News about Kyrgyzstan, tourism, attractions, Kyrgyz cuisine, history, traditions, and customs
Local news / Cultural news

The film festival "Bir Dүynө - Kyrgyzstan" will open in Bishkek on December 12, and the premiere of the documentary film "Mandat" will take place.

On December 12, the XIX International Festival of Documentary Films on Human Rights titled "Bir Dүynө - Kyrgyzstan 2025" will be inaugurated in Bishkek. On the same day, the premiere of the work by Swiss director Stefan Ziegler — the documentary film "Mandate" — is expected. This was announced at a press conference held on December 11, where the festival organizers: Tolekan Ismailova, Nakynai Aydakeeva, Murat Karypov, Adilet Alimkulov, and the director Stefan Ziegler himself

11.12.2025, 14:19
Local news / Cultural news

A presentation of a book dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the museum will take place at the Osh Regional Museum of Fine Arts.

On December 18, a presentation of a book will take place at the Osh Regional Museum of Fine Arts named after Turgunbai Sadykov, marking the 20th anniversary of the institution and its contribution to the development of artistic culture in southern Kyrgyzstan. According to the museum, the main goal of the event is to present the results of many years of work on the study and preservation of artistic heritage. The book presentation will occur in the year of the 90th anniversary of the famous

11.12.2025, 13:55
Quality of Construction in the Country: Safety, Control, and Guarantees
Local news / Exclusive

Quality of Construction in the Country: Safety, Control, and Guarantees

In the current year, 15.5 billion soms have been allocated from the republican budget for the construction of 668 facilities across the country. Currently, the construction of about 300 of them has been completed, and they are already in operation. The Minister of Construction, Architecture, and Housing and Communal Services, Nurdana Oruntaev, noted that this is a record achievement for the country.

11.12.2025, 13:54
Local news / Exclusive

In Kadamzhai, 22 heads of seized smuggled cattle are being auctioned off.

The Kadamjay City Hall has announced an auction where 22 heads of cattle, seized for attempting illegal import, will be offered for sale, reports the press service of the city hall. A total of 41 heads of cattle were detained during the operation, of which about 20 have already found their buyers. The remaining 22 heads will be put up for auction for the third time.

11.12.2025, 13:54
Local news / Exclusive

Unusual Chapan Associated with Kurmanjan Datka

In the Osh National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex "Sulaiman-Too," there is a unique chapan that has an interesting backstory. Patila Zhusueva, a local resident, shared with a Turmush correspondent that she donated this chapan to the museum in 2018.

11.12.2025, 13:46
Local news

Nicolas Sarkozy's Memoirs "Diary of a Prisoner" Released and Immediately Became a Bestseller

On December 10, 2025, the memoirs of Nicolas Sarkozy titled "Diary of a Prisoner" were released. The first excerpts from this work were published on the Politico website. On September 25, the court sentenced Sarkozy to five years in prison with a suspended sentence for participating in a criminal conspiracy related to the illegal financing of his 2007 campaign by Libyan authorities. He began serving his sentence on October 21 but was released on November 10 pending the consideration

11.12.2025, 13:36
Damira: Society Has Not Advanced in Knowledge About HIV as Much as Medicine Has
Local news

Damira: Society Has Not Advanced in Knowledge About HIV as Much as Medicine Has

In Kyrgyzstan, the Republican Center for the Control of Hematogenic Viral Hepatitis and HIV detects about a thousand new cases of HIV each year. Despite the fact that many still perceive HIV as a deadly disease, it has long been considered chronic. One can live with it, managing the situation just as one does with diabetes or hypertension—the main thing is not to delay treatment.

11.12.2025, 13:35
Local news / Exclusive

In one region of Kyrgyzstan, snow fell to a height of up to 1 meter

In the Kara-Kulja district of the Osh region, in the rural municipality of Oi-Tal, on December 10, local residents reported significant snowfall — the snow depth reached almost 1 meter. As Suymunkula Amatbek uulu, the head of the Oi-Tal rural administration, reported, the snowfall began on December 9 and reached critical levels by the next day.

11.12.2025, 13:24
Winter admission for applicants to universities in Kyrgyzstan starts on December 12.
Local news

Winter admission for applicants to universities in Kyrgyzstan starts on December 12.

The winter competition in universities of Kyrgyzstan, based on the results of the Unified National Testing (ORT), will take place in four stages. All dates can be found on the "Abiturient online" portal. Key dates of the admission campaign: Scans from the website. Scans from the website. It is important to note that the winter admission to universities is conducted exclusively for enrollment in contract places that remained vacant after the summer admission. The results of the ORT

11.12.2025, 13:14
The Governor of St. Petersburg explained why migrants were banned from working as couriers
Local news

The Governor of St. Petersburg explained why migrants were banned from working as couriers

The ban on working as couriers and delivery workers for migrants in St. Petersburg became one of the topics discussed during a live Q&A with residents, where Governor Alexander Beglov noted that this is necessary for the return of foreign workers to the city's communal services. According to him, this measure will help address the staffing shortages in this sector. Illustrative photo

11.12.2025, 13:05
More than 6,000 Kyrgyz citizens received assistance during the legal support decade
Local news / Exclusive

More than 6,000 Kyrgyz citizens received assistance during the legal support decade

From December 2 to 11, a decade of legal support took place in Kyrgyzstan, dedicated to Human Rights Day. This was announced at a press conference at the "Kabar" agency by Akjol Kalbekov, the chairman of the Legal Aid Service under the Ministry of Justice. As part of this initiative, consultation platforms operated in all regions of the country, where citizens could receive free legal consultations on various issues. Lawyers, attorneys, as well as representatives of local

11.12.2025, 12:52
Local news

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reminds about the updated residence rules for citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic in Kazakhstan

Starting from September 1, 2025, new rules will come into effect for citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic regarding their stay in Kazakhstan, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan. According to the new regulations, citizens of Kyrgyzstan who violate the established stay periods (90 days within a 180-day period) may face entry restrictions into Kazakhstan.

11.12.2025, 12:52
Local news

Strong winds are expected soon in Bishkek and the Chui Valley

In Bishkek and the Chui Valley, strong winds are forecasted in the coming days. According to information from the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the speed of the eastern wind may reach 15-20 meters per second. The Ministry of Emergency Situations recommends staying in safe places during strong winds. In case of an emergency, it is necessary to immediately call the "112" service, which operates around the clock and accepts calls for free.

11.12.2025, 12:28
Local news

"Seven Years of Silence". Why People Living with HIV Are Afraid to Seek Help

In Kyrgyzstan, there is a change in the vector of the HIV epidemic: cases of infection are increasingly being registered among people who do not belong to the key groups. This is indicated in the report of the study "Index of Stigmatization of People Living with HIV." The republic has set an ambitious goal - to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. Plans include achieving the 95-95-95 targets by 2026. However, as emphasized in the study, achieving these results depends on meeting the 10-10-10

11.12.2025, 12:21
Local news

The Ministry of Energy proposes to introduce differentiated electricity tariffs for three groups of consumers

The Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic has initiated a project to amend the Cabinet's resolution "On the Approval of the Medium-Term Tariff Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic for 2025-2030," which is now available for public discussion. In the agency, it is emphasized that the country's energy system is facing limited capacities and a shortage of electricity, especially during the winter period.

11.12.2025, 12:11
Local news / Exclusive

"His Relatives are Involved": During the Inspection, Akim of Chui District R. Tagaev Had to Justify Himself (Details)

In the Chuy region, in the village of Shamshy of the Onbir-Zhylga ayil district, enterprises that were engaged in illegal extraction of sand and gravel mix and clay have been closed. This information became known during a working trip by the presidential envoy in the Chuy region, Azamat Osmonov, who visited the village at the request of local residents.

11.12.2025, 12:11
A Strong Wind is Approaching Bishkek
Local news / Exclusive

A Strong Wind is Approaching Bishkek

In the coming hours, a strong eastern wind is expected in Bishkek and the Chui region, with speeds reaching from 15 to 20 meters per second, according to meteorologists' warnings. The Ministry of Emergency Situations urges residents to exercise caution, avoiding being near trees, advertising structures, and power lines. Ideally, it is recommended to stay indoors.

11.12.2025, 12:05
The first "E-Muras. Eco-Heritage Forum" will be held in Bishkek
Local news

The first "E-Muras. Eco-Heritage Forum" will be held in Bishkek

With the support of the NGO "Eurasia KG", the "E-Muras. Eco-Heritage Forum" will take place in Bishkek on December 12, 2025. This new urban event combines the ecological, cultural, and creative aspects of Kyrgyzstan. The forum aims to engage citizens in the movement for a clean country and responsible consumption methods, as well as to implement waste-free practices in everyday life. It will become a vibrant symbol of new ecological thinking.

11.12.2025, 12:02
The Open City Cup for Women's Wrestling was held in Bishkek
Local news

The Open City Cup for Women's Wrestling was held in Bishkek

The open City Cup for women's wrestling took place in Bishkek, featuring girls from the U-15 and U-17 age categories. About 250 athletes representing Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan participated in the event. High-ranking representatives of sports organizations and famous athletes attended the opening ceremony of the tournament, including Kanatbek Mamatov, the head of the Department of Physical Culture and Sports of the Bishkek City Hall, 2025 World Champion Nurzat Nurtayeva,

11.12.2025, 11:58
Local news / Cultural news

From December 12 to 20, an exhibition dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the G. Aitieva KNMII "MUZEALE-90" will take place.

From December 12 to 20, the Kyrgyz National Museum of Fine Arts named after G. Aitiev will hold an exhibition dedicated to its 90th anniversary titled "MUZELE-90". The concept of MUZELE encompasses not only the physical space of the museum but also its invisible aspects — the labor, stories of people, architectural changes, and cultural missions. According to museum representatives, it is more than just a building or a collection; it is a complex intertwining of human destinies and

11.12.2025, 11:50
Local news

The Ministry of Emergency Situations issued a storm warning

Today, December 11, strong eastern winds are forecasted in Bishkek and the Chui Valley, with speeds reaching 15-20 meters per second. The Ministry of Emergency Situations strongly recommends staying in safe places during strong winds. In case of emergencies, it is necessary to immediately contact service 112, which accepts calls 24/7 and is free of charge.

11.12.2025, 11:49
Local news

Legal regulation remains a weak link in the implementation of AI in the Kyrgyz Republic - Ministry of Digital Development

At the Central Asian Cyber Legal Forum, the Minister of Digital Development and Innovative Technologies, Azamat Zhamangulov, stated that legal regulation in Kyrgyzstan represents a weak link in the process of implementing artificial intelligence and digital technologies. He noted that the Digital Code has been signed by the president, which is supposed to address many issues related to technological progress. However, the existing bureaucratic procedures for adopting new laws are lagging behind

11.12.2025, 11:49
Local news

The Constitutional Court's Decision on the Death Penalty. The Foreign Ministry Made a Statement

On December 11, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan made a statement regarding the resolution of the Constitutional Court. It was noted that recent cases of the brutal murders of women and children have shocked society. In this regard, the country's president, concerned about the rising statistics of such crimes, took control of the case regarding the murder of a 17-year-old girl from Karakol and instructed the responsible authorities to propose amendments to the legislation

11.12.2025, 11:40
Local news / Cultural news

The National Historical Museum held a seminar for the staff of the "Ata-Beyit" complex

The National Historical Museum held a training seminar for the staff of the national historical and memorial complex "Ata-Beyit." This event was initiated by the management of the complex with the aim of enhancing the qualifications of specialists. The seminar was led by Ömürbek Samudинов, who holds the position of head of the museum education, enlightenment, and scientific-methodological work department at the NIM. He presented various approaches and methods of museum activities to

11.12.2025, 11:40
Local news / Cultural news

The G. Aitieva Museum of Fine Arts celebrates the 90th anniversary of the gallery's founding — an open lecture has been announced

On December 13, the Kyrgyz National Museum of Fine Arts named after Gapar Aitiev will hold a lecture dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the country's first art gallery and the historical aspects of museum work in Kyrgyzstan. The history of this important cultural institution began in 1934, when artist Semyon Chuykov, founding the Union of Artists of the Kyrgyz Republic, proposed creating an art collection. As a result, in January 1935, the gallery opened its doors in the renovated

11.12.2025, 11:40
Colonel Erkinbek Makanbaev Has Passed Away — Obituary
Local news / Exclusive

Colonel Erkinbek Makanbaev Has Passed Away — Obituary

The leadership, the Veterans Council, and the entire staff of the State Committee for National Security of the Kyrgyz Republic express deep sorrow over the loss of Colonel Erkinbek Chakanovich Makanbaev, who passed away on December 11, 2025. They extend their heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased. Erkinbek Chakanovich was born in 1972 in the village of Kyzyl-Senir, located in the Suzak district of the Jalal-Abad region. In 1994, he graduated from the Osh Higher

11.12.2025, 11:36
In Bishkek, the operation of two enterprises has been suspended due to air pollution.
Local news / Exclusive

In Bishkek, the operation of two enterprises has been suspended due to air pollution.

Due to violations of environmental standards, two companies in Bishkek have temporarily suspended their operations. This information was announced by the press service of the municipal inspection of the city mayor's office. Inspection specialists went to the sites after receiving numerous complaints from residents concerned about the thick black smoke rising from the enterprises' premises.

11.12.2025, 11:35
Local news

The Ministry of Natural Resources urges government agencies and local authorities to abandon New Year's fireworks

The Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic has called on local authorities and state organizations to refrain from using pyrotechnics during the New Year holidays. This appeal is related to the negative impact of fireworks on air quality, especially in winter, when temperature inversions significantly increase the level of pollutants. Additionally, the use of pyrotechnics leads to the generation of a large volume of solid waste and increases the

11.12.2025, 11:30
Local news

Protection or Isolation? Why Banning Social Media for Children May Have the Opposite Effect

Australia has recently implemented the world's first law prohibiting the use of social media for children and teenagers under 16 years old. The main goal of this ban is to protect young people from cyberbullying, sexual exploitation, and negative content that can affect their mental health. While other countries are also considering similar initiatives, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) warns that age restrictions alone are not enough to ensure children's safety online,

11.12.2025, 11:28
More than 6,000 Kyrgyz citizens received assistance during the Legal Literacy Decade
Local news / Exclusive

More than 6,000 Kyrgyz citizens received assistance during the Legal Literacy Decade

The decade of legal assistance in Kyrgyzstan has concluded, which took place from December 2 to 11 in honor of Human Rights Day. This was reported by Akjol Kalbekov, the chairman of the Legal Assistance Service of the Ministry of Justice, at a press conference at the Kabar agency. During the ten days, consultation sites operated across the country where citizens could receive free legal advice on various issues. This initiative involved lawyers, attorneys, civil servants, and representatives

11.12.2025, 11:23
Local news

Hundreds of cars stuck on a snow-covered road in the Issyk-Kul region

On December 10, about 200 vehicles were blocked on the 10th kilometer of the Tyup - Kegen highway due to heavy snowfall. This was reported by the Internal Affairs Department of the Issyk-Kul region. To quickly resolve the situation, employees of the regional Internal Affairs Department, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, and road services worked together to clear the road using a grader, the police reported.

11.12.2025, 11:18
Local news

The exhibition "MUSEALE-90" will take place at the National Museum of Fine Arts.

From December 12 to 20, an exhibition titled "MUSEALE-90" will be held in Bishkek, dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the G. Aitiev Kyrgyz National Museum of Fine Arts (KNMFA), as reported by the Ministry of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic. According to the announcement, for nine decades, the KNMFA has served as a living, multi-layered organism, simultaneously acting as a repository of artistic heritage and a space for educational leisure, dialogue, and reflection.

11.12.2025, 11:15
Local news / Cultural news

A unique balbal found in the Chui Valley has been transferred to the National Historical Museum

The National Historical Museum of Kyrgyzstan has been enriched with a unique artifact — an ancient balbal that was found in the Chui Valley. According to information from the Ministry of Culture, archaeologist Kubat Tabaldiev, Doctor of Historical Sciences, officially handed over this stone statue, which had been kept in a private collection for many years.

11.12.2025, 11:08
In Kyrgyzstan, a Paralegal Institute has been Established
Local news / Exclusive

In Kyrgyzstan, a Paralegal Institute has been Established

A new institute of paralegals has been established in Kyrgyzstan, as announced at a press conference at the Kabar agency by the Chairman of the Legal Aid Service under the Ministry of Justice, Akjol Kalbekov. According to Kalbekov, the current system does not provide equal access to qualified lawyers in various regions of the country, especially in remote settlements. This became the reason for the introduction of the paralegal institute — specialists who are not lawyers but undergo special

11.12.2025, 11:04
Local news

Osh - Bishkek: Entry restriction for trucks from the "Aral" post lifted

The press service of the Ministry of Transport and Communications of the Kyrgyz Republic reports that the temporary restriction on the entry of freight vehicles onto the Osh – Bishkek highway from the "Aral" post has been lifted. This decision was made after restrictions were previously imposed due to adverse weather conditions.

11.12.2025, 11:04