Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov has proposed a unified visa for Central Asian countries to allow free movement among Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, inspired by the Schengen visa. This plan aims to enhance tourism and strengthen regional cooperation, although challenges including Turkmenistan’s strict entry policies may hinder implementation. Japarov sees the initiative as fostering long-term peace and stability in the region.
Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov has proposed an innovative unified visa system for Central Asia, aiming to facilitate free movement across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The initiative draws inspiration from the European Schengen visa and seeks to simplify travel while enhancing regional tourism and cooperation.
Japarov made this announcement on social media after reaching a significant border agreement with Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon, advocating for visa-free travel among Central Asian countries and a single visa for foreign tourists.
The concept of a unified visa is not entirely new; the “Silk Road Visa,” suggested in 2018 by Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, failed to launch. Earlier discussions in 2020 were hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic, while ongoing negotiations in 2022 have yet to finalize the legal framework for such a system.
Implementing a unified visa faces challenges, chiefly the need for the five participating nations to harmonize immigration policies, border security regulations, and administrative processes. Lessons from the European Schengen Zone reveal that managing external borders and migration requires careful consideration.
A significant obstacle is Turkmenistan, known for stringent entry policies and limited engagement in regional integration. The uncertain position of Turkmenistan could critically impact the viability of the proposed visa.
Japarov envisions this visa initiative as a foundation for long-term stability in the region, noting the resolution of historical border disputes, particularly between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, as a pivotal success. Japarov stated, “From this moment, eternal peace was established in Central Asia.”
As this proposal develops, its acceptance by neighboring leaders will greatly influence its implementation. If successful, the unified visa could significantly enhance connectivity and accessibility within Central Asia.
The proposed unified visa system by Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov represents a significant step toward regional integration and cooperation in Central Asia. This initiative, inspired by the Schengen visa, could enhance tourism and facilitate easier movement among the five nations involved. However, challenges remain, particularly surrounding Turkmenistan’s participation and the harmonization of immigration policies. The outcome of this proposal will depend on regional leaders’ responses and commitment to collaboration, making it a pivotal development deserving of close attention.
Original Source: www.ndtvprofit.com
