LITHUANIAN FOREIGN MINISTER HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF CONTINUING DEMOCRATISATION PROCESS IN KYRGYZSTAN
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Linas Linkevičius, representing the European Union at the meeting of the Cooperation Council between the EU and the Kyrgyz Republic on November 20 in Brussels, underlined that it was important for Kyrgyzstan to continue its democratic reforms.
“The Kyrgyz Republic continues to be in the forefront of democratization processes in the Central Asia region. The rule of law, human rights and freedoms, active engagement of civil society in political processes, economic reform and stability in the peaceful settlement of inter-ethnic conflicts are decisive for the country’s sustainable development and democratic transition,” Minister Linkevičius said.
At the meeting, the Lithuanian Foreign Minister represented the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic Erlan Abdyldaev led the delegation of Kyrgyzstan.
The Council meeting discussed progress in implementing the EU’s Central Asia Strategy. Much attention was devoted to political and economic reforms in Kyrgyzstan and the importance of regional security cooperation in the fields of energy and water resources was stressed. Speaking on behalf of the EU, Minister Linkevičius affirmed the Union’s had long-term interest in strengthening its cooperation with Kyrgyzstan.
“The EU is firmly committed to further support the success of democratic and socio-economic reforms as well as actions to promote inter-ethnic reconciliation,” Minister Linkevičius said.
The Lithuanian Foreign Minister also thanked Kyrgyzstan for its active participation in the EU–Central Asia High Level Security Dialogue which was held last June and reiterated the EU’s commitment to contribute actively to ensuring stability in the region, especially after the withdrawal of international troops from neighbouring Afghanistan in 2014.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan Erlan Abdyldayev thanked Lithuania for its focus on the partnership and cooperation between the EU and Central Asia.
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