Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan have officially commenced the implementation of a landmark border agreement originally signed in 2022. This development marks a significant milestone in finalizing the delimitation process between the two Central Asian nations and paves the way for new infrastructure projects.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, a joint commission has begun operations in Kyrgyzstan’s Kadamjay district to oversee the legal and administrative procedures of the agreement. Under the terms of the deal, the villages of Chong-Gara and Dash-Tobo, which were previously part of Uzbekistan’s Fergana region, will be transferred to the jurisdiction of Kyrgyzstan.
Reports indicate that approximately 2,500 people, the majority of whom are ethnic Kyrgyz, reside in these settlements. The registration process is currently underway, and upon its completion, residents will be eligible to obtain Kyrgyz citizenship. In exchange, Kyrgyzstan will provide Uzbekistan with an equivalent land area, ensuring a balanced territorial adjustment.
This agreement represents a continuation of efforts to resolve border disputes in Central Asia that have persisted since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Kyrgyz officials stated that the land exchange is expected to contribute to the full resolution of disputed border sections and foster development in the border regions. Furthermore, the agreement includes the exchange of 236 hectares of land to facilitate the construction of a new road connecting the villages of Say and Tayan. This infrastructure project is projected to improve transport connectivity, reduce travel times for local residents, and stimulate economic activity in the region.