July 14, 2006

Joint Statement the United States and the Kyrgyz Republic on Coalition Airbase

The Kyrgyz Republic and the United States have been committed partners in the war on terrorism.  Both countries have been the victim of terrorism and acknowledge the importance of international cooperation to combat this global threat.

The Governments of the United States and the Kyrgyz Republic announce that they have today successfully concluded their negotiations on the continued Coalition use of the Manas Air Base to support the ongoing war on terrorism in Afghanistan.  For four and one-half years, the Kyrgyz Republic has been a strong and reliable Coalition partner through its hosting of operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

The Government of the United States has stated its expectation to compensate equitably the Kyrgyz Government and Kyrgyz businesses for goods, services and support of U.S. operations.  Kyrgyz Security Council Secretary Miroslav Niyazov and U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense James MacDougall today signed a Protocol of Intentions to affirm this understanding.

The decision on the continued use of the Manas Air Base should be viewed in the context of the larger, robust bilateral relationship.  Since the independence of the Kyrgyz Republic, the United States has contributed more than $850 million to support democracy, economic development, humanitarian projects and security in the Kyrgyz Republic.  The United States expects to provide over $150 million in total assistance and compensation over the next year, pending approval by the U.S. Congress.

The United States and the Kyrgyz Republic are firmly committed to the war on terrorism and improving the security of Afghanistan, Central Asia and the broader region.  Stemming from this, the two countries have decided to continue their important cooperation at the Manas Coalition Air Base.