|
Bishkek,
Kyrgyzstan-
Nevada Senator Harry Reid is leading a delegation of United
States senators on a multi-national trip focused on progress on
terrorism, global climate change, development, and democracy.
Other senators joining Reid include Jeff Bingaman (D-NM), Bill
Nelson (D-FL), Johnny Isakson (R-GA) and Bob Menendez (D-NJ).
Scheduled stops on the weeklong trip include countries in
central Asia and Europe.
During the
first stop in Kyrgyzstan, Reid and the delegation met with
President Kurmanbek Bakiyev. At the meeting Reid stressed the
need for Bakiyev to do more to help the nation build on recent
political progress so that it can become a full and free
democracy. He also thanked the president for Kyrgyzstan’s role
supporting coalition forces in Afghanistan.
“Kyrgyzstan has made tremendous progress as a developing
democracy,” Reid said. “What we have seen here has been very
impressive, but there is more to do to strengthen this democracy
and ensure that it is long-lasting. President Bakiyev has a key
role to play in that.”
The
delegation also met with opposition leaders and discussed
concerns over corruption and opening the political system.
Prior to
meeting with President Bakiyev, Reid toured the Manas Coalition
Air Base located just outside the capital city of Bishkek. The
base serves as a transitioning facility for troops preparing to
serve in Afghanistan and supports logistics in Afghanistan.
During his visit Reid had lunch with the five Nevada troops
currently stationed at the base.
“I am very
proud of all of our men and women who serve in the Armed Forces,
but it is always such a privilege to spend time with troops
serving from Nevada,” Reid
said. “I am
grateful that they took some time out of their day to spend with
me and I thank them for their service to our country.”
Reid and the
delegation also received an update on development work taking
place in Kyrgyzstan. These efforts, led by the United States
Agency for International Development (USAID), focus on improving
the nation’s economy by building and strengthening small
businesses through loans and grants.
“While
many Americans may have never heard of Kyrgyzstan, as an
important developing democracy in Central Asia, ensuring its
success is vital, especially given its proximity to Afghanistan
and the role this country plays in our fight against terror.” |
|
