Talantbek Tashibekov recently became the head of the National Agency for Religious Affairs and Interethnic Relations of Kyrgyzstan. He has outlined clear goals for strengthening the secular nature of the state and maintaining interfaith harmony. In an interview with VB.KG, he shared his plans, assessments of the work of his predecessors, and the current situation in the country's religious sphere.
- What is your assessment of the current religious situation in Kyrgyzstan?
- The situation in the religious sphere of the country is characterized by stability and positivity. This has been made possible thanks to the systematic work of government bodies, the legislative acts adopted, and conceptual programs. The contribution of religious institutions is also important. We regularly meet with religious leaders and plan to improve legislation in the area of freedom of religion. In particular, we are developing a law on the "Waqf" fund, which does not currently exist in Kyrgyzstan. This concept is related to the management of property in the Islamic context, and we strive to create appropriate legislation. Additionally, we are working on a concept for state policy in the religious sphere for 2027-2031.
The secular nature of the state is an important principle that we will uphold. We will adhere to constitutional norms, according to which religion does not interfere in state affairs, and political figures do not use religion in electoral campaigns. This law remains indisputable.
- How is the monitoring of interethnic relations in the republic carried out?
- In regions with mixed populations, such as Osh, Jalal-Abad, and Batken regions, we have implemented an active monitoring system. Our Research Center regularly travels to the field to gather information. We also have a network of representatives who promptly inform us about the situation.
Based on the collected data, we send recommendations to local self-government bodies for preventive work. In anticipation of the spring holidays and after the month of Ramadan, we plan events aimed at strengthening tolerance and mutual understanding.
How do you interact with the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kyrgyzstan?
- We provide support in improving their work, including legislative initiatives and the implementation of electronic systems. One of our goals is to transition the registration of pilgrims to an online format, which will simplify the process of Hajj and Umrah, reducing processing times.
Starting this month, we have increased the salaries of imams from 8,000 to 15,000 soms. Currently, about 4,000 imams receive an official salary from the Spiritual Administration, and in the future, we plan to raise it to 20,000 soms.
You took office as the head of the NADRMO in mid-January. How do you assess the work of your predecessors?
- I believe that the work of the previous leaders was satisfactory, as they laid the foundation for further development.
How do you combat the threat of radicalism in the country?
- Law enforcement agencies, including the GKNB, are doing significant work to prevent the activities of destructive groups. Our agency has a Research Center that conducts analysis, surveys, and monitoring to prepare analytical reports.
Recommendations based on the results of this work are sent to law enforcement agencies and the Spiritual Administration of Muslims. Our main task is prevention and warning, while operational work is carried out by law enforcement agencies.
Are there any international events planned for Kyrgyzstan?
- Yes, this year we will celebrate several anniversary dates. We plan to hold a scientific conference with the participation of religious leaders and foreign experts, and we are also preparing for the anniversary of the Issyk-Kul Forum named after Chingiz Aitmatov, to which we will invite specialists on issues of tolerance and religious tolerance.
Are you working with foreign theologians to engage with youth?
- We have already become active in this direction. We have a list of scholars who adhere to traditional Islamic values, and we plan to invite them to forums to discuss topics related to religious tolerance and the interaction of religion and state.
If the Spiritual Administration wants to invite a foreign expert, they contact us for approval, and we assess the risks together with law enforcement agencies. If there are no threats, we grant permission.
What is the state of interethnic harmony in the country?
- The situation is favorable. In all regions, respected leaders and aksakals work with whom we maintain constant preventive interaction. The atmosphere remains tolerant and accepting. We plan to enhance cooperation with the Assembly of People of Kyrgyzstan through cultural and educational events.
Tell us about the practice of holding iftars with foreign guests in Kyrgyzstan.
- This is an important aspect of interreligious dialogue. Recently, iftars were held in Bishkek with representatives from Dagestan and Tatarstan, who gathered their diasporas and our religious leaders.
Iftars are also organized by other countries, inviting all representatives of religious organizations in Kyrgyzstan.
We maintain friendly relations with religious figures from Tatarstan and actively cooperate with their educational institutions. The chairmen of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Tatarstan often participate in our international conferences, which are also planned for this year in connection with the 30th anniversary of the National Agency for Religious Affairs of the KR.
These events contribute to strengthening friendly ties and exchanging experiences in the field of traditional Islam, as well as serving as an additional platform for preventing extremist ideologies.
What would you like to wish the people of Kyrgyzstan during the holy month of Ramadan?
- On behalf of the National Agency for Religious Affairs and Interethnic Relations, we congratulate the people of Kyrgyzstan on the holy month of Ramadan and the blessed night of Qadr.
Ramadan is a time for spiritual purification, mercy, and strengthening moral values. During these days, believers strive for self-improvement, show patience, and care for those in need.
May the holy month bring peace, prosperity, and harmony to every home, and may the good intentions expressed during the days of fasting become the foundation for social unity and harmony in our multinational and multi-religious society. We wish tranquility, well-being, and prosperity to our homeland - Kyrgyzstan!
