China, Kyrgyzstan agree to enhance cooperation in various fields

BISHKEK -- China and Kyrgyzstan have pledged to boost cooperation in various fields as both sides agree that bilateral ties are currently at their best in history, according to a joint declaration issued on Monday.

In the document released during Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to the country, the two countries have agreed to make active efforts to ensure the safe implementation of strategic cooperation projects.

Both sides have also agreed to actively promote cooperation in the financial sector, support eligible Kyrgyz banks in joining China's Cross-Border Interbank Payment System, and expand the use of local currencies in bilateral trade and investment settlement, said the declaration.

China would expand market access for high-quality Kyrgyz agricultural products, it added.

The two sides will ensure the smooth and timely implementation of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, they said in the declaration.

China welcomes Kyrgyzstan's participation in the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, it added.

Both sides voiced opposition to all forms of unilateralism and protectionism, and called for the practice of true multilateralism.

Kyrgyzstan reiterated its support for the one-China principle, as well as its opposition to all forms of "Taiwan independence," it said.