News of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek and Osh — latest events today
Local news

More than 100,000 labor migrants from India have entered Russia

According to information provided by DW, more than 100,000 migrants from India have arrived in Russia. Their wages may be paid in rupees obtained from oil sales. Border statistics show that in the first quarter of last year, about 32,000 Indian citizens entered Russia, in the second — 36,000, and in the third — 63,000. It is expected that by the end of 2025, the number of Indian workers in the country will reach 80,000. In 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister

16.01.2026, 22:51
Local news / Exclusive

Our People Abroad: A Girl from Toktogul Was Taken for a Korean in a Country Where She Tried Seafood

Sezim Zamirbekova, who became a participant in the "Our People Abroad" section, shared her two-year experience spent in South Korea for study and work. Her passion for K-pop during her school years served as an incentive to learn the Korean language and enroll in a Kyrgyz-Korean college. Successfully passing the competition in 2022, she went to Korea, where she studied at universities and worked as a waitress.

16.01.2026, 22:16
Local news

China has stopped purchasing electricity from Russia

As of January 1, China has completely ceased the import of electricity from Russia, even refusing the minimum volumes stipulated in the contract. This was reported by the Meduza publication. According to sources from Kommersant, the main reason for this decision was the increase in export prices, which turned out to be higher than domestic electricity tariffs in China. This made further purchases economically unfeasible for the Chinese side.

16.01.2026, 21:49
Local news / Cultural news

Cinema as a Tool for Human Rights Protection: An Interview with Swiss Documentarian Stefan Ziegler

At the end of 2025, a ceremony for the "Ak Ilbirs" award took place at the National Opera and Ballet Theater. This event provided AKIpress the opportunity to introduce its readers to international creative individuals, including Swiss documentary filmmaker Stefan Ziegler. Known for his award-winning work, documentary director and university lecturer Stefan Ziegler arrived in Bishkek to showcase his film "The Mandate - Who Cares About International Law" at the "Bir

16.01.2026, 21:16
Local news

The teacher who hit a student has been fired. The principal has also been punished.

The incident occurred when a teacher, standing at the blackboard, grabbed a student by the cheek and hit him several times. According to the press service of the Bishkek city administration, the commission found that there were serious violations of the legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic in the school, including the Code "On Children," the Law "On Education," the standard regulation "On General Educational Organizations," and the norms of professional pedagogical

16.01.2026, 20:39
The Fund for Journalistic Investigations Announces a Competition for the Ulanbek Egizbaev Award
Local news

The Fund for Journalistic Investigations Announces a Competition for the Ulanbek Egizbaev Award

The Fund for Journalistic Investigations is launching a competition dedicated to the VIII Ulanbek Egizbaev Award, which will be presented for the best journalistic investigation of 2025 in Kyrgyzstan. The main goal of the competition is to promote the development of investigative journalism, attract young authors to this field, and uncover facts of corruption and violations.

16.01.2026, 20:36
Local news

Russia will conduct an experiment on targeted recruitment of migrants for work

An experiment aimed at the targeted recruitment of labor migrants is starting in the Russian Federation. The selection and preparation of future workers will be conducted before their arrival in the country. The project will cover all regions, except for Moscow and the Moscow region, as reported by the media, citing the relevant resolution. According to this document, the implementation of the project will be entrusted to several federal agencies, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs and

16.01.2026, 20:35
Local news

Bakytbek Jumagulov: Extending Driver Training Periods Does Not Guarantee Safety

According to Bakytbek Jumagulov, the proposed increase in training periods by the reform initiators is aimed at improving the quality of driver training and reducing the number of traffic accidents. However, international practice shows that there is no clear correlation between the duration of training and actual road safety. The main factor is not the length of training, but the process by which the state regulates citizens' access to driving. What lies behind the problem of traffic

16.01.2026, 20:25
Local news

Aysuluu Tynybekova announced her pregnancy

Athlete Aisuluu Tynybekova shared the news of her pregnancy. In her video on social media, she wrote: "Биздин кичинекей сырыбыз🤍" ("Our little secret"). Within half an hour, the video gathered about 20,000 likes.

16.01.2026, 20:23
Teacher fired, principal punished: results of the inspection at school No. 87
Local news / Exclusive

Teacher fired, principal punished: results of the inspection at school No. 87

The inspection at school No. 87 in Bishkek, conducted by the city administration, has been completed. A special commission was established by the Department of Education to investigate the incident, after which significant violations of the legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic were identified. In particular, the violations pertain to the Code "On Children," the Law "On Education," and the Model Regulation "On General Educational Organizations," as well as norms of

16.01.2026, 20:15
Local news

The "Legprom" Association Requests an Extension of Work Visas for Migrants from Bangladesh

The "Legprom" Association has requested an extension of work visas for citizens of Bangladesh employed in Kyrgyzstan, aiming to attract labor migrants to the country's sewing sector. This statement was made by a representative of the association during a meeting of the "Ala-Too" deputies' committee. According to the representative, citizens of Bangladesh come to Kyrgyzstan under contracts, and they are officially employed, paying taxes. These labor migrants carry

16.01.2026, 20:00
Breakthrough of the Siege of Leningrad. In Bishkek, the memory of the fallen was honored with a moment of silence.
Local news

Breakthrough of the Siege of Leningrad. In Bishkek, the memory of the fallen was honored with a moment of silence.

In Bishkek, at the memorial complex of the Siege of Leningrad in the Dair Asanov Park, an event was held dedicated to the breaking of the fascist ring around the city. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Defense of the Kyrgyz Republic. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Defense Colonel Almazbek Kulmurzaev, who noted in his address that the Siege of Leningrad will always symbolize resilience, courage, and the unity of peoples.

16.01.2026, 19:58
Salaries of state media employees will be increased from April 2026
Local news / Exclusive

Salaries of state media employees will be increased from April 2026

In an interview with the Sputnik agency, Dayirbek Orunbekov, head of the information policy department of the President's Administration of the Kyrgyz Republic, confirmed the information that starting from April 2026, the salaries of employees of state mass media will be increased. He noted that necessary calculations on this issue are currently being conducted. Additionally, a salary increase for employees of the national branch of the TV and Radio Company "Mir" is planned to

16.01.2026, 19:57
Local news

The deputy is interested in whether the Bishkek CHPP relocation is planned. The city hall responded that the issue of abandoning heating from the CHPP is being studied.

At the off-site meeting of the deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh from the parties "Mekentchil" and "Ata Jurt," held on January 16, deputy Burun Amanova asked a question about the possible relocation of the Bishkek CHPP. In response, the mayor of the capital, Aibek Junushaliev, reported that new boilers had recently been put into operation in the city. These measures are intended to implement the strategy of decentralizing the heating system, which will reduce dependence on the

16.01.2026, 19:55
The President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov, considers information policy as one of the priority areas.
Local news / Exclusive

The President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov, considers information policy as one of the priority areas.

The President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov, considers information policy as one of the priority areas directly related to the stability and development of the state, and pays special attention to the situation in the media space. This was reported by the head of the Information Policy Service of the Administration of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Daiyrbek Orunbekov. According to him, in addition to systemic measures for the development of the media sector, in the coming years,

16.01.2026, 19:52
Local news

The State Duma did not support restrictions on money transfers by migrants abroad

In Russia, the State Duma rejected an initiative concerning limits on money transfers by migrants abroad. The recommendation against the feasibility of the bill, proposed by deputies from the "New People" faction, was voiced by the Committee on the Financial Market, as reported by "RIA Novosti". Proponents of this initiative argued that introducing a limit on transfers equal to the official salary of migrants would help bring their income out of the "shadows" and

16.01.2026, 19:43
Local news

An event dedicated to the day of the lifting of the blockade of Leningrad took place in Bishkek

On January 16, an event dedicated to the date of the lifting of the blockade of Leningrad took place at the Memorial Complex of the Leningrad Blockade, located in the Dair Aasanov Recreation Park. According to the press service of the Ministry of Defense, the event was attended by the Deputy Minister of Defense, Colonel Almazbek Kulmurzaev, as well as relatives of those who perished during the Great Patriotic War.

16.01.2026, 19:40
Local news

Lawmakers were asked to change the requirements for non-residents to open businesses in the Kyrgyz Republic.

At the meeting of the "Ala-Too" deputy group on January 16, Asel Atabekova expressed concern about how non-residents perceive the business structure in Kyrgyzstan. She emphasized that foreigners coming to the country as clients may notice the ease of doing business and its vulnerabilities, which creates risks of violating competition legislation. Atabekova added that identical tax conditions for non-residents and residents deprive the opportunity to protect the local market from

16.01.2026, 19:39
Local news

A "AutoHurricane" system will be installed on Birimdik Kut Street in Bishkek.

With the introduction of new asphalt pavement on Birimdik Kut Street in Bishkek, there has been an increase in speed limit violations by drivers. This is reported by the press service of the Road Traffic Safety Department (UPSM). In this regard, to prevent road traffic accidents and serious consequences, additional patrols will be organized on this street.

16.01.2026, 19:34
Local news

In Kyrgyzstan, it is proposed to regulate weddings and funerals. Draft resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers

The Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy has presented a draft resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers concerning the regulation of family celebrations and memorial ceremonies, which has been put out for public discussion. The main objective of this project is to establish order in the conduct of family celebrations and rituals associated with the commemoration of the deceased. This will help reduce unnecessary expenses considering the current economic situation of

16.01.2026, 19:15
Local news

"Modest Wedding – Blessed". The Ministry of Culture proposes to ban fireworks at the ceremony.

The agency has published a draft resolution concerning the regulation of family events and memorial ceremonies. The draft is currently available for public discussion. According to the initiators, family celebrations and memorial rituals play an important role in the culture and society of Kyrgyzstan, contributing to the preservation of spiritual values and strengthening ties between generations.

16.01.2026, 18:46
Local news

Don't wait. There will be no additional legalization of cars.

In Kyrgyzstan, a decision has been made not to legalize vehicles registered abroad. The Ministry of Economy emphasizes that such vehicles were imported into the country using "gray schemes" without proper customs declaration and payment of the necessary customs duties, as required by the legislation of the Eurasian Economic Union and Kyrgyzstan.

16.01.2026, 18:44
Local news

Fines for Migrants Avoiding Medical Examinations in Russia May Increase by 12 Times

In the Russian Federation, there may be a significant increase in fines for migrants who avoid mandatory medical examinations. According to new initiatives, the fine may rise to 25,000–50,000 rubles, and there may also be the possibility of administrative expulsion by court decision. This was reported by RBC. This measure is part of a package of bills presented to the State Duma to combat illegal migration and protect public health. In turn, Deputy Speaker of the State Duma Irina Yarovaya

16.01.2026, 18:12
Local news / Exclusive

The building of the "Eurasia" cafe in the city of Osh has been decided to be demolished.

In Osh, the café "Eurasia" will be demolished, as its activities have been suspended for an extended period. This was announced by Mayor Jenishbek Toktorbaev on January 16. Along with representatives of relevant services, the mayor inspected the water protection zone of the Zhekelik canal, which is under the control of the municipal management "Manas-Ata." Attention was drawn to the structures of the café "Eurasia," located on Alisher Navoi Street. These buildings,

16.01.2026, 18:05
Weddings for up to 200 guests and debt-free: a new order of celebrations is proposed in Kyrgyzstan
Local news / Exclusive

Weddings for up to 200 guests and debt-free: a new order of celebrations is proposed in Kyrgyzstan

The Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan has presented a draft of a new resolution "On Measures for Regulating Family Celebrations and Memorial Rites" for public discussion. The purpose of this document is to organize family events and rites related to the commemoration of the deceased, as well as to reduce financial costs, considering the current socio-economic situation of citizens.

16.01.2026, 17:26
Old indefinite driver's licenses will become invalid
Local news / Exclusive

Old indefinite driver's licenses will become invalid

Important message: old indefinite driver's licenses will soon cease to be valid. This was reported by the press service of the Presidential Administration of the Kyrgyz Republic to the "Kabar" agency. According to this information, after the completion of the process of fully replacing outdated licenses, they will be recognized as invalid. Citizens are given the opportunity to exchange their old licenses for free from January 15 to February 15. For those who cannot make it

16.01.2026, 17:23
In Talas, a construction company was fined 200,000 soms for violations
Local news

In Talas, a construction company was fined 200,000 soms for violations

According to information from the press service, the Talas Regional Department of the State Architectural and Construction Control, operating under the Ministry of Construction, Architecture, and Housing and Communal Services, discovered violations at a construction site of the drinking water supply system in the village of Chon-Tokoy, located in the rural district of Shumkar-Uya. During the inspection, it was established that the company "NT Group-Stroy" did not comply with the

16.01.2026, 17:17
Local news

In what cases is hospitalization for cancer patients free? FOMS response

According to the press service of the FOMS, patients undergoing repeat treatment within a year after the first surgery should not pay for hospitalization. This rule applies to cases where repeat surgical intervention is required. Free hospitalization also includes the absence of co-payments for inpatient treatment, similar to the initial visit. Additionally, no extra charges are allowed for:

16.01.2026, 16:37
Local news

In driving school, lessons will last for 10 months. Let's compare which professions can be mastered in that time.

In Kyrgyzstan, significant changes are planned for driver training. The duration of training in driving schools for obtaining a category "B" license is increasing to 10 months, and for category "C" - to one year. Officials claim that this is being done to enhance road safety, but this initiative has faced criticism from citizens and lawmakers. Numerous questions arise regarding the feasibility of extending training periods and the potential inconveniences for the population.

16.01.2026, 16:23
Local news / Exclusive

In the city of Osh, it has been instructed to clear the Navoi Park of trading points.

The city administration of Osh announced on January 16 plans to dismantle a number of trading facilities that are illegally located in the central park named after Alisher Navoi. According to information from the municipality, the park needs a complete renovation. The relevant services have emphasized that the recreational area should remain a calm and well-maintained place, not overloaded with commercial buildings.

16.01.2026, 16:16
Disruption of Arms Supplies: Damage to the Ministry of Defense Reimbursed in Hundreds of Millions of Soms
Local news

Disruption of Arms Supplies: Damage to the Ministry of Defense Reimbursed in Hundreds of Millions of Soms

A new case of systemic corruption has emerged in the Ministry of Defense of the Kyrgyz Republic, reported by the State National Security Committee (GKNB). Experts from the agency found that one of the supplier companies, which had signed a contract for the supply of weapons, failed to fulfill its obligations. As a result of an audit conducted by the Ministry of Finance, damage was established in the amount of 244 million 587 thousand 870 soms, which is approximately 2.7 million euros.

16.01.2026, 16:01
Fewer Awards — Greater Value? Why It Is Proposed to Reduce the Number of State Awards
Local news / Exclusive

Fewer Awards — Greater Value? Why It Is Proposed to Reduce the Number of State Awards

Currently, a draft law concerning "State Awards, Honorary Titles, and Prizes of the Kyrgyz Republic" is being discussed in the Jogorku Kenesh. The document was initiated by the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and was recently reviewed at a meeting of the Committee on Constitutional Legislation, where it received approval with consideration of the deputies' proposals.

16.01.2026, 15:58
Local news

In the Housing Code, it is proposed to punish for driving cars without catalytic converters and their removal.

According to a parliamentary proposal published on the website of the Jogorku Kenesh, environmental threats are becoming increasingly significant for human health. The quality of air, water, and soil, as well as the consequences of climate change and the deterioration of biodiversity, negatively affect the health of the population. Mamataliyev emphasizes that healthcare costs associated with these threats are becoming an unbearable burden for the budget of Kyrgyzstan. Reducing emissions from

16.01.2026, 15:30
Temir Sariev: One of the Most Convenient Conditions for Tailors Has Been Created in Kyrgyzstan
Local news / Exclusive

Temir Sariev: One of the Most Convenient Conditions for Tailors Has Been Created in Kyrgyzstan

At the meeting of the "Ala-Too" parliamentary group dedicated to discussing the state of the textile industry, employment, and the economy, Temir Sariev, president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Kyrgyzstan, emphasized that the country has created some of the most favorable conditions for tailors. He noted that during visits to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, local entrepreneurs express concern about competition with Kyrgyz producers. Additionally, Russian buyers point out that

16.01.2026, 15:26