Kyrgyzstan anticipates that, in the near future, alongside Tajikistan, mutually acceptable solutions will be found regarding the issue of border delimitation. This would pave the way for both nations to embark on a new chapter in their relations, Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubayev said following his meeting with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon.
"The immediate priority is to expedite the negotiations conducted by the Kyrgyz-Tajik intergovernmental commission. The discussions are progressing rapidly, and we are optimistic that shortly, the parties involved will reach mutually beneficial and mutually satisfactory outcomes," Kulubayev stated.
He credited the presidents of both countries as the driving force behind the strengthening and promotion of bilateral relations. "They are determined in their intention to resolve outstanding issues and to open a new chapter in Kyrgyz-Tajik relations," Kulubayev added.
During his discussions with Rahmon, the minister emphasized the historical bond between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, describing the two nations as "brotherly and friendly countries" with a rich history of interaction and trade. He underscored the importance of nurturing these traditional ties and noted that the perspectives of the two countries often align on various matters.
Kulubayev's visit to Dushanbe, which began on February 4, was facilitated by an invitation from Tajik Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Mukhriddin. Upon arrival, he signed a cooperation program between the foreign ministries of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan for the years 2024-2025. On February 5, he met with Tajikistan's president, who informed the media that nearly 90% of the borderline has now been agreed upon.
Previous tensions between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan have stemmed from the unresolved border delimitation, a process that has been ongoing since 2002 and spans over 980 kilometers. Intermittent conflicts have occurred along the disputed sections of the border, with the most significant incident occurring in September 2022, involving the use of firearms. Throughout 2023-2024, representatives from both countries have engaged in regular meetings to negotiate the borderline, culminating in an agreement on a 3.7 km segment on February 5.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Based on materials from TASS