Sadyr Zhaparov receives EU Special Representative for Central Asia Terhi Hakala

Bishkek, Oct. 11, 2022. /Kabar/. President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Zhaparov received Special Representative of the European Union for Central Asia Terhi Hakala. The sides discussed issues of enhancing bilateral cooperation, exchanging visits and signing an Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Kyrgyzstan and the EU, exchanged views on a wide range of issues on the global agenda, including regional security. The Kyrgyz president noted with satisfaction the successful development of bilateral cooperation with the European Union, which turns 30 this year. Today, the European Union remains an important and priority foreign policy partner for Kyrgyzstan, and the Kyrgyz side is ready to develop this cooperation. During the conversation, Sadyr Zhaparov spoke about the armed aggression of Tajikistan against Kyrgyzstan, which resulted in the death of civilians and military personnel, as well as the destruction of civilian and social infrastructure in the Batken region. In turn, the EU Special Representative emphasized the relevance of the Fourth Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia in Cholpon-Ata, emphasizing that in the turbulent period that is currently taking place in the world, it is important to preserve the integrity of the Central Asian countries. Terhi Hakala expressed her condolences in connection with the latest tragic events on the Kyrgyz-Tajik state border. She informed about the allocation of humanitarian aid by the EU to the affected regions of Kyrgyzstan, and also expressed her readiness to assist in the speedy settlement of border issues.