Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have signed a historic border agreement, marking a major step toward resolving a decades-long territorial dispute. The agreement was signed in Bishkek by the Head of the State Committee for National Security of Kyrgyzstan, Kamchybek Tashiev and his Tajik counterpart, Saimumin Yatimov.
The agreement finalizes the delimitation and demarcation of the 972-kilometer border between the two nations, bringing an end to longstanding tensions. It includes a treaty on state borders, an agreement on the management of energy facilities and water resources, and plans for constructing new roads at key border crossings.
A Milestone in Bilateral Relations
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Yatimov emphasized the significance of the deal, calling it a “historic document” that resolves a complex and sensitive issue.
"If the agreement is implemented, it will put an end to the century-old dispute over the border issue between the two fraternal republics," he stated.
Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov had previously assured that the border issue would be resolved within the next two years. He reiterated that the settlement was reached by considering the interests of both sides, particularly in contested areas where communities of both nations reside.
"The decision was made based on fairness. Some disputed areas were divided equally, while in other cases, settlements were adjusted," Japarov explained. "We have also addressed the issue of border villages with mixed households. If Tajik citizens reside on Kyrgyz territory, they will be relocated, and vice versa. New housing will be provided accordingly."
Decades of Disputes and Clashes
The border negotiations between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan began in 2002 but saw little progress for nearly two decades. As of 2022, only half of the border had been formally demarcated. The unresolved border led to frequent conflicts, particularly over access to land, water, and roads.
Tensions escalated into violent clashes in April-May 2021 and September 2022, resulting in dozens of casualties on both sides. The 2022 conflict saw the deaths of 63 Kyrgyz and 83 Tajik citizens, with tens of thousands displaced. The crisis pushed both nations to accelerate negotiations, leading to the recent breakthrough.
The agreement now moves into its implementation phase, which includes relocating affected communities, adjusting infrastructure, and ensuring security at the newly established borders. Both governments have pledged to maintain stability and cooperation during this transition.
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