Kazakh Prime Minister Bakhytzhan Sagintayev welcomes visiting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in the Kazakh capital Astana, Nov 3, 2016. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Upon his arrival in Astana, the Premier said he hoped to work with Kazakhstan to consolidate and deepen friendship and mutual trust, as well as actively explore new growth momentum to bring the comprehensive strategic partnership to a new high level.

Li flew to Astana from the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek after attending the 15th Meeting of Heads of Government of Shanghai Cooperation Organization Council, which focused on economic and security issues within the region. Sagintayev was also present at the meeting.