A New Turkic Center of Power: Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan Elevate Bilateral Relations to the Level of Alliance

Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan are elevating bilateral relations to the level of alliance, filling political rapprochement with investment, transport, and humanitarian projects. The newspaper "Kaspi" spoke with Kyrgyz expert and economist Marat Musuraliev about the practical significance of the new treaty.

- The signing of the Treaty on Allied Relations between Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan has been called a historic milestone. What will change in Bishkek's practical policy after the document enters into force?

- Overall, the treaty should give bilateral relations a more systematic and substantive character. It concerns expanding economic cooperation, developing transport corridors, strengthening political coordination, and interaction in the sphere of regional security. For Kyrgyzstan, partnership with Azerbaijan also opens additional opportunities for diversifying external ties and pursuing a more independent multi-vector policy.

- Are Bishkek and Baku ready to support each other in complex international circumstances?

- Today, there are no fundamental contradictions between the national interests of the two countries. On the contrary, Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan are united by their interest in strengthening sovereignty, territorial integrity, and regional stability.

At the same time, it is important for Bishkek to pursue a consistent foreign policy, comply with international obligations, and minimize sanctions risks. Azerbaijan's experience shows that economic independence, institutional resilience, and coordinated work of state bodies make it possible to firmly defend national interests through diplomatic and legal means.

Azerbaijan consistently emphasizes the importance of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inviolability of internationally recognized borders.

For Kyrgyzstan, an alliance with Azerbaijan can become an additional pillar in pursuing an independent, balanced, and multi-vector policy. It is about expanding the space for national development, diversifying external ties, and strengthening the ability of the two countries to jointly respond to economic, political, and regional challenges.

- The capital of the Azerbaijan-Kyrgyz Investment Fund has been increased to 200 million dollars. What projects can turn these funds from an impressive figure into a truly functioning economic mechanism?

- The fund is focused on implementing projects in the real sector of the economy — in industrial production, energy, construction, and medicine. It currently considers projects worth up to $20 million with financing terms of up to seven years. This scale already goes beyond small business