UN Chief Meets Uzbekistan and Tajikistan Presidents in Bishkek

UN Secretary-General António Guterres used his visit to Bishkek to hold separate talks with the leaders of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, covering regional security and cooperation with the United Nations.

In his meeting with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Guterres discussed climate change, environmental protection and socioeconomic development. They also addressed peace and security as Kyrgyzstan prepares to serve on the UN Security Council in 2027 and 2028.

“Today, Kyrgyzstan plays a very important role in the work of the United Nations and in the life of the international community,” Guterres said. He also pointed to what he called the country’s “impressive economic growth.” Kyrgyzstan’s election to the council will place it among international efforts focused on peace, security and development, he said.

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Today, Kyrgyzstan plays a very important role in the work of the United Nations and in the life of the international community.

Guterres praised Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s diplomatic initiatives, saying they contribute to peace and stability in Central Asia. In talks with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, he thanked Tajikistan for its continued support for the global agenda on water resources and glaciers. The two also discussed regional developments, including the situation in Afghanistan.

Guterres was in Kyrgyzstan to attend a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The regional group includes China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran and Belarus, and represents about 3.5 billion people, according to the report.

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This corresponds to the impressive economic growth that is being observed in the country today.