French President Emmanuel Macron has wrapped up a trip to Kazakhstan, where he called for the strengthening of France's partnership with the uranium-rich country. On Wednesday, Macron and his Kazakh counterpart signed a series of contracts, including ones involving the minerals and energy sectors. France derives most of its electricity from nuclear power, but geopolitical tensions with one of its top uranium suppliers, Niger, are seemingly prompting a drive for alternatives.

The Chinese president has promised to bolster economic and infrastructure projects in the region at a "milestone" meeting with leaders from former Soviet states in the region.