Central Asia is emerging as a space of mutual understanding and cooperation. In the economic sphere, the countries of the region, including Kyrgyzstan, have realized that uniting efforts to create beneficial production chains, forming a unified energy network, and developing common transport routes is significantly more effective than competing with each other.
For nearly three decades after the collapse of the Soviet Union, our states were in a state of rivalry, facing conflicts over territorial disputes and disagreements over the use of water resources. Periodically, tense situations arose at the highest levels, leading to border closures and restrictions on the supply of energy resources. In some cases, economic sanctions were used as a tool of political pressure. These events remain in the memory of many. Conflicts between our countries weakened them, preventing the realization of important infrastructure projects. Even 5-10 years ago, ideas about regional partnership and joint development seemed far from reality.
However, Kyrgyzstan has made significant strides in resolving territorial disputes with its neighbors – Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. This not only reduced tension but also opened up opportunities for economic cooperation. People can now freely communicate and do business at the borders, made possible by the restored trust of the leaders of the countries, based on respect for national interests and the complex work of negotiations. This has created a positive momentum that resonates with the population. We have once again recalled the good-neighborly relations and friendship.
“Perhaps soon border guards will become unnecessary at our borders,” said Kamchybek Tashiev at a meeting of the Council of Commanders of Border Troops of the CIS in Manas, addressing representatives of the border services of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. He explained: “People will interact on their own. The presidents have created conditions that allow us to live in friendship. We have no other choice.”
The main principles of the new cooperation include respect, trust, and a commitment to multi-level partnership, taking into account national interests. As a result, a trilateral agreement has been signed for the construction of the Kambar-Ata-1 hydroelectric power station, which Kyrgyzstan will implement jointly with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Similarly, a transcontinental railway will be built, linking the major transport systems of Southeast Asia and Europe through our country.
These correct political decisions have allowed cooperation in Central Asia to be filled with concrete content and practical benefits. We are jointly developing industry, optimizing logistics, and shaping the future. Security issues in this context acquire new significance.
After the creation of a common space for interaction, the internal borders of Central Asia will become absolutely secure. Maintaining troops and equipment in this region will be impractical. These forces can be used to strengthen external borders and combat drug trafficking, illegal migration, and arms smuggling.
Thus, steps are being taken to ensure that stability in Central Asia is maintained on the principles of indivisible security in cooperation with the SCO, CSTO, and CIS. In the absence of contradictions between countries and with a focus on joint work, a new future is being formed. Such a system of collective responsibility and support is the optimal approach to ensuring stability and peace in the region.
