Opening remarks

Excellencies,

Distinguished Ministers,

Colleagues,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my honor to welcome you to this Ambassadorial-level meeting of the Peacebuilding Commission on the peaceful settlement of border disputes in Central Asia. Allow me to begin by expressing my sincere appreciation to all representatives present today, and in particular to the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, and the Republic of Uzbekistan for their remarkable achievements in peacefully resolving complex and longstanding border issues.

This year, in March, your three Governments reached a historic trilateral agreement, completing the final settlement of outstanding border delimitation matters among the five Central Asian states. This accomplishment deserves the highest commendation. It is not simply the resolution of technical questions regarding state borders. It is a profound affirmation of political will, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to peaceful coexistence.

Your success marks the culmination of years—indeed, decades—of negotiation, dialogue, and confidence-building. It reflects the diplomatic maturity of your leaders and the steadfast dedication of expert commissions, negotiators, and communities who have supported these processes over time. It also stands as an example of how a region can choose cooperation over confrontation, and dialogue over division, even when confronting sensitive historical issues.

Today’s discussion offers the Peacebuilding Commission a unique opportunity. We are gathered not only to recognize progress in Central Asia, but also to learn from it directly—from those who lived the experience, navigated the complexities, and ultimately achieved agreement. The PBC greatly values this chance to hear first-hand how peaceful border settlement was pursued, structured, negotiated, and successfully concluded. These insights are of particular relevance at a time when geopolitical tensions around borders are rising in other parts of the world.

Central Asia provides a powerful demonstration that peaceful resolution is not only possible, but achievable through patient diplomacy anchored in the principles of the UN Charter. The experience of your region shows that even longstanding disagreements can be settled when states prioritize dialogue, uphold international law, and commit to shared security and prosperity. Your accomplishments underscore that border delimitation, when pursued cooperatively, can strengthen regional stability and open new pathways for development.

As Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission, I wish to emphasize how much value we place on the example you have set. Your experience offers rich lessons on constructive negotiation; the design of effective bilateral and trilateral mechanisms; the role of joint commissions and high-level political dialogue; and the importance of community engagement and public trust in sensitive border processes. It also illustrates how mediation, preventive diplomacy, and regional solidarity can maintain momentum even when challenges arise.

The Peacebuilding Commission is grateful for your engagement and we look forward to learning from your invaluable experience today.

Thank you.

Closing remarks

Excellencies,

Colleagues,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As we conclude our discussion today, allow me to express deep appreciation to all participants for their thoughtful interventions, constructive reflections, and generous sharing of experience. The dialogue we have had underscores the significance of the historic agreements reached by the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, and the Republic of Uzbekistan, and highlights how these achievements contribute to regional and international peace.

What we have examined today is far more than the technical delineation of a border. It is a demonstration of regional coordination, diplomacy, and leadership—achieved without interference from third parties. The trilateral agreement presented here stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when neighbors commit to resolving challenges through peaceful means and regional solidarity.

Clear and mutually recognized borders do more than prevent disputes—they provide a foundation for cooperation. They facilitate dialogue, foster community-to-community exchange, and strengthen economic ties. They create the conditions for trade, mobility, and shared development. Most importantly, they enable populations living along the border to enjoy greater stability and new opportunities.

We sincerely hope that the citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, and the Republic of Uzbekistan will see and feel the benefits of the agreements reached after years of dedicated negotiation. Their security, prosperity, and confidence in peaceful coexistence are the ultimate measure of success.

The Peacebuilding Commission stands ready to accompany your continued efforts and to help share the lessons of Central Asia with other regions facing sensitive border challenges. Your example reaffirms that diplomacy works, cooperation works, and peace—when nurtured with care and determination—endures.

Thank you.