Exclusive: Participation in the Belt and Road Initiative opens new opportunities for trade and investment, says Kyrgyz official

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –

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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News

Osh, October 14 (Xinhua) — Kyrgyz-Chinese relations are rapidly developing, and Osh is becoming a key hub for cross-border cooperation. Its proximity to the border and participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) are opening up new opportunities for trade and investment, according to Mirlan Israilov, head of the Osh City Hall's Department of External Relations, Investment, and Tourism.

According to him, the dynamics of cooperation have increased significantly in recent years. "If we look at a period of 10-15 years, we can see how our relations have strengthened. Of course, the pandemic had a negative impact—trade turnover and business ties suffered. But starting in 2024, we've seen a renewed vigorous recovery. Kyrgyz and Chinese entrepreneurs have now reached a very good level of mutually beneficial relations," he noted.

M. Israilov explained that the cooperation is being translated into practical projects. He noted that on September 13 of this year, the mayor of Osh met with representatives of the Chinese company. Following the talks, the parties reached an agreement to purchase thousands of Chinese electric vehicles.

Additionally, on September 14, 30 Chinese-made electric charging stations were installed throughout Osh. "We plan to further expand our cooperation by providing retail space for electric vehicles in our city," said M. Israilov.

He also noted that Osh is located just 200 km from the Chinese border, making it a natural hub for cooperation. The city also cooperates with several Chinese cities, including Urumqi, Xi'an, Foshan, Changsha, Dalian, and others.

The Kyrgyz official emphasized that Osh's geographic location makes it a key point on the historic Silk Road. "The city of Osh actively supports the Belt and Road Initiative. We are located at the intersection of routes linking Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and China, making our city a strategic location on the Great Silk Road," he noted.

Commenting on the impact of cooperation between the two countries on the region's residents, M. Israilov emphasized that cooperation contributes to the growth of the population's well-being. "This is an opportunity to purchase goods, re-export, and develop local production. Our sewing and handicraft companies purchase materials and jewelry from Chinese partners at competitive prices and then supply finished products to the Eurasian Economic Union market," he explained.

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