Kyrgyzstan, China deepening strategic partnership in a new era

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Kyrgyzstan and China in 1992, the two sides have traveled a remarkable path of cooperation and mutual trust. In just over three decades, their relationship has transformed into a comprehensive strategic partnership, reflecting their high level of political confidence, respect for each other's interests, and a shared vision for development. The two countries are not merely neighbors bound by geography, because their ties are anchored in centuries of friendly exchanges, common challenges, and mutual aspirations for prosperity.

In recent years, the dialogue between the two countries has become especially dynamic. Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov's state visits to China in 2023 and earlier this year were truly historic. During President Japarov's first visit, the two sides elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, and his participation in the first "China-Central Asia Summit" in Xi'an underscored the importance of regional cooperation.

During President Japarov's visit to China in February 2025, the two countries' partnership was elevated to an even higher level with the signing of a joint statement on advancing the comprehensive strategic partnership in the new era, accompanied by 23 agreements in diverse fields. He also held substantive talks with President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and National People's Congress Standing Committee chairman Zhao Leji, as well as attended the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin.

Kyrgyzstan has welcomed senior Chinese leaders including Premier Li Qiang, Vice-Premier Liu Guozhong, and Zhao Leji, whose official trip to Bishkek was the first of its kind in the history of Kyrgyz-Chinese relations. China has also hosted Kyrgyz parliamentary delegations, members of the Kyrgyz Cabinet, and representatives from different regions of Kyrgyzstan. These frequent and substantial contacts testify to the maturity and resilience of the Kyrgyz-Chinese bilateral relationship.

The results of our practical cooperation are clearly visible. China has long been one of Kyrgyzstan's leading trade and investment partners, and political dialogue has created favorable conditions for advancing an ambitious economic agenda, with the launch of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway in December 2024 being one of the most significant achievements in this regard.

This long-awaited transport corridor is set to transform connectivity in our region, unlocking Central Asia's transit potential and providing a crucial link for the Belt and Road Initiative. The railway will accelerate trade, tourism and industrial growth, help access remote areas, and generate thousands of jobs thereby improving Kyrgyzstan's socioeconomic condition. In fact, it is expected to become one of the key arteries of the Eurasian continent, contributing to the development and prosperity of our peoples.

The railway, once completed, will be complemented by other landmark projects that strengthen our economic and social development. The opening of the Bedel border crossing, the "two countries, two parks" initiative connecting Kashgar in China and Naryn in Kyrgyzstan, the construction of the "North-South Highway", and the establishment of a mineral fertilizer plant in Kyrgyzstan's Osh region are examples of how Kyrgyz-Chinese cooperation translates into tangible progress.

Looking to the future, Kyrgyzstan sees great potential in new areas of cooperation. We in Kyrgyzstan are interested in advancing digital economy projects within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. As Chinese companies pioneer innovative e-commerce models and optimize global supply chains, Kyrgyzstan is keen to strengthen cross-border e-commerce cooperation.

At the same time, our country Kyrgyzstan offers unique opportunities for the use of green technologies, and we are engaged in discussions with Chinese partners on renewable energy projects. In a world facing climate challenges, investments in green energy are not only timely but also essential. Digital transformation and green transition are becoming central drivers of competitiveness, sustainable development, and integration into the global economy, with Kyrgyzstan welcoming the participation of Chinese companies in these fields.

Following the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin on Sunday and Monday, Kyrgyzstan will assume the chairmanship of the SCO for 2025-26. We expect the Tianjin summit to further enhance the SCO's authority as an effective regional platform, strengthen mutual trust and coordination among the SCO member states, and provide fresh impetus to practical cooperation.

Kyrgyzstan will assume the SCO chairmanship with pride and a deep sense of responsibility. Our priorities will focus on strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, transport and sustainable tourism, while ensuring that the humanitarian dimension receives due attention. As usual, educational and cultural exchanges will remain a key part of our agenda, as they form the foundation of friendship and mutual understanding among peoples.

Equally important will be the environmental agenda, with special emphasis on protecting water resources, developing green technologies, and adapting to climate change. As a mountainous country with a fragile ecosystem, Kyrgyzstan understands the urgency of these issues and is ready to contribute more to regional and global environmental efforts.

In the context of global uncertainty, we believe it is vital to strengthen confidence-building measures, enhance information sharing, and develop joint strategies to counter transnational threats. By working together, SCO member states can ensure that our region remains a zone of security, cooperation and shared prosperity. The results of Kyrgyzstan's chairmanship will be summarized at the SCO Summit in 2026, which will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the organization.

The friendship between Kyrgyzstan and China is built on mutual respect, mutual trust, and a commitment to a shared future. More than bilateral relations, it is about creating a stronger Central Asia and contributing to global stability and development. On the solid foundation of the partnership we have built, I am confident that our countries will continue to deepen cooperation across all fields, guided by the spirit of equality and mutual benefit. Together, we will write a new chapter in the history of Kyrgyz-Chinese relations, one that serves the interests of our peoples and contributes to the peace and prosperity of the wider world.

The author is the ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic to China. The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

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