During the discussion, Koychiev and Medinsky touched upon a number of important topics, including approaches to writing history, the content of textbooks, as well as the events of 1916 known as Urkun, and the history of the Panfilov Division. Special attention was given to issues concerning Kyrgyz-Russian relations.
“We had a lively exchange of opinions, and we had a bit of a debate. We will continue the discussion in the future,” noted the State Secretary.
As part of the previously signed memorandum, the parties agreed on cooperation in four key areas:
- Creating conditions for Kyrgyz researchers in Russian archives;
- Organizing an international conference dedicated to the events of 1916;
- Free exchange of opinions on textbook content without any pressure;
- Continuing research on the history of the Panfilov Division with an emphasis on Kyrgyzstan's contribution.
Vladimir Medinsky and his team received an invitation to participate in the Issyk-Kul Forum.
Reference Information
Vladimir Medinsky, 55 years old, Doctor of Historical Sciences.
- From 2003 to 2011 — member of the State Duma of the Russian Federation.
- From 2012 to 2020 — Minister of Culture of Russia.
- Since 2020 — assistant to the President of the Russian Federation.
He led the Russian delegation in negotiations to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.
Medinsky is the author of numerous books on history, including the series "Myths about Russia."
He also heads the Russian Military Historical Society and the commission for historical education under the President of the Russian Federation, where he oversees issues of historical policy, textbooks, and the humanitarian sphere.
His public speeches address the interpretation of World War II and Russia's role in world history, which elicits various reactions: supporters consider him a popularizer of patriotic history, while critics view him as an ideologist of state policy with controversial interpretations.
