DOD STATEMENT RELEASED REGARDING THE AIRBASE TRANSFER IN KYRGYZSTAN

FROM:  U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT 
DOD Begins the Transfer of Airbase in Kyrgyzstan
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 18, 2013 - The Defense Department released the following statement today about the future of the Transit Center at Manas International Airport in Kyrgyzstan:

The Department of Defense (DOD) has begun the process of relocating from the Transit Center at Manas International Airport (TCM) and plans to complete the transfer of areas and facilities to the Government of Kyrgyzstan by July 2014.

The current agreement between the U.S. and Kyrgyz governments on hosting the TCM expires in July 2014. The U.S. appreciates the support provided by the Kyrgyz people to U.S. forces and coalition efforts to counter the threat of terrorism and to achieve security and stability in Afghanistan and the region and respects the decision of the Government of Kyrgyzstan to end hosting the TCM after more than 12 years.

Working closely with Kyrgyzstan over the next nine months, the U.S. will manage the TCM relocation effort while continuing to support the International Security Assistance Force mission.

The U.S. intends to continue supporting Kyrgyzstan's democratic and economic development, and we look forward to further developing our bilateral relationship in the years ahead.