OSCE-supported counter-terrorism training for Kyrgyz Republic National Guard completed today

BISHKEK, 9 October 2014 – A ten-day training on the protection of critical energy infrastructure from possible terrorist attacks, conducted for the Special Forces of the Kyrgyz Republic National Guard, and supported by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, concluded today.

Some 40 military personnel from the Special Forces of the Kyrgyz National Guard attended the course conducted by two experts from the Special Forces of the French Gendarmerie.

The course covered both theoretical and practical aspects of counter-terrorism operations at hydropower stations. It focused on importance of co-ordination between special units, the collection and analysis of information with special focus on early warning and protection of strategic resources from possible terrorist attack, hostage negotiation, and live exercises at a hydro power station.

“Improving operational readiness and the protection of critical energy facilities is one of the key objectives for the country”, said Colonel Islambek Kenjekulov, National Guard Deputy Commander of General Staff, Kyrgyz Republic Armed Forces. “This event is a milestone in the progress of Kyrgyz – French bilateral military relations. It is important in strengthening and building our joint efforts in the fight against international terrorism”.

Colonel Yury Padun, Senior Politico-Military Officer at the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, said: “Energy infrastructure security is of utmost importance for all OSCE participating States. A terrorist attack against critical energy infrastructure may happen in one country, but it would have a disruptive impact on neighboring countries too.”

Colonel Padun emphasized the importance of future co-operation, and confirmed that the OSCE Centre will continue to support the Kyrgyz National Guard on the protection of critical energy infrastructure, the dissemination of good practices, and by promoting an international dialogue and co-operation.

The Kyrgyz National Guard and the OSCE Centre in Bishkek agreed this year to sign a protocol on co-operation in the field of combating terrorism during 2015, with the aim of strengthening the counter-terrorist operations of the National Guard.