Tashkent, 9 December 2021 (TDI): On 8 December, Ruslan Kazakbaev had a diplomatic interaction with Terhi Hakala. Kazakbaev is the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Kyrgyzstan, whilst Hakela is the European Union (EU) Special Representative for Central Asia.
MEETING BETWEEN THE MINISTER AND SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION FOR CENTRAL ASIA
The meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tashkent. During the inception of the meeting, Minister Kazakbaev passed remarks on the successful completion of the recent parliamentary elections. These elections were held for the Jogurku Kenesh, which is the Supreme Council and unicameral Parliament of the Kyrgyz Republic. They conducted the elections under a new system and attracted the participation of international observers.
Additionally, both sides discussed the main topics of their bilateral agenda as well as plans for the medium term. About this, they spoke about strategies to implement their common goals through bilateral cooperation. There was also an emphasis on timely signing the Agreement on Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation between the Kyrgyz Republic and the European Union.
The Minister and EU Representative further agreed to increase the intensity of their mutual visits in 2022. Furthermore, the interlocutors also exchanged their views on current global affairs, particularly the situation in Afghanistan. They discussed the potential of collaborating in this arena to provide humanitarian support to the people of Afghanistan. Specifically, they mentioned doing this through educational projects in the Kyrgyz Republic.
Both parties continued the discussion on the opening of the European University in Central Asia in Kyrgyzstan, an example of their strong educational ties. Finally, Minister Kazakbaev thanked the Special Representative for her role in organizing the First European Union – Central Asia Economic Forum.
Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, received the Forum on 5 November 2021. Towards the end of the meeting, both sides expressed a strong resolve to continue enhancing relations between Kyrgyzstan and the EU.
