WANA (Jan 31) – Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref emphasized the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties between Iran and Kyrgyzstan, reaffirming Tehran’s strong commitment to enhancing bilateral relations.

 

Aref made these remarks during a meeting with Kyrgyz Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev on Friday morning at his residence in Kazakhstan, where he is on an official visit.

 

Expanding Economic and Technological Cooperation

During the talks, Aref highlighted the broad scope of Iran-Kyrgyzstan cooperation in trade, transportation, and economic affairs. He stressed the need for deeper collaboration in science and technology while calling for the activation of the Iran-Kyrgyzstan Joint Cooperation Commission to accelerate the implementation of agreements and memoranda of understanding.

 

He also noted that both countries’ membership in key regional organizations—such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), and the Eurasian Economic Union—provides valuable opportunities to strengthen economic ties. Aref urged for an increase in bilateral trade and investment.

 

Cultural and Political Coordination

The Iranian official underscored the cultural commonalities between the two nations, stating that such ties could facilitate more extensive consultations on regional affairs. Addressing international dynamics, Aref criticized Western countries for using human rights as a political tool against rivals and called for Iran and Kyrgyzstan to reinforce their unified stance in global forums.

 

Aref also extended an official invitation to Prime Minister Kasymaliev to attend the Caspian Summit as a special guest, scheduled to take place in Tehran on February 18.

 

Kyrgyzstan Seeks Stronger Economic Ties

For his part, Kyrgyz Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev congratulated Iran on the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution and reiterated Bishkek’s strong desire to enhance friendly relations with Tehran. He expressed readiness for constructive dialogue at all levels to bolster cooperation.

 

Kasymaliev pointed to the vast potential for expanding trade and investment between the two nations and called for strengthening the Joint Cooperation Commission to facilitate Iranian investments in Kyrgyzstan.

 

He further noted that Iran’s engagement with the Eurasian Economic Union has been on an upward trajectory, with all member states eager to deepen ties with Tehran. Kyrgyzstan, he added, views Iran’s observer status in the bloc as a positive step that could enhance regional trade and economic cooperation.

Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref meeting with Kyrgyz Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev on January 31, 2025. Social media/ WANA News Agency