Uzbek Leader - Key in Resolving Kyrgyz-Tajik Border Dispute

In the documentary film “President”, Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov highlighted critical diplomatic efforts in Central Asia, emphasizing the pivotal role of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in settling the long-standing border dispute between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

Japarov noted that Mirziyoyev actively encouraged direct negotiations between the neighboring leaders, warning of the risks of escalating conflict and threats to regional security, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

“The Uzbek president stressed that these issues must be resolved here and now, otherwise opportunities for dialogue could be lost,” Japarov noted.

Initially, Kyrgyz proposals to discuss the dispute were rejected by Tajikistan, but subsequent negotiations led to Tajik agreement. Japarov stressed that Mirziyoyev’s counsel was decisive in achieving the settlement.

The film also details internal challenges during the negotiation process. Kamchybek Tashiev, Chair of Kyrgyzstan’s State Committee for National Security, recalled conflicts arising during discussions, with negotiators sometimes leaving the room. Only the intervention of both presidents allowed dialogue to resume and agreements to be finalized.

As a result, the 1,378-kilometer Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan border, much of which remained disputed until 2017, was officially settled with Mirziyoyev’s active participation. In January 2023, the presidents of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan exchanged ratification documents in Bishkek, cementing the agreements.

Uzbek Presidential Advisor Javlon Vakhobov noted that the successful resolution enhanced regional security and reduced border clashes. “This is a historic process in which both leaders played a key role,” he said.