The USA is to extend current air transit cargo routes for military cargo through Central Asian air space, Trend reports.
The US Congress held a meeting on the problem of the increasing importance of cooperation between the USA and the countries of Central Asia. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense David Sedney stated that the US closely cooperates with every transit country in the region.
The USA and Kazakhstan recently signed an agreement in the sphere of security. It enables the US to use the polar route instead of the difficult one through Europe. This route will presuppose 4500 flights a year. Thus, the American authorities will save $133 million a year on fuel and maintenance.
The Manas airfield in Kyrgyzstan is also one of the most important points for American military transit to Afghanistan. Sedney believes that the authorities of the country will continue to support the US in its struggle.
In conclusion he expressed his gratitude to the countries of Central Asia and stated that such cooperation improves security in the region.
