Opposition Hopes President Would Refuse To Sign
Radio Free Europe
Dushanbe, June 17: Asia Plus-Blitz on 17 June quoted Democratic Party of Tajikistan Chairman Mahmadruzi Iskandarov as expressing disappointment that deputies refused to amend the election law to provide for the inclusion in precinct electoral commissions of representatives of all registered political parties. He predicted that President Imomali Rakhmonov will refuse to sign the bill into law and will return it to the legislature. Social Democratic Party of Tajikistan Deputy Chairman Shokirdjon Hakimov assessed the amended law as less democratic than before, Asia Plus-Blitz reported. He said deputies should have approved the proposal that candidates who collect the required number of signatures in their support be exempt from paying a deposit.
Kazakh Election Commission Established
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 17: The Central Electoral Commission announced on 17 June that the formation of electoral commissions at all levels is complete, Kazinform reported. Pro-presidential parties gained a commanding presence on the 67 district electoral commissions for 19 September parliamentary elections, Interfax-Kazakhstan reported. In all, the commissions have 469 members, with the pro-presidential Otan, Asar, and Auyl parties each fielding 67 representatives. Other pro-presidential parties are heavily represented as well. Opposition parties Ak Zhol and the Communist Party will field, respectively, 18 and 11 representatives. Kazinform reported that not all parties managed to advance candidates for the commissions.
Two Pro Presidential Parties Form First Bloc
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 17: The pro-presidential Civic and Agrarian Parties of Kazakhstan announced on 17 June that they will form a bloc for parliamentary elections, Interfax-Kazakhstan reported. Representatives of the two parties signed a memorandum at a 17 June news conference to take part in elections as a single bloc. The bloc is the first of the parliamentary campaign.
New Party Is Registered
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 17: Maksut Narikbaev, leader of the Democratic Party of Kazakhstan (DPK), told a 17 June news conference that the Justice Ministry officially registered the party on 14 June, Interfax-Kazakhstan reported. DPK held its constituent assembly on 29 April, regnum.ru reported. The party`s platform is based on strengthening the state, inculcating a law-based culture, and improving the country`s legislation. DPK brings to 11 the number of officially registered political parties in Kazakhstan. An advocate of legal reform, Narikbaev is the rector of the Kazakh State Legal Academy.
Kazakh Opposition Rallies For Imprisoned Leader
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 16: The Communist Party of Kazakhstan and the Democratic Choice of Kazakhstan party held a small unauthorized rally in Astana on 16 June in support of imprisoned opposition leader Ghalymzhan Zhaqiyanov, Interfax-Kazakhstan reported. The news agency reported that an estimated 50 people took part in the rally. Communist Party leader Serikbolsyn Abdildin said that participants demanded `freedom for the political prisoner Ghalymzhan Zhaqiyanov.` Abdildin denied that the unauthorized demonstration, held in front of the parliament building in the Kazakh capital, was illegal.
Kazakh President`s Daughter Downplays Succession Rumours
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 16: Darigha Nazarbaeva, the daughter of Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaeva and the leader of the pro-presidential Asar party, in a 16 June interview with Russia`s `Moskovskii komsomolets` downplayed rumors that she is being groomed as her father`s successor. Lamenting that `no matter what I do, everything will be viewed through the prism of succession,` Nazarbaeva said that the speculation stems from the `machinations of enemies.` She added that Asar will support `the acting president` in 2006 presidential elections. In response to a question about the `Kazakhgate` scandal and trial of James Giffen in the United States, Nazarbaeva described the court proceedings as a tax case between Giffen and U.S. authorities, dismissing all other aspects of the case as `a myth pushed by the [Kazakh] president`s opponents.`
Armenian Opposition Suspends Campaign For Regime Change
Radio Free Europe
Yerevan, June 16: Leading members of the opposition Artarutiun alliance told several thousand participants at a demonstration in Yerevan on 16 June that `the first stage` of their campaign to force the resignation of the country`s leadership is over, RFE/RL`s Armenian Service reported. Albert Bazeyan, a leading Artarutiun member, said that Artarutiun and its ally, the National Accord Party, need time to discuss alternative methods of attaining that goal. Other opposition leaders admitted privately that the campaign to force the resignation of President Robert Kocharian has lost momentum since police resorted to violence early on 13 April to break up a similar demonstration.
Tajik Lower House Passes Change To Election Law
Radio Free Europe
Dushanbe, June 16: The Assembly of Representatives (Majlisi Namoyandagon) passed amendments to Tajikistan`s law on elections on 16 June, Asia Plus-Blitz reported. The amendments, which won the support of a large majority, would reduce the deposit for candidates wishing to contest parliamentary elections in single-mandate constituencies from $3,300 to $450, Avesta reported. Political parties will likewise be required to pay the same $450 deposit for each candidate included on a party list, rather than pay a lump sum for the party list regardless of the number of candidates.
New Head Of Kazakh Constitutional Council Appointed
Interfax
Astana, June 16: Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarabayev has signed a decree appointing Igor Rogov chairman of the Kazakh Constitutional Council, the presidential press service reported on Tuesday. Former Constitutional Council chairman Yury Khitrin `was relieved of his current duties due to his transfer to another post,` the Kazakh presidential press service`s message says. A source in legal circles told Interfax that Khitrin was appointed deputy commander of the Republican Guard. The press release also says that Nazarbayev signed a decree appointing Baurzhan Mukhamedzhanov head of the Kazakh president`s administration and head of the government`s legislative department and relieving him of duties as deputy head of the president`s administration and head of the organization, control and staff management department. Nazarbayev also appointed Nurlan Nigmatulin deputy head of the presidential administration.
Kazakh President Addresses Otan Party
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 15: President Nursultan Nazarbaev addressed the seventh extraordinary congress of the pro-presidential Otan party on 15 June, Khabar Television reported the same day. Nazarbaev used the opportunity to air a number of policy positions. Calling Otan a `powerful political force for modernization,` the president disputed allegations that political reforms are lagging behind economic reforms and pointed to the country`s multiparty system, effective parliament, and 4,500 NGOs. He also announced the creation of a National Commission on Democracy and Civil Society, `Kazakhstan Today` reported. Nazarbaev went on to state that the media have an obligation to observe the law and avoid stirring up interethnic strife. Calling himself the `guarantor of the constitution,` the Kazakh president stressed that `freedom means responsibility.` Nazarbaev told the congress that he has signed a decree setting parliamentary elections for 19 September, Khabar Television reported on 15 June. He added that the elections will be a `test` for the country.
Tajik Party Head Protests Unregistered Status
Radio Free Europe
Dushanbe, June 15: Sulton Quvvatov, chairman of the unregistered Taraqqiyot (Progress) opposition party, announced on 15 June that the Justice Ministry`s continued refusal to register the party reflects poorly on the image of President Imomali Rakhmonov, Asia Plus-Blitz reported the same day. Quvvatov wrote in an appeal, `Under these conditions, it is difficult to consider our country a democracy with the rule of law.` Taraqqiyot, which was founded in May 2001, has been trying to gain legal status for nearly three years, the Institute for War and Peace Reporting reported on 14 April. Quvvatov warned that if the Justice Ministry denies the party registration one more time, he will appeal to the International Court of Justice in The Hague.
Kazakhstan`s President Advocates The Parliament`s Stronger Role
Kazakhstan News
Astana, June 15: Nursultan Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan`s president, has proposed a set of measures aimed at improving the country`s political system. Addressing an extraordinary congress of the Otan (Fatherland) party, of which he is the leader, Nazarbayev named among the top priority tasks the task to vest more powers in the parliament so that it could have a greater influence on the formation of the Cabinet through the discussion of candidacies of not only prime minister, but also those of ministers at special commissions` sessions. `We must thoroughly examine the issue of giving broader functions of control to the parliament,` Nazarbayev said. `The parliament must not only endorse the state budget, but also to participate in control over its implementation. In Nazarbayev`s opinion, `the elaboration of a new system for forming the government should be given the most serious attention during the constitutional reforms.` `...We must thoroughly examine the issue of forming the government through the mechanism of the parliamentary majority,` Nazarbayev said.
Armenian Opposition Says Plans For Regime Change Irreversible
Radio Free Europe
Yerevan, June 14: Leading members of the opposition Artarutiun alliance have told RFE/RL`s Armenian Service that despite apparently dwindling popular support, they remain committed to trying to force the resignation of President Robert Kocharian. To that end, they will proceed with plans to hold a further anti-Kocharian demonstration in Yerevan on 16 June, RFE/RL`s Armenian Service reported on 14 June. The Yerevan municipal authorities have granted permission to stage that demonstration, Noyan Tapan reported on 14 June. People`s Party of Armenia (HZhK) Chairman Stepan Demirchian, who lost to Kocharian in last year`s presidential runoff, said the campaign against what he termed an `illegitimate regime` is `irreversible.`
Tajik Opposition Appeals To President On Election Law
Radio Free Europe
Dushanbe, June 14: Five opposition parties appealed to President Imomali Rakhmonov in a 12 June letter asking him to intervene to ensure positive changes to the country`s election law, Asia Plus-Blitz reported on 14 June. The appeal complains that the pro-presidential People`s Democratic Party ignored opposition suggestions at a recent meeting. `We are especially concerned that the deputies have categorically refused to consider such suggestions as the inclusion of representatives of registered political parties in electoral commissions at all levels, the provision of numerous defense mechanisms on ballots, the prohibition of the use of pencils to fill in ballots, and the provision of copies of ballots tallied to observers,` the appeal reads. The appeal was signed by the Democratic Party, Communist Party, Social-Democratic Party, Socialist Party, and Islamic Renaissance Party.
Parliament Not Supported President`s Initiative Aimed To Support Mass Media
Kabar Agency
Bishkek, June 14: The Jogorku Kenesh has not supported Kyrgyz President Askar Akaev`s initiative aimed to support mass media. In particular, deputies of the Legislative Assembly have not adopted to consider changes to the Criminal Code of Kyrgyzstan and Law `On State Duty`, providing for support journalists. Abdil Segizbaev, spokesman of the Kyrgyz President told journalists at a press conference at the `Kabar` Agency. President A. Akaev offered parliamentarians to consider issue on exclusion of criminal liability regarding journalists for slander in mass media. The Kyrgyz President raises the data initiative for the third time. The president proposed for the first time in 1997. The proposal of A. Akaev to introduce state duty when bringing an action against journalists also could not find deputies` response.
OSCE Chairman`s Personal Envoy Supports Kyrgyz Efforts To Hold Fair Elections
Kabar Agency
Bishkek, June 14: The OSCE Chairman`s Personal Envoy for Central Asia, Martti Ahtisaari, stressed the importance of the parliamentary and presidential elections for Kyrgyzstan and the whole of Central Asia. During his visit to Kyrgyzstan, which ended 11 June, the Personal Envoy met with Kyrgyz President Askar Akaev, as well as the Chairman of the Central Election Commission, Sulaiman Imanbaev, and representatives of the local media. Mr. Ahtisaari said the OSCE Chairmanship and the international community will closely watch the presidential, parliamentary and local elections. `The way these elections are conducted will have a crucial impact on the international image of Kyrgyzstan,` he said. `For this reason it is very important that all participants in this process have a fair and equal chance to participate and monitor.` Meeting with the representatives of leading political parties, the Personal Envoy made it clear that `it is not the task of the OSCE to change the government in a country, but to work with the government, political parties and civil society to create conditions and improve possibilities for every political party to have a fair chance in the elections`.
Kazakh Opposition Parties Hold Rally
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 12: Opposition parties Ak Zhol, Democratic Choice of Kazakhstan, and the Communist Party held an authorized rally in Almaty on 12 June that organizers said drew approximately 5,000 people, Interfax-Kazakhstan reported. Ak Zhol initiated the demonstration, under the slogan of `Changes for a Dignified Life.` `We call on the government and the authorities to have an open dialogue with us,` Ak Zhol co-Chairman Bulat Abilov said.
Kazakhstan May Pay USD1bn For Air Defense System Upgrade - Russian Expert
Interfax
Moscow, June 18: Kazakhstan will have to pay about USD1bn for the contract with a British company to upgrade its national air defense system, Russian experts believe. `This is a very large project. According to experts, in case the contract is signed, its value may reach USD1bn,` Alexei Arbatov, head of the International Security Center in the World Economy and International Relations Institute, told Interfax-Military News Agency on Thursday. Asked whether the signing of such a contract is real, Arbatov said that `it is quite real.` `The possible contract on air defense system upgrade will surpass all Kazakh international cooperation projects in the sphere of military technical cooperation taken together. Such an impressing value is explained by the great scale of the national air defense system. Kazakhstan has about 100 air defense missile systems (S-75, S-125, S- 200, S-300), and half of them are outdated, namely S-75 and S-125,` Arbatov said. In addition, the Kazakh air defense system includes 135 warplanes, nearly 80 transport planes and trainers, and about 100 helicopters. Radars are far from their best condition either, he stressed. Western nations `are very active in Central Asia and in Kazakhstan, in particular,` Arbatov went on. Among Kazakhstan`s most important projects in the sphere of military technical cooperation is the transfer of a batch of U.S. military hardware, including 35 armored cross country vehicles fitted with large-caliber machine-guns. There are also plans to supply Kazakhstan with U.S. helicopters and trucks. The U.S. assigned over USD1.5m for 2003-2004 to train Kazakh officers. In addition, the U.S. will spend USD35m on rearming the Kazakh Navy on the Caspian Sea, Arbatov said.
Member-states Of The Shanghai Cooperation Organization Pledge To Hold Joint Anti-terrorist Exercises
Itar-Tass
Tashkent, June 17: Member-states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) have decided to hold joint anti-terrorist exercises with the participation of law enforcement bodies and security services. The SCO leaders said in the Declaration adopted at the SCO summit that they were concerned over the recent upsurge of terrorism and extremism. The global threat of terrorism should be rebuffed by a global anti- terrorist system with the United Nation as its nucleus and be backed by regional, sub-regional and national structures, the Declaration said.
Kazakh Officials Respond To Arms Deal Reports
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 16: A source in the Kazakh Defense Ministry told Interfax-Kazakhstan on 16 June that Russian media reports that Kazakhstan has concluded a $1 billion deal with Britain`s BAE Systems for antiaircraft-defense modernization are `inaccurate.` Russia`s `Kommersant-Daily` published the news on 15 June (see `RFE/RL Newsline,` 16 June 2004). RBK reported on 16 June that Kazakh Defense Ministry sources would not confirm the report. The news agency added that an anonymous source in the Russian Embassy in Almaty has `no information` about the alleged deal. The embassy source noted, however, that Russian President Vladimir Putin was informed during a January visit to Astana that Kazakhstan was planning to hold a tender for an antiaircraft-modernization contract and would invite Russian companies to participate.
IRGC Commander: Regional Cooperation Needed To Secure Persian Gulf Security
IRNA
Tehran, June 16: Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Commander Brigadier General Yahya Rahim-Safavi said here Wednesday that the only sure way to secure Persian Gulf`s security is signing security pacts among its littoral states. Speaking at a gathering of IRGC Naval Force commanders and managers, Rahim-Safavi referred to the fate of the former Iraqi dictator, Saddam Hussain, arguing, `That tyrant`s fate must have provided a good lesson for the US agents in the Persian Gulf region, proving them the fact that the Americans are not trustworthy partners.` He further stressed, `The surest way to secure regional security, next to signing regional security pacts is maintaining friendly ties, and safeguarding the solidarity among Persian Gulf littoral states.`
Uzbekistan, Russia Sign Strategic Security Treaty
Interfax
Tashkent, June 16: Uzbekistan and Russia signed a treaty on Wednesday on stable and effective security in Central Asia. The Strategic Partnership Treaty was signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Uzbek counterpart Islam Karimov. Each country pledges to refrain from `any act, including the conclusion of a treaty with a third country, that would jeopardize the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of the other party` and vows not to `permit the use of its territory by a third state if such use jeopardizes the national sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of the other party.` The accord also sets the priorities for bilateral military cooperation, including Russian military exports to Uzbekistan and assistance in servicing Uzbekistan`s aircraft, air defenses and other hardware using facilities in both countries. Among other priorities, Russia will train Uzbek officers, and the two countries will hold joint military exercises and run joint space programs using the Uzbek space infrastructure. `
Georgia Ready For Consultations With Russia On Military Issues
Interfax
Tbilisi, June 16: Georgia has expressed readiness to conduct the next round of consultations with Russia on military issues in Moscow on June 23-24, Georgian Deputy Foreign Minister Georgy Gomiashvili told a briefing on Tuesday. `Georgia intends to offer Russia new ideas, which will include setting up an anti-terrorist center in the Caucasus,` he said. Gomiashvili did not specify the details of the other Georgian proposals to be discussed in Moscow. In accordance with a decision made at the OSCE Istanbul summit, Georgia and Russia are to determine the timeline for the withdrawal of the Russian bases from Georgia. Russia is asking that a period of 14 years be granted, while Georgia is insisting on three years. Several countries have expressed readiness to provide financial assistance to Russia to help withdraw the bases.
Russian Vessel Seized In Georgian Territorial Waters
Interfax
Tbilisi, June 16: The Russian vessel Tsirkony was seized by the Georgian coast guard in the Batumi port area for violating navigation rules in the early hours of Wednesday. The vessel and its 11 crewmembers are currently at the Batumi port, Shalva Londaridze, spokesman for the Georgian Border Guard Service, told Interfax. `The vessel will be released if the $25,000 fine is paid,` he said. The Georgian coast guard services have already seized 11 vessels for illegally entering Georgia`s territorial waters and violating navigation rules this year. Tsirkony is the first Russian vessel to be detained by the Georgian coast guard this year.
Newspaper Reports Russian Ire At Kazakh Arms Deal
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 15: Russia`s `Kommersant-Daily` reported on 15 June that Kazakhstan`s decision to sign a contract with Britain`s BAE Systems to modernize its antiaircraft defenses has angered the Kremlin. According to the report, Kazakhstan recently signed a $1 billion contract with BAE Systems, a British arms manufacturer that owns a controlling stake in Kazakhstan-based Air Astana. Moscow is indignant at the move, which it believes will give NATO access to elements of the CIS unified air-defense system; `Kommersant-Daily` reports that the Kremlin has already apprised the Kazakh leadership of its extreme dissatisfaction. The newspaper goes on to say that the BAE Systems contract fits in with a pattern of pro-Western moves by Kazakh President Nazarbaev, who is allegedly attempting to stave off the possibility of a U.S.-inspired, Georgia-style `Rose Revolution` in Kazakhstan.
Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkey To Conduct Exercise On Protecting Baku- Tbilisi-Ceyhan Oil Pipeline
Interfax
Tbilisi, June 15: The largest anti-terrorism command post exercise (CPX) since the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline started to be constructed will be held in Baku in August. `The Eternity exercise, to be held in Baku on August 21-27, enjoys special importance: it will be conducted in light of that fact that the construction of the oil pipeline is nearing completion,` Irakly Batkuashvili, chief of Coordination Staff of the NATO-sponsored Partnership for Peace (PfP) program in the Georgian General Staff, told Interfax-Military News Agency on Tuesday. `The CPX plan will be adopted at the conference of NATO member- states to be held in Baku on June 28-30,` he said. Batkuashvili noted that earlier exercises on protecting the oil pipeline had been aimed at refining tactics against terrorists.
Armenia To Dispose Soviet Liquid Missile Fuel Left On The National Territory From The Soviet Period
Itar-Tass
Yerevan, June 13: Armenia will dispose liquid missile fuel, which is left on the national territory from the Soviet period. A memorandum to the effect has been signed between Armenian Defense Minister and Secretary of the National Security Council Serzh Sarkisyan and head of the OSCE mission in Yerevan Vladimir Pryakhin. Further storing of the liquid missile fuel is dangerous, because the fuel containers have decayed. The OSCE is ready to assign experts for helping the Armenian project.
NATO Week Opens In Azerbaijan
Itar-Tass
Baku, June 13: The week of NATO is opening in the Azerbaijani capital Baku on Monday. Seminars, meetings with the country`s public and the opening of a `NATO`s summer school` will be held within the framework of the week, Azerbaijani foreign ministry sources told Itar-Tass. The participants in the events will discuss issues of fighting international terrorism and ensuring global nuclear security.
Russia Wants Georgian Troops Out Of Ossetian Conflict Zone
Civil Georgia
Tbilisi, June 12: The Russian Foreign Ministry demanded from the Georgian side on June 11 to follow agreements reached on June 2 and pull out extra forces from the South Ossetian conflict zone. `Georgia has not cancelled its checkpoints in the conflict zone. Moreover, these checkpoints have been strengthened by additional units of Georgian armed forces,` the statement issued by the Russian Foreign Ministry on June 11 reads. The Russian side insists `on unconditional fulfillment of the agreements reached on June 2` in frames of Joint Control Commission (JCC), involving Georgia, South Ossetia, the Russian Federation and the Russia`s Republic of North Ossetia.
SCO`s Antiterrorism Structure Officially Launched
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 17: Regional Antiterrorism Structure of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO RATS) was formally opened in Tashkent on 17 June. President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, President of Russia Vladmir Putin, President of China Hu Jintao, President of Kazakhstan Nursulton Nazarbaev, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rakhimov and President of Kyrgyzstan Askar Akaev participated in opening ceremony. The SCO RATS coordinates interaction of law enforcement bodies and special services of SCO member states. A decision on stationing SCO RATS executive committee in the capital of Uzbekistan was adopted at SCO summit in Moscow in May 2003. The RATS executive committee started its activity in Tashkent on 1 January 2004.
Astana Proposes Moslems` Efforts To Be Intensified To Counteract Extremism
RIA Novosti
Astana, June 15: Kazakhstan believes that it is necessary to intensify joint efforts of the Moslem community in counteracting the extremism and the use of Islam in fuelling international dissension and religious intolerance, Kazakhstan`s first deputy Foreign Minister Kairat Abuseitov was quoted by the Kazakh Foreign Ministry press service as saying at the 31st foreign ministers conference of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) in Istanbul on Thursday. `Emphasized in this context was the urgency of developing new OIC approaches facing the emerging global threats`, said Kazakhstan`s Foreign Ministry. According to the press service, `specially mentioned was the extreme importance of establishing constructive dialog between religions, countries and governments in the context of the emerging global challenges and threats`. With this regard Mr. Abuseinov informed the OIC about arrangement of the second World and Traditional Religions Convention in 2006. The Istanbul conference discussed issues related to the Arabic-Israeli conflict, the situation in Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine, the process of Pakistani-Indian peaceful settlement, the UN and UN Security Council reforms, the problems of refugees in the Islamic countries. Discussed alongside are the issues of disarmament and arms control, international counterterrorism, establishment of dialog with the European Union, appointment of the civilizations dialog committee, economic situation in the OIC states and scientific, cultural and humanitarian cooperation. During the OIC foreign ministers conference Mr. Abuseitov held bilateral meetings with the foreign ministers of Egypt, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkmenia, Kuwait, Pakistan and Malaysia.
Documents On Preventing Terrorism To Be Adopted In SCO Summit
Interfax
Tashkent, June 15: Several major documents on the prevention of international terrorism will be adopted at the upcoming summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) due to take place in Tashkent on June 17, Uzbek Foreign Ministry spokesman Ilkhom Zakirov told Interfax on Tuesday. `The SCO countries see the upcoming Tashkent summit as a pivotal event in the SCO`s development, a breakthrough event where founding documents on the prevention of international terrorism and other priority areas of the SCO`s work will be adopted,` Zakirov said. The SCO summit will be chaired by Uzbek President Islam Karimov. The presidents of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and China will also be in attendance. In addition, Karimov has invited Hamid Karzai, head of the interim government of Afghanistan, and Mongolian presidential envoy Luvsangiin Erdenechuluun to attend the summit as his guests. The summit`s agenda includes further cooperation between the SCO countries and an exchange of views on international issues. In addition, the meeting participants are planning to determine the date and time for a meeting of the SCO Council in 2003 to sign the Tashkent Declaration, a convention on the privileges and immunities of the SCO, and an agreement on cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking. The SCO Council of Heads of State is expected to establish a Day of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and a provision on observer status in the SCO. The meeting participants are also planning to sign a protocol of cooperation and coordination between the foreign ministries of the SCO countries, an agreement on the database of the SCO Regional Anti- Terrorist Structure, and several other documents.
Iran-Armenia Gas, Electricity Trade To Reach $10 Bln
Interfax
Yerevan, June 18: Trade between Iran and Armenia as part of an agreement for the construction and operation of the Iran- Armenia gas pipeline, involving supplies of Iranian natural gas in exchange for Armenian electricity, will amount to $10 billion over the next 20-25 years, Iranian Ambassador to Armenia Mohammad Farhad Koleini said. He said that this agreement will not result in increased competition between Russia and Iran on the gas market, as these countries are not competitors, but partners. `We are cooperating with Russia in the international arena and our cooperation is not restricted to the Caucasus, and we do not see competition as a decisive factor. This is the Iranian model,` the ambassador said. Koleini said that `in the energy sphere Russia needs to develop a serious model for cooperation with Europe and with Iran.` The ambassador considers it possible to set up a consortium of large gas producing countries in the near future.
IBD Eyes Role In Kazakhstan-China Pipeline Project
Interfax
Astana, June 18: The Islamic Development bank (IDB) is interested in a role in the construction of an oil pipeline from Kazakhstan to China, Dr. Ahmad Mohamed Ali, the IDB`s president, said after a meeting with Nurtai Abykayev, speaker of the Kazakh Senate. The IDB is mulling a role in other fuel and energy projects in Central Asia as well, the IDB president said. He and Anykayev discussed the Kazakhstan-China pipeline project, gas transport to Europe and electricity projects. The IDB expresses a very strong interest in these projects, the bank`s president said. At this stage the bank is looking at a feasibility study for the Kazakhstan-China pipeline and other technical documentation, he said. All technical documents on the project for constructing the Atasu- Alashankou oil pipeline from Kazakhstan to China should be completed by fall. Construction of the first stage of the Atasu-Alashankou pipeline should be completed by the end of 2005.
Tajikistan Economy Expands 10.8%
Interfax
Dushanbe, June 17: Tajikistan`s economy expanded 10.8% year-on-year in January-May 2004 to 1.89 billion somoni, the State Statistics Committee told Interfax. Inflation was 0.1% in May. Industrial production grew 11.3% year-on-year in January-May to 1.56 billion somoni. Tajikistan posted a foreign trade deficit of $139.6 million. Foreign trade turnover totaled $917.6 million, an increase of 50%. Exports grew 29% to $389 million and imports rose 67.5% to $528.6 million.
Kazakhoil Aktobe To Invest Over $61 Mln In Alibekmola Field
Interfax
Aktybinsk, June 16: The Kazakh oil producing company TOO Kazakhoil Aktobe and the Kazakh consortium Alibekmola Neftestroi signed a contract on Tuesday worth over $61 million for designing, constructing, and equipping new major facilities at the Alibekmola oil field in Kazakhstan`s Aktyubinsk region. Kazakhoil Aktobe General Director William Daily said at a news briefing that the contract also covers three key projects of the Kazakhoil Aktobe working program, namely the pumping of water into the oil field to maintain pressure, new oil processing and desulfurization units, and gas processing. Nelson Resources Limited President Bolatbek Kuandykov said at the news briefing that Kazakhoil Aktobe `is among the first in Kazakhstan to sign a contract of such magnitude with a Kazakh contractor.`
World Bank Extends Credits To Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan
Itar-Tass
Washington DC, June 15: The World Bank announced on Tuesday that it would extend loans to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Kyrgyzstan will get 6.9 million dollars, while Tajikistan will get 19.79 million dollars. The credit is granted to Kyrgyzstan for preventive and rehabilitation work at storehouses for uranium ore waste, and first of all near the city of Mailu-Suu, a press release of the World Bank said. According to available data, some of these facilities are in a critical condition, as no repair works have been done at them since the collapse of the former USSR. There is no money in the Kyrgyz budget for that aim. A natural calamity in the vicinity of Mailu-Suu may result in an ecological catastrophe in Central Asia. Tajikistan gets the loan to fight against soil erosion as well as to raise the standards of living for the population of rural areas.
Kyrgyzstan To Restructure Gas Sector
Interfax
Moscow, June 15: The Kyrgyzstan government plans to submit a proposal to parliament in the near future on the restructuring of the gas sector and the reorganization of AO Kyrgyzgaz, involving the partial privatization of the company, Anatoly Makarov, deputy chairman of the State Property Committee, told Interfax. He said that this decision was reached at a government meeting at the end of last week dealing with the reorganization of the gas sector. Makarov said that the program for the privatization of AO Kyrgyzgaz would involve the restructuring of the company, with a gas transportation company being spun off. This company will own a trunk gas pipeline and two pumping stations supplying gas to the north and south of the republic. The company plans to set up several smaller structures based on this infrastructure at a later date. The Property Committee`s press service told Interfax that at the meeting Kyrgyzgaz CEO Avtandil Sydykov said that in its current financial situation the company does not have sufficient funds to fully restore the trunk pipeline and the mid and low pressure gas distribution network, which will require significant investment. He said that international experts estimate that the total investment needed to modernize Kyrgyzgaz`s production assets amounts to $522 million. `An investor would be well able to handle this task,` Sydykov said. The proposed scheme for the restructuring of AO Kyrgyzgaz does not involve the privatization of the trunk pipeline, which will remain 100% state owned, but distribution companies will be sold to private investors.
Kazakhstan To Sell Shares In 5 Regional Grid Companies
Interfax
Almaty, June 15: The Kazakh government signed a resolution last week on plans to hold tenders offering government shares in five regional electricity grid companies. Kazakhstan plans to sell all shares in Taldykorgan Transport- Electricity Grid Company, in the southeast, Uralskenergo in west Kazakhstan and Kyzylordin Electricity Grid Company in the south, 93.78% of shares in Mangistau Electricity Grid Company in the west and 90% of Zhezkazgan Electricity Grid Company in the center. The Finance Ministry`s State Property and Privatization Committee is to offer the shares at commercial tenders. Deputy Prime Minister Sauat Mynbaev is in charge of implementing the resolution.
Kyrgyz President Urges Bank Reforms
Radio Free Europe
Bishkek, June 14: President Askar Akaev told top managers at the National Bank on 14 June that they need to undertake a series of reforms, Kabar news agency reported the same day. Akaev said that the bank needs to reduce staff and eliminate redundant high-level posts, KyrgyzInfo reported on 15 June. The president also noted that the National Bank should work to develop more effective procedures for out-of-court settlements in resolving disputes, adding that the current opacity of the judicial system is an obstacle to foreign investment.
Kazakh NGOs Form Coalition To Promote Transparency Of Natural Resource Use
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 14: A group of Kazakh NGOs announced at a 14 June press conference in Almaty that they have formed a coalition to encourage the government to join the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, Interfax-Kazakhstan reported. Introduced by British Prime Minister Tony Blair in September 2002, the initiative seeks to make information about the use of natural resources more accessible. Anton Artemev, director of the Soros-Kazakhstan-funded Kazakhstan Revenue Watch, told reporters that the new coalition, named Oil Revenues Under the Control of Society, will try to make public more information about the country`s lucrative oil sector.
World Bank To Extend Armenia $250 Mln
Interfax
Yerevan, June 14: The World Bank will extend Armenia up to $220 million under an aid strategy for 2005-2008, and more than $30 million under loan programs, Vigen Sargsyan, the communications officer of the Yerevan office, told the press. Armenia can count on receiving up to $220 million if the country`s economic reform indicators remain high. If reform is only satisfactory, Armenia could receive up to $170 million and if the pace of reform is low, the country can expect no more than $90 million. World Bank specialists said that reform in 2003 was carried out according to high reform indicators, Sargsyan said.
Georgia Expects $500 Mln Of Financial Support Within Two Years - Minister
Interfax
Tbilisi, June 14: Georgia may receive about $500 million (one billion lari) worth of financial support within the next two years, said European Integration Minister Tamara Beruchashvili. Beruchashvili expects these funds to be promised during a conference of donor countries and organizations in Brussels later this week. At the conference, Georgia will unveil its top priority programs, including in the energy sector, healthcare, infrastructure, education and the fight against corruption, for which it seeks foreign investments. `It is quite a viable prospect for Georgia to obtain one billion lari for these programs from its donor countries in 2004- 2006,` the minister said.
Small Grants Relay Race: Passing On The Baton
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 13: On 10 June 2004 the World Bank Uzbekistan Country Office hosted a 2004 Small Grants Award Meeting. Grant recipients of 2004, grantees of previous year and the donors who took part in the selection committee gathered for the roundtable in International Business Centre`s `Tashkent` hall. The Small Grants Programme of the World Bank was created in 1983 to promote dialogue and disseminate information about development in forums outsides its own operations. The purpose of the Small Grants Programme is to support the empowerment of citizens to have greater ownership of development processes, thereby making these processes more inclusive and equitable. In Uzbekistan the Small Grants Programme has been working since 1993. Since then about 40 grants have been disbursed and implemented. This year, the Small Grants Program will support projects from nine civil society organisations with total financing of US$40,000.
Presidents Call On SCO To Assist In Stabilisation Of Afghanistan
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 18: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation may play a positive role in ensuring future development of Afghanistan, President of Kyrgyzstan said at the summit of SCO heads of states in Taskent. The SCO may have the most important effect on stable and secure revival of Afghanistan, Akaev said, adding that by `assisting Afghanistan, we assist ourselves.` He wished head of Afghanistan Khamid Karzai to successfully hold elections, scheduled for September. In his turn, Tajik President Emomali Rakhmonov called on the SCO to stir up fight against drug trafficking from Afghanistan. According to the UN, after start of antiterrorism operation in Afghanistan, the drug production in the country increased threefolds, Rakhmonov said. Not only Afghanistan itself, but also neighbouring countries suffer from this, he added.
Kazakhstani Leader For Enhancing UN Role
Kabar Agency
Astana, June 18: The Collective Security Treaty Organization should establish partnership relations with NATO, Kazakhstani President Nursultan Nazarbayev declared at a session of the Council of the Collective Security Treaty Organization. It is necessary to find common ways for providing security in Central Asia, Nazarbayev stressed pointing to the importance of increasing the role of the UN in international affairs. The Kazakhstani leader also thinks that the Collective Security Treaty Organization should cooperate with other international organizations that are engaged in problems of global and regional security.
EurAsEC Interstate Council Kicks Off In Astana
Kabar Agency
Astana, June 18: A session of the Interstate Council of the Eurasian Economic Community (EurAsEC) opened on Friday in Astana. The presidents of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Tajikistan as well as EurAsEC Secretary General Grigory Rapota are attending it. The meeting takes place in the presidential palace of Kazakhstan. The international forum `Eurasian Integration: Modern Development Trends and Challenges to Civilization` preceded to opening of the meeting. Presidents of Russia Vladimir Putin, Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, Kyrgyzstan Askar Akaev, Tajikistan Emomali Rahmanov and Armenia Robert Kocharian as well as EurAsEC Secretary General G. Rapota delivered welcoming speeches. After that, the President of Kyrgyzstan will take part in summit talks of the Eurasian Economic Community (EurAsEC) and the Organization of the Collective Security Treaty. During the talks, the heads of the EurAsEC member-countries (Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Tajikistan) will discuss ways to achieve the priority goals of the community`s development in 2003-2006.
CNPC To Set Up Uzbek Joint Venture
Interfax
Tashkent, June 18: China National Petroleum Corporation plans to carry out several projects together with Uzbek national holding company Uzbekneftegaz, Uzbekneftegaz Deputy CEO Shavkat Mazhitov told journalists. He said that Uzbekneftegaz and CNPC have signed a framework agreement for the development of mutually beneficial cooperation in the Uzbek oil and gas complex. As one area of partnership, the Uzbek side plans to use the experience of the Chinese company in developing low-yield fields that have been developed for a long time. There are oilfields in the Ferghana Valley in Uzbekistan that have been developed for over 90 years. There are over 500 small fields like this in the republic. Mazhitov said that `an increase introduction at these fields will be a good result for both sides.` A second area of cooerpaiton is to use the Chinese companies` experience of drilling directional wells in difficult geological conditions.
Putin Attends Opening Of Russian Embassy In Astana
Itar-Tass
Astana, June 18: President Vladimir Putin attended the opening ceremony for a new Russian embassy complex in Kazakhstan on Friday. He came to attend the ceremony in the same car with Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev. The Russian flag was hoisted above the embassy building, and the national anthems of Russia and Kazakhstan were played. `It is a good and cheerful day today,` Putin said. `We are opening a new embassy complex of the Russian Federation in the new capital of Kazakhstan, and this is not a formal act but serious and weighty evidence to the Russian respect for sovereignty of Kazakhstan.` The new embassy complex `is a sign of special friendship and a new level of interaction. I hope that this piece of Russia in Kazakhstan will become a meeting place for friends and a working place for professionals,` Putin said.
Kazakhstan Builds Oil Ties With Iran
Agence France-Presse
Astana, June 18: Kazakhstan announced yesterday it planned to build two oil terminals in Iran as it ramps up a lucrative oil-swap export arrangement that has been criticised for lack of transparency. The terminals, to be built by the Kazmunaigaz and Kaznafta oil companies, will handle 1.5 million tonnes of oil annually on `profitable terms for Kazakhstan,` a written statement from Kazakh Prime Minister Danial Akhmetov said. Kazakhstan plans to ship oil from its vast Caspian Shelf reserves to supply domestic demand in densely populated northern Iran. Iran will pay for the oil with proceeds from global sales of corresponding amounts from its own fields, which are mostly located in the south, thus saving on transport costs
Tajik President Calls For Common Eurasian Energy Market
Interfax
Astana, June 18: The countries in the Eurasian Economic Community need a common energy market, President Emomali Rakhmonov told an international forum on Eurasian integration held in Astana on Friday. `Our countries are among the richest in energy resources. In particular, Tajikistan`s rivers alone can provide 520 billion kW hours per year, of which only 3% is used. This is why an energy infrastructure needs to be built and various energy, transport and communication networks commissioned in order to join efforts in stepping up exports,` he said. Rakhmonov also called for joint efforts in developing the region`s farming, not only to ensure food stores for Central Asian countries but also to improve the Eurasian Economic Community`s positions on the world market.
Karimov Discusses Cooperation With Karzai, Akaev
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 17: On 17 June, President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov met his Afghan and Kyrgyz counterparts in Tashkent after the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation`s heads of states. During talks with head of interim government of Afghanistan Khamid Karzai, the sides discussed bilateral relations and issues of rehabilitation of Afghanistan, as well as further strengthening of Uzbekistan`s assistance to this neighbouring country. Khamid Karzai noted significant contribution of Uzbekistan in reconstruction of Afghanistan`s infrastructure and expressed satisfaction with participation in SCO`s Tashkent summit. President of Uzbekistan also held negotiations with President of Kyrgyzstan Askar Akaev. The two leaders considered issues of cooperation between security bodies of the two countries, as well as rational use of water-energy resources. Askar Akaev highly evaluated the results of the Tashkent summit.
Shanghai 6 Promise Afghans Support
The Moscow Times
Moscow, June 17: The presidents of Russia, China and four Central Asian nations fortified their security alliance Thursday, inaugurating an anti-terrorism center and promising to support Afghanistan in bolstering its stability. At a one-day summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Chinese President Hu Jintao also said his country would offer $900 million in credit to other alliance countries, which include Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Afghan President Hamid Karzai also attended the talks in the Uzbek capital, Tashkent. Leaders of the six-nation SCO grouping pledged to help rebuild Afghanistan, which has been a source of regional instability in the past and a haven for extremist groups that have launched incursions in Central Asia. President Vladimir Putin proposed establishing a contact group between the alliance and Afghanistan. Karzai welcomed the initiatives and said Afghanistan was eager to actively cooperate with SCO and open its borders for regional trade. `The future of your countries is strongly linked to the future of Afghanistan,` he said. The SCO anti-terror center in Tashkent is to serve as a think tank and clearinghouse to share information between alliance countries. Karzai said terrorists are still arriving in Afghanistan and attacks continue, telling reporters `the fight against terrorism is a long-term fight.` Uzbek President Islam Karimov said anti-terrorism efforts should not focus only on military action. `We should destroy the many radical extremist centers that create the ideology of hatred, those who poison the minds and zombify youth,` Karimov told the meeting.
Putin Suggests Creating SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 17: President of Russia offered to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation member states to create the SCO-Afghanistan contact group at the organisation`s Tashkent summit on Thursday. Putin asked SCO member governments to entrust foreign ministries to develop this issue with Afghanistan. SCO has a significant potential to contribute in solving existing problems, he said, adding that dramatic situation in Afghanistan was one of the reasons of SCO foundation. All members of the SCO are interested in peace, order and economic revival in Afghanistan, the Russian president said.
SCO To Create Development Fund, Business Council
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 17: Heads of states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) agreed to create Development Fund and Business Council within the organisation to stimulate multi-sided economic cooperation. According to Tashkent declaration signed on 17 June by heads of SCO member countries, the two bodies are to contribute to stability and security in Central Asia and neighbouring states and their economic development. The plan of implementation of the programme of multi-sided economic cooperation should be developed and four expert groups should start working fully by next session of heads of governments, which will be held this autumn in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
Chinese, Russian Presidents Meet In Tashkent
People`s Daily
Tashkent, June 17: Chinese President Hu Jintao made a three-point proposal to Russian President Vladimir Putin Thursday in Tashkent when they met after the summit meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Hu proposed that the two countries make an outline on implementing the China-Russian Friendly Treaty on Good-Neighborly Cooperation as soon as possible with the aim to strengthen cooperation on major projects. The two sides should increase investment in the other side and expand local cooperation, Hu said. The two sides should also handle any trade problems with the spirit of mutual benefit, mutual concession and friendly consultation, Hu added. `China views its relations with Russia as one of its most important foreign relations,` he said. `China treasures its traditional friendship with Russia and the the strategic partnership relations with Russia.` The Chinese president said China and Russia should enhance their strategic partnership relations under current world situation. Putin said Russia and China have increased mutual political trust and their cooperation in trade, military technology and culture has also grown rapidly. The Russian president said he agreed with Hu`s three-point proposal, and that Russia will work with China to lift the level of trade and economic ties between them.
Shanghai Alliance Holds Talks On Regional Security
Agence France-Presse
Tashkent, June 17: The presidents of China, Russia and four Central Asian nations fortified their security alliance yesterday, inaugurating an anti-terrorism centre and promising to help Afghanistan bolster its stability. At a one-day summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, or SCO, Chinese President Hu Jintao also said his country would offer US$900 million (S$1.55 billion) in credit to other alliance countries, which include Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Advertisement Leaders of the six-nation SCO grouping pledged to help rebuild Afghanistan, which has been a source of regional instability in the past, and a haven for extremist groups that have launched incursions into Central Asia. Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed establishing a contact group between the alliance and Afghanistan. Afghan President Hamid Karzai, who attended the talks, welcomed the initiatives, and said Afghanistan was eager to actively cooperate with the SCO and open its borders for regional trade. The SCO yesterday also inaugurated an anti-terror centre in Tashkent which would serve as a think-tank and clearing house to share information among alliance countries. `We have to fight against the three evils of separatism, extremism and terrorism and to eliminate narco-trafficking and the illegal spread of weapons,` Mr Hu said.
SCO Member Countries Accept Mongolia As Observer
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 17: Mongolia joined to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as observer, the Uzbek President Islam Karimov announced at Tashkent summit of the organisation`s head of states. President Karimov said that the SCO heads of states discussed application of Mongolia to access organisation as observer at the face-to-face meeting and satisfied it. The SCO congratulates Mongolia with its accession to the organization as observer, he said. The SCO member countries signed an decision on granting of observer`s status to Mongolia after the extended session of the SCO heads of states.
SCO Summit Adopts Tashkent Declaration
Interfax
Tashkent, June 17: The leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) signed a document titled the Tashkent Declaration after a summit in Tashkent on Thursday. The declaration `summarizes the outcome of the SCO`s work since it was set up, evaluates the activities of the organization`s agencies and sets new goals,` Russian presidential aide Sergei Prikhodko said. The SCO summit resulted in the signing of numerous other documents and the passing of several decisions. In particular, guidelines on the status of observer nations were approved and it was decided to award Mongolia this status. Also, a convention on the SCO`s privileges and immunities was signed. The leaders of the organization`s member-states signed agreements on cooperation in fighting drug trafficking and on the protection of secret information in the framework of the SCO anti-terrorist agency, whose headquarters were opened in Tashkent Thursday morning.
SCO Not Considering Adoption Of New Members - Karimov
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 17: Enlargement of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is not on the group`s agenda yet, Uzbek President Islam Karimov said on Thursday in Tashkent. Speaking at a press conference on the results of the summit of SCO heads of states, Karimov noted there was no need to rush with expansion of the organisation. President Karimov said similar issues should be discussed only after formation of the SCO as an authoritative establishment, which has certain influence on the international arena and receives recognition. Only then the organisation may consider adoption of new states wishing to join it. Heads of states of SCO member countries have the same position on this issue, he noted. Recently, spokesman of the Chinese Foreign Office Liu Jianchao told journalists that Pakistan submitted an application seeking membership at SCO. `We hope Pakistan`s application to this effect will receive a favourable response from member countries, when it formally comes under consideration,` President Karimov said. He noted that SCO adhered to principles of openness and was prepared to establish cooperation ties with other states and international organisations. Pakistan is an important country in the region and can be very helpful in achieving SCO`s objectives, the President concluded.
SCO Leaders` Summit In Tashkent Starts With Face-to-face Talks
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 16: The summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation`s heads of states started in Tashkent on 17 June. At the moment, the presidents of the SCO member states are holding face-to-face negotiations. President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, President of Russia Vladmir Putin, President of China Hu Jintao, President of Kazakhstan Nursulton Nazarbaev, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rakhimov and President of Kyrgyzstan Askar Akaev are participating at the talks.
Mongolia May Access To SCO As Observer After Tashkent Summit
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 16: The SCO member countries may grant observer`s status to Mongolia after the Tashkent summit of the organisation. Speaking at the extended session of the summit of the SCO heads of states, the SCO presidents supported Mongolia`s suggestion to join organisation as observer. Chinese head Hu Jintao underlined that granting of the observer status to Mongolia will allow to improve cooperation between this country and the SCO member states. However, Mongolia may access to the organisation after the SCO adopts `Regulation on observers status at SCO`.
Next Summit Of SCO Heads Of States To Be Held In Kazakhstan
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 16: Next session of the SCO heads of states will be held in Kazakhstan in 2005, the Kazakh President Nursulton Nazarbaev said at the organisation`s Tashkent summit today. According to the president, the country will also chair the organisation. Kazakhstan will overtake chairmanship from Uzbekistan, which headed organisation since last year`s summit in Russia.
President Meets Counterparts Of 3 SCO Members
Xinhua
Tashkent, June 16: Chinese President Hu Jintao met separately with presidents of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan on the sideline of the upcoming summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) June 16, 2004. Kyrgyz President Askar Akayev handed over to Hu Jintao a written document to confirm Kyrgyzstan`s stance to recognize China` s full market economy status. Akayev said China has established complete market economic system after its 25 years of reforms and opening up to the outside world. The process accelerated after China joined the World Trade Organization. Hu said the move by Kyrgyzstan will `greatly push forward China-Kyrgyzstan bilateral trade and economic cooperation.` Hu made a four-point proposal in meeting with Tajik President Emomali Rakhmonov on strengthening cooperation.
China To Issue Soft Credits For US$900m To Boost Regional Trade
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 16: Chinese President Hu Jintao announced that China will issue soft credits worth US$900 million to the SCO member states. The initiative was disclosed at the extended session of the SCO heads of states. He noted that the credit will be directed to stimulation of trade-economic cooperation between member countries.
Putin Hopes SCO Summit To Focus On Economic Integration And Security Issues
Itar-Tass
Tashkent, June 16: Russian President Vladimir Putin said the SCO leaders would discuss economic integration and security issues as part of the SCO session to open on Thursday. Putin said on Wednesday, `The major task is to open a building of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure… In addition, we`ll also discuss the whole complex of relations between SCO countries, including the development of economic interaction.` `We intend to build such relations within the SCO that will allow us to fight today`s threats and, despite all problems, facilitate the development of economic relations between our countries,` the Russian president stressed. The situation in Afghanistan will be also in the focus of the SCO session, Putin said. `We`re going to discuss measures to help the leaders of Afghanistan to strengthen the internal political situation in their country and assist them in organising and holding elections, to suppress anti-government actions and terrorist centres that are still operating in Afghanistan and assist the Afghan people to revive their economy.` `We`re going to search for answers to these questions jointly with the Afghan leaders,` the Russian president added.
CIS Interior Ministries Agree To Step Up Cooperation
Itar-Tass
Chisinau, June 16: CIS Interior Ministers have agreed at their meeting in the Moldovan capital to step up cooperation in the struggle against terrorism, drug traffic, illegal migration and human trafficking. `A main conclusion that we have made in Kishinev is that new challenges and threats of the 21st century can be opposed only by joining efforts of law enforcement agencies of all states of the Commonwealth,` Russian Interior Minister Rashid Nurgaliyev told Itar Tass. He said `such interaction has been in a practical plane during several years`. `We regularly hold joint operations Search, Border, Channel, Passenger. During one of the operations, 3,000 drug-related crimes have been exposed and material valuables worth 8.5 million roubles have been seized,` Nurgaliyev, said. He stressed that `law enforcement agencies of the CIS states should activate cooperation, first of all in prevention of crimes`. `This task can be solved only by intensification of information exchange, unification of national legislations, enhancement of the effectiveness of fulfilling international obligations in the struggle against crime,` Nurgaliyev said. T
Annan Urges CIS To Focus On Millenium Development Goals.
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 16: United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan has told a forum of economic policy-makers and business leaders from the Russian Federation and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) that they must keep focusing on achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as they pursue economic reforms. In an address on 16 June to the eighth St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, delivered on his behalf by Sergei Ordzhonikidze, Director-General of the UN Office at Geneva, Mr Annan said the conference offers an opportunity to promote greater economic cooperation between the Russian Federation, the CIS and the rest of the world.
Sinopec Begins Exploration Activities In Kyrgyzstan
Rigzone
Bishkek, June 16: A subsidiary of China`s Sinopec has begun exploratory drilling in China`s western neighbour Kyrgyzstan, an official with the Kyrgyz state`s Kyrgyzneftegaz oil company said. The Sinopec subsidiary Shenli has begun searching for oil and natural gas in this Central Asian republic`s southern Alai Valley after it won exclusive rights to explore there this spring, Kyrgyzneftegaz`s chief engineer Timur Murataliyev said. While Kyrgyzstan`s oil reserves are dwarfed by those of neighbouring Kazakhstan, the Alai contains at least 50 mln tons of oil and gas, Murataliyev told Agence France-Presse. Beijing has increasingly turned to its former Soviet Central Asian neighbours to help fuel its economic boom, particularly with the fading of its hopes that Moscow would approve plans to build an oil pipeline from Siberia to north-east China.
Kyrgyz President To Take Part In The Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit
Kabar Agency
Bishkek, June 16: Kyrgyz President Askar Akaev will take part in the session of heads of SCO states in Tashkent. According to the press service of the President, the discussion of many vital aspects of cooperation is expected. The number of multilateral documents will be signed. During the summit the bilateral meetings of Askar Akaev with Hu Jintao, Vladimir Putin, Islam Karimov, and Hamid Karzai an acting chairman of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
Kocharian Flies To Kazakhstan For CSTO Council Summit
Kazakhstan News
Yerevan, June 16: Armenian president Robert Kocharian will head a delegation that is flying tomorrow to Kazakhstan`s capital of Astana for participation in a regular session of the Collective Security Treaty Organization`s (CSTO) Council. Kocharian`s press service said defense minister Serzh Sarkisian, other senior officials and journalists will accompany the president. The Council session will be preceded by three meetings of foreign and defense ministers of the countries, members of the CSTO Council and secretaries of national security councils. Heads of states are expected to exchange their views in narrow circle concerning the situation in the zone of responsibility of CSTO and its role and importance in building a new international security system.
Kyrgyzstan Recognizes China`s Full Market Economy Status
People`s Daily
Beijing, June 16: Kyrgyzstan recognizes China`s full market economy status and President Askar Akayev handed over to Chinese President Hu Jintao in Tashkent Wednesday a written document to confirm its stance. The two presidents met on the sideline of the summit meeting ofthe Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which is to begin in Tashkent Thursday. Akayev said China has established complete market economic system after its 25 years of reforms and opening up to the outsideworld. The process accelerated after China joined the World Trade Organization. Hu said the move by Kyrgyzstan will `greatly push forward China-Kyrgyzstan bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
Gazprom Plans To Invest Over $1Bln In Uzbek Economy - Putin
Interfax
Tashkent, June 16: Russia`s Gazprom, following in the footsteps of Lukoil, is planning to invest over $1 billion in the economy of Uzbekistan, President Vladimir Putin announced on Wednesday after talks with his Uzbek counterpart in Tashkent. Uzbek President Islam Karimov said that together with the pending contract with Gazprom, Russian investments in the Uzbek oil and gas sector will soar to $2.5 billion. `It is not Russia, but Russian business that is investing in Uzbekistan,` Putin said. `It is best to ask them why they are investing hundreds of millions and now billions in the Uzbek economy,` he said.
Azeri Official: Some Forces Try To Engage Iran And Azerbaijan In A Conflict
IRNA
Baku, June 16: Azerbaijan`s Minister of National Security Namik Abbasov in meeting with Iran`s Justice Minister Mohammad Esmail Shoushtari here Wednesday said there are many forces who try to engage the two countries in a conflict. To obtain their objectives, these forces do any odious action, therefore, in such circumstances protection of mutual interests is very important, Abbasov added. He said except Iran and Azerbaijan nobody else wants friendly relations between the two countries. Azerbaijani national security minister said,` Our policy towards Iran is clear and late President Heidar Aliyev was the founder of this policy which has been continued by the current President Ilham Aliyev`.
Kazakhstan Denies Signing Deal With British Company On Air Traffic Control Equipment
Interfax
Astana, June 16: A source in the Kazakh Defense Ministry has denied reports stating that Kazakhstan has signed an agreement with the British company British Airspace Corporation on supply equipment for controlling air traffic on Kazakh territory.
Delegation Of Kyrgyzstan Leaves For Washington To Attend International Conference
Kabar Agency
Bishkek, June 15: Delegation of Kyrgyzstan will attend the international conference on issues of local development in Washington. On this occasion the delegation headed by Minister of Local Self-Governance and Regional Development Tolobek Omuraliev has left for the capital of USA. According the ministry`s press service, the forum is being organized on the initiative of World Bank, German Development Bank and others donors. It is expected the conference will gather over 300 delegates from all states of the world. The participants of the conference during three-day will study experience and problems of decentralizing state authorities on the base of local self-government development and initiatives of communal organizations. T. Omuraliev will deliver a speech and familiarize participants with experience of Kyrgyzstan in this field.
Chinese, Uzbek Leaders Hold Talks On Further Cooperation
Kabar Agency
Tashkent, June 15: Chinese President Hu Jintao and Uzbek President Islam Abduganiyevich Karimov held talksin Tashkent Tuesday morning on furthering bilateral cooperation. During the talks, the two leaders also exchanged views on majorregional and international issues and reached broad consensus. Hu arrived in Tashkent Monday night for a two-day state visit. In Tashkent, the Chinese president will attend a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization scheduled for Thursday. Hu is on the last leg of his four-nation trip, which has already brought him to Poland, Romania and Hungary.
Russian And Kazakhstani Presidents Talk Today
Kabar Agency
Astana, June 15: Russian President Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Kazakhstani President Nursultan Nazarbayev today. According to the press service of the Russian President, in the course of the conversation, the two Presidents discussed issues about the preparation for the summits of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Eurasian Economic Community (EurAsEc) and the Collective Security Treaty Council.
Uzbek, Chinese Leaders Sign Joint Declaration On Friendship
Kabar Agency
Tashkent, June 15: The presidents of Uzbekistan and China, Islam Karimov and Hu Jintao, signed on Tuesday a joint declaration on the strengthening of partnership, friendship and cooperation between the two countries. The Chinese leader is in Tashkent on a five-day visit. On the result of the talks, the two leaders also signed a package of ten treaties and agreements, including an inter-governmental agreement on cooperation in fight against the illegal trafficking of drugs and psychotropic substances. Under an agreement on economic cooperation, Uzbekistan will get a gratis aid of 2.4 million dollars. China will also grant it an interest-free loan of 50 million yuans (six million dollars) for ten years for the implementation of projects within the framework of bilateral cooperation. It will also grant Uzbekistan a credit of 300 million yuans (36.5 million dollars) with a two-percent interest rate. The credit will be extended for 20 years. The sides also reached an agreement on the agenda of cultural cooperation up to the year 2007. A festival of Uzbek culture will be held in China next year.
China, Uzbekistan Issue Joint Statement
People`s Daily
Beijing, June 15: Chinese President Hu Jintao and his Uzbek counterpart Islam Abduganiyevich Karimov signed a joint statement Tuesday on further developing a partnership of friendly cooperation between their two countries. During Hu`s state visit to Uzbekistan, the two leaders exchanged views on bilateral relations, economic cooperation and anti-terrorism as well as regional and international issues of mutual concern. China and Uzbekistan issued the joint statement out of the common aspiration of further developing and strengthening a long-term and stable Sino-Uzbek partnership of friendly cooperation, said the statement. Both sides reiterated that expanding cooperation of mutual benefit in various areas on the basis of adherence to the Purposesand Principles of the United Nations Charter, the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and other universally recognized international norms and bilateral agreements, is in the fundamental interest of both peoples and will contribute to safeguarding regional and global peace, security and stability.
BILATERAL POLITICAL RELATIONS The two countries stressed their willingness to maintain political dialogue and consultations at all levels and to exchange views on bilateral ties and major international issues, said the statement. Both sides will firmly support each other`s efforts to safeguard sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, which constitute an important part of their bilateral ties. China and Uzbekistan should not join any alliance or group detrimental to the sovereignty, security and territorial integrityof the other side, or sign such treaties with any third party. Neither side should allow any third party to use its territory to harm the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of theother side, and no organization or group of this kind should be allowed to exist in territories of either side, said the statement. Uzbekistan recognizes the government of the People`s Republic of China as the sole legal government of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. The Uzbek government will not establishany official relations with Taiwan and opposes the separatist attempts of `two Chinas,` `one China, one Taiwan,` or `Taiwan independence.` China appreciates Uzbekistan`s efforts to maintain the security,stability and cooperation in Central Asia, it noted.
BILATERAL TRADE, ECONOMIC RELATIONS The cooperation on trade and economy, finance and investment between China and Uzbekistan `is of great significance for the all-round progress of bilateral relations,` the statement said, adding that the two sides attach importance to these fields and will continue broadening and deepening the cooperation. The statement said China and Uzbekistan, believing the mutual-beneficial cooperation on the three fields has great potential, stress that both sides must adhere to the following five principles: -- Broadening bilateral trade in accordance with their domestic laws and relevant international treaties; -- Boosting the development of bilateral trade in a balanced way; -- Optimizing trade structure by increasing proportions of high-tech, mechanical and electronic products; -- Creating conditions for goods, services, investments and citizens to enter each other`s markets; -- Strengthening cooperation on trade, economy and investment, including encouraging mutual investments and transfer of technologies. The trade and economic cooperation commission between the two governments, based on the principle of mutual benefit, should broaden their cooperation in energy, transportation, agriculture, irrigation, mechanical and electronic engineering, aviation, textile, science and technology, and information sectors, the statement said. Enterprises of Uzbekistan are welcome to participate in the development of China`s western region, while Chinese enterprises are encouraged to bid for construction projects of infrastructure in Uzbekistan, the statement said. The two countries will continue enhancing cooperation within the framework of international and regional organizations on economy and finance, the statement said. China supports Uzbekistan`s bid to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) and will `provide necessary assistance in this process.` Since cooperation on transportation, an important part in bilateral relations, can help trade and economic relations developfaster, the two sides will `give priority to the cooperation` in this area, the statement said. The two sides will strengthen capacities of cross-border transportation by offering convenience in railway, aviation and road communications. The two countries indicate that China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan will `strategically benefit from the fulfillment of a transit line` starting from Kashi, a city west of China, to Tashkent, capital of Uzbekistan, the statement said. Relevant departments of the two sides will cooperate to bring Uzbekistan`s potential in aircraft manufacturing into play, so both countries can benefit from this field, according to the statement.
ANTI-TERRORISM The statement said that China and Uzbekistan agree terrorism, separatism and extremism still pose major threats to regional security and stability. China and Uzbekistan will, in accordance with the Shanghai Convention on Combating Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism and China-Uzbekistan Agreement on Cooperation in Combating Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism, strengthen coordination and cooperation among competent authorities of both countries and continue to adopt powerful measures within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in jointly fighting all forms of terrorism, including terrorism waged by the so-called `Eastern Turkistan` terrorist group comprising a number of secession-mindedterror cells, in order to engender peace and tranquillity in the two countries and in the region. The two countries agree that the crackdown on the terrorist force of `Eastern Turkistan` is a major part of the international anti-terrorism campaign. China and Uzbekistan believe that it is necessary to more actively take well coordinated steps to keep fighting the various forms of religious extremism that poses a practical threat to the security and stability of the region. The statement said China and Uzbekistan emphasize that the stability and security in Central Asia is closely related to the situation in Afghanistan. The two countries urge the international community to actively implement international aid program projects for the postwar reconstruction of Afghanistan set forth in the January 2002 international donors` conference in Tokyo and March 2004 Berlin international conference, in order to rebuild Afghanistan as soon as possible into a country with independent sovereignty free from the plague of terrorism, narcotic drugs and foreign interference. China and Uzbekistan agree to cooperate in realizing the aforesaid targets, the statement noted.
COOPERATION ON INTERNATIONAL ISSUES The statement said they share common interests in internationaland regional issues, and agree to continue bilateral consultations,conduct cooperation in international affairs with other countries,and make greater efforts in maintaining peace and stability in theregion and the world as a whole. The two countries agree that the purpose and principle of the SCO are in accordance with the reality and development trend, and its activities are conducive to cementing regional peace and stability. The two sides believe that the Tashkent Summit will be an important milestone in the history of the SCO, and will create opportunities for the active and practical cooperation within the framework of the SCO. The two countries are willing to work with other SCO members totake effective measures in fighting terrorism, separatism, extremism, drug trafficking, illegal immigration and transnationalcrimes, expanding bilateral cooperation in economy and humanities,promoting the relations between the SCO and other countries and international organizations, and strengthening SCO`s role in maintaining regional and global peace and development, said the statement. On the basis of mutual trust, the two countries agree to cooperate in various fields, especially in the fields of expanding cooperation in economy, trade, investment and humanities. They also agree to strengthen their collaboration in dealing with international affairs, and cement the friendship between the two countries. Hu invited Uzbek President Islam Karimov to visit China and thelatter accepted the invitation.
Kazakh Pundit Stresses Importance Of Friendship With Uzbekistan
Kazakh Television
Astana, June 15: Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are the firm basis of Central Asia. The region`s development and security depend on the two states` policy. This was the main agenda of a conference on security and cooperation in Central Asia held in Almaty today. Apart from specialists from the strategic research institutes of the Central Asian states, British, Indian, Russian, US, Turkish and Chinese experts also attended the conference, which is held every year. [Correspondent over video of a meeting] Specialists discussed Central Asian problems in four topics. They are: joining regional integration, mutual integration and the factors that hamper this; EU, US, Chinese and Russian policies in the region in the context of the interests of the Central Asian states and mutual economic cooperation.
CIS Interior Ministers To Discuss Joint Efforts To Fight Organised Crime, Drug Addiction, And The Smuggling
Itar-Tass
Chisinau, June 15: A meeting of the Ministers of the Interior of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) member-countries opens here on Tuesday. The Ministers are to focus on combining efforts to fight organised crime, drug addiction, and the smuggling of humans. Rashid Nurgaliyev heads a Russian Interior Ministry delegation. The ministerial meeting will also involve delegations from Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Ukraine. They will discuss the crime situation in CIS countries, review the implementation of joint programmes to combat the trafficking of narcotics, international terrorism and other manifestations of extremism, and examine other aspects of their activities. Interaction in combating trade in humans and illegal migration will be a separate item on the agenda of the ministerial meeting, said an announcement made by the Russian Interior Ministry`s department for information, regional and public relations.
Executive Secretary Of CIS To Pay Working Visit To Uzbekistan
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 15: Executive Secretary of Commonwealth of Independent States Vladimir Rushaylo will pay a working visit to Uzbekistan on 16-17 June, RIA Novosti reported quoting headquarters of CIS Executive Committee in Minsk, Belarus.
Uzbekistan, China Sign 10 Documents
Interfax
Tashkent, June 15: The presidents of Uzbekistan and China, Islam Karimov and Hu Jintao, signed ten documents on Tuesday, including an agreement on drug traffic prevention. The documents, signed in Tashkent after talks between Karimov and Hu, also included a declaration on friendship and cooperation, an agreement on technical and economic cooperation, a memorandum on plans to build up trade, investment and financial cooperation, a cultural program for 2004-2007, and an accord between the justice ministries of the two countries. There was also an accord in which the Chinese government promised several loans to the Uzbek government. Hu will take part in a Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tashkent on Wednesday and Thursday. He and his wife, Liu Yongqing, are on a visit to Uzbekistan that began on Monday and ends on Friday.
Astana Preparing For Meeting Of CSTO Consultative Bodies
Interfax
Moscow, June 15: The joint meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers and the Council of Defense Ministers, to be attended by security council secretaries of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) member-states, is scheduled for Friday in Astana, capital of Kazakhstan. `There are 12 issues on the agenda of the joint meeting of Collective Security Treaty Organization consultative bodies to be held in Astana, which pertain to further development of regional and international security, military and technological cooperation, and combating today`s challenges and threats,` Alexander Orlov, official of the CSTO press service, told Interfax-Military News Agency. He added that the participants would lay the focus of the discussion on international policy and military and technological interaction of member-states.
US Embassy Issues Warning Of Diversity Visa Programme Fraud Alert
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 14: On 14 June, the United States Embassy in Tashkent issued a warning for Diversity Visa (DV) Programme participants of possible fraud in the winner notification process. `The United States Embassy in Tashkent would like to inform Diversity Visa (DV) Programme participants of possible fraud in the winner notification process,` the notification said. `Several individuals have approached the Consular Section of the United States Embassy in Tashkent seeking assistance in verifying whether the DV-2005 winner notification letters they received from the Kentucky Consular Centre (KCC) were genuine. People have reported that they found envelopes from the KCC with winner notification letters and application forms in their mailbox, but the envelopes were opened. They were later offered services on filling out the paper work for a certain amount of money,` it added.
Russia To Invest In Construction Of Tajik Power Stations - Power Grid Boss
Ren TV
Dushanbe, June 14: A session of the CIS Energy Council has taken place in Tajikistan. Power engineers from CIS and Baltic countries have agreed on cooperation with their colleagues from Europe. Apart from the meetings, the Russian delegation familiarized themselves with the power system of Tajikistan, in which Russia intends to make investments. [Correspondent] [Chairman of the board of the Unified Energy System of Russia (UES)] Anatoliy Chubays is assessing Tajik hydroelectric power stations from a bird`s eye view [flying in a helicopter]. Or rather, the buildings to be turned into hydroelectric power stations. Russia intends to make investments in them, Chubays is ascertaining that it is worth doing. Later it will become clear that it is. [Chubays] The main task was to understand whether it was realistic to move in that direction. Having completed the first stage of work, I am saying, `It is realistic`. [Correspondent] At issue is the construction of two large hydroelectric power stations, namely Sangtuda and Roghun. Their construction began in Tajikistan in the Soviet period, but currently there is no money for it and investments are needed. Tajik President Emomali Rahmonov and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed about this. Chubays has discussed the details with Rahmonov. Russia will give money for the construction of the power stations and receive shares in exchange.
Russian President To Pay Working Visit To Uzbekistan On 16-17 June
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 14: President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin will pay a working visit to Uzbekistan on 16-17 June. According to Foreign Ministry, the Russian leader will meet his Uzbek counterpart at the presidential residence Oqsaroy on 16 June. The sides will discuss issues of deepening bilateral relations, maintenance of security and stability in Central Asia, cooperation within the Central Asian Cooperation Organisation and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, as well as international problems. After the negotiations, presidents of Uzbekistan and Russia will sign several documents, including the agreement on strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Russia.
Uzbek-Kazakh Demarcation Commission Meets In Tashkent
Kabar Agency
Tashkent, June 14: Fourth session of the Uzbek-Kazakh demarcation commission with participation of delegates from Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan was held on 11 June in Tashkent. Head of Kazakh delegation, Ambassador for Special Missions of the Kazakh Foreign Ministry Murat Atanov positively assessed the work of the session. `Work of the joint demarcation commission passed in the atmosphere of mutual understanding and constructive dialogue,` he told KZ-Today. The members of the commission visited several controversial sections to determine sites for border signs, taking into account interests of the population of both states. The sides noted that establishment of border signs was carried out in accordance with the plan on demarcation of Uzbek-Kazakh state border. Demarcation of the state border started on 19 May 2004 at the Jibek Joly (Silk Road) checkpoint. The total length of the border between the two countries is 2,350 km. Over 600 main border signs and 200 interim signs will be set during the border demarcation. In all, the sides will establish 1,500 border signs.
Turkmen President Meets With OSCE Representative
Radio Free Europe
Ashgabat, June 14: Former Finnish President Martti Ahtisaari, who is the OSCE chairman in office`s special adviser on Central Asia, met with Turkmen President Saparmurat Niyazov on 14 June in Turkmenbashi, the official Turkmen news agency TDH reported. They discussed the current state of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the OSCE, priority tasks, and ways to broaden the partnership. According to the report, President Niyazov familiarized Ahtisaari with Turkmen values and policy priorities. Ahtisaari said the meeting `allowed us to get to know each other better.`
China`s Hu Visits Uzbekistan
BBC
Tashkent, June 14: Chinese President Hu Jintao has arrived in Uzbekistan on his first trip to Central Asia. President Hu will hold two days of talks with the Uzbeks, mainly about security and trade between Uzbekistan and China which is expanding rapidly. President Hu will stay on in the capital, Tashkent, to meet six other presidents at a summit of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation. This is a regional grouping stretching from Beijing to the Caspian Sea. It is the first time President Hu has visited his neighbours just across the Tien Shan, or heavenly mountains.
Azeri MP Meets His Uzbek Parliament Speaker In Tashkent
Uzbek Report
Tashkent, June 13: Member of the Milli Majlis Standing Commission for International and Inter-parliamentary Relations, Head of the Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan parliamentary friendship group Sabir Rustamkhanly visited Tashkent. During Mr Rustamkhanly`s meeting with Chairman of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan Erkin Khalilov, the parties discussed possibilities for expanding inter-parliamentary cooperation and founding Parliamentary Assembly of Turkish speaking countries. The Azeri MP also told of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, its hard consequences for Azerbaijan and pointed, with regret, to existence of double-standard approach to the problems resolution, Azer Tag reported. Mr Rustamkhanly handed the Chairman of the Milli Majlis Murtuz Alasgarov`s letter of invitation to visit Azerbaijan over to Mr Khalilov
`Chinese Cultural Festival` Wins Acclaim In Uzbekistan
Xinhua
Tashkent, June 13: The ongoing`Chinese Cultural Week` here has won acclaim in Uzbekistan and both China and Uzbekistan believe cultural exchanges will help boost their bilateral relations. The five-day`Chinese Cultural Festival` began Saturday in the Uzbek capital of Tashkent, two days before Chinese President Hu Jintao`s state visit to this Central Asian country. During Saturday`s opening ceremony, the audience were amazed by the traditional Chinese music and acrobatic performance and gave thundering applause every a few minutes. `Chinese performers are just extraordinary. Marvelous Chinese art. I hope the two countries will hold more cultural activities like this,` said an excited Uzbek viewer.
Russian Envoy Says Relations With Turkmenistan Being Built For Long Term
Turkmenistan.ru
Moscow, June 13: The Russian ambassador to Turkmenistan, Andrey Molochkov, has given a positive assessment of bilateral trade and economic relations at a news conference with local media on the occasion of today`s Russia Day, a Turkmenistan.Ru correspondent reports from Asgabat. `Our cooperation is being built on a mutually beneficial basis and is designed for the long term. The fact that our countries signed an agreement on cooperation in the gas sector until 2028 testifies to this. The supplies of Turkmen gas to Russia will allow economic cooperation to be deepened between Russia and Turkmenistan, and will have a positive effect on developing partnership in all spheres,` Molochkov said.
Azeri President To Pay Official Visit To Georgia
Itar-Tass
Baku, June 13: President of Azerbaijan Ilkham Aliyev will launch his first official visit to Georgia on Monday. The sides are expected to sign at least six bilateral documents during the visit. According to diplomatic sources in Baku, the documents include a joint political communique by the two heads of state, agreements on cooperation in the spheres of oil transportation, railway and aviation transport, interaction of tax bodies and television companies. The documents will be signed by the results of Aliyev`s talks with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili. During the two-day visit the Azerbaijani president is planning meetings with Georgian parliament speaker Nino Burdzhanadze and Prime Minister Zurab Zhvania.
Kazakh, Russian Parties Sign Cooperation Agreement
Radio Free Europe
Astana, June 12: Kazakhstan`s Otan Party and Russia`s Unified Russia, the two countries` main pro-presidential parties, signed a memorandum of cooperation in Almaty on 12 June, Interfax-Kazakhstan reported. Russian State Duma First Deputy Speaker Lyubov Sliska, who headed a delegation of Duma deputies, signed for Unified Russia. Mazhilis Chairman Zharmakhan Tuyakbai signed for Otan. Noting that Russia and Kazakhstan are the `most closely integrated countries in the post-Soviet region,` Sliska stated that the two countries need to develop further cultural and economic cooperation. For his part, Tuyakbai stressed that the goals and tasks of the two countries` pro-presidential parties coincide and that their political platforms are similar, `Kazakhstan Today` reported.
Iran Khodro To Set Up Service Center In Tajikistan
IRNA
Tehran, June 12: Iran Khodro Auto Manufacturing Company is to set up a sales and after-sales service center in the Tajik capital of Dushanbe, it was announced here Saturday. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) to the effect was signed between Iran Khodro Managing Director Manuchehr Manteqi and Tajik Minister of Economy and Commerce Hakim Salehov after inspecting various sections of the industrial group. Under the MoU, Tajikistan is to prepare appropriate ground for Iran Khodro to sign an agreement with Dushanbe municipality. Once the agreement is reached between Iran Khodro and Dushanbe municipality, the Iranian industrial group will export various vehicles namely trucks, buses and automobiles to the central Asian country.
Azerbaijan Seeks To Develop Cultural Ties With Russia
Itar-Tass
Baku, June 12: Azerbaijani President Ilkham Aliyev said his country is seeking to develop cultural contacts with Russia. At his meeting with Russian Minister of Culture and Mass Communications Alexander Sokolov on Saturday, Aliyev said it is necessary to restore cultural cooperation between the two countries President Aliyev said this issue has been discussed during his talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of his official visit to Moscow in February. Sokolov said Days of Azerbaijani Culture in Russia will be held in 2005. `This will be Year of Azerbaijan in Russia that proves that we are reaching a qualitatively new level of interstate cooperation,` the minister said. Azerbaijani Culture Minister Polad Byul-byul ogly said the year 2006 will be Year of Russia in Azerbaijan. Earlier in the day, Azerbaijan and Russia signed a programme of cultural cooperation for the years 2004-2006. The programme was signed between the culture ministries of the two countries. It envisages holding musical and theatrical festivals and maintaining cooperation in arts and crafts, as well as organising exhibitions.
Russian MP Holds Up Kazakhstan As Example For CIS Cooperation
Kazakhstan Today
Almaty, June 12: A group of State Duma deputies of the One Russia [major pro-presidential party] parliamentary faction headed by First Deputy Speaker of the State Duma Lyubov Sliska met Almaty Mayor Viktor Khrapunov in Almaty today, a Kazakhstan Today correspondent has reported. In the course of the meeting, which took place within the framework of the Year of Russia in Kazakhstan, they discussed bilateral, parliamentary, cultural and sport cooperation. `It is always simpler and surer to agree with our neighbour Kazakhstan as this avoids the kind of doubts that exist with Ukraine and Belarus. I very much want these two countries to follow the example of the Kazakh president [Nursultan Nazarbayev], who always proposes very serious and new solutions for economic reforms,` Sliska said.
Iranian Envoy For Caspian Affairs Meets Kazakh FM
Kazakhstan News
Almaty, June 12: The president`s special envoy for Caspian Sea affairs, Mahdi Safari, after attending here Thursday a meeting on Caspian Sea affairs, conferred with the Kazakh Minister of Foreign Affairs Kasymzhomart Tokayev, in Astana. A statement released by the media department of the Kazakhstan Foreign Ministry said that both sides underlined the importance of finding a common understanding regarding the points of discrepancy regarding the Caspian Sea issue. According to the statement, Safari and Tokayev stressed that an acceptable agreement can only be reached through peaceful negotiations at the next summit of the Caspian Sea littoral states presidents which is expected to be held in Tehran in winter, 2005. The two officials expressed their satisfaction over their similar approaches and mutual agreement on a number of issues concerning the Caspian Sea, including shipping, fishing, environmental protection and the sea`s peaceful use.
Human Rights Commissioner Is Concerned About Situation Of Russians In Turkmenistan
RIA Novosti
Moscow, June 16: