BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, February 18. The
cooperation with the European Union is among the priority areas of
Kyrgyzstan’s foreign policy, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr
Japarov said on February 18 at the meeting with members of the
European Parliament headed by the Chair of the Delegation for
Relations with the countries of Central Asia, Giuseppina Princi,
Trend reports via the President’s press service.
The sides discussed a wide range of issues related to bilateral
relations, including strengthening interparliamentary interaction,
protecting human rights, and ensuring freedom of speech.
“We attach special importance to interparliamentary interaction,
viewing it as an effective channel for direct and open exchange of
views on issues of domestic development, foreign policy, and the
regional agenda,” the president said.
In turn, Princi thanked Japarov for the hospitality and the
opportunity to discuss current issues. She noted the steady
development of relations between the European Union and
Kyrgyzstan.
Members of the European Parliament highlighted the progress
achieved by Kyrgyzstan and the positive changes in recent years,
emphasizing the sustainability of socio-economic development and
efforts to modernize public administration.
Kyrgyzstan and the EU have collaborated since 1991, formalized
by the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) signed
in June 2024, which prioritizes political ties, sustainable
development, a green economy, and human rights. With a 98 million
euro grant backing, the partnership supports Kyrgyzstan's 2018-2040
strategy, digital transformation, and benefits from the GSP+ trade
agreement.
Key aspects of the cooperation include enhancing trade and
investment through the EPCA, allowing tariff-free exports of over
6,200 products under GSP+, and focusing on green energy,
environmental protection, and education. Additionally, the
partnership involves dialogues on human rights and aligns with the
EU Strategy for Central Asia, facilitated by 'Team Europe,' which
includes the EU, EIB, and Germany.
Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News
Agency's WhatsApp channel