L.LINKEVIČIUS HIGHLIGHTS THAT IT IS IMPORTANT TO CONTINUE THE DEMOCRATISATION PROCESS IN KYRGYZSTAN
When representing the European Union at the meeting of the EU-Kyrgyz Republic Cooperation Council on 20 November in Brussels, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Linas Linkevičius underlined that it was important for Kyrgyzstan to continue its democratic reforms.
“The Kyrgyz Republic continues to be at 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 interethnic conflicts are decisive for the country's long-term development and democratic transition,” L.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 with implementing the EU’s Central Asia Strategy. A lot of 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. When speaking on behalf of the EU, L.Linkevičius affirmed that the Union had a 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,” L.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 this June and reiterated the EU’s commitment to contribute actively to ensuring stability in the region, especially after the withdrawal of international troops from the neighbouring Afghanistan.
Kyrgyzstan’s Foreign Minister E.Abdyldaev thanked Lithuania for dedicating special attention to the partnership and cooperation between the EU and Central Asian countries.
