COPENHAGEN, 9 August 2019 – In reaction to recent developments in Kyrgyzstan, leading to the detention of former President Almazbek Atambayev, OSCE PA President George Tsereteli (MP, Georgia) issued the following statement:

President George Tsereteli addresses the OSCE PA Autumn Meeting in Bishkek, October 2018.“In light of recent events in Kyrgyzstan, I want to encourage the authorities and members of the opposition to exercise restraint and for calm to be restored in accordance with the country’s constitution and democratic values.

As illustrated by several visits in recent years, as well as the organization of our 2018 Autumn Meeting in Bishkek, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly remains steadfast in its commitment to support Kyrgyzstan’s democratic consolidation and efforts to build a society based on law and order.

While the last presidential election was welcomed by OSCE observers as an orderly transfer of powers from one elected president to another, this did not preclude the pressing need to continue strengthening democratic institutions and the rule of law, especially as the country prepares for parliamentary elections in 2020. Following up on these commitments is crucial for Kyrgyzstan’s long-term stability and prosperity.”