Brussels, 23/07/2003 (Agence Europe) - The fifth EU/Kirghizstan Cooperation Council took place on Tuesday in Brussels, attended by the Italian Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Roberto Antonione and Kurmanbek Osmonov, First Vice-Premier of Kirghizstan.
In a joint communiqué, the Cooperation Council welcomed the mediating activities carried out by the Caucasian republic, as well as the increase in its powers, now allowing it to visit prisons and detention centres. The EU is insisting that funds necessary for the functioning of its bureau are allocated to it. The Council notes the EU concern regarding the temporary closure of the Moya Stolitsa newspaper. The EU is also encouraging the country to accede to the Statute of Rome creating the International Criminal Court.
The efforts taken by the country to improve the business climate are welcomed by the Council, which, nevertheless, calls for additional efforts to fight against corruption. The Council also welcomes government efforts to reduce poverty, as well as EU assistance in the area. It is pleased with Kirhizstan's contribution to fighting terrorism and organised crime. The Council positively welcome the finalisation of the Tacis project on the Mailuu Suu nuclear site, which is evidence of the cooperation between the country and the EU in the field of nuclear and environmental safety.