The Mystery of the Name "Kochkor": A Story from the Epic of "Manas" That Few Know About

During a meeting with local residents, the director of the "Manas" theater, Nurbek Saparbek uulu, shared interesting information about the origin of the name "Kochkor." He noted that this name is not related to a male sheep, as many believe, but comes from the name of one of Manas's companions. Saparbek uulu mentioned that while browsing social media, he encountered discussions claiming that the name "Kochkor" is associated with a legendary ram. However, he

What is known about the construction of the town "Altai" and what do architects and seismologists think? Video

"Altai" is the largest construction project in the capital of Kyrgyzstan. The sale of apartments began even at the foundation stage, and the conditions turned out to be quite attractive — with no down payment required. In the context of constant price increases for housing in Bishkek, this event attracted significant attention. However, the public began to express concern, as the successful implementation of the project will require special construction and engineering technologies.

In Bishkek, a drunk driver carried an SPSM inspector on the hood. Video

The incident occurred in Bishkek, where a driver, operating a Toyota Estima, did not stop at the request of the UPMS inspectors. According to the Lenin District Internal Affairs Department, this happened on January 19 at around 6:00 PM. The driver, being in a state of alcohol intoxication and without a driver's license, ignored the police officers' demands. He drove more than 50 meters with one of the inspectors on the hood of the car.

The European Union is laying the groundwork for the final expulsion of Huawei from critical infrastructure

The planned package of cybersecurity measures may make these restrictions mandatory for all European Union countries. Officials familiar with this initiative claim that it will become part of a strategy to strengthen technological independence and protect against potential threats. Some major telecommunications operators, such as those from Germany and Spain, have previously protested against such initiatives. They pointed out the high cost of replacing Chinese equipment and the lack of

Doctors provided recommendations on how to avoid injuries during icy conditions

Doctors from the Republican Center for Health Promotion and Mass Communication have offered a number of tips to help citizens minimize the risk of injuries in icy conditions. Specialists recommend, if possible, avoiding going outside during adverse weather and choosing safer routes, such as well-lit areas with cleared pathways and minimal ice. Dangerous zones include sidewalks next to the roadway and bus stops, icy manhole covers, as well as steps of shops and other buildings. When climbing

The U-20 Youth National Team of Kyrgyzstan Achieved Their Second Victory at the World Championship

In the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, on January 19, the second round games took place on the ice of Nomad Arena. As part of the competition, our team faced off against the hockey players from the Republic of South Africa (RSA). According to information provided by the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports of Kyrgyzstan, the team showed an excellent game, securing a victory and adding 3 points to their tally. In the first round, the Kyrgyz hockey players had already won against the

EMERCOM: 2 fires registered in Chuy region in one day

Within a day, two fires occurred in the Chui region, according to information provided by the press service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations. The first incident was recorded in the village of Mramornoye, located in the Alamudun district. Here, as a result of the fire, two rooms in a residential house were completely burned down, the roof of which was covered with slate. The area engulfed by the flames was 80 square meters.

Talantbek Tashibekov Appointed Head of the National Agency for Religious Affairs and Interethnic Relations

The President of the country signed the relevant decree Talantbek Tashibekov has become the new chairman of the National Agency for Religious Affairs and Interethnic Relations. This decision was made by President Sadyr Japarov. The previous head of the agency was Azamat Yusupov, who was relieved of his duties on December 8, 2025, along with his deputy Ruslan Musaev. Photo www

About 27 tons of onions from Uzbekistan were not allowed into Kyrgyzstan

In Bishkek, a car service station is on fire in the Balban-Taimash residential area.

This incident became known today, January 20. The fire engulfed the car service station in Balban-Taimash, attracting the attention of the Ministry of Emergency Situations. Currently, it is known that six fire crews and an operational headquarters were working at the scene of the fire.

The magnetic storm that started on Earth may reach its highest level.

A powerful solar flare that occurred in 2026 has triggered a magnetic storm on Earth, which has already reached a level of G4.7 and is poised to escalate to the highest level G5, according to information from RIA Novosti, citing the Solar Astronomy Laboratory of the Space Research Institute (IKI) of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Scientists warn: "If the parameters of the solar wind remain unchanged, the transition to level G5 could occur within one to two hours." The event began

In the city of Osh, queues have formed for driver's licenses

In the city of Osh, there is an increase in the number of citizens waiting to obtain permanent driver's licenses. Local residents are actively discussing the situation on social media, expressing dissatisfaction with the long wait times. According to information from drivers, at the Osh regional office of the State Agency for Vehicle Registration and Driver Licensing, some citizens spend several days in line. If people are unable to complete the procedure on the same day, they have to

Procession, Water Blessing, and Swimming in the Kara-Balta River

Yesterday, January 19, in the village of Sosnovka, Jayil District of Chui Region, the celebration of the Orthodox holiday - the Baptism of the Lord took place. In the Church of Dmitry of Thessalonica, the morning began with a festive divine service, after which the Orthodox believers walked to the local river, where, according to tradition, a baptismal font was set up, as well as heated tents for men and women for those who decided to immerse themselves in the river water on this day.

Three Fires Registered in Jalal-Abad Region in One Day

Three fires occurred in the Jalal-Abad region within a day, reports the press service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES). According to the provided information, in the city of Manas on M. Isakulov Street, there was a fire involving fuel oil in a boiler house owned by a municipal enterprise. Additionally, in a bakery located in the yard of a residential building on R. Egemberdiyev Street, flames erupted from a gas stove.

A group of EU countries supported the use of the Countering Coercion Instrument against the United States

US President Donald Trump, puzzled by the reluctance of key European countries to "acquire" or take control of Greenland, announced the introduction of additional 10% tariffs on goods from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Finland, and the United Kingdom starting February 1. From June, these tariffs will be increased to 25%. These new measures will complement the existing 15% EU tariff, agreed upon by Ursula von der Leyen last year in response to US threats

The scientist warned about the extinction of seals in the White Sea

According to Alexey Kokorin, a climatologist and expert at the "Nature and People" foundation, seal pups born in April and early May face a serious threat due to climate change. Previously, precipitation during this period was rare, but now rain has become a common occurrence, putting newborn seals at risk of hypothermia since their fur does not protect against moisture. He reported this to RIA Novosti. Kokorin also noted that the primary factor contributing to the acceleration of

There are no restrictions on vehicle movement at the country's passes, the roads are open

Today, January 19, there are no restrictions on vehicle movement in Kyrgyzstan's mountain passes, as reported by the Ministry of Transport and Communications of the Kyrgyz Republic. The agency informs that road services are working around the clock to ensure the clearing of roads from snow and the application of salt-sand mixtures.

Sadyr Japarov explained why old driver's licenses are being replaced with new ones

In Kyrgyzstan, cases of document forgery have been recorded, which has negatively affected the country's image. In an interview with the Kabar agency, President Sadyr Japarov addressed the issue of replacing driver's licenses in Kyrgyzstan. According to him, this measure has long been overdue and has become necessary. "For almost three decades, the issue of driver's licenses has remained unaddressed. Our old passports, ID cards, and driver's licenses were issued

The city ice rink "Bishkek Arena" has changed its name. Photo

The sports complex "Bishkek Arena" has changed its name to "Nomad Arena". Currently, the ice arena is hosting matches of the World Junior Ice Hockey Championship for teams in the third division, which includes the national team of Kyrgyzstan.

A Former CIA Officer Described the Reasons for New Global Instability

Ray McGovern, who worked at the CIA for over 25 years and accompanied several U.S. presidents, expressed concern about the current situation in the world in an interview with Professor Glenn Diesen. He believes that we are at the most dangerous stage since the end of the Cold War. The main reason for this is the actual collapse of the arms control system, which has long restrained the arms race.

Two Inspectors Dismissed for Violations at Construction Sites

As a result of violations at construction sites, two inspectors were dismissed. This became known during a meeting held on January 19 under the leadership of the Minister of Construction Nurdana Oruntaeva. According to the press service of the ministry, the meeting discussed the results of raids conducted on January 17-18, with the participation of employees from the Department of State Architectural and Construction Control and its regional offices.

In Bishkek, a drunk driver carried a traffic police officer on the hood.

After the incident, the offender was detained and taken to the Internal Affairs Department of the Lenin District. He turned out to be T. I., born in 1986. A report was drawn up against him under Article 126 (Petty Hooliganism) of the Code of Offenses of the Kyrgyz Republic, after which he was placed in a temporary detention cell. Law enforcement agencies urge drivers to strictly adhere to the laws and comply with the requirements of police officers. They emphasize that any actions that

The Osh Philharmonic Teams Introduced Indians to the Historical Heritage of the Kyrgyz People

The folklore ensemble "Aalam" and the dance group "Ademi" from the Osh Regional Philharmonic named after R. Abdykadyrov represent Kyrgyzstan at the XI International Festival "Music and Dance" titled "Ramayana." This event takes place in India from January 13 to 24, 2026, as reported by the press service of the philharmonic. The festival was organized at the initiative of the Indian government and gathers creative groups from around the world. Artists

A seminar was held in the Chon-Alai district as part of the "AgroZooVet-2026" caravan.

On January 19, a training seminar was held in the village of Daroot-Korgon, located in the Chon-Alai district, organized as part of the 'AgroZooVet-2026' project. This information was provided by the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic. According to the ministry, the event was attended by representatives of the local administration, specialists from relevant fields, employees of territorial divisions, as well as staff from state

A Dangerous Moment in the Car Caught on Video. An Accident Happened Afterwards

In the Chuy region, a disturbing video has emerged showing a passenger in a car attempting to exit through the rear door while the vehicle is in motion. This information was provided by the Traffic Safety Department of the Interior Ministry of the region. According to the Traffic Safety Department, the driver did not stop the car, continuing to drive and violating traffic rules. This incident was recorded on January 19 at 09:10.

The National Bank conducted its first currency intervention in 2026

On January 19, 2026, the National Bank conducted its first currency intervention, selling 134 million 50 thousand US dollars on the domestic market. In the past year, the regulator carried out eight interventions, with a total amount exceeding 800 million dollars. There were no reverse interventions last year.

Train Crash in Spain: A Three-Day Mourning Declared in the Country

Spain has entered a three-day mourning period following a serious train incident in the south of the country, as reported by the Kazinform agency, citing Euronews. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the start of a nationwide mourning after the collision of two high-speed trains.

In Bishkek, a drunk driver carried a patrol officer on the hood of the car

An incident involving a drunk driver who resisted the police occurred in Bishkek. According to a report from the Internal Affairs Department of the Lenin District, on January 19, around 18:00, the driver of a Toyota Estima was operating the vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and without a driver's license. When inspectors from the Bishkek City Patrol Police demanded that he stop, the driver ignored the lawful request and drove more than 50 meters with one of the officers on the

Precipitation Expected in Several Regions of Kyrgyzstan

On January 20, snowfall is predicted in several regions of Kyrgyzstan. According to meteorologists, snow is expected in the Chui, Issyk-Kul, Naryn, and Jalal-Abad regions. The other regions of the republic will remain precipitation-free.

A dragon shark with huge eyes washed ashore in Spain. Scientists are sounding the alarm.

On the tourist beach of Luarca, located in the northwest of Spain, vacationers witnessed an unusual phenomenon – a deep-sea shark weighing 18 kilograms and measuring 1.45 meters in length was washed ashore. This attracted the attention of many people, as such sharks usually inhabit depths of up to 3500 meters. According to The Mirror, specialists immediately began to examine the found shark. Luis Laria, director of the Center for the Study and Protection of Marine Species, performed an autopsy

At the "Dostuk" Checkpoint, the import of nearly 27 tons of onions without phytosanitary documents was intercepted

To ensure phytosanitary safety at the state border, the Osh Department of Chemicalization, Plant Protection, and Quarantine is implementing enhanced control. According to information provided by the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry, an attempt to import 26 tons and 978 kg of onions from Uzbekistan through the "Dostuk" checkpoint was recorded at the end of last week.

Moldova has initiated the process of withdrawing from the CIS

The authorities of Moldova have begun the procedure for denouncing the main agreements on which the Commonwealth of Independent States is based. This statement was made by Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi on Radio Moldova, as reported by RIA Novosti. According to him, this concerns three key documents. After their denunciation, the republic will officially cease its participation in the CIS. "The process has been initiated, the decision has been made, and the approval procedure has

In Osh, part of the territory of the central stadium has been returned to the state

In the city of Osh, a land plot of 2700 square meters located on the territory of the central stadium has been returned to state ownership. According to information provided by the State Committee for National Security of the Kyrgyz Republic (GKNB KR), this plot was unlawfully transferred to private ownership with a change in its intended purpose.

A Bishkek resident who organized a drift in the park was fined

Recently, a video appeared on social media showing a Subaru Outback drifting in the territory of the "Friendship Park of Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan." According to information from the Patrol Police Department, the driver's identity was established thanks to the video recording. On the same day, his vehicle was placed in an impound lot.

The Bishkek City Hall is accepting proposals for the draft resolution on the development of new territories

The draft resolution developed by the Bishkek City Hall is titled "Approval of the Action Plan for the Development of Territories Joined to the City of Bishkek as Part of the Administrative-Territorial Reform for 2026-2030." As a result of the reform, 8 rural districts with 24 settlements were incorporated into the city. This expansion increased the area of the capital to 41,000 hectares. A total of 15,588.96 hectares of agricultural land were included in the city, and municipal

Exchange rates for January 20

The National Bank has presented data on foreign currency exchange rates against the som as of January 20. The exchange rate of the US dollar (USD) is 87.4500 soms, remaining unchanged;

The President of France does not plan to accept Trump's invitation to join the "Council of Peace"

According to a source from Bloomberg close to French President Emmanuel Macron, he does not intend to accept the offer from U.S. President Donald Trump to join the new "Council of Peace." Trump is proposing that countries wishing to hold a permanent seat on this council contribute at least $1 billion.

Major fire at a car service station in Bishkek has been localized

The fire that broke out at the service station in the residential area of "Balban-Taimash" was localized at 08:29 according to reports from the local Ministry of Emergency Situations. Six fire crews were dispatched to the scene to combat the flames. Work is currently ongoing to fully extinguish the fire.

Sadyr Japarov provided clarifications on the issue of replacing driver's licenses

In an interview, the president noted that the issue of replacing driver's licenses had not been raised for nearly three decades. Previously, passports, ID cards, and licenses were produced abroad, and their security features did not meet modern requirements. — Sadyr Nurgoyevich, many questions have arisen in society regarding the replacement of driver's licenses. Some licenses are indefinite, while on the "Tunduk" platform, the validity expires in 2027, and others in 2028.

The President of Bulgaria announced his resignation

The President Rumen Radev, who has been leading Bulgaria since 2017, announced his intention to resign. He stated this in his address to the nation, as reported by RIA Novosti. “Tomorrow I will submit my resignation as President of the Republic of Bulgaria,” he said, emphasizing the seriousness of his decision. For the official completion of his term, Radev will have to wait for the Constitutional Court to approve his resignation, which must confirm the authenticity of his intentions. If the

A new First Deputy Minister of Transport has been appointed

On January 19, Beknazar Toktosunovich Bazaraliev was appointed to the position of first deputy minister of transport and communications. According to the ministry, he was introduced to the staff of the agency in an official setting.

Deposits of government authorities in banks increased by 67%, amounting to 87.3 billion soms as of November 30.

- As of November 30, 2025, the deposit base of clients in the banking sector reached 822.4 billion soms, which is an increase of 38.8% since the beginning of the year (at the end of 2024, it was 592.4 billion soms). This data was provided by the National Bank. Deposit Structure:

All three swims of Denis Petrashov at the tournament in the USA. Video

Athlete from Kyrgyzstan Denis Petrashov performed brilliantly at the international tournament held in the USA, winning three medals. The Pro Swim Series competitions took place from January 14 to 18 in Austin, Texas. Petrashov participated in three races.

Tournament in the USA: Third Silver for Kyrgyzstani Denis Petrashov. Video

Kyrgyz swimmer Denis Petrashov continues to impress: he has won his third consecutive medal at international competitions in the USA. These days, the next stage of the Pro Swim Series is taking place in Austin, Texas.

Oruntaev dismissed two inspectors from the State Architectural and Construction Control.

The Minister of Construction, Architecture, and Housing and Communal Services of Kyrgyzstan, Nurdin Oruntaev, gathered his subordinates from the Department of State Architectural and Construction Control and its regional offices. This meeting was related to the results of raids conducted on January 17 and 18, during which the work of inspectors was evaluated. As a result of the inspection, two inspectors were dismissed for improper performance of their duties.

The coach of the Kyrgyzstan national team revealed the main goal of his staff. Video

The head coach of the Kyrgyzstan national Greco-Roman wrestling team, Ulukbek Karacholokov, voiced the most important task facing his team. “We strive for unity within the team. There is no competition among the athletes, and everyone shows respect for one another. Our success will only be possible if we can unite,” noted Karacholokov.

Two Goals by Shokhrukh Mahmadaminov in the Russian Championship. Video

The captain of the Kyrgyzstan futsal team, Shohrukh Makhamadaminov, has successfully started at his new club in Russia. At the end of 2025, he signed a contract with "Torpedo" from Nizhny Novgorod.

Talantbek Tashibekov has headed the National Agency for Religious Affairs and Interethnic Relations

The corresponding appointment was announced in the president's administration, which also indicated that the decision on the new head of the agency was made by Sadyr Japarov. Before this, the agency was headed by Azamat Yusupov, who was relieved of his duties on December 8, 2025. On the same day, Ruslan Musaev, who held the position of deputy chairman of the agency, was also dismissed.