Kyrgyzstan Enhances Regional Ties at SCO Forum

Post by : Shakul

Kyrgyzstan has bolstered its regional collaboration by attending the 5th Forum of Heads of Regions within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states held in Issyk-Kul. The focus of the international gathering was on enhancing economic partnerships, advancing infrastructure projects, and fostering interregional cooperation under the motto “Interregional Partnership in the SCO: 25 Years of Joint Development.”

Representing Kyrgyzstan at the high-level event was Erlist Akunbekov, the Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry. In his address, he noted that the SCO has transformed into a significant platform facilitating political, economic, and regional collaboration across Eurasia over its 25-year history.

Akunbekov highlighted the essential role of regions and cities in cultivating stronger cooperation among SCO nations. He remarked that interregional partnerships have played a key role in enhancing trade relations, fortifying business ties, and generating opportunities for joint developmental initiatives among the member states.

Kyrgyz officials reported that trade volume with other SCO countries has surged by over 2.2 times in the past four years. They also underscored several significant infrastructure projects currently underway in the country, including the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, the Bedel checkpoint along the Kyrgyz–Chinese border, the Barskoon-Bedel highway, and various energy sector initiatives.

Officials asserted that these infrastructure developments hold strategic significance for both Kyrgyzstan and the wider SCO region, as they are anticipated to enhance regional connectivity, fortify transport links, and aid in sustained economic growth across Central Asia and neighboring markets.

The forum also attracted prominent representatives from Belarus, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and the SCO Secretariat. Delegates engaged in discussions aimed at fortifying investment cooperation, supporting regional development programs, and improving economic integration among SCO members.

During the event, several significant agreements were formalized, including a memorandum of collaboration between the Bishkek Free Economic Zone and the Brest Free Economic Zone of Belarus, alongside a new sister city arrangement between Bishkek and Zhengzhou in China. Additional agreements concerning Kyrgyzstan’s Naryn Free Economic Zone were also completed.

Kyrgyz officials reaffirmed their commitment to nurturing interregional cooperation within the SCO's framework, aiming to forge new paths for trade, investment, infrastructure advancement, and long-term regional stability through enhanced partnerships with neighboring nations.

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