An "unprecedented" red-carpet welcome rolled out by Kyrgyzstan for Chinese President Xi Jinping's arrival on Sunday reflects the deep friendship between the two countries, according to the Chinese ambassador to Kyrgyzstan.
Xi landed in the Krygyz capital Bishkek on Sunday afternoon to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit 2026 and pay a state visit to Kyrgyzstan at the invitation of President Sadyr Japarov. This marks Xi's first visit to the Central Asian country since 2019.
As his plane touched down at the Manas International Airport, Xi was welcomed with an elaborate reception that featured a number of distinctive Kyrgyz traditions, including rows of traditional felt yurts, eagle trainers holding golden eagles aloft, and performers playing the traditional komuz instrument along the red carpet.
Reflecting on the grand scale and vibrant cultural elements of the event, Chinese Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan Liu Jiangpin emphasized that the extraordinary welcome at the airport highlights the profound bonds between the two nations.
"This is President Xi Jinping's first visit to Kyrgyzstan after seven years. This visit is eagerly anticipated by both countries and their peoples. I inspected the preparations on-site, especially the welcoming ceremony. I can see that the Kyrgyz side has introduced innovative protocol elements, creating what will be an unprecedented welcoming ceremony. In terms of scale, form, and content, it is exceptional. This fully embodies the profound and friendly sentiments of the Kyrgyz people toward President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people," Liu said.
The visit also coincides with a major milestone year for the SCO, as leaders gather in Bishkek for a significant summit.
"This year marks the 25th anniversary of the founding of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, making this year's summit of historic significance. Amid the complex international landscape, the SCO is playing an increasingly vital role, particularly in safeguarding security and stability while promoting development. We believe the eyes of the entire world will be focused on Bishkek and the SCO," Liu said.
Grand Kyrgyz welcome for Xi reflects deep friendship between two sides: Chinese ambassador
