US expresses concern over situation on Kyrgyz-Tajik border

Washington has expressed concern over the latest developments on the Kyrgyz-Tajik border, Report informs.

“The US is deeply concerned by renewed violence on the Kyrgyz-Tajik border. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and those displaced by the violence. We call for a negotiated solution to outstanding border issues and a commitment to peaceful co-existence,” US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price tweeted.

The press service of the Kyrgyz Border Service of the State Committee for National Security reported on January 29 that the situation on the Kyrgyz-Tajik section of the state border is stable.

On January 27 evening, the situation on the Kyrgyz-Tajik border escalated due to the blocking of the Batken-Isfana road. After negotiations between the border representatives of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, the section of the road was opened. But the situation worsened, a skirmish broke out between the units of the border troops of the two countries, which lasted more than five hours. The Tajik side used mortars and grenade launchers.

According to the Kyrgyz Healthcare Ministry, 12 people were injured during the shootout, their condition is assessed as moderate.

Later the parties agreed on a complete ceasefire on the border, as well as on the withdrawal of additional forces and equipment to the places of deployment.