Speaking at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov touched upon issues related to sanctions, international security, humanitarian crises, and climate change, Fergana reports.
Sanctions imposed on Kyrgyz banks
Japarov strongly criticized sanctions imposed by the United States and the United Kingdom on Keremet Bank and Central Asia Capital Bank, calling them harmful to Kyrgyzstan’s developing economy and based on “unverified information spread by certain NGOs and individuals.”
He described the restrictions as interference in Kyrgyzstan’s internal affairs and a form of political pressure, while reaffirming the country’s readiness for an independent international audit of its banking system.
The president also accused Western countries of double standards, pointing out that while they pressure others to limit cooperation with Russia, they continue trading with Moscow themselves. Citing figures, Japarov noted that in 2024, the European Union’s trade with Russia reached US$141 billion, while the United Kingdom’s trade totaled US$2.2 billion.
Gaza conflict
Turning to the Middle East, Japarov voiced deep concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and demanding that what he termed “the genocide of the Palestinian people” be halted. He urged the International Court of Justice to launch an investigation.
While condemning terrorist attacks against Israel, he stressed that the fight against terrorism must not result in the mass killing of civilians. He reiterated support for the two-state solution as the only viable path to peace.
Afghanistan and security issues
Japarov also condemned recent missile strikes on Qatar and Iran, calling them violations of sovereignty and threats to regional stability.
On Afghanistan, he demanded the release of over US$9 billion in frozen assets, arguing that the funds are desperately needed for rebuilding infrastructure, agriculture, and humanitarian relief. “Using this money as a political tool is inhumane and shameful,” he said.
Japarov further backed expanding representation on the UN Security Council, especially for African states, and confirmed Kyrgyzstan’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat for 2027–2028.
Regional cooperation and climate
Discussing Central Asia, Japarov praised improved relations with Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, describing current borders as “boundaries of friendship, trade, and cooperation.”
He also highlighted climate risks facing Kyrgyzstan as a mountainous country, including glacier melt and water shortages. Japarov called for redirecting the world’s annual US$3 trillion in military spending toward fighting poverty, protecting the environment, and addressing ecological challenges.
