On April 14, 2022 the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic Ruslan Kazakbaev met with the US Under Secretary of State for Civil Security, Democracy and Human Rights Uzra Zeya.

During the meeting the issues of upcoming high-level bilateral visits, as well as plans to conclude a Bilateral Cooperation Agreement between the Kyrgyz Republic and the United States of America have been discussed in the context of strengthening the political dialogue between the countries.

The American side reaffirmed its commitment to assist in strengthening democratic institutions in Kyrgyzstan. In this regard, Minister Kazakbaev and Under Secretary Zeya have discussed recent political transformations in the Kyrgyz Republic, including the adoption of a new Constitution, presidential and parliamentary elections. They underlined the need for support by the American side for the ongoing reforms in the country under the new political system, as well as for the activities of the Kyrgyzstan’s leadership aimed at fighting against corruption.

While discussing regional issues, the American side highly appreciated the decision of the Kyrgyz Republic to accept Afghan students and journalists. The Kyrgyz and American sides confirmed their readiness to carry out joint practical work on reintegration and rehabilitation of women and children, who are citizens of Kyrgyzstan, repatriated from Syria.

During the meeting Minister Kazakbaev and Under Secretary Zeya also discussed the current situation in Ukraine. Minister Kazakbaev noted that the Kyrgyz Republic proceeds from the need to resolve any conflict exclusively by political and diplomatic means, including through establishment of new formats and mechanisms, if the existing ones have lost their effectiveness. Minister Kazakbaev noted that the international community needs to make all the necessary efforts to bring the conflict in Ukraine to an end as soon as possible in order to avoid further civilian casualties. The Kyrgyz Republic is ready to provide necessary assistance to establish peace and mutual understanding.

Special attention was paid on human rights issues. Minister Kazakbaev confirmed Kyrgyzstan’s commitment to comply with its international obligations in the field of human rights. Parties have emphasized free media space and vibrant civil society in Kyrgyzstan, as well as the importance of further joint work to strengthen these institutions.

Promoting the rights of people with disabilities in Kyrgyzstan and building a more inclusive society was identified as a topical issue of the ​​Kyrgyz-American cooperation agenda.

The Kyrgyz side raised the issue of liberalization of visa requirements by the United States for citizens of Kyrgyzstan.

Parties have agreed to maintain constant contact to advance the discussed issues.