Kyrgyz minister : Amir's visit opens new page with Qatar and Arab world

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic Dr Aibek Artykbaev affirmed that his country is proud that His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani is the first Arab leader to visit the Kyrgyz Republic, at a time when the relations between the two countries are witnessing significant developments, with Qatar's openness to its regional and international surroundings.
In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), he said that the visit is historic and will open a new page not only in the bilateral relations between Qatar and the Kyrgyz Republic, but also between his country and the Arab countries in general. He stressed that Qatar's strategy and its openness to Central Asian countries are insightful vision for Qatar under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir, who has close relations with the president of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1998, bilateral relations have witnessed significant progress. Both embassies in the respective countries have been working to enhance co-operation in various fields and explore broader horizons. High-level reciprocal visits have been undertaken as part of the efforts to strengthen co-operation in all areas, he noted.
His Highness the Amir's visit to Bishkek would provide a suitable opportunity for engaging in profound discussions on the development of bilateral relations between the two countries. It would also serve as an occasion to give a strong impetus to enhance sustainable and evolving friendship and bilateral co-operation, he added. The Kyrgyz Republic and Qatar are seeking to launch a new phase of distinguished relations that benefit both parties. This is especially evident as both countries share converging visions and similar positions on most regional and international issues. They also support each other in international institutions and organizations, he said.
The deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic emphasized the importance of closer co-operation between Central Asian countries and the Gulf Arab states, particularly Qatar, which shares a special relationship with Kyrgyzstan. Therefore, Qatar would be the main driver and catalyst for building new relations between Central Asia and the Gulf Arab region. In this context, he said, it is noticeable that in recent years there have been developments in Central Asia, especially in the Kyrgyz Republic, which considers giving priority to the Gulf countries, including Qatar, for investment and strengthening co-operation.
He added that the talks between the leaderships of Kyrgyzstan and Qatar will focus mainly on the need to strengthen economic and trade co-operation between the two countries, especially since Qatar is one of the countries that have influences on the international economy thanks to the wise policy of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.
He praised the role of Qatar on both regional and international arenas, as well as the contributions it makes towards resolving issues and conflicts, thanks to its balanced and independent foreign policy. Qatar has gained the trust of the international community through its endeavors.
Qatar has indeed been able to showcase its successes to the world in an exemplary manner. The outstanding success of organizing the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar stands as the biggest testament to its capabilities and global influence, he said.
The deputy minister of foreign affairs of Kyrgyzstan highlighted the humanitarian support provided by Qatar worldwide, stressing that Qatar is a leading country in the humanitarian field, as demonstrated in several humanitarian crises, including the recent humanitarian aid provided in the aftermath of the earthquakes in Turkiye and Syria. Qatar stood firmly and provided both financial and humanitarian support to those affected by the earthquakes, HE added.
He praised Qatar's efforts in establishing peace and security in the region and the world. One notable example is Qatar's efforts in the Afghan crisis, where Doha is diligently working towards security stability in Afghanistan. Qatar consistently emphasizes that dialogue is the best approach for resolving conflicts.
He expressed his confidence that the future of the relationship between Kyrgyzstan and Qatar will be "great". The visit of His Highness the Amir would be an opportunity to sign several agreements and memoranda of understanding to enhance cooperation. It would also pave the way for establishing a business forum between the two countries, organizing joint forums and exhibitions, initiating negotiations on food security and bilateral investments, and enhancing cooperation in the economic field.
Dr. Aibek Artykbaev confirmed at the end of his dialogue with QNA his country's eagerness to open direct flights between Bishkek and Doha. This would provide an opportunity to enhance tourism co-operation and facilitate business visits for launching investment projects. The Kyrgyz side is fully prepared to initiate investment projects and follow up on the implementation of previously signed agreements in the fields of energy, agriculture, utilization of natural resources, as well as defense, economy and trade.