The capital of Kyrgyzstan hosted the grand opening of a media forum organized in honor of the 100th anniversary of the newspaper "Slovo Kyrgyzstana".
Representatives from various government institutions, diplomatic missions, as well as leading media outlets and public organizations attended the event.
Marat Tagaev, Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan, addressed the participants with a welcoming speech. He emphasized the significance of the anniversary and highlighted the publication's contribution to the development of journalism in the country.
“The newspaper 'Slovo Kyrgyzstana' connects different generations, telling the story of Kyrgyzstan and its people, preserving the traditions of Kyrgyz journalism while adapting to modern demands. For a century, the newspaper has been a reliable source of information, an example of professionalism and responsibility to society,” Tagaev said.
He also stressed that, considering modern digital changes, the importance of state media is only increasing.
“We need to maintain the trust of citizens and ensure an open and honest dialogue between the state and society. I express my sincere gratitude to all generations of journalists, editors, and technical specialists who contribute to the development of the country and the strengthening of trust,” he added.
After the national anthem was performed, the State Secretary of Kyrgyzstan, Marat Imankulov, spoke, emphasizing the important role of the newspaper in building trust between the authorities and the population.
“By marking the centennial anniversary of 'Slovo Kyrgyzstana', we recognize the importance of its mission to ensure honest communication between the country's leadership and the people. The newspaper successfully fulfilled this role during the Soviet period and continues to do so today,” Imankulov noted.
He also pointed out the need to maintain a culture of responsible speech in the digital age:
“Although the internet and social networks provide information quickly, they are not always objective. The responsible speech of a state publication helps the reader gain a comprehensive understanding and correctly interpret the context of decisions.”
The State Secretary recalled the history of the newspaper, which began its journey in 1925 under the name "Batratskaya Pravda", later becoming "Krestyanskiy Put", "Sovetskaya Kirgiziya", and since 1991 — "Slovo Kyrgyzstana".
He also acknowledged the contributions of many journalists, such as Viktor Niskdorf, Ella Taranova, and others, whose work helped shape public opinion.
“State media, including 'Slovo Kyrgyzstana', play a significant role in strengthening national unity and the culture of dialogue. It is important for the state to maintain its presence in the information space,” he emphasized.
Imankulov also mentioned ongoing reforms in Kyrgyzstan's media sector aimed at improving journalism standards and developing digital infrastructure.
“The work of journalists and editors is supported by the state, which facilitates more transparent communication between the authorities and society,” he added.
In conclusion of his speech, the State Secretary congratulated journalists on the Day of Information and Press, celebrated in Kyrgyzstan on November 7, the day the first issue of the newspaper "Erkin Too" was published.
“Your work brings the state closer to the people and strengthens trust,” he concluded.
On behalf of the Ambassador of the Russian Federation in Kyrgyzstan, Sergey Vakunov, the ambassador's advisor, Sergey Kramov, delivered congratulations.
“The professionalism of Kyrgyz media and their understanding of the processes occurring in the region deserve high praise. The adoption of media laws is also an important step for the development of the national media landscape,” Kramov noted.
He emphasized that in the context of rapid changes, words become a tool of unity:
“May 'Slovo Kyrgyzstana' continue to be an example of independence and professionalism. As Vladimir Lenin said, 'a newspaper is a collective organizer.' I wish the team inspiration and a grateful audience,” he added.
Within the framework of the forum, two plenary sessions were held, discussing important issues of media development in the country, digital transformation, and language policy.
The first plenary session, "Slovo Kyrgyzstana: 100 Years of Public Service," served as a platform to discuss the role of state media.
Speakers included:
Kurmanbek Ramatov, Deputy Chairman of the Union of Journalists of Kyrgyzstan - "State Media Protect National Interests";
Dmitry Evlashkov, Director of the Representative Office of "Rossiyskaya Gazeta" - "The Role of Traditional Media in the Era of Digital Transformation";
Elena Zholobova, Director and Editor-in-Chief of the Publishing House "Slovo Kyrgyzstana" - "Slovo Kyrgyzstana Today: From Print to Digital."
