The new interim government in Kyrgyzstan has given assurances it will continue to allow US control of a military base inside its borders. There was initial speculation the base would come under review after Kyrgyz opposition groups took control of the government last week. The Manas air base is the last US air base in Central Asia and a vital supply hub for the US occupation of Afghanistan. On Monday, Assistant Secretary of State Robert Blake said the Kyrgyz decision is “very good news.”

Assistant Secretary of State Robert Blake: “It is very good news that Ms. Otunbayeva said that they will continue to abide by those agreements, and, of course, the United States is prepared to talk at any time with her and the members of the provisional government about these arrangements.”