News of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek and Osh — latest events today
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Deputy on Driver Training Timelines: The President Wants to Ensure Your Safety and Ours

At the meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh on February 18, Deputy Kunduzbek Suimanov expressed gratitude to President Sadyr Japarov for allowing citizens to take the driving license exams after four months. He noted that this decision is aimed at ensuring the safety of the population. The deputy emphasized: "I thank the president. Previously, I raised the issue of the training period for drivers. Everyone is now happy that the exam can be taken after four months. This is correct, considering

18.02.2026, 17:55
Sadyr Japarov: If I hear about pressure or unfounded inspections - don't take offense
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Sadyr Japarov: If I hear about pressure or unfounded inspections - don't take offense

The president once again addressed law enforcement agencies regarding pressure on businesses At the opening ceremony of a new cable car in the Ala-Archa National Park, President Sadyr Japarov made an important statement, urging law enforcement agencies to refrain from pressuring businesses. "There is no reason to exert pressure on entrepreneurs without valid grounds. If I learn about such actions or unfounded inspections, do not expect kind words from me," the president noted. He

18.02.2026, 17:46
Local news / Exclusive

Call Center: Fines for Turning Without a No-Turn Sign on Akhunbaeva/Maldybaeva

A complaint was received at the Call Center Kaktus.media from a local resident regarding the actions of the traffic police officers. He stated: "For an hour, I observed how the inspector was stopping cars that were turning left at the intersection of Akhunbaev and Maldybaev, moving from east to west, that is, from Baytik Batyr Street to Aitmatov Avenue. Previously, there was a sign prohibiting left turns, and there was an arrow painted on the road indicating 'Straight Ahead.'

18.02.2026, 17:42
Exclusive

Kyrgyzstan Increased Sugar Production to 4.6 Billion Som by 2025

- According to official statistical data, sugar production in Kyrgyzstan showed a positive trend in annual terms in 2025. At current prices, the production volume amounted to 4 billion 632.6 million soms, significantly exceeding the level of 2024, when it was 4 billion 109.3 million soms. The physical volume index reached 172.1% compared to 111.8% in the previous year.

18.02.2026, 17:35
Radio waves can help autonomous vehicles see around corners
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Radio waves can help autonomous vehicles see around corners

At the end of January in Santa Monica, California, a Waymo autonomous vehicle, part of Alphabet, was involved in an incident when a small child unexpectedly ran onto the road. The LiDAR sensors installed on the vehicle detected the child emerging from behind a parked SUV, but the collision could not be avoided. Despite hard braking, the vehicle's speed decreased from 17 to 6 miles per hour, and it struck the child, throwing him onto the sidewalk. According to reports, the boy sustained

18.02.2026, 17:34
Exclusive

The ban on the export of live cattle did not lead to a sharp increase in meat prices, — Ministry of Agriculture

In Kyrgyzstan, despite the imposed ban on the export of live livestock, meat prices have not significantly increased. The head of the food security department of the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry, Uran Chekirbaev, shared this information on the radio. The ban on the export of live animals was introduced in August of last year, which, according to Chekirbaev, helped prevent a sharp rise in meat prices in the domestic market. He also mentioned the possibility

18.02.2026, 17:31
AgroDialogue – 2026. A Farmer from At-Bashi Harvested a Record Potato Crop
Economy / Exclusive

AgroDialogue – 2026. A Farmer from At-Bashi Harvested a Record Potato Crop

At the recent forum "AgroDialog – 2026," the success of a farmer from the At-Bashi district was highlighted, who is actively engaged in potato farming. He runs his farm on a regular basis and achieves impressive results. Since 2023, the farmer has been using super-super elite potato seeds in his production, paying special attention to the quality and purity of the varieties.

18.02.2026, 17:31
The Mayor of Bishkek Checked the Work of MP "Bishkekteploset"
Local news / Exclusive

The Mayor of Bishkek Checked the Work of MP "Bishkekteploset"

On February 18, 2026, the mayor of the capital, Aibek Junushaliev, conducted an inspection of the municipal enterprise "Bishkekteploset," as reported by the city hall. During his visit, he toured Pumping Station No. 1, where he was shown the results of recent repair and technical work aimed at improving the reliability of heating supply. The mayor also examined the condition of old pipes that have been in use since 1985. According to the enterprise's data, 63 emergency

18.02.2026, 17:26
AgroDialogue – 2026. Gardeners Switch to a New Plum Variety to Increase Yield and Income
Economy / Exclusive

AgroDialogue – 2026. Gardeners Switch to a New Plum Variety to Increase Yield and Income

At the forum "AgroDialogue – 2026," an important topic was raised regarding the need to update plum varieties. In recent years, gardeners have faced problems related to outdated varieties, and this has become particularly relevant for the "Hungarian" variety, which has lost its competitiveness in both domestic and international markets, leading to a sharp decline in its market value, according to data from the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Food Processing

18.02.2026, 17:22
The Ministry of Health plans to save 410 million soms with a new model for purchasing medicines.
Health / Exclusive

The Ministry of Health plans to save 410 million soms with a new model for purchasing medicines.

Starting from 2026, the State Enterprise "Kyrgyzpharmacia" will begin centralized procurement of medical devices and pharmaceuticals based on a list approved by the Ministry of Health of the republic. According to the press service of the Ministry of Health, this year it is planned to carry out part of the procurement using mechanisms provided by organizations in the UN system. It is expected that about 30 types of medications and medical products will be purchased directly from

18.02.2026, 17:21
Individual prostheses will be made for children with disabilities in Belovodsk and Sokuluk.
Local news / Exclusive

Individual prostheses will be made for children with disabilities in Belovodsk and Sokuluk.

On February 18, 2026, a mobile team of medical technicians from the Republican Institution of Prosthetic and Orthopedic Products conducted a working trip to the Belovodsk Children's Psychoneurological Social Stationary Institution and the Sokuluk Rehabilitation Center, which serves children and individuals with disabilities, according to a pre-established schedule. This information was provided by the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection. During the visit, specialists conducted

18.02.2026, 17:16
Exclusive

In Osh, the court terminated the criminal case against the company director who was charged with corruption.

The Osh City Court has concluded the criminal case concerning the director of the company on charges of corruption, announcing its decision on January 19, 2026. According to the case materials available in the State Register of Judicial Acts, Temir [name changed P.T.M.], who formally headed the LLC "S.T.", was appointed responsible for the design and construction of infrastructure projects as part of the restoration of the city of Osh and the Jalal-Abad region following the

18.02.2026, 17:13
At the Border Crossroads, a Meeting of Border Representatives from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan Took Place
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At the Border Crossroads, a Meeting of Border Representatives from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan Took Place

During the meeting, the participants discussed important issues related to cross-border cooperation, as well as opportunities to improve communication mechanisms between border representatives. One of the central points was the collaboration to prevent incidents at the border. The participants also paid special attention to the procedures for interaction during engineering works and spring field activities in the border zone, as well as the algorithm for responding to potential disputes.

18.02.2026, 17:07
Gold Rush Begins in South Africa After Successful Find in Cattle Pen
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Gold Rush Begins in South Africa After Successful Find in Cattle Pen

According to local residents, they found gold and began selling it on the black market. Dangerous chemicals such as mercury and sodium cyanide are being used for this purpose. Springs was once a center for gold mining, but the mines closed as the depth of the shafts made extraction economically unfeasible. Now the city is surrounded by informal settlements where many migrants from neighboring countries reside.

18.02.2026, 17:05
Local news / Exclusive

In the Suzak District, it was proposed to rename two villages — Safarovka and Oktyabrskoye

In the Suzak district, in the rural district of Bagysh, the renaming of two settlements may be initiated. This was reported by the head of the rural district, Nursultan Tügöybekov. According to Tügöybekov, at a recent public meeting, residents proposed changing the names of the villages Oktyabrskoye and Safarovka, and this was documented. “At meetings with residents, during budget hearings and public gatherings, we received urgent requests to change the names. This appeal was considered and

18.02.2026, 17:02
Kyrgyzstan Updates Sanitary Protection Rules and Action Plan for 2026–2030
Health / Exclusive

Kyrgyzstan Updates Sanitary Protection Rules and Action Plan for 2026–2030

The Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic has presented a draft resolution regarding the sanitary protection of the country's territory and a comprehensive action plan to prevent epidemics for 2026–2030. This document has been put forward for public discussion. Deputy Minister of Health and Chief Sanitary Doctor Ryspek Sydygaliev noted on the air of Birinchi Radio that the document is being developed in accordance with the Constitution of the Kyrgyz Republic and the law on the

18.02.2026, 16:59
Local news / Exclusive

Life in the Regions: Valentina Kulmatova from Taraz Became Part of a Kyrgyz Family

Valentina Kulmatova, born in Kazakhstan, became the wife of Azizbek from Kyrgyzstan. In a conversation with a Turmush correspondent, Valentina shared that she was born in 1994 in Taraz (Kazakhstan) and is currently a citizen of Kyrgyzstan, residing in Bishkek. She graduated from the Academy of Tourism. Her father is Korean, and her mother is Russian. Her husband has a Kyrgyz father and a Dungan mother. Valentina and Azizbek have known each other since childhood, as they lived next door,

18.02.2026, 16:57
Local news / Exclusive

In the Ak-Su District, 250 hectares of land will be converted to sprinkler irrigation.

In the Ak-Su district of the Issyk-Kul region, new technologies are actively being developed to address the problem of irrigation water shortage. This was reported by Nurzat Kaliev, the head of the local water management department. According to the provided information, the district has 400 hectares of irrigated land. This year, it is planned to convert 20 hectares to drip irrigation and 250 hectares to sprinkler irrigation. At the same time, work is underway to improve the irrigation water

18.02.2026, 16:55
410 million soms in savings: State Enterprise "Kyrgyzpharmacia" implements direct purchasing without intermediaries
Exclusive

410 million soms in savings: State Enterprise "Kyrgyzpharmacia" implements direct purchasing without intermediaries

As part of new initiatives in 2026, the State Enterprise "Kyrgyzpharmacy" will focus on reducing drug prices and ensuring their quality, as well as on the sustainability of supplies. This is expected to result in savings for the state budget amounting to approximately 410 million soms compared to the previous year. Currently, preparations are underway for signing contracts. This new procurement model aims to eliminate intermediary links, which will not only reduce costs but also

18.02.2026, 16:40
"Smart Projectors Being Installed in Bishkek"
Local news / Exclusive

"Smart Projectors Being Installed in Bishkek"

In the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, the installation of "smart" projectors has begun. This was reported by the local city administration. The new projectors are located near the Bishkek Park shopping and entertainment center and combine architectural lighting, energy efficiency, and digital infrastructure as part of a sponsorship initiative by the company "Project Vision Al".

18.02.2026, 16:39
Sadyr Japarov: A Modern Tourist Infrastructure Will Be Created in the Regions of Kyrgyzstan
Tourism / Exclusive

Sadyr Japarov: A Modern Tourist Infrastructure Will Be Created in the Regions of Kyrgyzstan

The President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Japarov, announced plans to create a modern tourist infrastructure in various regions of the country. This statement was made during an event dedicated to the opening of the cable car in the Ala-Archa Nature Park. The President emphasized that one of the key tasks is to maximize the use of Kyrgyzstan's tourist potential and promote the country in the international mountain tourism arena. “We will continue to work on creating modern tourist infrastructure

18.02.2026, 16:37
Border services of the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan discussed current issues of cross-border interaction.
Exclusive

Border services of the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan discussed current issues of cross-border interaction.

In order to increase the level of trust, ensure stability, and maintain the regime of the state border, a meeting was held on February 15 with border guards from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. According to the Border Service of Kyrgyzstan, the meeting took place near the "Friendship" stele, at the border of the three countries, within the area of responsibility of the border authorities.

18.02.2026, 16:37
In Kyrgyzstan, a virtual museum "Manas Aalamy" has been opened
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In Kyrgyzstan, a virtual museum "Manas Aalamy" has been opened

In Kyrgyzstan, the first virtual museum called "Manas Aalamy" has been opened, initiated by the National Academy of "Manas". According to the information provided by the academy, the ceremonial event took place in the technopark of the capital and included an exhibition of works from participants of the extensive artistic creativity competition "Manas Aalamy – 2025". The creation of the virtual museum is part of the implementation of the president's program

18.02.2026, 16:35
Laboratories receive support under the "Agrofinancing" project
Health / Exclusive

Laboratories receive support under the "Agrofinancing" project

As part of the "Agrofinancing of Value-Added Chains" initiative, technical support is provided to state veterinary laboratories, which includes supplying necessary equipment and standard samples from the government. The Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry reported that practical courses aimed at enhancing the qualifications of specialists in conducting specific tests are also being organized under the project.

18.02.2026, 16:34
Exclusive

Cafes in the city of Uzgen checked: Two entrepreneurs fined

In Uzgen, located in the Osh region, inspections of public catering facilities were conducted to ensure compliance with sanitary standards. This information was provided by the Uzgen Interdistrict Center for Disease Prevention and Sanitary-Epidemiological Surveillance.

18.02.2026, 16:29
Local news / Exclusive

Enhanced measures for ensuring passenger safety on the Bishkek—Kara-Balta highway

Security measures have been tightened on the Bishkek—Kara-Balta highway. According to the press service of the Road Traffic Safety Department (UOBDD) under the Main Internal Affairs Directorate of the Chui region, this highway passes through several districts, including Sokuluk, Moscow, and Jayil. In this regard, control over compliance with traffic rules has been significantly strengthened to enhance pedestrian safety.

18.02.2026, 16:27
Local news / Exclusive

Breaking through the roof of a house, the predator made a den there and destroyed 50 turkeys overnight in Batken.

In the Batken region, in the Leilek district, an unusual event occurred: an animal listed in the Red Book destroyed the house of a local resident and killed 50 turkeys in one night. In the village of Internacional, located in the Kulundinsky ayil aimak, an unknown predator ruthlessly exterminated chickens and, as mentioned earlier, killed 50 turkeys belonging to a local resident. Moreover, it broke through the roof of a newly built house.

18.02.2026, 16:27
The President warned law enforcement agencies not to exert pressure on businesses
Exclusive

The President warned law enforcement agencies not to exert pressure on businesses

President Sadyr Japarov called on law enforcement agencies not to exert unreasonable pressure on entrepreneurs who contribute to the country's development. He made this statement during the ceremonial opening of the cable car in the Ala-Archa National Nature Park. The head of state noted that it is necessary to create the most comfortable conditions for investments in various sectors of the economy.

18.02.2026, 16:19
Sadyr Japarov met with Members of the European Parliament
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Sadyr Japarov met with Members of the European Parliament

Today, February 18, the President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Japarov, held a meeting with a delegation of European Parliament deputies led by Giuseppina Princi, who holds the position of chair of the delegation for relations with Central Asian countries. This information was provided by the president's press service. The delegation included deputies such as Giuseppina Princi (Italy), Sven Simon (Germany), Thierry Mariani (France), Antonin Stanek (Czech Republic), Christian Vigenin (Bulgaria),

18.02.2026, 16:19
Sadyr Japarov: The Cable Car Will Open Up Hard-to-Reach Areas of "Ala-Archa"
Exclusive

Sadyr Japarov: The Cable Car Will Open Up Hard-to-Reach Areas of "Ala-Archa"

President Sadyr Japarov announced the opening of a new cable car in the Ala-Archa National Nature Park, which will significantly ease access to the hard-to-reach areas of the park. According to him, the completion of the project will allow not only local residents but also tourists from abroad to enjoy the unique natural beauty of the Kyrgyz mountains. The President noted that the second phase of the project will begin from the checkpoint and will span 12 kilometers, covering the most

18.02.2026, 16:16
President Sadyr Japarov met with Members of the European Parliament
Exclusive

President Sadyr Japarov met with Members of the European Parliament

The meeting discussed the prospects for the development of bilateral relations Today, February 18, the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov, met with a delegation from the European Parliament led by Giuseppina Princi, the chair of the Committee on Relations with Central Asia. The delegation included members from various countries: Giuseppina Princi (Italy), Sven Simon (Germany), Thierry Mariani (France), Antonin Stanek (Czech Republic), Christian Vigenin (Bulgaria), Tomas Froehlich

18.02.2026, 16:12
Exclusive

Weapons seized in the Leilek District

In the Leilek district, a citizen was detained on suspicion of illegal possession of firearms, reports the press service of the Internal Affairs Directorate of the Batken region. As part of the preventive operation "Arsenal," which took place from February 16 to 21, 2026, law enforcement agencies discovered a case of illegal storage of weapons. Police officers from the Katran rural department detained a 34-year-old man named A.A. on the Chat pasture, located in the village of Ozgorush.

18.02.2026, 16:10
Minura Abdykalykova Appointed Press Secretary of the Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh
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Minura Abdykalykova Appointed Press Secretary of the Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh

The Speaker of the Parliament has signed the relevant order Minura Abdykalykova has been appointed as the press secretary of the Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh. This news was confirmed by Speaker Marlen Mamataliyev, who signed the corresponding document. Who is this new press officer of the parliament? In 2012, Minura Abdykalykova graduated from the Kyrgyz National University named after J. Balasagyn, where she studied journalism. From 2012 to 2026, she held various positions at the AKIpress

18.02.2026, 16:08
Exclusive

"120 million soms allocated for the repair of irrigation facilities in 2026, - first deputy representative"

In the Chui region, preparations for the irrigation season of 2026 are actively underway. This was reported by the First Deputy Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the region, Sanjar Zhantaev, during a board meeting dedicated to the socio-economic development of the region. According to him, there are 269 reservoirs in the Chui region, with a total designed capacity of 253.145 million cubic meters. Currently, 168.81 million cubic meters of water have been accumulated. In 2026, it

18.02.2026, 16:06
Ministry of Labor: Holders of the "Kairylman" Status Have Social Guarantees Equivalent to Citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic
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Ministry of Labor: Holders of the "Kairylman" Status Have Social Guarantees Equivalent to Citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic

The Ministry of Labor, Social Security, and Migration has announced the introduction of the "kairylman" status, which was created to simplify the process of obtaining citizenship of the Kyrgyz Republic for ethnic Kyrgyz returning to their historical homeland. The issuance of the "kairylman" status is carried out by an interdepartmental commission that includes representatives from various agencies, such as the State Committee for National Security, the Ministry of Internal

18.02.2026, 16:04
Director of the Republican Sports Complex named after Sh. Sydykov, Aibek Tashmatov, detained
Incidents / Exclusive

Director of the Republican Sports Complex named after Sh. Sydykov, Aibek Tashmatov, detained

His nickname attracted special attention According to information obtained from sources in law enforcement agencies, Aibek Tashmatov, the director of the Republican Sports College named after Sheraly Sydykov, has come under scrutiny following his detention. This is reported by mnews.kg. According to preliminary data, a foreign citizen is mentioned in this case. It is possible that it concerns the transfer of a Lexus 570 vehicle and an amount of 50 thousand dollars. Currently, this information

18.02.2026, 16:03
Exclusive

Merchant Babkin arrived at Issyk-Kul and built himself a house — what it looks like now

In Karakol, located in the Issyk-Kul region, there is a preserved house built by merchant Babkin. As reported in her comments by the employee of the regional archive, Balganish Konokbaeva, the building, erected by N.M. Babkin in 1905, was constructed at the end of the 19th century — beginning of the 20th century. Initially, he lived in this house, and later it housed a children's hospital. From 1918 to 1959, the District-City Committee operated in the building.

18.02.2026, 15:59
AgroDialogue – 2026. A farmer from Ak-Talinsky district produces oil and feed from safflower
Economy / Exclusive

AgroDialogue – 2026. A farmer from Ak-Talinsky district produces oil and feed from safflower

An agro-industrial forum called "AgroDialogue-2026" is taking place in Bishkek. During the event, a farmer from the Ak-Talinsky district of the Naryn region, Akylbek Abdildaev, shared information about the advantages of safflower. According to Abdildaev, he is currently selling safflower oil at a price of 200 soms per liter. The farmer also produces animal feed from this plant, which is sold for 25 soms per kilogram.

18.02.2026, 15:49
Local news / Exclusive

In the "Ala-Archa" Park, a cable car for tourists was officially opened

Today, February 18, the opening ceremony of the new cable car in the Ala-Archa Natural Park took place. President Sadyr Japarov delivered a welcoming speech. This cable car is 1 kilometer long and was built by the Austrian company Doppelmayr as part of an investment project. It is capable of serving up to 1,000 passengers per hour. Japarov also noted that the same company is involved in the construction of cable cars at the Ala-Tuu Resort ski complex.

18.02.2026, 15:44