Representatives of state bodies, provincial administrations, business associations and international organizations gathered to discuss the importance of cross border trade for the small landlocked country of Kyrgyzstan. The unhindered flow of goods and services is crucial for the sustainable social and economic development of southern Kyrgyzstan and the strengthening of inter-ethnic ties.

Ambassador Andrew Tesoriere, the Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek said: “The possibility to conduct legal trade freely and openly contributes to economic, political, and cultural exchange and mutual confidence among the population of the region. Eliminating trade barriers is an important factor for the further development of cross-border co-operation among Central Asian nations.”

Aktilek Tungatarov, the Executive director of the International Business Council, which co-organized the event, added: “The cross border trade in Kyrgyzstan is an issue of special importance in the south of the Republic. Kyrgyzstan’s main trade partners in the region are China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. We would like to promote business ties with our partners as growth of flow of goods is an indicator of social and political stability and a positive outlook among the population.”

Participants adopted recommendations, including the creation of logistical trade centres, the legalization of informal payments, and an appeal for further negotiations with Kyrgyzstan’s southern trade partners to develop optimal conditions for cross border trade.