U.S.-Kyrgyzstan relations

The messages provide a glimpse as to what the Central Asian states wish to see from the next U.S. administration and how they aim to position themselves.

Russian and Chinese influence in the region will never go away. But the United States now has a rare and valuable window of opportunity.

The Diplomat’s Managing Editor Catherine Putz had a recent conversation with U.S. Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan Lesslie Viguerie about the state of relations.

In a joint legal opinion, the OSCE and Venice Commission raise serious concerns about Kyrgyzstan's draft constitution, up for a vote on April 11.

Since 2014, the U.S. has offered a $1 million reward to information leading to the disruption of Kolbaev's alleged criminal network. No takers, so far.

Some travel restrictions remain due to COVID-19, but Kyrgyzstan is no longer subject to a direct U.S. visa ban.

A visa ban for Kyrgyz citizens stems from a lack of biometric passports and poor communication, issues which can be addressed with deeper cooperation.

The new strategy revolves around a familiar “holy trinity” -- independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity -- while acknowledging the power of new regional dynamics.

Kyrgyzstan is among six countries hit with new visa restrictions by the United States.

Politico reported that the Trump administration is considering expanding the controversial “travel ban” to seven more countries, including possibly Kyrgyzstan.

With a new South Asia strategy guiding operations, how does Central Asia figure into CENTCOM’s activities?