U.S. Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert Blake said "the United States believes that the provisional government and the people of Kyrgyzstan have a unique and historic opportunity to create a democracy that could be a model for Central Asia and the wider region." Assistant Secretary Blake made the remarks in Bishkek, April 15th, after meetings with the Head of the Provisional Government of the People's Trust Roza Otunbayeva and provisional government members.
Mr. Blake expressed condolences for the more than 80 Kyrgyz citizens that were killed and the more than 500 wounded in the protests of April 6th and 7th which led to the establishment of the provisional government. The United States has provided more than 200,000 dollars' worth of medical supplies to help treat the wounded. "We are also looking at additional ways that we might able to help," said Mr. Blake.
Assistant Secretary Blake said he "welcomed the assurances that the provisional government is working actively first to draft a new constitution that can form the basis for national elections in a 6 month period" and assurances "that they are working in full cooperation with Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe as they move forward with their plans to restore democracy."
During this transition period, it is important for Kyrgyz leaders to work transparently and in an inclusive manner with Kyrgyz civil society, said Assistant Secretary Blake.
"The United States very much welcomes the announcements that have already been made and the steps that have already been taken by the provisional government to restore democracy and to ensure the respect of human rights," said Mr. Blake. "These are very positive and welcome steps that we have indicated to the provisional government that we are prepared to support," he said.
Assistant Secretary Blake said Kyrgyzstan's provisional government is making important progress, but still faces many challenges. In meeting those challenges, the Krygyz Republic can rely on the friendship and support of the United States.
"The United States believes that the provisional government and the people of Kyrgyzstan have a unique and historic opportunity to create a democracy that could be a model for Central Asia and the wider region."
