Brussels, 23 May 2025 — Today, the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic in Brussels hosted an informal lunch, welcoming a diverse group of European delegates ahead of their upcoming mission to Kyrgyzstan. The gathering brought together over 20 participants from across Europe, all of whom confirmed their attendance, including those with specific dietary preferences such as vegetarian options.
In his welcoming remarks, the Kyrgyz ambassador, Aidit Erkin, emphasized the significance of this moment in EU–Central Asia relations. He recalled the historic summit held in Samarkand, where for the first time, the leaders of all five Central Asian nations met with the Presidents of the European Council and the European Commission. This milestone, he noted, reaffirmed a shared commitment to a sustainable and respectful partnership.
Kyrgyzstan, proud of its democratic identity in the region, expressed its openness to dialogue with the EU on a wide range of issues — from governance and the rule of law to climate action and critical raw materials. The ambassador also highlighted two key priorities for Kyrgyzstan on the global stage.
First, the country is campaigning for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term. As a landlocked — and even double landlocked — nation, Kyrgyzstan seeks to amplify the voices of similar countries in global peace and security discussions. The ambassador pledged support for preventive diplomacy, peacekeeping, and inclusive multilateralism, particularly in relation to Afghanistan.
Second, Kyrgyzstan continues to lead global advocacy for sustainable mountain development. With over 15 UN General Assembly resolutions initiated by the country, the ambassador announced that 2023–2027 has been declared the “Five Years of Action for the Development of Mountain Regions.” This initiative will culminate in the Second Global Mountain Summit, to be held in Bishkek in 2027, to which the EU and its Member States are warmly invited.
Today’s lunch served not only as a moment of hospitality but also as a symbol of deepening cooperation and mutual understanding between the EU and Central Asia. As the ambassador concluded, “In the past, my region was part of the Great Silk Road. Now it is time to make the Silk Road great again.”
