Bishkek: Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov announced that the visit of Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze signifies a 'new stage' in the development of Kyrgyz-Georgian relations. This statement was made following a meeting between Japarov and Kobakhidze in the capital city of Bishkek.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Kyrgyz presidency issued a statement highlighting the significance of the visit, which marks the first official visit by a Georgian official to Kyrgyzstan at such a high level. President Japarov expressed that Kyrgyzstan views Georgia as an important partner, and the meeting covered various topics related to bilateral cooperation, such as expanding trade and economic ties and strengthening transport and logistics.

The discussions also included efforts to enhance political contacts between the two countries, with a focus on transport connectivity and the development of transit potential. President Japarov emphasized Georgia's strategic role in ensuring transport connectivity between Asia and Europe, given its geographical location and port infrastructure on the Black Sea. This underscores the importance of cooperation in transport and logistics between the two nations.

The meeting also touched upon the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, which is considered a key infrastructure initiative in the region and a crucial component of international transport corridors. Additionally, the prospects of establishing direct flights between Kyrgyzstan and Georgia were discussed, with Prime Minister Kobakhidze extending an invitation to President Japarov for an official visit to Georgia.

The talks concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to strengthening Kyrgyz-Georgian cooperation and implementing joint initiatives on various international issues. The presidency later announced that nine documents, including a joint statement, were signed by both sides following the discussions in Bishkek. Kobakhidze's arrival in Bishkek marked the first-ever official visit by a Georgian prime minister to Kyrgyzstan since the establishment of bilateral relations.