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Atmospheric column for the first Mongolian refinery is ready for the journey: Mumbai – Tianjin – Altanshiree
In the world

Atmospheric column for the first Mongolian refinery is ready for the journey: Mumbai – Tianjin – Altanshiree

The equipment, which has a height of 58.4 meters, a diameter of 3.2 meters, and weighs 245 tons, was manufactured by the Indian company KCP Limited, located in Chennai. After 17 stages of inspection, including hydrotesting and non-destructive testing, the column was preserved using nitrogen and is ready for multimodal transportation. For ease of transport, the column will be divided into four parts. Delivery is expected to begin in mid-February by sea from the port of Mumbai (India), followed

20.02.2026, 08:34
Exclusive

A school was built in the village of Shaty in the Tyup district for 151 million soms

In the village of Shaty, located in the Tyup district, a solemn opening of a new building of the secondary school named after D. Moldogaziev took place. The educational institution is designed for 225 students. High-ranking guests attended the ceremony, including the plenipotentiary representative of the president in the Issyk-Kul region Bakytbek Jetigenov, the deputy minister of emergency situations Akylbek Mazaripov, and the representative of the World Bank T. Junusheva. Also present at the

20.02.2026, 08:16
Economy

Officials of the Chui Region criticized for delaying project implementation

Daniyar Amangeldiev, the First Deputy Prime Minister, expressed dissatisfaction with the slow progress of the irrigation project funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. At a meeting of the regional government dedicated to the results of 2025, he stated: “You have been dragging this out for five years, and the project is still not completed. This is absolutely unacceptable.” He also noted that the irrigation issue remains one of the most serious problems.

20.02.2026, 07:57
The Ambassador of Mongolia met with Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines
In the world

The Ambassador of Mongolia met with Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines

In May 2025, the first Boeing 737-800 from the well-known American airline United Airlines landed in Mongolia. According to information from MiddleAsianNews, on February 10, 2026, the Ambassador of Mongolia in Washington, Batbayar Olziidelger, held a meeting with Scott Kirby, the CEO of United Airlines. During the meeting, issues related to both regional and international situations, future directions for the development of the aviation industry, as well as details of ongoing cooperation

20.02.2026, 07:56
Sports

Championship of Kyrgyzstan in Combat Sambo: List of Female Champions

The championship held on February 18 at the Koshomkul Sports Palace in Bishkek was a significant event for combat sambo enthusiasts. According to the press service of the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports, 360 athletes from various regions of the country participated in the tournament, competing for medals. Within the framework of the competitions in combat sambo among men, 5 sets of awards were contested. Results of the competitions in combat sambo among women Weight category up to

20.02.2026, 07:36
Events in Ukraine and the World. Main News by the Morning of February 20
In the world

Events in Ukraine and the World. Main News by the Morning of February 20

Global media and agencies have provided the latest news on events in Ukraine, as well as the international situation amid the ongoing conflict. Here is a brief overview of the key points. Sumy after the attack by Russian drones. Photo by Francisco Richart / Anadolu / Getty Images. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has extended the sanctions against Russia, which were imposed in 2014, 2018, and 2022, for another year. In the Bryansk region of Russia, two citizens were injured in an attempt to

20.02.2026, 07:24
A Mongolian family bought a house in Hong Kong for $31.5 million, planning to retire
In the world

A Mongolian family bought a house in Hong Kong for $31.5 million, planning to retire

Tselmuun Nyamtayshir, president and CEO of the company "Mongolian Gold," stated that the new home will serve as a place for a peaceful family life in retirement. This was reported by MiddleAsianNews. Recently, the family that owns one of Mongolia's leading mining conglomerates purchased a standalone house in a prestigious southern district of Hong Kong. The deal amounted to 247 million HKD (approximately $31.5 million), and the house will be used as a "retirement residence

20.02.2026, 07:14
The advertisement for cosmetics mentioning the rosy cheeks of a Mongolian baby has sparked controversy.
In the world

The advertisement for cosmetics mentioning the rosy cheeks of a Mongolian baby has sparked controversy.

The South Korean cosmetic brand faced issues when accusations of racism emerged in online communities on the 19th of last month. The trigger for this was the use of the phrase "cheeks like a Mongolian baby" in the advertisement for one of its blushes, as reported by MiddleAsianNews. This brand, which offers decorative cosmetics including blushes and lipsticks, introduced its new product — moisturizing blush — in December of last year. In one of the publications on various online

20.02.2026, 07:01
Sports

Who became the champion of Kyrgyzstan in combat sambo? List

In Bishkek, on February 18, the 2026 Kyrgyzstan Sambo Championship concluded at the Koyomkul Sports Palace. According to the press service of the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports, 360 athletes from various regions of the country competed for the awards.

20.02.2026, 00:03
An International Scientific Conference on China's Development Took Place in Bishkek
Local news

An International Scientific Conference on China's Development Took Place in Bishkek

The event was organized by the Institute of World Civilizations and Languages of KRSU. The International Student Scientific Conference "China on the Path of Modernity" was held at the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University named after B. N. Yeltsin. At the conference, participants discussed the key aspects of the development of the People's Republic of China, including its strategic priorities and influence on international political and economic processes, as well as social and

19.02.2026, 22:34
Exclusive

Call Center: A Pole May Fall on Cars

According to local residents, a leaning pole on Lermontov Street, at the intersection with Khivinskaya, needs to be replaced. They report that the support, which was installed just recently, is already threatening the safety of vehicles. “The pole was just put up, and it’s already almost fallen. If it collapses, it could lead to serious consequences for cars. Urgent measures need to be taken,” the residents noted in their appeals.

19.02.2026, 22:04
Local news

The Ministry of Economic Development proposes to block bloggers' accounts for organizing giveaways

The Ministry of Economy and Commerce has proposed amendments to the laws concerning gambling activities. The draft has already been published for public discussion. The agency emphasizes that in recent years there has been a constant increase in cases of illegal lottery organization and binary options conducted via the internet. These activities are often disguised as promotional campaigns or charitable events on various online platforms, including social networks and messengers.

19.02.2026, 21:38
In Bishkek, a suspect was detained in a major housing fraud case
Incidents

In Bishkek, a suspect was detained in a major housing fraud case

In the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, a man suspected of fraud in the sale of an apartment in the residential complex "Nova City" has been detained. This information was provided by the press service of the Main Department of Internal Affairs (GUVD). The investigation established that from October 2020 to February 2024, a citizen identified as U.T., born in 1980, managed to gain the trust of the victim and under the pretext of selling an apartment in the "Nova City"

19.02.2026, 21:31
Local news

Zhanar Akayev appointed two vice-mayors of Osh

The new mayor of Osh, Janarbek Akaev, announced the appointment of two vice-mayors. According to official orders posted on the city hall's website, the vice-mayors are Masuda Aydarbekova, who previously held the position of head of the city hall's apparatus, and Shumkarbek Paiziev, who had previously headed the capital construction department.

19.02.2026, 21:29
Local news

Dedicated bus lanes will appear on three streets in Bishkek

According to information provided by Ulanbek Beishenbaev, the director of the Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure, the expansion of dedicated lanes for public transport is planned in Bishkek. In 2025, a pilot project was successfully launched on Akhunbaev Street, covering the section from Ch. Aitmatov Avenue to Abdrakhmanov Street. This year, its continuation is planned.

19.02.2026, 21:24
Local news

In the Chuy Region, 12 illegal trading facilities were dismantled

From February 17 to 19, 12 roadside trade facilities that were deemed illegal were dismantled in the Moscow district of the Chui region. The work was carried out along the Bishkek – Kara-Balta highway. According to information from the Chui regional department of the state architectural and construction control of the Ministry of Construction, the activities were organized in collaboration with the department of urban planning and architecture, as well as local self-government bodies.

19.02.2026, 21:11
Local news

The U.S. State Department is preparing a portal to bypass internet restrictions — Reuters

According to information published by Reuters, the U.S. State Department is developing a new internet resource that will facilitate access for users in countries with strict internet censorship to blocked information. It is expected that the portal will be available at freedom.gov, allowing citizens of European countries and other regions to bypass content access restrictions imposed by their governments.

19.02.2026, 21:09
In Osh, about 5 kg of drugs and ammunition seized during a special operation
Incidents

In Osh, about 5 kg of drugs and ammunition seized during a special operation

Three suspects were arrested for involvement in illegal drug trafficking Employees of the Drug Control Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in the city of Osh conducted a successful operation against an organized criminal group that was engaged in the sale of Afghan-produced drugs in large quantities. This was reported by the press service of the agency. As part of the operational-search activities, a search was conducted of a vehicle belonging to a 28-year-old citizen S.O.B. As a

19.02.2026, 21:05
Local news

In Bishkek, the routes of all bus lines will be changed

Significant changes are expected in the public transport system of the capital of Kyrgyzstan. The director of the Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure of the city administration, Ulanbek Beyshenbaev, reported that all 72 existing routes will be optimized, and new directions will also be introduced. “The travel system will undergo changes: in some cases, transferring will be required to get from one point to another,” he noted.

19.02.2026, 20:55
Incidents

In Bishkek, a suspect in a $285,000 fraud has been detained.

A person suspected of fraudulent activities has been detained in Bishkek. According to information provided by the city's Department of Internal Affairs, a citizen named H. M. reported to law enforcement that a certain U. T., having gained his trust, deceitfully took a sum of $284,267 under the pretext of selling an apartment in a residential complex on M. Gorky Street and has not returned the money to this day.

19.02.2026, 20:53
Local news

How Energy Efficiency of Public Buildings is Improved in Kyrgyzstan

Recently, a project titled "Reducing Investment Risks in Low-Carbon Solutions for Public Buildings in the Kyrgyz Republic" was officially launched in Bishkek. The implementation of the initiative is supported by the Green Climate Fund (GCF). The project is initiated by the Agency for Community Development and Investments of the Kyrgyz Republic (ARIS) in collaboration with the Climate Financing Center under the Cabinet of Ministers. The main goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

19.02.2026, 20:33
Incidents

Teacher reported being beaten by a schoolboy. Footage from the scene has emerged.

Readers of Kaktus.media sent a video to the editorial office, allegedly filmed at school No. 83 in Bishkek. They report that there was no fight between the student and the teacher, and the teacher is being unjustly accused. In the recordings, a man can be seen being pushed, and he falls backward onto the concrete floor. After this, several students surround him, with one of them restraining the one who pushed.

19.02.2026, 20:28
Local news

The Social Fund Simplified Pension Appointments and Introduced Preferential Rates for Taxi Drivers

In Kyrgyzstan, the transition to a new automated system within the Social Fund has been completed, significantly simplifying the pension appointment process. The report for the past year indicates a review of several procedures and the introduction of preferential rates for insurance contributions for certain categories of workers. Starting from 2025, the Social Fund has implemented a new automated information system (AIS) designed for pensioners receiving payments through banking institutions.

19.02.2026, 20:14
Health

The Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic and UNDP discussed partnership and the development of international procurement mechanisms

On February 19, 2026, the Minister of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, Kanibek Dosmambetov, met with Alexandra Solovyova, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in the country. During the meeting, the representatives of the ministry discussed important areas for future cooperation, emphasizing the priorities for the development of the healthcare system until 2030. In particular, special attention was given to strengthening the institutional foundations of healthcare,

19.02.2026, 20:13
Exclusive

Call Center: Bishkek Residents Complain About Inconveniences and Noise Due to Shopping Center Construction

Residents of Bishkek have noticed that the construction company involved in the erection of the "Beta Stores" complex is violating the "Silence Law". At the corner of Kyivskaya and Isanova streets, work is underway on the construction of a new shopping center, and during this time, heavy machinery is obstructing traffic on the road during the day and disturbing residents' sleep at night.

19.02.2026, 19:53
Local news

The Bishkek City Hall is ready to consider the launch of night buses

On February 19, at a meeting of the Road Council, the director of the Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure, Ulanbek Beishenbaev, announced the possibility of introducing special night routes. He clarified that the implementation of this idea will depend on the introduction of a separate night fare. Beishenbaev also noted that buses continue to operate in the city late at night. "Check the 'My City' app — our routes run until 1 AM. Although some

19.02.2026, 19:20
Local news

The court has chosen a measure of restraint for the nephrologist of the NCODiM.

Nasir Beishebaev, a nephrologist at the National Center for Maternal and Child Health, is now under house arrest. This decision was announced by lawyer Evgeniya Krapivina in a conversation with the editorial team of Kaktus.media. The measure of restraint was determined by the Pervomaisky District Court. Recall that on February 18 in Bishkek, the doctor was detained. Candidate of Medical Sciences and Associate Professor Beishebaev became the subject of an investigation after the mother of one of

19.02.2026, 19:20
In Afghanistan, authorities burned more than 500 musical instruments
Incidents

In Afghanistan, authorities burned more than 500 musical instruments

, Marat ABDYKALYKOV According to information provided by the Pajhwok Afghan News agency, local authorities in Parwan province have destroyed more than 500 musical instruments and related items. As reported by Mawlavi Maqbul Ahmad Waqas, the head of the relevant department, musical instruments and items used for dancing and other entertainment activities, which the authorities believe do not comply with Sharia norms, were collected over the past year in the central part of the province and its

19.02.2026, 19:18
The court has remanded Nurgazy Anarkulov in custody until April 10.
Incidents

The court has remanded Nurgazy Anarkulov in custody until April 10.

The Pervomaisky District Court of Bishkek has decided to place Nurgazy Anarkulov in custody, who previously headed the information policy department of the presidential administration. The defendant will remain in pre-trial detention until April 10, 2026. Photo from the internet. Nurgazy Anarkulov

19.02.2026, 19:11
Exclusive

Janar Akaev - the mayor of Osh, and he was also a press secretary and journalist. We remember his story.

On February 18, the President of Kyrgyzstan made the decision to appoint Janar Akayev as the mayor of Osh, replacing the resigned Zhenishbek Toktorbaev. This appointment became known on the same day. At the ceremony, he was accompanied by Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev and former mayor Toktorbaev, around whom rumors of a possible resignation had been circulating for a week, although this was actively denied by the municipality.

19.02.2026, 19:11
Nearly 10,000 packs of cigarettes without excise stamps seized at the market in Manas
Local news

Nearly 10,000 packs of cigarettes without excise stamps seized at the market in Manas

The total value of the illegal goods amounted to over 1.1 million soms As a result of a joint raid by the State Tax Service and representatives of the Internal Affairs Department, a significant batch of tobacco products without excise stamps was discovered at the market in Manas. This was reported by the press service of the State Tax Service. During the inspection, 9,695 packs of cigarettes were seized, with a value of 1,163,400 soms. In addition, 24 packs of illegal electronic cigarettes and

19.02.2026, 19:08
A temporary ban on the export of mineral fertilizers has been introduced in the Kyrgyz Republic
Exclusive

A temporary ban on the export of mineral fertilizers has been introduced in the Kyrgyz Republic

A temporary ban on the export of mineral fertilizers outside the customs territory of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) has been introduced in the Kyrgyz Republic. According to the press service of the country's cabinet of ministers, this ban will be in effect for six months. The relevant document was signed by the chairman of the cabinet of ministers, Adylbek Kasymaliev.

19.02.2026, 19:03
Economy

What Will Continue to Rise in Price? How the Economy of Kyrgyzstan Developed in January

According to preliminary data, the gross domestic product of Kyrgyzstan in January 2026 amounted to 125.7 billion soms, which is 9% higher compared to the same period in 2025. Economic indicators continue to grow confidently. Price Growth for GoodsPrices for food products and non-alcoholic beverages increased by 1%, while alcoholic beverages and tobacco rose by 0.8%. Non-food goods became 0.5% more expensive, and services for the population increased by 0.7%.

19.02.2026, 18:52
Construction near TSUM recognized as non-compliant with the approved project
Local news / Exclusive

Construction near TSUM recognized as non-compliant with the approved project

During the inspection of construction works on the territory of TSUM "Aichurek," it was found that they do not comply with the previously agreed project solutions. The mayor of the capital, Aibek Junushaliev, instructed the dismantling of the erected metal structure. Control measures revealed that the facility being implemented by the developer had not been discussed at the urban planning council, and the work is being carried out with deviations from the approved parameters, which

19.02.2026, 18:42
Ancient Bacteria Found in Ice Proved Resistant to Modern Antibiotics
Exclusive

Ancient Bacteria Found in Ice Proved Resistant to Modern Antibiotics

A study conducted by Romanian scientists showed that the strain Psychrobacter SC65A.3, which has adapted to cold conditions, is resistant to more than 10 modern antibiotics, including rifampicin, vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, trimethoprim, clindamycin, and metronidazole. This strain contains over 100 genes associated with resistance and can suppress the growth of various "superbugs." In the course of the study, the scientists isolated various strains of bacteria from ice cores,

19.02.2026, 18:40
Health

The FOMS explained why it is not possible to issue an OMS policy for the entire family.

In Kyrgyzstan, mandatory health insurance (MHI) is issued individually for each citizen. This clarification was provided by the Mandatory Health Insurance Fund (MHIF) on February 19. In the MHIF, it was noted that the MHI policy represents a personal insurance status that is tied to a specific individual. Information about each insured person is entered into the general database "MHI Policy," which ensures the ability to receive medical services under the State Guarantees Program and

19.02.2026, 18:35
Edil Baysalov outlined the priorities for cultural policy development
Exclusive

Edil Baysalov outlined the priorities for cultural policy development

On February 19, a meeting of the board of the Ministry of Culture, Information and Youth Policy took place at the National Historical Museum, with the participation of Edil Baisalov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, the press service of the government reports. Members of the Ministry's board, representatives of the Jogorku Kenesh, as well as heads of regional departments and structural units also participated in the event.

19.02.2026, 18:27
Exclusive

Masuda Aydarbekova Appointed Deputy Mayor of the City of Osh

The head of the Osh city hall, Masuda Aydarbekova, has been relieved of her duties and now holds the position of deputy mayor of the city. The corresponding directive was signed by Mayor Janarbek Akayev. According to official information from the municipality, earlier, on February 19, four deputy mayors — Sonunbek Junusbaev, Mirlanbek Kazybay uulu, Adilet Sharshenaly uulu, and Nurlan Zakirov — submitted their resignation letters voluntarily.

19.02.2026, 18:22
Unprofessionalism or Greed? The Bishkek City Hall is "optimizing" all bus routes in the city
Local news

Unprofessionalism or Greed? The Bishkek City Hall is "optimizing" all bus routes in the city

Passengers will have to make multiple transfers Significant changes are expected in the bus routes of the capital of Kyrgyzstan. The Bishkek City Hall announced plans for "optimization," as reported by Ulanbek Beishenbaev, head of the Department of Transport and Road Transport Infrastructure Development. According to him, the changes will affect all 72 existing routes. Some routes will become circular, which should improve access to public transport and change the distribution of

19.02.2026, 18:22