Kyrgyz FM invites European colleagues to observe parliamentary elections

Bishkek, Oct. 1, 2021 . / Kabar / . Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan Ruslan Kazakbaev invited European colleagues to observe the parliamentary elections in the Kyrgyz Republic. The press service of the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry reported that Kazakbaev took part in the meeting of the Permanent Council of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). During his speech, the minister informed representatives of OSCE member states about the achievements of the Kyrgyz Republic in the area of democratic reforms, development of civil society, ensuring human rights, including those of national minorities, and freedom of the media. In addition, information was provided on the conduct of early presidential elections in the beginning of the year and the organization of a constitutional referendum and local government elections in spring. The results of the presidential elections were recognized by international observers, including the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). Ruslan Kazakbaev noted that Kyrgyzstan's parliamentary elections will be held on Nov. 28 in accordance with the new Constitution. He invited the OSCE/ODIHR mission of international observers to observe the preparation and the voting process, and assured about the intention of the republic to conduct these elections in accordance with the legislation of the country and international principles. The minister also invited European counterparts to participate in the First Economic Forum "European Union - Central Asia" in November this year. "In their speeches, Permanent Representatives of OSCE countries expressed support for the ongoing internal political and economic reforms in Kyrgyzstan and welcomed the republic's initiative to provide 500 visas for Afghan youth to study at Kyrgyz universities," the Foreign Ministry reported.