BISHKEK, February 13 (Itar-Tass) — Kyrgyzstan considers the CIS the priority needed to satisfy its national interests in the economy, defence, security and the protection of rights of compatriots, Foreign Minister Ruslan Kazakbayev said on Monday.
Addressing members of the committee for foreign relations and inter-parliamentary cooperation, Kazakbayev said, “Trade and economic relations with the CIS countries is an important instrument for ensuring the stable economic development, food and energy security of the republic.”
In particular,Kyrgyzstan succeeded in agreeing on duty-free supplies of fuel and lubricants, the minister said . “In 2010-2011 the Russian Federation provided financial, technical and humanitarian assistance amounting to over 70 million U.S. dollars and 28.8 million roubles,” Kazakbayev said.
He noted that Kyrgyzstan continued its active efforts aimed at taking part in the structures of such organisations as the CIS, the EurAsEC (Eurasian Community) and the CSTO (Collective Security Treaty Organisation). “Contacts within these organisations helped us get approval of Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus for joining the Customs Union and take measures to counter modern threats and challenges,” the Kyrgyz minister said.
According to the Foreign Ministry, “Kyrgyzstan seeks to maintain cooperation with China, as well as with the European countries and the United States. Last year the U.S. provided 72 million dollars to Kyrgyzstan, including 51 million dollars to conduct repairs and construction works at Manas’ airport.” Since 2001 the international coalition airbase has been deployed at the Manas airport.