Kyrgyz FM and Tajik PM discuss increase in trade and intensification of border cooperation

Bishkek, Nov. 20, 2020 / Kabar /. Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic Ruslan Kazakbaev, who is in Dushanbe on a working visit, met with Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan Kokhir Rasulzoda, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan reported. Kazakbaev conveyed welcoming words on behalf of Acting Prime Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic Artyem Novikov. He also informed about the internal political situation in Kyrgyzstan and assured that the Kyrgyz side remains fully committed to all its international obligations and strict implementation of previously signed international treaties. Minister Kazakbaev said that Kyrgyzstan is determined to resolve interstate issues between the countries peacefully, diplomatically and maintain a stable situation on the Kyrgyz-Tajik state border, and also called on the Tajik side to focus on the earliest possible description of the remaining sections of the state border at the level of government delegations of the two states. During the meeting, a thorough exchange of views took place on the entire spectrum of Kyrgyz-Tajik interaction, which is of mutual interest. The sides emphasized the need to take urgent measures to increase trade between states, including by expanding the range of export and import supplies, creating conditions for the movement of goods and enhancing interregional and cross-border cooperation, which contributes to the promotion of economic cooperation. Rasulzoda noted the need to create acceptable and mutually beneficial conditions for trade and transportation of goods, thus developing the transport and transit potential of the two states. Kazakbaev stated that the Kyrgyz Republic highly appreciates and supports the creative policy of the Tajik side to attract the attention of the world community to the problems of water use at the global level. Prime Minister of Tajikistan Rasulzoda noted the commonality of positions on water issues and expressed readiness to jointly promote the reform of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS), taking into account the interests of the two countries. The sides reached an agreement to hold regular consultations on water and energy issues. The sides noted the need to continue a constructive dialogue at all levels, including between heads of government, heads of relevant ministries and departments, including interregional contacts and communication between the cities of the two countries, which undoubtedly is an indicator of a high degree of mutual trust and political interaction. In conclusion, the Tajik prime minister wished successful holding of the upcoming internal political events in Kyrgyzstan.