OSCE Secretary General stresses importance of co-operation with Kyrgyzstan during Bishkek visit

BISHKEK, 27 August 2015 – Strengthening the current OSCE engagement with Kyrgyzstan and discussing future co-operation was the focus of a two-day visit to Bishkek by OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier which concluded today.

Zannier met President of Kyrgyzstan Almazbek Atambaev, Prime Minister Temir Sariev, Foreign Minister Erlan Abdyldaev as well as representatives of civil society.

“I look forward to closer co-operation with Kyrgyzstan in relevant areas in a spirit of mutual understanding and common agreement,” Zannier said.

The OSCE has implemented a range of projects in Kyrgyzstan. They include, among others, providing expert advice in fighting transnational threats; promoting good governance, human rights and the rule of law; as well as fostering equality between men and women.

Zannier emphasized the important work that the OSCE has done in the fields of law enforcement reform, combatting organized crime and establishing an effective partnership between local communities and the police, enabling them to operate professionally in a multi-ethnic environment.

The Secretary General welcomed the Kyrgyz government’s invitation to the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) to observe the October parliamentary elections. The ODIHR opened its election observation mission on August 25.

“Kyrgyzstan has clearly taken positive steps to strengthen its democratic institutions and is known for its vibrant civil society, but further progress can be made,” Zannier said.

Zannier also visited the office of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek where he met staff members and received an update on their activities.