Ambassador Spratlen Opens New Border Guard Facility in Batken

August 16, 2012

On August 14, Ambassador Spratlen participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new Batken Oblast Border Troop outpost.  In addition to providing a training and living facility for 130 personnel, the outpost will serve as a key command and control center for the remote region.

General Major Tilenov of the Kyrgyz Border Service expressed his pleasure that a U.S. Ambassador travelled to Batken to see first-hand, how U.S.-Kyrgyz cooperation strengthens regional security.  The ceremony was also attended by the deputy governor of Batken oblast, Saitzhan Eratov, and other local officials.

“The transfer of the Batken facility to the Border Troops is an important step towards strengthening the counternarcotics program of the Kyrgyz Republic and the larger war on terrorism,” said Ambassador Spratlen. “It also stands as a symbol of the Border Troops commitment to their mandate and mission.”

Over the last five years, the Embassy’s counternarcotics program has worked with the Kyrgyz Republic to develop this fully-furnished facility. Orion Construction company completed the job in just over four months, employing a team of 22 Kyrgyz workers.  The facility will be used as the headquarters for the Border Troops.  It contains barracks, living quarters, dining facilities, a medical treatment room, shower room and a general meeting space.

“By providing the border troops with a well-equipped and modern facility to train and rest, the government is ensuring the overall safety and security of the public,” Ambassador Spratlen said.