In January of this year, it became known that the European Union plans to introduce new restrictive measures against Kyrgyzstan due to its assistance to Russia in circumventing existing sanctions.
As part of the new sanctions package against Russia, the EU is considering the possibility of applying a mechanism that would prohibit the export of certain radio equipment and machinery to Kyrgyzstan.
In an interview with the Financial Times, Amangeldiev emphasized that sanctions affecting the country could negatively impact Kyrgyzstan's reputation and slow its development. He also noted that in February, Bishkek sent a package of documents to the EU outlining efforts to comply with sanction norms; however, Brussels did not provide clarification on how to clear the names of Kyrgyz banks that fell under sanctions.
“If such a decision is made, it will negatively affect our image. We are ready to challenge it in court,” claims the Deputy Head of the Cabinet, according to FT.
On March 2, the Cabinet clarified that only a hypothetical scenario regarding possible sanctions was discussed. Nevertheless, the government does not plan to initiate legal proceedings against the European Union.
The position of the Kyrgyz Republic remains unchanged and consistent. The country acts in full accordance with its national legislation, international obligations, and norms of international law.
“Issues of export control and compliance with sanctions are resolved through coordination and dialogue with our international partners. Legal and confrontational measures are not part of our approach. The Kyrgyz Republic is focused on constructive partnership with the European Union,”
the Cabinet emphasizes, clarifying that the republic does not intend to and is not preparing to file a lawsuit against the EU regarding sanctions related to Russia.
Note:
Since the beginning of 2022, more than 20 Kyrgyz companies have been subjected to sanctions by the US and UK Treasury, including a major bank and oil and gas firms. Secondary sanctions are related not only to financial institutions and the oil industry but also to companies involved in supplies:
- telecommunication and electronic equipment,
- IT infrastructure,
- aviation fuel,
- air transport, and more.
Economist Robin Brooks from the Brookings Institution noted in his research a sharp increase in export supplies from Europe to Kyrgyzstan: from Estonia — by 10,000%, from Finland — by 3,100%, from Poland and Greece — by 2,200% and 2,100%, as well as from Norway, the UK, Germany, and the Czech Republic — by more than 1,000%.
