Twenty years in OSCE, Kyrgyzstan plays important role for security in Central Asia and beyond, says Head of OSCE Centre in Bishkek

Twenty years ago, on 30 January 1992, following its independence, Kyrgyzstan joined the Conference for Security and Co-operation in Europe (CSCE), which later became the OSCE.

On this anniversary, Ambassador Andrew Tesoriere, the Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, said: “During the past 20 years the OSCE has evolved into the largest regional security Organization in the world, with all 56 participating States committed to the vision of the Euro-Atlantic and Eurasian security community, rooted in agreed principles, shared commitments and common goals.”

“Kyrgyzstan plays an important and active role for the security in Central Asian region and beyond, as well as within the Organization. Since 1 January 2012, it shoulders the responsibility to chair the OSCE’s main politico-military decision-making body, the Forum for Security Co-operation,” Tesoriere added.

“Through its nationwide presence in Kyrgyzstan, including the Centre in Bishkek, the Community Security Initiative and the OSCE Academy, the OSCE in co-operation with Kyrgyzstan’s authorities implements a wide range of programmes in support of security, stability and prosperity in the country, promotes good governance and regional cooperation,” he said.

“I am privileged to work in close partnership with key actors representing the Presidential administration, government, parliament, judiciary, civil society and media, as well as to head a dedicated, professional and talented team, ” Tesoriere stressed.

The CSCE/OSCE, created following the signature of the Helsinki Final Act on 1 August 1975, spans Europe, Central Asia and North America; it offers a forum for political dialogue and decision making in the fields of early warning, conflict prevention, crisis management and post-conflict rehabilitation. All 56 participating States, including Kyrgyzstan, enjoy equal status, and all decisions are taken by consensus.

The Organization helps participating States effectively implement their commitments with the help of OSCE institutions and through its unique network of field operations. The decision to open the OSCE Centre in Bishkek was taken on 23 July 1998. In line with its mandate and in consultation with the authorities of the Kyrgyz Republic, the OSCE Centre in Bishkek works in three dimensions: politico-military, economic and environmental, and  human, and in six strategic priority areas: border security and management, rule of law, good governance, legislation, environmental protection, regional co-operation.