India, Kyrgyzstan should work together for betterment of the

Terrorism, extremism and drug-trafficking were common threats which India and Kyrgyzstan face and both the nations should work together for the betterment of not only the two countries and the region but also of the world, President Pranab Mukherjee has said.
Welcoming Kyrgyz President Almazbek Sharshenovich Atambaev on his visit to India, he said India values its longstanding friendly relations with Kyrgyzstan.
Mukherjee yesterday hosted Atambaev and his wife Raisa Atambaeva at Rashtrapati Bhavan here. He also hosted a banquet in their honour.
"India and Kyrgyzstan share common concerns on the threat of terrorism, extremism and drug-trafficking," the President said and expressed confidence that the Kyrgyz President's visit would give a fillip to the efforts to enhance the multi-faceted relations between the two countries.

He said India has had civilisational ties with Central Asia, especially countries which were part of the ancient Silk Route, including Kyrgyzstan.
Stressing that political ties with Kyrgyzstan have been traditionally "warm and friendly", Mukherjee said next year India and Kyrgyzstan will celebrate the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations.

"We have a shared past, reflected in many elements of our culture. Our friendship flourished during the Soviet-era and our Parliamentarians and leaders have maintained regular contacts since then.
"After Kyrgyzstan became an independent state, it was but natural for India to continue and strengthen its long standing co-operative relationship," he added.

He expressed confidence that working together, India and Kyrgyzstan can achieve much for the betterment of not only our two peoples and our region but also of the world.