Bishkek insists on reciprocal visa-free regime with China

Kyrgyzstan is continuing negotiations with China on the introduction of a visa-free regime, but it is not prepared to be the first to grant such access to Chinese citizens, First Deputy Foreign Minister Almaz Imangaziev said.

Speaking during a session of the Jogorku Kenesh, Kyrgyzstan’s parliament, Imangaziev explained that discussions between the two countries are ongoing.

According to Caliber.Az, citing Kyrgyz media, Imangaziev noted that several countries in the region — including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Russia — have already introduced bilateral visa-free regimes with China.

Kyrgyzstan is also negotiating such an arrangement with Beijing, he said, but the Chinese side has proposed that Kyrgyzstan introduce the visa-free regime first.

Imangaziev stressed that Bishkek insists the arrangement should be implemented on a reciprocal basis and come into force simultaneously for citizens of both countries. Negotiations on the issue are continuing.

By Tamilla Hasanova