Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan Finalize Steps for Land Exchange, Addressing Key Resident Concerns

A crucial meeting of the joint working commission between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan took place in Kadamdzhai, Batken region, focusing on the organizational and technical aspects of a land exchange agreement. The discussions aimed to solidify the practical implementation of previously reached accords, addressing a range of critical issues for the populations involved.

The primary concerns deliberated upon included the citizenship status of residents residing in the territories slated for exchange, their subsequent resettlement, and the complex matters of property and economic adjustments. Ensuring the social protection of these individuals was also a paramount consideration during the deliberations.

The Kyrgyz delegation was led by First Deputy Minister Kamchybek Dosmatov, while the Uzbek side was represented by First Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs B.B. Kudratkhodjaev. Following productive discussions, the composition of a dedicated joint working group was formally approved. This group comprises representatives from various relevant ministries, departments, and local authorities from both nations.

This newly formed working group is tasked with a comprehensive mandate. Its responsibilities include resolving issues related to citizenship for residents of the exchanged lands, overseeing resettlement arrangements, managing the transfer of state property, registering citizens' property rights, regulating land use, and ensuring the social welfare of the affected population. Furthermore, the group will prioritize the continuity of education for children in these territories. The working group has already commenced its practical operations, with representatives scheduled to conduct on-site visits to the land-swap areas and provide regular progress updates to the commission's co-chairs.