Chantal Hebberecht, the first EU Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan, discusses her delegation’s activities.
European Times: How have relations between the EU and Kyrgyzstan evolved since the partnership agreement between them went into force in 1999?
Chantal Hebberecht: Our delegation is engaged in dialogue with Kyrgyzstan’s leaders on a wide range of issues, including human rights, rule of law, social services and reforms, education, the business climate and trade. Through its partnership agreement, the EU actively promotes European values, aims to boost trade between the EU and Kyrgyzstan, and supports the country’s economic development.
European Times: How would you rate the cooperation between the EU and Kyrgyzstan?
Chantal Hebberecht: We have experienced an unprecedented level of openness and frankness from our Kyrgyz government partners. We have also found a very high level of civil participation and transparency in the broad public debate. Our activities extend beyond cooperation with the government. For the EU it is very important to combine a bottom-up approach with a top-down approach.
European Times: What are some of the EU’s projects here?
Chantal Hebberecht: We are planning to launch two major projects in early 2013, one a rule-of-law initiative budgeted at €13.5 million and the other a €20 million education programme. We do not just provide financing, however. Our main priority here is to support democratic reforms and to make sure economic and social development moves forward.
European Times: What are some of Kyrgyzstan’s attractions for European investors?
Chantal Hebberecht: Kyrgyzstan is the only Central Asian country with such a developed democratic process. The country has a multi-party parliamentary system and a democratically elected coalition government which is making efforts to fight corruption. In addition, civil society and the private sector are able to play an active role in the democratic process and in the economy. The Kyrgyz government is taking measures to establish a favourable investment climate, for example by trying to gradually reduce the number of required licenses for companies. Trade between Kyrgyzstan and the EU grew by 40% in 2011 compared to 2010.
European Times: What sectors have particularly strong investment potential?
Chantal Hebberecht: Mining is of course important but the tourism sector also has great prospects, and the new regulations allowing visa-free entry for travellers from dozens of countries is a big boost for the tourism industry. I invite EU travellers to come to Kyrgyzstan and see how beautiful it is, how warm and welcoming the Kyrgyz people are, and what a promising future this country has.
