Minister Zheenbek Kulubaev noted that conflicts on the roads of the country occur quite often, and sometimes Kyrgyz citizens are involved. However, this case attracted public attention because it involved foreigners.
“This is just an isolated incident, and its significance should not be exaggerated. Our citizens also sometimes find themselves in similar situations abroad. No one can be insured against such incidents,” the minister added.
Kulubaev emphasized that Kyrgyzstan does not intend to sever its international ties due to one incident of violence. The country is focused on equal cooperation with all partners and calls for adherence to the laws for both foreign citizens and its own citizens.
The issue of the visa regime between Kyrgyzstan and the PRC has become one of the most discussed topics. Kulubaev noted that citizens of the PRC require a visa to enter Kyrgyzstan, and the same rule applies to Kyrgyz citizens visiting China.
“We are negotiating with the Chinese side. If the PRC offers a visa-free regime, we are ready to consider the possibility of liberalizing visa requirements,” the minister noted.
He also added that a number of large infrastructure projects are being implemented in the republic with the participation of foreign workers from China, India, Pakistan, and other countries, all of whom are registered with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and operate within the law.
Kulubaev emphasized the importance of Kyrgyz-Chinese relations and noted that China is a key partner in implementing strategic initiatives, such as the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, as well as the construction of a bypass road in Bishkek and a waste processing plant.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reminded that the stay of PRC citizens in Kyrgyzstan is regulated by the visa regime and the rules for the stay of foreigners, which require compliance with the terms specified in the visa. To obtain a visa, an application from a legal entity registered in Kyrgyzstan is required.
In addition, Kyrgyzstan adheres to a balanced approach to visa policy, taking into account the principle of reciprocity and national interests. Currently, the republic has a visa-free regime with a number of countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean, including Belarus, Georgia, Russia, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mongolia, Vietnam, and others.
