A new chapter in regional connectivity was written on Thursday as Presidents Xi Jinping of China, Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan, and Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan celebrated the signing of an intergovernmental agreement on the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project via video link.
President Xi hailed the railway as a strategic project that will enhance connectivity between China and Central Asia. Describing it as a landmark in Belt and Road cooperation among the three nations, he emphasized that the agreement provides a solid legal foundation for the project’s construction, marking the transition from vision to reality.
“China is ready to work alongside Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan to prepare for the commencement of construction,” Xi stated. “We aim to complete this strategic route that will benefit our three countries and their peoples as soon as possible.”
Kyrgyz President Japarov highlighted the railway’s potential to serve as a new transport corridor linking Asia to Europe and the Persian Gulf countries. “This project is significant for enhancing connectivity and strengthening economic and trade exchanges not only between our countries but across the entire region,” he said.
Uzbek President Mirziyoyev noted that the railway would become the shortest land route connecting China and Central Asian countries. “It will open up vast markets in South Asia and the Middle East, fostering cooperation among regional countries and China,” he added.
The proposed railway will begin in Kashgar, located in China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and traverse Kyrgyzstan before entering Uzbekistan. Future extensions could connect to West Asia and South Asia, significantly boosting regional trade and economic development.
The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project is expected to play a crucial role in the development of the regional economy, facilitating the movement of goods and people, and enhancing mutual understanding among the nations involved.
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Chinese, Kyrgyz, Uzbek presidents congratulate signing of railway deal
cgtn.com
