Kyrgyzstan cautioned on impact of foreign agents law on donor relations
The European Union and the Kyrgyz Republic Strengthen Cooperation
The European Union and the Kyrgyz Republic recently held a meeting of the Cooperation Committee in Brussels, according to a report from the EU Delegation to the Kyrgyz Republic. Preceding this meeting was the annual Human Rights Dialogue between the two sides.
Both meetings were described as open and constructive, reflecting the continued strengthening of relations between the European Union and the Kyrgyz Republic. The Cooperation Committee reaffirmed the mutual commitment of both sides to continue to strengthen cooperation on political and security issues, as well as in sustainable economic development. The Committee also looked ahead to next year’s EU-Central Asia Summit, building on the outcome of the EU-Central Asia Ministerial Meeting held in Luxembourg on October 23, 2023.
During the meetings, the two sides discussed bilateral trade developments, Kyrgyz utilization of the EU’s Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+), the business environment, positive engagement at the recent Global Gateway Forum, and regional cooperation. They also exchanged views on transport, regional and international issues including Global Gateway flagships, cooperation on water and energy, environment, and climate change.
In addition, the EU and the Kyrgyz Republic discussed cooperation on human rights and governance. The EU expressed concerns about negative recent trends in the Kyrgyz Republic, including an increasingly restrictive media environment and growing restrictions on the freedom of expression. The EU called for new legislative initiatives to be fully aligned with international standards, reflecting recommendations made by international organizations, international experts, and civil society representatives.
However, the EU side also noted that legislation currently in preparation by the Kyrgyz Republic seeking to restrict so-called “foreign agents” might impact the ability of the EU and other international donors to carry out cooperation activities in Kyrgyzstan.
Both sides also discussed the empowerment of national human rights institutions, including the office of the Ombudsman in the Kyrgyz Republic. The EU emphasized the need to strengthen labor rights, including fully functioning labor inspections. They also discussed ongoing work to combat corruption and the important role of NGOs in taking this forward successfully. They exchanged views on the importance of comprehensive legislation covering all forms of discrimination and addressing gender-based violence.
Overall, the meetings were viewed as positive and constructive, highlighting the commitment of both the European Union and the Kyrgyz Republic to strengthen their cooperation across a wide range of issues.
