Economic and transport cooperation is in focus ahead of the SCO Summit. Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan discussed preparations for the September 1 meeting in Bishkek and ways to strengthen practical cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, DKNews.kz reports.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Arman Issagaliyev held talks with Kyrgyz Ambassador to Kazakhstan Kudaibergen Bazarbayev.
Bishkek summit preparations in focus
The parties discussed current issues in Kazakh-Kyrgyz relations and prospects for expanding cooperation on multilateral platforms.
Particular attention was paid to preparations for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit, which will take place in Bishkek on September 1, 2026.
Ahead of the summit, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan identified several areas where they see potential for stronger practical cooperation:
- Expanding economic ties
- Developing transport connectivity
- Strengthening cultural and humanitarian contacts
- Improving multilateral cooperation mechanisms
- Deepening practical interaction within the SCO
For the two neighboring countries, transport and trade are particularly significant because stronger connectivity can facilitate cross-border commerce and improve Central Asia's links with wider regional markets.
Kazakhstan supports Kyrgyzstan's SCO Chairmanship
Following the meeting, Kazakhstan reaffirmed its support for the Kyrgyz Republic's Chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
Astana also expressed its readiness to assist Kyrgyzstan in successfully implementing the priorities of its Chairmanship.
The position reflects Kazakhstan's interest in maintaining close coordination with Kyrgyzstan both bilaterally and within major regional institutions.
Why the meeting matters
The upcoming Bishkek summit provides Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan with an opportunity to turn regional dialogue into practical initiatives.
Greater transport connectivity could support trade and transit, while deeper economic cooperation could create additional opportunities for businesses in both countries.
Cultural and humanitarian contacts are another important element of the relationship, given the geographic proximity and longstanding ties between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
The talks also show that Astana and Bishkek are seeking to use the SCO as more than a political platform, with greater emphasis on practical economic, transport and humanitarian cooperation.
