News of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek and Osh — latest events today
50 million soms will be allocated for the development of Kyrgyz animation in 2026
Exclusive

50 million soms will be allocated for the development of Kyrgyz animation in 2026

The Ministry of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic will allocate 50 million soms in 2026 for the creation of animated films in the Kyrgyz language. This was announced by Marat Tagaev, Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy, during his speech at the Jogorku Kenesh. According to Tagaev, there is a significant shortage of children's cartoons in the state language in Kyrgyzstan. To address this issue, the ministry intends to use modern technologies.

19.01.2026, 16:14
Scholar of "El Ümütü" shared his experience of studying at one of the best universities in the world
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Scholar of "El Ümütü" shared his experience of studying at one of the best universities in the world

Salyjan Kylchbekov, a scholar of the international program "El Umutu," shared his experience studying at Oxford on the air of Birinchi Radio. He noted that this scholarship provides unique opportunities for talented youth. The initiator of the presidential scholarship "El Umutu" was the President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Japarov, in 2022. He proposed to establish a fund that would help gifted youth receive education at leading universities in the world through state funding.

19.01.2026, 16:11
In Bishkek, 28,000 smart meters will be installed starting from 2025.
Exclusive

In Bishkek, 28,000 smart meters will be installed starting from 2025.

In Bishkek, the branch of OJSC "NESC" — the enterprise of electrical networks (PES) — has begun implementing an automated system for commercial accounting of electric energy (ASKUE). According to representatives of PES, the main goal of implementing ASKUE is to improve the management of electricity distribution, as well as to ensure accurate and transparent accounting of consumption.

19.01.2026, 16:08
The Mayor of Bishkek commented on the work of "Tazalyk" in road cleaning
Local news / Exclusive

The Mayor of Bishkek commented on the work of "Tazalyk" in road cleaning

At the end of last week, there was a sharp drop in temperature in Bishkek, accompanied by snowfall. This caused a wave of discontent among residents, who began to criticize the slow response to road clearing on social media. The mayor of the capital, Aibek Junushaliev, noted in an interview with the Kabar agency that the team of the municipal enterprise "Tazalyk" is successfully handling the task of snow removal. He explained: "This season, all the equipment of our enterprise

19.01.2026, 15:54
In Kazakhstan, conscript servicemen will no longer be granted loans.
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In Kazakhstan, conscript servicemen will no longer be granted loans.

The document also contains a requirement that banks and microfinance organizations must check the status of individuals of conscription age when receiving a loan application. If the credit report indicates that the person is on active duty, the bank must refuse to issue the loan. The discussion of the project is taking place on the "Open NPA" website until February 3.

19.01.2026, 15:51
The State Institution "Kyzmat" clarified the situation regarding the change of PIN due to gender change.
Local news / Exclusive

The State Institution "Kyzmat" clarified the situation regarding the change of PIN due to gender change.

The institution GУ "Kyzmat" reported that they do not offer or initiate the process of changing the personal identification number (PIN) for individuals who have changed their gender. According to information received from GУ "Kyzmat", a draft law proposed by the Ministry of Digital Development and Innovative Technologies of the Kyrgyz Republic was discussed at a meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh on January 19. This draft law aims to regulate the process of

19.01.2026, 15:43
Bakyt Torobaev met with the IMF representative in Kyrgyzstan, Farid Talyshly
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Bakyt Torobaev met with the IMF representative in Kyrgyzstan, Farid Talyshly

Deputy Prime Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry Bakyt Torobaev held a meeting with Farid Talyshly, the permanent representative of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in the country. This information was announced by the press service of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic. During the discussion, issues related to cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and the IMF were addressed. The meeting participants emphasized the

19.01.2026, 15:42
The GKNB of Kyrgyzstan revealed cruel, inhumane, and degrading methods of influence at the rehabilitation center "Path to Life"
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The GKNB of Kyrgyzstan revealed cruel, inhumane, and degrading methods of influence at the rehabilitation center "Path to Life"

During the investigation, it was established that the staff of the center, mainly consisting of former addicts without higher medical education and licenses, conducted so-called "pseudo-psychiatric" procedures and conversations under the guidance of the administration. In moments of acute psychological crisis for patients, especially during a "breakdown," cruel and degrading methods of influence were applied. For "subduing," physical force and special devices were

19.01.2026, 15:41
The National Bank fined a commercial bank
Economy / Exclusive

The National Bank fined a commercial bank

According to information provided by the regulator, one of the commercial banks was fined 55,000 soms. This decision was made due to violations of the legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic and the regulatory acts of the National Bank.

19.01.2026, 15:37
Beknazar Bazaraliyev appointed as the first Deputy Minister of Transport of Kyrgyzstan
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Beknazar Bazaraliyev appointed as the first Deputy Minister of Transport of Kyrgyzstan

Beknazar Bazaraliev was appointed as the first deputy minister of transport and communications on January 19, 2026, and on that day he was introduced to the ministry staff. The appointment order was signed on January 16 by the chairman of the cabinet of ministers Adylbek Kasymaliev, who also relieved Talantbek Osmonbekovich Soltobaev of his duties as the first deputy minister.

19.01.2026, 15:36
Commercial State Cinema. The first two pilot films will be released in theaters in 2026.
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Commercial State Cinema. The first two pilot films will be released in theaters in 2026.

The Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic is launching new initiatives to support the film industry and the distribution of government orders. This was announced by Deputy Minister Marat Tagaev. According to Tagaev, a special regulation was adopted two months ago, which has already come into effect. As part of this pilot project, the filming of two films on a commercial basis began at the end of 2025, and their production is planned to be completed

19.01.2026, 15:35
Hollywood actor registered a personal brand due to AI
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Hollywood actor registered a personal brand due to AI

Matthew McConaughey, the Oscar-winning actor for his role in "Dallas Buyers Club," has decided to register a trademark for his voice and image. This step has become necessary to prevent their unauthorized use in projects related to artificial intelligence, as reported by the BBC. According to information from The Wall Street Journal, documents have been filed with the U.S. Patent Office concerning elements from the film "Dazed and Confused" (1993), including its iconic line

19.01.2026, 15:28
In Kyrgyzstan, a minimum alcohol threshold for drivers may be allowed
Exclusive

In Kyrgyzstan, a minimum alcohol threshold for drivers may be allowed

At a meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh, a draft law was approved in the first reading, which proposes significant changes to traffic rules and the operation of tow trucks. Deputy Dastan Bekeshev, who initiated the proposal, intends to fundamentally revise the approach to punishing drivers, as well as legalize small two-wheeled vehicles.

19.01.2026, 15:27
Local news / Exclusive

Bishkek is adopting a new approach to ice removal from roads

In Bishkek, Mayor Aibek Junushaliev announced that sand will no longer be used to combat ice on city roads. This decision was made to improve the environmental situation and maintain the cleanliness of the capital, as sand, when mixed with snow, leads to street pollution. “We strive not to pollute the city, so sand will no longer be scattered. Instead, we will use salt to combat ice,” he emphasized.

19.01.2026, 15:23
Over 15,000 liters of kumys from Russia were not allowed into Kyrgyzstan
Local news / Exclusive

Over 15,000 liters of kumys from Russia were not allowed into Kyrgyzstan

At the border veterinary control point "Ak-Tilek," located in the Chui region, an illegal attempt to import 15,600 liters of kumis from Russia was prevented. This information was provided by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Kyrgyz Republic. Veterinary control inspectors conducting the inspection found that the packaging of the product lacked a manufacturing date, which is a violation of the veterinary and sanitary standards established in the country.

19.01.2026, 15:22
Erulan Kokulov: The Ministry of Culture is profiting from tobacco and alcohol advertising in films
Exclusive

Erulan Kokulov: The Ministry of Culture is profiting from tobacco and alcohol advertising in films

"Is it only my responsibility to care about the health of the citizens of Kyrgyzstan?" At a meeting of the parliamentary committee on science, education, innovative development, information technology, culture, sports, and youth affairs, Deputy Erulan Kokulov expressed his intention to file a lawsuit against the Ministry of Culture of Kyrgyzstan. The reason was the instances of advertising tobacco products and alcoholic beverages in films.

19.01.2026, 15:17
Exclusive

Citizens with loans up to 100,000 soms should not be included in the banks' "blacklist," - deputy

- During the meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh, which deals with finance, budget, entrepreneurship, and competitiveness, Deputy Marlen Mamataliyev raised an important issue regarding the "black lists" of credit bureaus that jeopardize the ability of many citizens to obtain loans, even those who have had minor delays. As the deputy noted, even borrowers with a debt of just 10,000 soms, who have delayed payments for any reason, risk ending up on the "black list,"

19.01.2026, 15:08
European leaders created a closed chat to discuss Trump's behavior
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European leaders created a closed chat to discuss Trump's behavior

As Politico points out, this chat has become a sought-after tool for exchanging information and coordinating positions in response to Trump's sharp actions, which may be perceived in Europe as destabilizing. Sources from the publication emphasize that this format of communication is particularly useful when events unfold rapidly and traditional diplomacy cannot keep up with the changes. According to the publication, the chat, named the "Washington Group," emerged as a result of

19.01.2026, 15:07
The historical novel "Syngan Kylch" is being adapted into a film in Kyrgyzstan
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The historical novel "Syngan Kylch" is being adapted into a film in Kyrgyzstan

The Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, Sports and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan, Marat Tagaev, announced plans to create a film based on the historical novel "Syngan Kylch," written by Tologon Kasymbekov. According to Tagaev, the National Council has approved the launch of the project to adapt this famous work. It is expected that the script will be completed and the project budget approved by 2026.

19.01.2026, 15:05
The wealth of the richest people in the world has risen to a record amount
In the world / Exclusive

The wealth of the richest people in the world has risen to a record amount

According to data from the international organization Oxfam, by 2025, the wealth of billionaires increased by $2.5 trillion, which corresponds to a growth of 16% compared to the previous year. This significant increase occurred three times faster than the average over the past five years, leading to a record level of $18.3 trillion. Oxfam reports that by the end of November 2025, the total wealth of billionaires reached $18.3 trillion, which is $2.5 trillion more than in 2024, indicating a

19.01.2026, 15:05
Trump - a mankurt who does not remember the kindness of the Kyrgyz people
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Trump - a mankurt who does not remember the kindness of the Kyrgyz people

Kyrgyzstan has found itself among 75 countries for which the United States has temporarily suspended the issuance of immigration visas. This news has caused a noticeable resonance, but behind the emotions lies an important fact: this decision reflects not only Washington's migration policy but also its attitude towards Kyrgyzstan, which once fulfilled more serious obligations to the United States.

19.01.2026, 15:04
Local news / Exclusive

In the center of Osh, a privatized bus depot with damaged buses was found — it is valued at 2 billion soms and is set to be returned to the state.

On January 16 in Osh, a morning inspection took place, during which local authorities checked the construction process of the recreation area along the Kayirma Canal and then headed to the territory of the old bus depot on Monueva Street. According to the city administration, during the inspection, it became known that the bus depot had previously been privatized and subsequently passed into private hands. In this regard, relevant services were instructed to determine the legal status of the

19.01.2026, 14:57
Kamchybek Tashiev demanded to check pawnshops, their interest rates, and the conditions for providing loans.
Exclusive

Kamchybek Tashiev demanded to check pawnshops, their interest rates, and the conditions for providing loans.

The State Committee for National Security (GKNB) is conducting an investigation against S.M., who has been found to be engaged in illegal activities in the field of pawnshops and lending. At a meeting on January 19, 2026, Kamchybek Tashiev informed those present about the progress of the investigation. He noted that S.M., having previous convictions, had been conducting illegal pawnshop and usury activities for a long time, offering loans on extortionate terms and seizing the property of

19.01.2026, 14:56
Exclusive

"In the Housing Complex, the principles of transparency and freedom of speech will be strictly upheld, and deputies can openly express their opinions on any issue," - the speaker

The Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh, Nurlanbek Turgunbek uulu, held a meeting of the Parliamentary Coordination Council on January 19, which was attended by deputy chairpersons, leaders of deputy groups, committee chairs, and the leadership of the Apparatus. During the meeting, important issues related to legislative activities and the work of the parliament were discussed. Participants expressed various opinions and proposals on these topics, as reported by the press service of the Jogorku

19.01.2026, 14:55
In three years, the budget of Kyrgyz cinema has nearly tripled – statistics
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In three years, the budget of Kyrgyz cinema has nearly tripled – statistics

During the meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh, the Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan, Marat Tagaev, presented current data on funding and production volumes in the domestic film industry. According to Tagaev, there has been a noticeable increase in state support for cinema over the past three years:

19.01.2026, 14:45
Mutual trade of Kyrgyzstan with EAEU countries increased by 1.3%
Economy / Exclusive

Mutual trade of Kyrgyzstan with EAEU countries increased by 1.3%

The announced data from the Chairman of the National Statistics Committee, Baktybek Kudaybergenov, indicates that from January to November 2025, the volume of foreign economic and mutual trade of the Kyrgyz Republic amounted to 14 billion US dollars. This is 12.2% less compared to the same period in 2024. According to the provided information, exports decreased by 43.5%, while imports, on the contrary, showed a slight increase of 0.5%. As for mutual trade with EAEU countries, in the specified

19.01.2026, 14:38
Local news / Exclusive

Six Days Without Heat: A Burst Pipe Repaired at a School in the Moscow District

In the Chui region, in the Moscow district, a burst water pipe was repaired at one of the schools, allowing classes to resume in the usual format. This was reported by the director of the educational institution, Anarkül Moldalieva, in a conversation with a Turmush correspondent. The incident occurred at the Ismaeva Secondary School, located in the village of Aleksandrovka in the Min-Bulak rural district.

19.01.2026, 14:36
By 2025, the wealth of billionaires reached a historic record of 18.3 trillion dollars
Exclusive

By 2025, the wealth of billionaires reached a historic record of 18.3 trillion dollars

According to Oxfam, the wealth of billionaires has increased by 81% since March 2020, raising serious concerns. Against this backdrop, nearly half of the world's population lives in poverty, possessing only 0.52% of global wealth, while 43.8% of wealth is concentrated in the hands of the richest 1% of the population. Charlotte Becker, head of Oxfam Germany, emphasized: "We are living in the age of billionaires — and this is a negative signal for the whole world." She noted that

19.01.2026, 14:35
Exclusive

"Not About Changing Gender". The GUK "Kyzmat" Responded to the Discussion on Amendments to the PIN Law

Today, January 19, the State Institution "Kyzmat" announced that the organization does not initiate or propose changes to the personal identification number (PIN) in the context of gender change. At a meeting of the committee of the Jogorku Kenesh held on January 19, a draft law proposed by the Ministry of Digital Development and Innovative Technologies was discussed. It addresses issues related to the modification and assignment of PINs in cases of technical errors, duplication, as

19.01.2026, 14:34
Marat Tagaev: Starting from 2026, state films and series will be monetized
Exclusive

Marat Tagaev: Starting from 2026, state films and series will be monetized

At a meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh, the Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan, Marat Tagaev, responded to a deputy's inquiry regarding the return of budget funds allocated for film production, as well as the current state of film distribution. According to Tagaev, until now, films produced by the "Kyrgyzfilm" and "Kyrgyzserial" studios have primarily been educational and artistic in nature.

19.01.2026, 14:33
Exclusive

What is known about the new JSC "Berekett Bank"?

As part of a series of articles about the owners of new commercial banks in the country, we continue our exploration of the financial sector. Let us remind you that on January 14, 2026, the National Bank issued a license for banking activities to JSC "Alma Finance Bank," which we reported on earlier. Today, we will introduce you to another participant in the financial market — JSC "Berekett Bank."

19.01.2026, 14:29
Local news / Exclusive

Kyrgyzstan Did Not Allow 15.6 Tons of Kumys from Russia — The Cargo Was Turned Back

At the veterinary checkpoint "Ak-Tilek," located in the Chui region, a shipment of 15,600 liters of kumis was discovered, which was being illegally imported from Russia to Kyrgyzstan. The Ministry of Agriculture reported that the inspection was conducted by border veterinary control inspectors. During the examination of the products, it was found that the labels lacked a production date, which violates the veterinary and sanitary requirements established in the Kyrgyz Republic.

19.01.2026, 14:28
Local news / Exclusive

In the Kyrgyz Republic, by order of the head of the State Committee for National Security, the activities of pawnshops will be checked.

In Kyrgyzstan, an inspection of pawnshops is planned, according to information provided by the State Committee for National Security (SCNS) of the country. It became known that this task was announced by the chairman of the SCNS, Kamchybek Tashiev, during a meeting with citizens who became victims of a criminal case involving citizen S.M. This event took place on January 19. According to the statement, specialists from the tax authorities and employees of the National Bank will be involved in

19.01.2026, 14:20
Trump invited Tokayev and Kazakhstan to the World Council on Gaza
Exclusive

Trump invited Tokayev and Kazakhstan to the World Council on Gaza

U.S. President Donald Trump has extended an invitation to the leader of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to participate in the Gaza Peace Council. This information was confirmed by the press secretary of the President of Kazakhstan, Ruslan Zheldibay, who informed Tengrinews.kz that Tokayev sent a response letter to Trump, thanking him for the offer and confirming his readiness to participate in the new initiative.

19.01.2026, 14:16
After the inspection of the Minister of Construction, the company "Palladium Group" was fined 200,000 soms.
Exclusive

After the inspection of the Minister of Construction, the company "Palladium Group" was fined 200,000 soms.

During the inspection, a 4-story medical center located at: Bishkek, Tabaldieva St., 29 was examined. Significant violations were identified during the inspection, including non-compliance of the design and construction with the requirements of technical regulations and other normative acts. As a result of the inspection, a fine of 200,000 soms was imposed on the contractor organization LLC "Palladium Group," and an order was issued to rectify all identified violations.

19.01.2026, 14:16
Exclusive

Composition of the Working Group of the Kyrgyz Republic on the Demarcation of the Kyrgyz-Tajik Border for a Joint Meeting with Tajik Colleagues from January 12 to 17

The Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, Adylbek Kasymaliev, signed an order to form a demarcation working group that will represent the country in a joint commission with Tajikistan on border demarcation issues. According to document No. 756, the group will travel to Batken, located in the eponymous district, from January 12 to 17, 2026, to participate in a joint session of the demarcation working teams of both countries.

19.01.2026, 14:12
The Bishkek City Police Department spoke about the work of the "102" service and digital monitoring
Local news / Exclusive

The Bishkek City Police Department spoke about the work of the "102" service and digital monitoring

On the air of Birinchi Radio, the head of the situational center of the public safety service of the Bishkek City Police Department, Turatbek Jakshylykov, spoke about how digitalization in law enforcement improves the responsiveness to citizens' requests and reduces crime rates. According to him, the "102" service operates around the clock, ensuring quick processing of all incoming calls.

19.01.2026, 14:11
Torture of Patients. The State National Security Committee Reveals Shocking Rehabilitation Methods at the "Path to Life" Center
Incidents / Exclusive

Torture of Patients. The State National Security Committee Reveals Shocking Rehabilitation Methods at the "Path to Life" Center

The GKNB of the Kyrgyz Republic discovered facts of torture in the rehabilitation center "Path to Life" in Bishkek. Special services reported that this center effectively operated as a private medical institution, posing as an organization dealing with addiction treatment. However, its operations were conducted with gross violations of the legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic.

19.01.2026, 14:09