Kaktus.media asked Giuseppina Princi a number of questions about the interaction between Kyrgyzstan and the EU.
- How do you assess Kyrgyzstan's position in light of its economic dependence on Russia and EU sanctions? - It is extremely important for Europe to strengthen this partnership. In the context of the changing geopolitical situation, we are expanding trade ties with all our partners, including Kyrgyzstan and other Central Asian countries.
Our projects are aimed at providing real assistance to these countries. The European Parliament maintains a clear position on this issue.
It is necessary for countries interacting with Russia not to violate sanctions, despite their trade relations with China and Russia. Discussions are ongoing about the need for distancing.- How does the European Parliament respond to laws concerning NGOs and the media? - We have a clear position on these issues, and we are aware of the difficulties faced by non-governmental organizations and civil society due to new legislative changes.
It is important that activists representing societal interests do not find themselves in a difficult position in their activities to protect human rights.
Kyrgyzstan has bilateral relations with many countries, including the EU, and we strive to ensure that all laws comply with international standards.
While we cannot dictate, it is important that legislation takes into account the principles of democracy and the opinion of the Ministry of Justice. We plan to meet with the country's leadership to discuss these issues, as Kyrgyzstan strives for democratic values, including pluralism of opinions and media independence.
Non-governmental organizations should be given the opportunity to work for the benefit of society without external pressure. In 2024, the European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning what we believe to be unlawful arrests of journalists and civil society activists. We attach great importance to maintaining friendship and relations between the European Parliament and the Parliament of Kyrgyzstan, which certainly includes discussing these issues.
We believe that the NGO registration law should not restrict their freedom, as democratic values should be taken into account under any circumstances.
I want to remind you that Kyrgyzstan once prided itself on its status as a country with a high degree of freedom of speech and media, and I hope this will be preserved.
We will continue to provide support on issues of freedom and human rights.- What are the EU's priorities in relations with Kyrgyzstan in the coming years? - As I mentioned, water resource management remains one of the key areas of our cooperation, as it relates to the sustainable development of the country. This issue is relevant for many states, including Kyrgyzstan.
Your country needs to strive for more effective management of water resources and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This is an important task that needs to be addressed.It is important for us to make progress within the framework of international agreements. We have joint programs to address these issues. Education is also an important part of our cooperation, and we aim to continue its development.
Quality education is the foundation of economic development and improved well-being. We support students in Kyrgyzstan and hope to create opportunities for the formation of effective human capital that can make a meaningful contribution to the economy, social welfare, and strengthening democracy. It is also important for the state to pay more attention to civil society and human rights.
- Can the European Union strengthen its influence in Central Asia against the backdrop of growing influence from China and the USA? - Last year, Kyrgyzstan made a decision to develop cooperation with the European Union, and we support this initiative, continuing to work on improving relations.
As for the position of the USA in Central Asia, they seek to strengthen ties with those countries they see as promising. We are closely monitoring the situation, including developments between Russia and Ukraine, as well as in Gaza. Our goal is for international relations to develop positively and for the benefit of the peoples.
We value the good relations with your country.
High-profile meetings contribute to strengthening mutual understanding. We admire the nature of Kyrgyzstan, its mountains, hospitable people, and magnificent cuisine. We wish for every person living in this country to feel this joy.
Much of the landscape and character of the people reminds me of my home region in Italy. I am pleased to see happy faces and shining eyes; I believe that regardless of where they live, all people strive for prosperity and a better life.
