- How does the Aachen Treaty affect cooperation between France and Germany in Kyrgyzstan? What projects are planned in the near future?
- The Aachen Treaty, signed on January 22, 2019, on the anniversary of the Élysée Treaty of 1963, has become an important milestone in the history of relations between the two countries. This treaty, concluded by President Charles de Gaulle and Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, symbolizes the reconciliation of France and Germany after World War II, rejecting conflict and emphasizing the commitment to friendship and integration in Europe. Within the framework of the Aachen Treaty, the intentions to deepen cooperation between our countries were reaffirmed, which undoubtedly affects our interaction in third countries, such as Kyrgyzstan.
In particular, Bishkek is mentioned in this agreement as one of four cities in the world where an integrated Franco-German cultural institute will be established. This initiative elevates our cultural cooperation to a new level. Although the official opening is scheduled for the second half of this year, the work of the FGCI (Franco-German Cultural Institute) in Kyrgyzstan has already begun. Over the past four years, we have organized numerous joint cultural events aimed at youth and creative industries—such as cinema, video games, and animation. We plan to hold these events not only in Bishkek but also throughout the country.
- How does this treaty influence the EU's foreign policy in Central Asia and Kyrgyzstan?
- Cooperation between Germany and France is a fundamental element of the European project that we call the European Union. The reconciliation between our countries has laid the foundation for European integration, and we, as the "engines of Europe," strive to expand the horizons of our foreign policy.
In 2007, Germany and France initiated the first EU strategy for Central Asia, updated in 2019. The main priorities of this strategy include regional cooperation, sustainable development, as well as strengthening resilience and connectivity. These areas remain central to the EU's foreign policy towards the region, and we are actively working with the EU delegation and other member states to support Kyrgyzstan in these areas.
The agreement on enhanced partnership and cooperation (EPCA) signed in June 2024 with Kyrgyzstan will be an important step towards further deepening relations. We hope that it will soon be ratified by all EU member states and Kyrgyzstan. We also expect the first EU-Central Asia summit to be held in April 2025 in Samarkand, which should elevate our relations to the level of strategic partnership.
We are confident that the close partnership between France and Germany at all levels—from local to federal—in the areas of security, economy, culture, and science can inspire deeper regional and cross-border cooperation. We are ready to share our experience, especially in light of the recent peaceful resolution of border issues in Central Asia, which is an important step towards stability and prosperity in the region.
In these processes, political will and strategic vision are key factors. In the context of rising violence in the world, it is extremely important to maintain the spirit of constructive interaction and adhere to the principles of the UN Charter.
- How does this reflect on security issues and strategic partnerships in Central Asia?
- Germany and France agree that cooperation between the EU and Central Asia should focus on creating a sustainable and interconnected economic and political space. The EU has long been a reliable partner for Central Asia on security issues.
Among the areas where we intend to strengthen cooperation are cybersecurity, countering hybrid threats, combating radicalization and terrorism, enhancing border security, as well as fighting drug trafficking and human trafficking.
The partnership between the EU and Central Asia is not exclusive. We continue to engage with international organizations such as the OSCE and the UN, which play an active role in this region.
- Can the Aachen Treaty become the basis for a new security architecture in Europe, especially in light of the complex situation around Greenland?
- As EU and NATO members, our countries have always paid attention to cooperation in the field of security and defense. The recommendations of the Franco-German Council on Security and Defense, which took place in Toulon in August 2025, emphasize that in striving to maintain a rules-based international order, Germany and France are confident in the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation in foreign policy and defense. This confirms the ambitions laid out in the Aachen Treaty.
We aim to contribute to shaping a Europe that can respond more effectively to modern challenges and threats, including security issues within the EU itself.
These ideas are also reflected in the Franco-German economic program adopted at the meeting of the Franco-German Council of Ministers in Toulon, which outlines directions for creating a more sovereign Europe with a focus on competitiveness in key areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and new technologies.
In the context of military conflicts, increasing hybrid threats in Europe, and various global crises, we are confident that NATO remains the foundation of Euro-Atlantic security. Our countries are committed to strengthening the Alliance, including enhancing its European wing, which should remain a focal point both in Europe and North America. Greenland, as an autonomous territory within Denmark, a NATO member, pertains to the security issues of all allies.
