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Kyrgyz Prime Minister Zhantoro Satybaldiyev (Photo: Today's Zaman)
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Despite the many common characteristics between Kyrgyzstan and Turkey, Satybaldiyev noted that economic and commercial ties between the two countries have not made much headway despite significant improvements in other areas.
In addition to talks aimed at boosting economic ties, according to Satybaldiyev, the two prime ministers will discuss international terrorism and separatism, as well as military and security cooperation in a regional and international context. Discussions on lending mutual support to both countries' memberships in international organizations as well as cooperating within the scope of international organizations such as the Cooperation Council of Turkic Speaking States (CCTS), the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) will also be on the agenda.
Today's Zaman talked to Satybaldiyev before Erdoğan's visit to his country starting on Tuesday. The Kyrgyz prime minister answered the following questions on a number of issues ranging from politics, the economy, the Manas military base and Turkish schools.
When Kyrgyzstan declared its independence, Turkey was the first country to recognize its independence and extend a helping hand. Since Kyrgyzstan gained independence, cooperation between the two countries has improved considerably. High-level visits in recent years have further contributed to bilateral relations. Turkey and Kyrgyzstan upgraded their bilateral ties to the level of strategic partnership in 2011. As the prime minister of Kyrgyzstan, are you satisfied with the current level of bilateral relations? What are your expectations for the future?
As you know, Turkey was the first country to recognize Kyrgyzstan's independence. In addition to this, Turkey has always been one of the countries that helped Kyrgyzstan to sustain its economic development.
There are many common characteristics between Kyrgyzstan and Turkey. We have a common language, common values and a common culture. As a matter of fact, we are descended from the same ancestors. Our common historic roots, kinship and cultures ensure that Kyrgyzstan and Turkey can develop good relations in a short time. Even if we had been separated from each other a long ago, I believe that our linguistic and cultural affinity and similar customs and traditions have served as the main factor in helping both countries to develop fraternal relations in such a short time.
Availing of this opportunity, I would like to note that I am very glad to see that our countries currently enjoy excellent cooperation in politics, culture and education. Bilateral ties have made significant progress, particularly after 2010. Mutual visits have increased. Mr. Erdoğan is paying his second visit to Kyrgyzstan in two years. It wouldn't be an overstatement to say that we have recently turned a new page in bilateral relations.
I am sure that our relations will scale up in the future.
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Education is another area of close cooperation between the countries. Turkish schools have been in operation in Kyrgyzstan for more than 20 years. These schools are very popular with the Kyrgyz people. What do you think is the reason for this? Where do these schools stand in the Kyrgyz educational system?
As I noted earlier, education is a prominent area of cooperation between the two countries. Sebat Educational Institutions have a special place in bilateral relations relating to education. There are lots of things to say about Turkish schools, but before moving forward, I must note that Turkish schools are improving Kyrgyzstan's future.
Sebat Educational Institutions are educating skilled, knowledgeable and well-equipped people who will build Kyrgyzstan's future. These schools successfully represent Kyrgyzstan in international olympiads. In addition, they are working to raise the level of education in Kyrgyzstan to international standards through quality education and instruction. I praise these schools at every opportunity. Indeed, we have much to learn from these schools in the field of education. Another thing that distinguishes these schools from others is that they instill a good sense of upbringing in pupils. They teach their pupils how to love their parents, homeland, nation and humanity.
The graduates of these schools have started working in the public and private sectors. I believe that these schools are producing people who will contribute to a peaceful future for the world. I must note that my son, too, graduated from these schools.
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Do you have any messages for Turkey and the Turkish nation?
We are different states from the same nation. We are the children of the same fathers; we are sisters and brothers. To be sisters and brothers is to share each other's joys and sorrows. Kyrgyzstan feels joy at Turkey's growth and development. Despite the distance, our hearts beat in harmony with our Turkish sisters and brothers.
I hope Prime Minister Erdoğan's visit will take our bilateral relations further. I also want to note that if we act in solidarity, we, the Turkic republics, can shape the future.
Excerpted from the interview published on Today's Zaman, 08 April 2013, Monday
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