Japan-Kyrgyz Republic Relations

Minister Kishida offered words of sympathy for the victims of a landslide that occurred in the Kyrgyz Republic recently. Foreign Minister Kishida also expressed his pleasure at being able to meet Minister Abdyldaev again following the foreign ministers’ meeting, which was held during Foreign Minister Abdyldaev’s visit to Japan at the end of March this year, and explained that he hopes to continue to develop the relationship between Japan and the Kyrgyz Republic, which share fundamental values such as democracy. Foreign Minister Abdyldaev expressed his gratitude for Foreign Minister Kishida’s words of sympathy, and stated that taking advantage of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations he intends to further develop the relationship of mutual trust that has been achieved thus far.

Both sides exchanged views on various proposals that were put forward by the Kyrgyz-side at the foreign ministers’ meeting in March, and Foreign Minister Kishida stated that in response to the proposals Japan is prepared to explore holding a preparatory meeting on a bilateral investment treaty and that he hopes to hold the meeting promptly in order to develop bilateral economic relations. Foreign Minister Abdyldaev responded by welcoming the Japanese proposal, and expressed interest in cooperating with Japan in fields such as utilizing information technology.

Concerning the situation in North Korea, Foreign Minister Kishida stated that North Korea’s launch of yet another ballistic missile immediately after the United Nations Security Council held discussions on the denuclearization of North Korea is a direct challenge to the international community and can absolutely not be tolerated. Furthermore, Foreign Minister Kishida stated his intention to work together with the Kyrgyz Republic to ensure that North Korea renounces its nuclear and missile programs, including ensuring the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council resolutions. In response, Foreign Minister Abdyldaev expressed his view that North Korea’s policies destabilizing the situation are unacceptable, and stated that Japan and the Kyrgyz Republic completely share the same position. Foreign Minister Kishida also raised the abductions issue and obtained understanding and support from Foreign Minister Abdyldaev.