President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov spoke about the prospects for expanding Kyrgyz-Chinese cooperation in trade and economic relations, reports Economist.kg. He discussed this and other ties between the two neighboring countries in an interview with China’s Xinhua news agency on the eve of his visit to Beijing.
According to Japarov, the opening of the new Bedel checkpoint will be an important step in strengthening bilateral relations, increasing cargo flow, and developing transport infrastructure. In the near future, construction will also begin on the Barskoon–Uchturfan–Aksu road, which will create additional trade routes.
"Kyrgyzstan is already exporting coal to Kashgar. To optimize logistics, a coal conveyor belt and coal depots are being built near the Irkeshtam checkpoint," Japarov stated.
Additionally, in Ulugqat County (Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region - XUAR), the construction of a Kyrgyz-Chinese industrial park for agricultural and by-product processing has been completed. Its operation will also allow Kyrgyz products to be supplied directly to China through the Irkeshtam checkpoint.
Currently, protocols are being negotiated for the supply of certain types of agricultural products, while the Chinese side is actively supporting new opportunities for Kyrgyz producers. At the same time, Kyrgyz manufacturers have already begun exporting environmentally friendly products to China through the Kashgar bonded zone.
Another important project is the development of electronic cross-border trade within the "Two Countries – Two Parks" initiative. This initiative involves the Kashgar and Naryn free economic zones, as well as Kyrgyz Pochtasy JSC. The project will create additional opportunities for trade relations between Kyrgyzstan and XUAR.
The president emphasized the need to enhance the efficiency of "green corridors" for transit cargo transportation. He noted that the growth of freight volumes between the two countries plays a key role in revitalizing Kyrgyz-Chinese trade and economic relations, as well as stimulating economic activity in Kyrgyzstan.
President Japarov's interview with Xinhua was given ahead of his official visit to China, which will take place from February 4 to 7, 2025.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
February 4, 2025