On January 21 and 22, 2026, Bishkek became a venue for the celebration of the 63rd anniversary of the Élysée Treaty and the 7th anniversary of the Aachen Treaty. These agreements laid the foundation for reconciliation and long-term partnership between countries that were once adversaries and are now considered one of the most resilient alliances in Europe.
The National Historical Museum hosted a panel discussion dedicated to the development of cooperation between France and Germany, as well as its impact on international relations. High-profile diplomats participated in the event, including Dr. Niklas Wagner, Director for Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia at the German Foreign Office, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic Meder Abakirov, and ambassadors of France Nicolas Fay and Germany Monika Lenhardt, as well as the Ambassador of the European Union Rémi Duflot.
During the discussion, participants examined the lessons that can be learned from the reconciliation between Germany and France, as well as the contribution of this cooperation to peace and stability in Europe. Special attention was paid to how the experiences of these two countries can be beneficial for Central Asia, where states are striving to strengthen cooperation and develop joint economic initiatives, as well as ensure the free movement of people.
German Ambassador Monika Lenhardt, in an interview with a correspondent from VB.KG, emphasized that the Élysée Treaty continues to be the foundation of strong relations between Germany and France. She noted that reconciliation after a long confrontation is a remarkable fact that has allowed for the creation of a unique model of cooperation, which has become one of the pillars of the European Union.
Lenhardt also highlighted the significance of the new Franco-German Cultural Institute in Bishkek, the idea of which was enshrined in the Aachen Treaty of 2019. There are only four such institutes in the world, and Bishkek has become one of them. The institute has already begun its activities, including cultural events and initial joint projects. The official opening is scheduled for the coming year.
According to the French Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan Nicolas Fay, the Élysée Treaty was an important step towards political, economic, and cultural rapprochement between the two countries. He noted the establishment of the Franco-German Youth Office, which has allowed ten million young people to participate in exchange programs, as well as the launch of the Arte television channel and the development of joint cultural initiatives, including the French Cultural Center in Bishkek.
Fay added that cooperation between France and Germany could serve as an inspiring example for Central Asia, where states are striving to develop regional ties and creative industries. Franco-German programs in Kyrgyzstan, aimed at youth, should open a window to Europe for familiarization with its languages, culture, and modern approaches to the development of creative professions.
Deputy Foreign Minister Meder Abakirov also emphasized the importance of the consistent actions of Germany and France in shaping a sustainable European Union policy towards Central Asia. He expressed Kyrgyzstan's interest in continuing dialogue and expanding cooperation with the EU, especially in the context of regional interaction.
Abakirov reminded that in March 2025, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan signed a historic trilateral agreement on border issues. This document became an important step in building trust and creating a legal framework for the final resolution of territorial disputes and the implementation of new joint projects.
Conference participants agreed that the experience of Franco-German reconciliation shows that even the most serious conflicts can be overcome with political will, mutual respect, and a desire for a common future. In the context of modern pressures on the international order, dialogue of this kind becomes particularly relevant.
In conclusion, the diplomats expressed hope that such events would contribute to strengthening ties between the European Union and Central Asia, as well as developing cooperation in the fields of culture, education, and youth initiatives.
