,” said Satybaldy Dauletalin.
It is worth noting that during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Chinese trade unions — FTURK’s partners — provided humanitarian aid to FTURK members by sending personal protective equipment to Kazakhstan.
Speaking about current cooperation, the FTURK Chairman stressed that in an era of large-scale transformations, collaboration between China and the countries of Central Asia is acquiring particular strategic importance. It involves not only trade and investment but also the formation of a common future — more sustainable, socially just, and balanced.
“The People’s Republic of China is the largest trade partner of all countries in the region. Thousands of joint ventures operate in Kazakhstan alone, with major projects underway in infrastructure, energy, mechanical engineering, and agro-industry. New routes of the ‘China – Central Asia – Europe’ transport corridor are developing, which means logistics, jobs, and new professions. Similar processes are happening in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. China is investing in industry, construction, digital infrastructure, university exchange, and green energy. These areas require a new approach to labor — one that is flexible, technological, and fair. And here, the role of trade unions is key.
We, the trade unions of Central Asia, must not be mere observers, but active participants in this process of modernization. Our voice is now heard in the international trade union movement. And more than that — we are not only being heard, but listened to. This movement is irreversible and progressive,” emphasized Satybaldy Dauletalin.
The Kazakh trade union leader outlined key cooperation priorities with Chinese colleagues.
“Important aspects of cooperation between the trade unions of Central Asia and China include: sharing experiences in labor digitalization and automation; creating joint educational platforms and trade union academies; developing labor safety standards at cross-border enterprises; protecting the rights of workers in migratory flows; building a green economy and helping workers adapt to new professions. We should consider creating an expert network of trade unions in Central Asia and China — as a platform to not only discuss challenges but also find joint solutions. We are convinced that trade union modernization is impossible without international cooperation. It is precisely through the exchange of experiences, joint initiatives, and respect for culture and workers’ rights that we can create a foundation for sustainable development in Eurasia,” said the FTURK Chairman.
As part of the Kazakh delegation’s working trip to the People’s Republic of China, the group will also visit Chinese trade union organizations and the Worker Service Center in Beijing. The FTURK delegation will participate in several joint events dedicated to relevant issues of labor relations development in the Eurasian region.
Media Center of the Federation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakhstan