During the first meeting of the Kyrgyz-Tajik Intergovernmental Council in Bishkek, the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Adylbek Kasymaliev, announced the country's readiness to become a "trade gateway" for Tajik goods, providing access to the markets of the EAEU and the European Union through the GSP+ mechanism.
Kasymaliev also emphasized that the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway is an important infrastructure project that will significantly increase the country's transit capabilities and strengthen its position as a key logistics hub in Eurasia. He added that this route will open new horizons for Tajikistan.
According to the head of the Cabinet of Ministers, 2025 has become an important milestone in the relations between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, confirming the high level of political dialogue and the desire of both countries to build stable intergovernmental relations.
He also noted that Kyrgyz-Tajik ties, based on centuries-old friendship and good neighborliness, have reached a new level and play a key role in Kyrgyzstan's foreign policy. Kasymaliev highlighted the successful completion of the delimitation of the state border between the two countries as an important step towards ensuring security and stability in the region, expressing confidence in the soon completion of the demarcation of the remaining sections of the border. "The leaders of our countries, Sadyr Japarov and Emomali Rahmon, with their decisive approach, set the direction for the development of bilateral cooperation," he added.
The head of the Cabinet of Ministers emphasized that the established Intergovernmental Council between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan represents an important tool for developing partnership and implementing the agreements reached.
Discussing trade and economic relations, Kasymaliev expressed the intention to increase the export of dairy products, textiles, coal, glass, and sugar.
In accordance with the presidents' instructions, it was proposed to develop a "roadmap" for increasing trade turnover, which will define specific measures, stages, and those responsible for their implementation. The Kyrgyz side also proposed to open Trade Houses of Kyrgyzstan in Tajikistan and vice versa to improve business opportunities and establish direct contacts between entrepreneurs.
Kasymaliev discussed issues of logistical cooperation, emphasizing the need to modernize border infrastructure and improve the efficiency of checkpoints. This includes updating existing checkpoints, expanding their capacity, and implementing modern digital technologies in customs and border administration.
He also noted the growth of tourist exchange: in 2025, Kyrgyzstan was visited by 86 thousand tourists from Tajikistan, which is 12 times more compared to 2024.
The Kyrgyz side expressed interest in joint tourism projects, including the creation of a unified visa for Central Asia for citizens of third countries.
In the field of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, Kasymaliev announced the holding of Tajikistan's Culture Days in Kyrgyzstan in May of this year, which should contribute to deepening cultural dialogue.
Additionally, he invited the Tajik side to visit Kyrgyzstan during the Sixth World Nomad Games.
In conclusion, the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers confirmed the Kyrgyz side's intention to fulfill all agreements reached within the framework of the Intergovernmental Council.
Tajik Prime Minister Kohir Rasulzoda noted the importance of good neighborly relations and mutually beneficial cooperation with Kyrgyzstan, emphasizing that the Intergovernmental Council will become an effective platform for implementing joint initiatives and expanding trade and economic ties.
He confirmed the Tajik side's readiness to fulfill the agreements reached and further strengthen the partnership with Kyrgyzstan.
During the meeting, plans were discussed to activate cooperation at the highest levels and expand interaction in various fields. The parties are confident that the meeting will serve as an impetus for deepening cooperation between the two countries.
As a result of the meeting, the Protocol of the first meeting of the Intergovernmental Council was signed, as well as a Memorandum of Understanding between the Export Development and Promotion Center "Kyrgyz Export" and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Tajikistan.
