Kyrgyzstan raises concerns over EU sanctions in talks with Austrian FM

Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubaev met with Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Beate Meinl-Reisinger in New York on June 2 to discuss bilateral cooperation, regional issues, and international developments, according to Kyrgyzstan’s Foreign Ministry.

The meeting followed a telephone conversation between the two ministers held on April 10 at the initiative of the Austrian side, Caliber.Az reports via Kyrgyz media.

During the talks, the ministers reviewed the current state of Kyrgyz-Austrian relations and discussed prospects for expanding cooperation. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening political dialogue, boosting trade, economic and investment ties, and enhancing cultural and humanitarian exchanges.

Addressing the European Union's sanctions policy, Kulubaev expressed concern over what he described as the potential negative impact of unilateral restrictive measures on the trade, economic and financial development of Kyrgyzstan and the wider Central Asian region.

He said Kyrgyzstan opposes the politicization of international economic and commercial relations and remains open to constructive dialogue aimed at finding mutually beneficial solutions.

The ministers also focused on international efforts to advance sustainable mountain development. Discussions included preparations for the Second Global Mountain Summit, which is scheduled to take place in Bishkek in October 2027.

In addition, the two officials exchanged views on key international and regional issues and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation within the framework of the United Nations and other international organizations.

By Sabina Mammadli