The High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, today met with the President of Kyrgyzstan, Sooronbai Jeenbekov.
The sides noted the progress achieved in the negotiations on a new partnership and cooperation agreement that will strengthen bilateral relations between the EU and the Kyrgyz Republic, and will expand cooperation in new areas.
Federica Mogherini and Sooronbai Jeenbekov touched upon the recent political events in the country and the positive dynamics of the situation in the region, including a noticeable and important improvement in relations between the countries of Central Asia.
Federica Mogherini has already discussed these issues with the foreign ministers of Central Asian countries on the sidelines of the Tashkent conference on Afghanistan in late March 2018.
Sooronbai Jeenbekov informed the EU High Representative about his priorities in the country’s social and economic development. Federica Mogherini reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting the Kyrgyz authorities in strengthening democracy, enhancing the professionalism and independence of the judiciary, strengthening the rule of law, and ensuring sustainable economic growth of the republic.
The parties stressed the importance of respecting the principles of democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of the press and political pluralism.
Another round of talks on a new long-term cooperation agreement will take place in Brussels on April 17-18.
