Chinese President Xi Jinping has hailed the commencement of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project as a strategic decision to bolster regional connectivity, prosperity, and stability. In a congratulatory letter to the ceremony held in Jalalabad, Kyrgyzstan, President Xi emphasized the railway's significance in promoting shared development among the three nations.
"The construction of this railway reflects our shared aspiration to open up a strategic corridor," Xi stated. "This commencement marks the transition from conception to implementation, taking a critical step toward our goal of completion and operation."
President Xi urged close collaboration among the relevant departments and enterprises of China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan to ensure the project meets high standards and quality. He highlighted the importance of making the railway a new demonstration project for Belt and Road cooperation, contributing to economic and social development, and improving the well-being of people along its route.
Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, attending the ceremony, praised the railway as not only a transport corridor but also an important strategic bridge connecting the East and the West. "The project will strengthen Kyrgyzstan's status as a transportation hub, create numerous jobs, and promote development in trade, tourism, and industries," Japarov said. He expressed confidence that the three countries will complete the project with high quality, opening up new prospects for common development in the region.
Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, in his congratulatory letter, described the railway's commencement as an important measure in implementing the consensus of the three heads of state and advancing Belt and Road cooperation. "The railway will promote regional trade and integration, enhance personnel exchanges and cultural ties, and serve as a bridge for mutual learning among civilizations," he noted, adding that it will benefit countries and peoples throughout the region.
The ceremony was jointly organized by China's National Development and Reform Commission, Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Transport and Communications, and Uzbekistan's Ministry of Transport.
