A round table on the topic "Muratbek Imanaliev: professional path and contribution to the development of the SCO" was held in Bishkek, dedicated to the 70th anniversary of the first Minister of Foreign Affairs of independent Kyrgyzstan, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador, as well as former Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The event highlighted his contribution to the formation of national diplomacy and international cooperation.
Among the participants were representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the diplomatic corps, international organizations, the academic community, and veterans of the diplomatic service. As part of the event, a photo exhibition was organized, reflecting Imanaliev's life and professional journey, including significant milestones such as the establishment of independent Kyrgyzstan, the development of Kyrgyz-Chinese relations, work in the Shanghai organization, and the promotion of a multi-vector foreign policy. The exhibition also presented photographs of meetings with world leaders and key moments of international cooperation.
Lydia Imanalieva, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic, as well as a professor at the Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, acted as the moderator and emphasized the importance of the jubilarian's figure.
- Today is a special day for us. When we talk about Muratbek Sansyzbaevich, we mean not just a highly professional diplomat, but also a person with whom many of us share years of collaboration and trust, - she noted.
She added that Imanaliev's professional career was largely shaped by his deep education and academic school.
- His studies at the Institute of Asian and African Countries at Moscow State University, followed by postgraduate studies at the Leningrad Institute of Oriental Studies, laid the foundation for his analytical thinking. As a historian and orientalist, fluent in Chinese and French, he successfully combined academic knowledge with diplomatic practice.
Lydia Imanalieva also noted that international and state awards are a recognition of the diplomat's merits, but the main achievement lies in the creation of a professional school of Kyrgyz diplomacy.
- This school is based on an analytical approach, respect for partners, and strategic vision, - she added.
Ruslan Rakhimov, rector of the Diplomatic Academy, emphasized Imanaliev's contribution to the development of the scientific and analytical potential of the foreign policy agency.
- Your work in the area of Chinese relations and participation in the Shanghai process occupies a special place in your professional biography. We appreciate your contribution to the development of the analytical direction of our academy, - he noted.
He reminded that the Center for Analysis of International Relations, established at the initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under Imanaliev's leadership, became an important platform for studying international processes.
- The Center provided scientific and analytical support to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other state bodies, developed predictive recommendations, and facilitated international expert cooperation, which became the foundation for a modern diplomatic approach.
According to the rector, Muratbek Imanaliev's contribution significantly goes beyond institutional decisions.
- He created an environment where diplomacy is perceived not only as a practice but also as an intellectual activity requiring deep analysis and a strategic approach, - he added.
Rakhimov also announced the establishment of a scholarship named after Muratbek Imanaliev.
- This is not just a recognition of his merits, but a symbol of continuity. We hope that future diplomats of Kyrgyzstan will aspire to the high standard of professionalism set by the jubilarian.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Almaz Imangaziev noted the historical significance of Muratbek Imanaliev in shaping Kyrgyzstan's foreign policy.
- The anniversary of Muratbek Sansyzbaevich reminds us of the difficult years of establishing independence and foreign policy. At that time, we had to act without templates and experience, often in conditions of limited resources and uncertainty, - he said.
He further noted that upon taking the helm of the ministry, Imanaliev became the founder of Kyrgyzstan's diplomatic service.
- This was not just managing the agency, but creating an entire system of diplomacy: defining priorities, building relationships with partners, and ensuring international recognition, - he emphasized.
The deputy minister also noted that thanks to Imanaliev's efforts, Kyrgyzstan quickly established diplomatic relations with many states and joined international organizations.
- It was then that the country confidently declared itself on the world stage, - he added.
Speaking about multilateral cooperation, Imangaziev highlighted Imanaliev's work in the SCO.
- In 2010-2012, while serving as Secretary-General of the Shanghai Organization, he strengthened coordination among member states and expanded cooperation in security and humanitarian areas. Many of those mechanisms continue to operate effectively today.
He separately addressed Kyrgyz-Chinese relations.
- Thanks to his professionalism and deep understanding of the culture of negotiations with China, issues of border delimitation were successfully resolved, laying the foundation for long-term good-neighborly relations.
The deputy minister also emphasized the importance of Imanaliev's contribution to personnel training.
- Thanks to his active participation, the Center for Diplomat Training was established, which became the basis for the founding of the Diplomatic Academy in 2001. His contribution to the development of diplomatic education cannot be overstated.
In addition, he noted the scientific achievements of the diplomat.
- Imanaliev is the author of more than a hundred scientific works on international relations, which strengthened Kyrgyzstan's intellectual presence on the international stage, - he concluded.
In conclusion, Almaz Imangaziev noted:
- The professional style of Muratbek Imanaliev is characterized by thoughtfulness, strategic thinking, and the ability to consider the opinions of others while firmly defending national interests. These qualities have become the foundation of modern Kyrgyz diplomacy, and his legacy continues to serve as an example for future diplomats. His contribution to the development of foreign policy and strengthening Kyrgyzstan's international authority remains relevant in a rapidly changing world.
