Uzbekistan continues to simplify cross-border movements in Central Asia. On November 20, speaking at the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said after the successful introduction of ID-card border crossings with Kyrgyzstan, which has been in effect since September 1, Uzbekistan is set to extend this practice to Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, the press office of the President of Uzbekistan reported.
The initiative to modernise border management reflects Uzbekistan’s course toward deepening integration in Central Asia.
The new border crossing procedure will allow citizens to cross borders without foreign passports, which will significantly simplify interstate contacts and contribute to regional cooperation.
According to Mirziyoyev, such measures are part of the strategy to enhance regional cooperation and promote good-neighbourly relations. The President announced a Central Asian Five meeting, namely Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, in Tashkent next year. He noted that it «will become another significant practical step on this path».
