Japan and Kyrgyzstan have taken a significant step forward in their diplomatic relations by signing a Visa Waiver Agreement. This agreement, which primarily benefits holders of diplomatic and service/official passports, signifies a new era of easier travel and enhanced bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
Approval and Implementation of the Visa Waiver Agreement
The Visa Waiver Agreement between Japan and Kyrgyzstan was formalized through the exchange of notes on November 20, 2023, in Tokyo. This crucial step was further solidified when the Kyrgyz Parliament approved the draft law on the ratification of the bill of exchange between the Kyrgyz Embassy in Japan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. Under this agreement, holders of valid diplomatic and service/official passports from both countries can enjoy visa-free travel for up to 90 days. This significant development is expected to foster greater diplomatic and economic interactions between Japan and Kyrgyzstan.
Benefits and Extensions of the Agreement
Beyond easing travel restrictions for diplomats and officials, the agreement also includes provisions for Japanese citizens interested in short-term tourism in Kyrgyzstan. Japanese tourists can now extend their stay in Kyrgyzstan for up to 60 days, making it more convenient for them to explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Central Asian nation.
Moreover, legal entities in Kyrgyzstan can invite foreign citizens, both individually and as part of tourist groups, to apply for short-term business or tourist electronic visas. This provision is designed to boost tourism and business travel, further strengthening economic ties between the two countries.
Visa Application Process in Kyrgyzstan
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic, foreign citizens planning to visit Kyrgyzstan can obtain visas in electronic format through the electronic visa system or in the standard version by addressing diplomatic missions or consular offices of Kyrgyzstan abroad. Additionally, visa points at international checkpoints across the Kyrgyz state border are available to facilitate entry.
Summit Meeting and Additional Agreements
The Visa Waiver Agreement was part of a broader set of discussions during a summit meeting in November 2023 between Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov. During this meeting, the leaders signed notes on grant assistance to Kyrgyzstan for the improvement of irrigation maintenance equipment and exchanged Note Verbales regarding the waiver of diplomatic and official visa requirements.
Strategic Goals and Future Cooperation
Japan and Kyrgyzstan aim to achieve sustainable socio-economic development in Central Asia. The two leaders have expressed their commitment to overcoming challenges and strengthening cooperation to foster a free and open Central Asia. Their focus is on “investment in people” and “quality of growth” in the economy, society, and human exchanges, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
The leaders also agreed to prepare for a summit meeting of the “Central Asia plus Japan” Dialogue in 2024, marking the 20th anniversary of this diplomatic initiative. This dialogue is expected to further enhance regional cooperation and development.
Impact on Passport Rankings and Travel Freedom
The VisaGuide Passport Index ranks the Kyrgyz passport 135th globally as of May 2024, with Kyrgyz citizens enjoying visa-free travel to 28 countries. In contrast, Japanese citizens, whose passport ranks 14th, can travel visa-free to 153 countries. The new Visa Waiver Agreement is expected to improve travel convenience and potentially enhance the passport rankings of both countries.
Reviving Tourism and Economic Growth
This agreement is a strategic move to revive tourism and stimulate economic growth in both countries. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Kyrgyzstan welcomed a significant number of foreign visitors, with efforts to attract more international tourists continuing. By extending visa-free entry to numerous nations, including 12 European countries until the end of 2025, Kyrgyzstan aims to attract more international visitors and boost its tourism sector.
The Visa Waiver Agreement between Japan and Kyrgyzstan is a landmark development in their diplomatic relations, offering significant benefits for holders of diplomatic and service/official passports. This agreement is part of broader efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation, stimulate tourism, and achieve sustainable socio-economic development in Central Asia. As both countries continue to strengthen their ties, this agreement marks a positive step toward greater international collaboration and mutual prosperity.
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