Kyrgyzstan proposes to Turkey to increase period of visa-free regime for its citizens

Bishkek, July 21, 2023. /Kabar/. Minister of Internal Affairs of Kyrgyzstan Ulan Niyazbekov met in Ankara with his Turkish counterpart Ali Yerlikaya.

The press service of the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry reported that the meeting was also attended by Kyrgyz Ambassador to Turkey Ruslan Kazakbaev.

The parties discussed in detail the topical issues of bilateral strategic cooperation between the countries in the field of security, exchange of experience and information, as well as cyber security.

The Kyrgyz side emphasized the importance of ensuring the security of Kyrgyzstanis visiting Turkey and staying there on a long-term basis.

Taking into account the current changes in the migration policy of Turkey, the Kyrgyz side proposed to hold a migration amnesty for Kyrgyz citizens who for various reasons violated the rules of stay in the country, for their unimpeded (without fines and deportations) departure and subsequent legalization.

The Turkish side was also proposed to increase the period of visa-free regime for Kyrgyz citizens from 90 to 180 days, as well as to carry out mutual travel on internal passports (ID-cards).

In turn, Minister Ali Yerlikaya informed in detail about the measures taken by the Turkish authorities to improve the migration situation in the country and to combat illegal migration. In addition, readiness to study in detail the proposals and requests of the Kyrgyz side was expressed.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue the work of the law enforcement agencies of the two countries to implement joint projects and initiatives.