As part of a state visit to the People’s Republic of China, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on February 5 in Beijing. The two leaders engaged in extensive discussions on the current state of Kyrgyz-Chinese relations, exploring avenues to strengthen their partnership across various sectors and addressing regional and global issues of shared interest.

During the meeting, both leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress made since the signing of the “Joint Declaration of the Kyrgyz Republic and the People’s Republic of China on the Establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for a New Era” in May 2023. They agreed that the declaration serves as a solid foundation for expanding bilateral ties and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining regional stability and promoting development for the benefit of both nations.

President Xi Jinping highlighted the importance of President Japarov’s visit, pointing out that he is the first foreign leader welcomed by China during the Spring Festival, a time traditionally celebrated in the country.

“China and Kyrgyzstan are united not only by strong ties, but also by close rapprochement of peoples. Our relations have reached a breakthrough level of comprehensive strategic partnership. Political dialogue based on trust is strengthening between our countries,” President Xi voiced.

Xi further acknowledged Kyrgyzstan’s stable development under President Japarov’s leadership, praising the country’s achievements and its independent path of development, aligned with its national interests.

In response, President Japarov extended heartfelt congratulations to Xi Jinping and the Chinese people on the occasion of the Spring Festival, calling it a bright symbol of China’s rich cultural heritage. Reflecting on his first visit to China three years ago, Japarov expressed his appreciation for the enduring friendship and close cooperation between the two nations.

The Kyrgyz President also underscored the significant progress made in bilateral relations, including the rapid development of joint ventures and projects in various sectors, such as trade, mechanical engineering, logistics, and e-commerce. He noted the participation of regional leaders in his visit, which highlighted the shared commitment to deepening interregional cooperation.

Additionally, President Japarov praised China’s “One Belt, One Road” initiative, expressing Kyrgyzstan’s readiness to engage in larger-scale projects within the framework of this program. He also reiterated Kyrgyzstan’s backing of China’s global efforts in development, security, and civilization, acknowledging their positive role in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The two leaders also discussed the establishment of the “China – Central Asia” regional cooperation format, with Japarov expressing support for the creation of its Secretariat and underscoring Kyrgyzstan’s readiness to actively contribute to this effort.

In his concluding remarks, President Japarov emphasized Kyrgyzstan’s admiration for China’s successful blend of reforms, leadership, and cultural respect, describing China as not only a loyal friend and reliable partner but also an inspiring neighbor.