Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov solidified cooperation plans during meetings in Beijing on Wednesday, vowing to accelerate infrastructure projects like the landmark China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway. The discussions highlighted growing economic synergy between the two nations as they mark 31 years of diplomatic relations.
Premier Li emphasized China's commitment to supporting Kyrgyzstan's modernization efforts through high-quality Belt and Road collaboration. A key focus: establishing 'new cooperation highlights' in mining, wind/solar energy development, and joint tech innovation projects. The leaders also pledged to strengthen coordination within multilateral platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
President Japarov welcomed increased Chinese investment, specifically naming opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and urban development. The Kyrgyz leader confirmed plans to create special economic zones with streamlined business regulations for Chinese companies operating in Central Asia's strategic corridor.
Analysts note the agreements come as China expands its Central Asia engagements, with proposed rail links potentially cutting China-Europe freight times by 8 days. The 523km China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway – first proposed in 1997 – could begin construction within 12 months following feasibility studies.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
