BISHKEK, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Kyrgyzstan and China are friendly neighbors and strategic partners, and growing collaboration between the two countries' regions and provinces contributes to further strengthening bilateral relations, Elkinbek Ashirbaev, governor of Kyrgyzstan's Chui region, said in a recent interview with Xinhua.
The Chui region maintains close ties with several Chinese provinces, including sister-region agreements with provinces like Shaanxi and Shandong, Ashirbaev said, noting that the two sides have developed cooperation in various fields, particularly in the economic and cultural spheres, while sharing strong friendly relations.
"I believe that stronger regional connections will contribute to the further development and strengthening of relations between our countries," he said.
Ashirbaev spoke highly of the major infrastructure projects going on currently in his country with China's participation. Among them is the approximately 33-km bypass road north of Bishkek and through the Chui region, which is being constructed by China Road and Bridge Corporation.
"We view this project from a much broader perspective. It is not simply a road, but an important piece of infrastructure that will contribute to the development of transport hubs, industry and logistics. It will also help ease congestion and reduce transit traffic in Bishkek," he said.
Ashirbaev said the new road will also improve road safety and connectivity while creating additional opportunities for the economic development of the Chui region and attracting investment.
"Ultimately, the project should contribute to the development of a modern transport system for the entire Bishkek agglomeration, with the capital and the Chui region developing within a single economic space. Therefore, this road is of great strategic importance," he said, adding that the implementation of such major infrastructure projects once again demonstrates the importance of maintaining close ties between Kyrgyzstan and China.
On the 26th meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) held in Bishkek earlier this week, Ashirbaev said cooperation within the SCO is expanding actively as the organization is bringing together more countries. He noted that the platform is important not only at the national level but also creates new opportunities for the development of regions.
"I believe that it is precisely within such platforms that interaction between states helps strengthen not only friendly relations but also political, cultural and economic ties," he said. ■