On November 16, 2020, The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic H.E. Mr. Ruslan A. Kazakbayev met with the Head of the OSCE Program Office in Bishkek, H.E. Ambassador Pierre von Arx.

The sides discussed further ways to develop cooperation between the Kyrgyz Republic and the OSCE, as well as the issue of countering the COVID-19 pandemic and overcoming its consequences by solving a number of key socio-economic problems.

H.E. Mr. Ruslan A. Kazakbayev highlighted the role of the support provided by the Organization for the development of the country and thanked the OSCE, represented by the Head of the Program Office for the support provided in the fight against coronavirus infection.

In addition, H.E. Mr. Ruslan A. Kazakbayev informed H.E. Mr. Pierre von Arks about the internal political situation in the Kyrgyz Republic and the key reforms of the state system planned by the country's leadership, as well as an irreconcilable and firm position in the fight against corruption and criminality.

In response, H.E. Mr. Pierre von Arx assured that the OSCE Program Office will continue to support the Kyrgyz side on a wide range of issues, in particular in the development of democratic institutions and the fight against corruption. They also discussed the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections next year. The importance of holding democratic, fair, transparent elections and the importance of the OSCE's support for this process were noted. At the end of the meeting, the sides assured each other of their readiness to maintain and develop mutual dialogue for further expansion of cooperation.