OSCE Chair's personal representative discusses Kyrgyz presidential elections with political leader Kulov

BISHKEK, 17 May 2005 - Alojz Peterle, the OSCE Chairman-in-Office's Personal Representative for Central Asia, met prominent Kyrgyz political leader Felix Kulov today, to discuss issues affecting the upcoming presidential elections, scheduled for 10 July.

"The stability of Kyrgyzstan is of utmost importance to my mission," Peterle said.

"The holding of a presidential election that meets the OSCE standards of openness and transparency is pivotal in guaranteeing the future democratic development of the country."

Kyrgyzstan experienced serious demonstrations and public protests in the aftermath of parliamentary elections in February/March, which led to the collapse of the previous government and its replacement with an interim authority.

During their meeting, Mr. Kulov described his recent agreement with the interim President Kurmanbek Bakiev to run on the same ticket as potential Prime Minister, thus effectively withdrawing from the presidential race. Mr. Kulov said that this agreement was initiated on the understanding that ongoing constitutional reform would rebalance power in favour of a stronger Parliamentary system. He also noted that a Code of Conduct between presidential contenders was essential for guaranteeing peace and stability in the run up to the election.

Mr. Kulov praised the role of the OSCE during the course of recent events and expressed his support for the further involvement of the Organization in helping to further stabilize the current situation.