Interview by Derya Soysal
Kyrgyzstan is entering a new phase in its international engagement. Following its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term, the country is preparing to play a more active role on the global stage. In this interview, Ambassador Aidit Erkin discusses Kyrgyzstan’s priorities at the United Nations, regional cooperation in Central Asia, and the enduring significance of the country’s nomadic heritage.
Kyrgyzstan’s Priorities at the United Nations Security Council
Derya Soysal: Kyrgyzstan has recently been elected to the United Nations Security Council. What will be the country’s main priorities during its term?
Ambassador Aidit Erkin: Thank you very much. It is a pleasure to meet with you.
On June 3, Kyrgyzstan was elected as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term. This achievement is important not only for Kyrgyzstan, but also for the whole of Central Asia.
Our candidacy was jointly supported by all five Central Asian countries. Therefore, we will work to promote the interests and priorities of Central Asia at the global level and bring the region’s voice to the United Nations.
Kyrgyzstan is a small, landlocked and mountainous country. For this reason, the challenges faced by small states, landlocked developing countries and mountainous nations will be among our key priorities. We believe these issues deserve greater international attention.
In addition, Kyrgyzstan is a peaceful country committed to dialogue and cooperation. Strengthening regional and global security will therefore be one of our major objectives during our term on the Security Council. We will do our best to contribute to international peace, stability and mutual understanding.
Issyk-Kul as a Platform for Regional Cooperation
Derya Soysal: A few days ago, Kyrgyzstan hosted the Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, attended by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan, President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan. Why can Issyk-Kul be considered both a symbol of Kyrgyzstan’s soft power and an important regional platform?
Ambassador Aidit Erkin: Indeed, Issyk-Kul is becoming an increasingly important source of soft power for Kyrgyzstan.
Last week, we welcomed the leaders of Central Asia and the President of Azerbaijan for an important consultative meeting. We are working to create a new reality of connectivity and cooperation between Central Asia and Azerbaijan.
Our countries share deep historical and cultural ties, but our cooperation is also expanding in the economic sphere. Today, initiatives such as the Middle Corridor, the Caspian transport route and the Port of Baku are creating new opportunities for regional integration.
Investment cooperation is also growing. A recent example is the opening of the five-star Hotel Baku in Issyk-Kul. Projects like this demonstrate the strong potential of cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan.
We are committed to further strengthening these partnerships and promoting regional connectivity for the benefit of all our peoples.
Preserving the Nomadic Spirit
Derya Soysal: Kyrgyzstan is also preparing for upcoming nomadic games. Why is the nomadic spirit so important for Kyrgyzstan? What should people in Belgium and across Europe know about Kyrgyz nomadic culture?
Ambassador Aidit Erkin: The Kyrgyz people are historically a nomadic nation, and nomadism remains a fundamental part of our identity.
The nomadic spirit represents freedom, resilience, independence and a close connection with nature. It is deeply reflected in our traditions, customs and culture.
The World Nomad Games can be compared to an Olympic Games of the nomadic world. Although the movement is only about a decade old, it has grown rapidly and attracted increasing international attention.
The games bring together participants from many countries and celebrate a shared cultural heritage that unites nomadic peoples across Eurasia. They are not only sporting competitions but also an important platform for cultural exchange, dialogue and friendship.
We will continue promoting the World Nomad Games internationally. Previous editions have been hosted by countries such as Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Türkiye, demonstrating the shared nature of this rich heritage.
Looking Ahead
As the interview concluded, Ambassador Erkin highlighted the growing relationship between Kyrgyzstan and Europe while emphasizing the importance of preserving the country’s traditions and cultural identity.
Derya Soydal: Long live Kyrgyzstan. Long live the friendship between Kyrgyzstan and the European Union. And long live the nomadic spirit that continues to inspire our people and connect us to our heritage. Thank you very much for your time.
Ambassador Aidit Erkin: Thank you. Long live our homeland.
External sources
United nations, Kyrgyzstan wins seat on UN Security Council for first time ever | UN News
Special Interview with H.E. Adit Erkin, Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic to Belgium | EUReflect
