Kathmandu— On Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping landed in Bishkek for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit and a state visit to Kyrgyzstan. He was warmly welcomed by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov at Manas International Airport with a red carpet ceremony steeped in local traditions. The visit marks Xi's third trip to Kyrgyzstan, highlighting the deepening strategic partnership between China and Kyrgyzstan.

Traditional Welcome

The welcome for President Xi Jinping was rich in traditional customs. Young Kyrgyz women presented him with pastries and honey, a time-honored greeting. Inside the airport VIP lounge, children and young people sang Chinese songs in Mandarin, offering their heartfelt welcome to the visiting dignitaries.

Diplomatic Exchanges

In his written speech upon arrival, Xi Jinping emphasized that China and Kyrgyzstan share a long-standing friendship. He stated that during this visit, he would discuss various aspects of bilateral cooperation with President Japarov, including international issues of mutual concern. The two leaders aim to draw a new blueprint for building a community with a shared future.

Historical Relations

This is Xi's third state visit to Kyrgyzstan since 2013 when the two countries established a strategic partnership. Over the past decade, their relationship has evolved from a strategic partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era. Last year alone, Xi met with Japarov three times, reaching important consensus on deepening bilateral ties.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.