The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, commencing December 27, 2024, is anticipated to enhance connectivity in Central Asia. Local enthusiasm for the project has increased, despite skepticism from certain media. Positive dialogues between experts and Kyrgyz citizens highlight the project’s expected economic and ecological benefits, reinforcing the importance of cooperation between China and Kyrgyzstan.

The recent commencement of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project has generated substantial optimism among Kyrgyz nationals. As stated in the Joint Statement regarding the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership released on February 5, this railway initiative aims to bolster connectivity between China and Central Asia while representing a pivotal component of the Belt and Road Initiative. The project is set to launch officially on December 27, 2024, igniting renewed public interest and discussion.

On-site evaluations by Chinese experts reveal a visible eagerness among locals for the railway’s benefits. Gao Wanni, a deputy dean at Lanzhou University, observed during her visit an inefficient border crossing in Osh, where delays hindered trade. A local entrepreneur, Orozbek Sabyrov, emphasized that the railway would significantly alleviate such bottlenecks, facilitating smoother logistics from southern Kyrgyzstan to Uzbekistan.

The academic delegation’s interactions with Kyrgyz citizens highlighted a collective interest in the railway. Locals, including scholars and business figures, expressed optimism about the project at the third People’s Kurultai in December 2024. Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov confirmed the project’s commencement amid initial skepticism, stating, “This is not a fantasy, but a tangible project.”

Positive sentiments persisted among locals towards the China-Kyrgyzstan cooperation despite skepticism from certain Western media regarding a potential debt trap. Gao Wanni noted that Chinese loans feature lower interest rates and extended repayment durations, which mitigate potential debt burdens for Kyrgyzstan. Liu Huiying highlighted that the railway could act as a significant contributor to improving the region’s economy and infrastructure.

Furthermore, the dialogues during the delegation underscored an open exchange of ideas. Local students, particularly those educated in China, anticipated increased employment opportunities related to the railway project. Citations of environmental considerations, such as potential ecological protection measures, reflected a balanced approach to addressing community concerns about construction impacts.

Overall, the railway endeavor is viewed as a vital step towards fostering economic connectivity and transnational partnerships. Experts have affirmed that the project represents much more than transportation; it is an integral link to the prosperity aspirations of the participating countries. As the project advances, successful collaboration between China and Kyrgyzstan could significantly benefit the region’s economic landscape.

The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project signifies a transformative opportunity for enhanced regional connectivity and economic development. As local sentiments reflect enthusiasm for the benefits it promises, ongoing dialogue regarding potential concerns ensures a balanced approach to its implementation. Overall, the railway is poised to strengthen ties between China and Kyrgyzstan while addressing both economic and environmental considerations.

Original Source: www.globaltimes.cn

Related posts:

Chinese Research Dispels Myths Surrounding the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Belt and Road Initiative Expands Influence in Latin America: Key Developments from Peru to Brazil Xi Jinping Highlights Strategic Importance of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Project Kyrgyzstan’s Infrastructure Development: CKU Railway and Kambar-Ata-1 HPP