Mirziyoyev: 2017 became historic in relations between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan

Tashkent, Dec. 13, 2017 / Kabar/. 2017 became historic year in relations between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev said during a meeting with Kyrgyz President Sooronbai Zheenbekov, who is on an official visit in Uzbekistan.

The press service of the Kyrgyz President reported that, Mirziyoyev while greeting Zheenbekov, stressed that 2017 has become historic year in relations between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. "A lot of reforms have been made over the past 6 years by Almazbek Atambayev, and the people support this course of Kyrgyzstan. The elections in Kyrgyzstan have shown the whole world an example of a civilized transfer of power in democratic way. We are pleased that the people of Kyrgyzstan have chosen the path which was started six years ago by Almazbek Atambayev. And presidential elections in your country have shown that these reforms will be continued. The Uzbek people were also very happy with your victory," the Uzbek President said.

Mirziyoyev stressed that Zheenbekov was able to win people's trust with sincerity and closeness to the people. "You are an experienced leader, headed a large region, were the prime minister of the country. I passed the similar political way and I know how difficult it is. You are a worthy elected President, who will ensure continuity in politics. We are very pleased that you make one of the first official visits to Uzbekistan," Mirziyoyev said.

The President of Uzbekistan emphasized that friendship with its neighbors is a priority in foreign policy of Uzbekistan. "The nearest neighbor for us is Kyrgyzstan. We should have no boundaries, and we must go only forward on a completely different level. I'm sure we will find common ground, and solve the existing problems," the Uzbekistan president said.

He added that in the history of relations between the countries there was no such level of trade. "This is $ 250 million at the end of the year. This shows that we not only formally opened the borders, but sincerely opened souls to each other. When there is a political will to bring relations on a completely new level, much depends on the presidents. We do what people want. People want to see everything good today, and not tomorrow," the Uzbek president said and wished the head of Kyrgyzstan all the best.