Kyrgyz Parliament Ratifies Deal For Russian Military Base

Kyrgyzstan's parliament has ratified an agreement for a Russian military base to remain on Kyrgyz territory for 15 years, with an option for a five-year extension.

Under the terms of the agreement approved on December 13, Russia pays some $4.5 million annually for use of several strategic facilities in Kyrgyzstan, including the torpedo-testing facility on the shore of Issyk-Kul and radio-seismic laboratory at Mailii-Suu.

The main base at Kant, some 40 kilometers from Bishkek, is considered an element of the CIS Collective Security Treaty Organization, in which Kyrgyzstan is a member.

Russia will not pay rent for use of that base and is also freed from taxes and payments for communal services.

The agreement comes into force when the current agreement expires in January 2017.

Based on reporting by Interfax, 24.kg, and Fergananews.com