News of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek and Osh — latest events today

News

{title}
Local news
{title}
Economy
{title}
Incidents
{title}
Exclusive
{title}
Analytics
{title}
In the world
{title}
Political news
{title}
Health
{title}
Sports
{title}
Education news
{title}
Ecology
{title}
Cultural news
The probability of seeing a snow leopard during a tour in Kyrgyzstan reaches 90 percent
Local news

The probability of seeing a snow leopard during a tour in Kyrgyzstan reaches 90 percent

Photo from the internet. Observing snow leopards has become a popular form of ecotourism in various countries Observing snow leopards has become an important aspect of ecotourism in many countries, such as India, Mongolia, China, and Pakistan. Inspired by this practice, the Snow Leopard Foundation in Kyrgyzstan, with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), successfully implemented the project "Snow Leopard Tours - A Key to Preserving Local Nature" in 2023.

18.02.2026, 16:57
Local news / Exclusive

Life in the Regions: Valentina Kulmatova from Taraz Became Part of a Kyrgyz Family

Valentina Kulmatova, born in Kazakhstan, became the wife of Azizbek from Kyrgyzstan. In a conversation with a Turmush correspondent, Valentina shared that she was born in 1994 in Taraz (Kazakhstan) and is currently a citizen of Kyrgyzstan, residing in Bishkek. She graduated from the Academy of Tourism. Her father is Korean, and her mother is Russian. Her husband has a Kyrgyz father and a Dungan mother. Valentina and Azizbek have known each other since childhood, as they lived next door,

18.02.2026, 16:57
Modern "smart" projectors with Wi-Fi are being installed in Bishkek
Local news

Modern "smart" projectors with Wi-Fi are being installed in Bishkek

Photo courtesy of the mayor's office The implementation of modern lighting technologies has begun in Bishkek. The mayor's office reported the installation of innovative "smart" projectors near the Bishkek Park shopping and entertainment center. These projectors, as noted by the mayor's office, combine the functions of architectural lighting, energy efficiency, and digital solutions as part of a sponsored project by Project Vision Al.

18.02.2026, 16:55
Local news / Exclusive

In the Ak-Su District, 250 hectares of land will be converted to sprinkler irrigation.

In the Ak-Su district of the Issyk-Kul region, new technologies are actively being developed to address the problem of irrigation water shortage. This was reported by Nurzat Kaliev, the head of the local water management department. According to the provided information, the district has 400 hectares of irrigated land. This year, it is planned to convert 20 hectares to drip irrigation and 250 hectares to sprinkler irrigation. At the same time, work is underway to improve the irrigation water

18.02.2026, 16:55
News / Education news

In the Chuy Region, 44 home-type kindergartens were opened in 2025.

In 2025, 44 home-type kindergartens began operating in the Chui region, where 925 children are being educated and 45 educators are employed. This was reported by Gulmira Kyshtobaeva, the deputy representative of the president in the region, at a board meeting. The board meeting, held on February 18, was dedicated to issues of socio-economic development in the Chui region for 2026.

18.02.2026, 16:50
Sadyr Japarov opened a new cable car in the Ala-Archa park
Local news

Sadyr Japarov opened a new cable car in the Ala-Archa park

The cable car will provide access to picturesque corners of nature Today, February 18, a new cable car was inaugurated in the Ala-Archa National Nature Park in Bishkek, led by President Sadyr Japarov. According to Japarov, this cable car will become an important element for providing tourists access to hard-to-reach but incredibly beautiful places in the park. "With the completion of the second phase of the cable car construction, we will continue to develop the infrastructure of

18.02.2026, 16:45
410 million soms in savings: State Enterprise "Kyrgyzpharmacia" implements direct purchasing without intermediaries
Exclusive

410 million soms in savings: State Enterprise "Kyrgyzpharmacia" implements direct purchasing without intermediaries

As part of new initiatives in 2026, the State Enterprise "Kyrgyzpharmacy" will focus on reducing drug prices and ensuring their quality, as well as on the sustainability of supplies. This is expected to result in savings for the state budget amounting to approximately 410 million soms compared to the previous year. Currently, preparations are underway for signing contracts. This new procurement model aims to eliminate intermediary links, which will not only reduce costs but also

18.02.2026, 16:40
"Smart Projectors Being Installed in Bishkek"
Local news / Exclusive

"Smart Projectors Being Installed in Bishkek"

In the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, the installation of "smart" projectors has begun. This was reported by the local city administration. The new projectors are located near the Bishkek Park shopping and entertainment center and combine architectural lighting, energy efficiency, and digital infrastructure as part of a sponsorship initiative by the company "Project Vision Al".

18.02.2026, 16:39
Sadyr Japarov: A Modern Tourist Infrastructure Will Be Created in the Regions of Kyrgyzstan
Tourism / Exclusive

Sadyr Japarov: A Modern Tourist Infrastructure Will Be Created in the Regions of Kyrgyzstan

The President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Japarov, announced plans to create a modern tourist infrastructure in various regions of the country. This statement was made during an event dedicated to the opening of the cable car in the Ala-Archa Nature Park. The President emphasized that one of the key tasks is to maximize the use of Kyrgyzstan's tourist potential and promote the country in the international mountain tourism arena. “We will continue to work on creating modern tourist infrastructure

18.02.2026, 16:37
Border services of the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan discussed current issues of cross-border interaction.
Exclusive

Border services of the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan discussed current issues of cross-border interaction.

In order to increase the level of trust, ensure stability, and maintain the regime of the state border, a meeting was held on February 15 with border guards from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. According to the Border Service of Kyrgyzstan, the meeting took place near the "Friendship" stele, at the border of the three countries, within the area of responsibility of the border authorities.

18.02.2026, 16:37
In Kyrgyzstan, a virtual museum "Manas Aalamy" has been opened
Exclusive

In Kyrgyzstan, a virtual museum "Manas Aalamy" has been opened

In Kyrgyzstan, the first virtual museum called "Manas Aalamy" has been opened, initiated by the National Academy of "Manas". According to the information provided by the academy, the ceremonial event took place in the technopark of the capital and included an exhibition of works from participants of the extensive artistic creativity competition "Manas Aalamy – 2025". The creation of the virtual museum is part of the implementation of the president's program

18.02.2026, 16:35
Laboratories receive support under the "Agrofinancing" project
Health / Exclusive

Laboratories receive support under the "Agrofinancing" project

As part of the "Agrofinancing of Value-Added Chains" initiative, technical support is provided to state veterinary laboratories, which includes supplying necessary equipment and standard samples from the government. The Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry reported that practical courses aimed at enhancing the qualifications of specialists in conducting specific tests are also being organized under the project.

18.02.2026, 16:34
Exclusive

Cafes in the city of Uzgen checked: Two entrepreneurs fined

In Uzgen, located in the Osh region, inspections of public catering facilities were conducted to ensure compliance with sanitary standards. This information was provided by the Uzgen Interdistrict Center for Disease Prevention and Sanitary-Epidemiological Surveillance.

18.02.2026, 16:29
Local news / Exclusive

Enhanced measures for ensuring passenger safety on the Bishkek—Kara-Balta highway

Security measures have been tightened on the Bishkek—Kara-Balta highway. According to the press service of the Road Traffic Safety Department (UOBDD) under the Main Internal Affairs Directorate of the Chui region, this highway passes through several districts, including Sokuluk, Moscow, and Jayil. In this regard, control over compliance with traffic rules has been significantly strengthened to enhance pedestrian safety.

18.02.2026, 16:27
Local news / Exclusive

Breaking through the roof of a house, the predator made a den there and destroyed 50 turkeys overnight in Batken.

In the Batken region, in the Leilek district, an unusual event occurred: an animal listed in the Red Book destroyed the house of a local resident and killed 50 turkeys in one night. In the village of Internacional, located in the Kulundinsky ayil aimak, an unknown predator ruthlessly exterminated chickens and, as mentioned earlier, killed 50 turkeys belonging to a local resident. Moreover, it broke through the roof of a newly built house.

18.02.2026, 16:27
The President warned law enforcement agencies not to exert pressure on businesses
Exclusive

The President warned law enforcement agencies not to exert pressure on businesses

President Sadyr Japarov called on law enforcement agencies not to exert unreasonable pressure on entrepreneurs who contribute to the country's development. He made this statement during the ceremonial opening of the cable car in the Ala-Archa National Nature Park. The head of state noted that it is necessary to create the most comfortable conditions for investments in various sectors of the economy.

18.02.2026, 16:19
Sadyr Japarov met with Members of the European Parliament
Exclusive

Sadyr Japarov met with Members of the European Parliament

Today, February 18, the President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Japarov, held a meeting with a delegation of European Parliament deputies led by Giuseppina Princi, who holds the position of chair of the delegation for relations with Central Asian countries. This information was provided by the president's press service. The delegation included deputies such as Giuseppina Princi (Italy), Sven Simon (Germany), Thierry Mariani (France), Antonin Stanek (Czech Republic), Christian Vigenin (Bulgaria),

18.02.2026, 16:19
Local news

On February 19, the railway crossing in Kainy will be closed.

On February 19, traffic will be temporarily halted at the unguarded railway crossing located on access road No. 220 from the station "Kainy." This crossing is situated at the intersection of 60 Years of October Street and Trudovoy Street. This was reported by the press service of "Kyrgyz Temir Zholu." Traffic restrictions will be in effect from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM due to repair work on the tracks.

18.02.2026, 16:18
Sadyr Japarov: The Cable Car Will Open Up Hard-to-Reach Areas of "Ala-Archa"
Exclusive

Sadyr Japarov: The Cable Car Will Open Up Hard-to-Reach Areas of "Ala-Archa"

President Sadyr Japarov announced the opening of a new cable car in the Ala-Archa National Nature Park, which will significantly ease access to the hard-to-reach areas of the park. According to him, the completion of the project will allow not only local residents but also tourists from abroad to enjoy the unique natural beauty of the Kyrgyz mountains. The President noted that the second phase of the project will begin from the checkpoint and will span 12 kilometers, covering the most

18.02.2026, 16:16
President Sadyr Japarov met with Members of the European Parliament
Exclusive

President Sadyr Japarov met with Members of the European Parliament

The meeting discussed the prospects for the development of bilateral relations Today, February 18, the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov, met with a delegation from the European Parliament led by Giuseppina Princi, the chair of the Committee on Relations with Central Asia. The delegation included members from various countries: Giuseppina Princi (Italy), Sven Simon (Germany), Thierry Mariani (France), Antonin Stanek (Czech Republic), Christian Vigenin (Bulgaria), Tomas Froehlich

18.02.2026, 16:12
Some Artists of the Abdymomunov National Drama Theater Live with Their Families in Warehouse Spaces
Local news

Some Artists of the Abdymomunov National Drama Theater Live with Their Families in Warehouse Spaces

The difficult living conditions of the artists of the National Drama Theater named after Abdymomunov At a parliamentary meeting, deputy Mahabat Mavlyanova reported that some artists of the National Drama Theater named after Abdymomunov have been living for many years in conditions far from ideal, in storage facilities where theatrical equipment is kept. The deputy noted that she was able to personally familiarize herself with the living conditions of these artists, and they are indeed

18.02.2026, 16:11
Exclusive

Weapons seized in the Leilek District

In the Leilek district, a citizen was detained on suspicion of illegal possession of firearms, reports the press service of the Internal Affairs Directorate of the Batken region. As part of the preventive operation "Arsenal," which took place from February 16 to 21, 2026, law enforcement agencies discovered a case of illegal storage of weapons. Police officers from the Katran rural department detained a 34-year-old man named A.A. on the Chat pasture, located in the village of Ozgorush.

18.02.2026, 16:10
Sports

UTS in Turkey: "Bars" drew with the vice-champion of Georgia, Murzaev missed a penalty

The "Bars" team from Issyk-Kul continues its training camp in Turkey, where they played a match against the Georgian club "Dila Gori," which finished second in the recent championship. The game, which took place on February 18, did not start well for the Kyrgyzstani team: the opponents opened the scoring in the 6th minute, and by halftime, they maintained a 1:0 lead.

18.02.2026, 16:10
Minura Abdykalykova Appointed Press Secretary of the Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh
Exclusive

Minura Abdykalykova Appointed Press Secretary of the Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh

The Speaker of the Parliament has signed the relevant order Minura Abdykalykova has been appointed as the press secretary of the Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh. This news was confirmed by Speaker Marlen Mamataliyev, who signed the corresponding document. Who is this new press officer of the parliament? In 2012, Minura Abdykalykova graduated from the Kyrgyz National University named after J. Balasagyn, where she studied journalism. From 2012 to 2026, she held various positions at the AKIpress

18.02.2026, 16:08
Exclusive

"120 million soms allocated for the repair of irrigation facilities in 2026, - first deputy representative"

In the Chui region, preparations for the irrigation season of 2026 are actively underway. This was reported by the First Deputy Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the region, Sanjar Zhantaev, during a board meeting dedicated to the socio-economic development of the region. According to him, there are 269 reservoirs in the Chui region, with a total designed capacity of 253.145 million cubic meters. Currently, 168.81 million cubic meters of water have been accumulated. In 2026, it

18.02.2026, 16:06
Local news

No intermediaries. They intend to save 410 million soms on drug purchases.

Since the beginning of this year, the state enterprise "Kyrgyzpharmacy" has started centralized procurement of medications and medical devices in accordance with the lists approved by the Ministry of Health. According to the ministry's press service, in 2026, part of the procurement is planned to be carried out through the mechanisms of UN organizations. It is expected to acquire about 30 different types of medicines and medical devices directly from manufacturers.

18.02.2026, 16:05
Ministry of Labor: Holders of the "Kairylman" Status Have Social Guarantees Equivalent to Citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic
Exclusive

Ministry of Labor: Holders of the "Kairylman" Status Have Social Guarantees Equivalent to Citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic

The Ministry of Labor, Social Security, and Migration has announced the introduction of the "kairylman" status, which was created to simplify the process of obtaining citizenship of the Kyrgyz Republic for ethnic Kyrgyz returning to their historical homeland. The issuance of the "kairylman" status is carried out by an interdepartmental commission that includes representatives from various agencies, such as the State Committee for National Security, the Ministry of Internal

18.02.2026, 16:04
News / Education news

The annual forum "Agrodialog-2026" has started at KNAU named after Skryabin

On February 18, 2026, the annual forum "Agrodialog–2026" was opened at the Kyrgyz National Agrarian University named after K.I. Skryabin, organized by the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry. As noted by university representatives, this forum has become an important tradition that brings together scientists, students, and specialists in the field of agriculture. Its main goal is to exchange experiences, implement innovative technologies, and promote the

18.02.2026, 16:04
Director of the Republican Sports Complex named after Sh. Sydykov, Aibek Tashmatov, detained
Incidents / Exclusive

Director of the Republican Sports Complex named after Sh. Sydykov, Aibek Tashmatov, detained

His nickname attracted special attention According to information obtained from sources in law enforcement agencies, Aibek Tashmatov, the director of the Republican Sports College named after Sheraly Sydykov, has come under scrutiny following his detention. This is reported by mnews.kg. According to preliminary data, a foreign citizen is mentioned in this case. It is possible that it concerns the transfer of a Lexus 570 vehicle and an amount of 50 thousand dollars. Currently, this information

18.02.2026, 16:03
Health

"Precious Time is Being Lost": Deputy Proposes Conducting Blood Compatibility Tests Right in State Hospitals

At the meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh on February 18, Deputy Zhyldyz Sadyrbaeva expressed her concern about the current situation in the healthcare sector. She noted that when a patient requires a blood transfusion, relatives are forced to go to the Blood Center and then to a private clinic for compatibility testing. “This situation is unacceptable, especially in emergency cases where every minute counts. We risk losing a patient due to the loss of time,” the deputy emphasized.

18.02.2026, 16:02
The Vatican Refused to Participate in the "Council of the World"
In the world

The Vatican Refused to Participate in the "Council of the World"

Cardinal Parolin clarified that the Vatican will not join the "Council of Peace" regarding Gaza due to its unique nature, which he believes does not align with the traditional approaches of other countries. "Nevertheless, we acknowledge that Italy will participate as an observer," he added. He also noted that the Holy See received an invitation to participate in the Council last month. According to the cardinal, the Vatican "takes note" of Italy's decision

18.02.2026, 16:00
Exclusive

Merchant Babkin arrived at Issyk-Kul and built himself a house — what it looks like now

In Karakol, located in the Issyk-Kul region, there is a preserved house built by merchant Babkin. As reported in her comments by the employee of the regional archive, Balganish Konokbaeva, the building, erected by N.M. Babkin in 1905, was constructed at the end of the 19th century — beginning of the 20th century. Initially, he lived in this house, and later it housed a children's hospital. From 1918 to 1959, the District-City Committee operated in the building.

18.02.2026, 15:59
Ethnic Kyrgyz Complain About Population Registration Officials
Local news

Ethnic Kyrgyz Complain About Population Registration Officials

Deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh Temirlan Aitiev drew attention to numerous appeals from ethnic Kyrgyz who moved to Kyrgyzstan regarding the work of state population registration authorities. He noted that these people face manifestations of discrimination and unequal treatment, despite the fact that simplified procedures for obtaining citizenship were created for them. This primarily concerns Kyrgyz who arrived from Tajikistan and Uzbekistan in 2022, leaving their home countries due to

18.02.2026, 15:58
In Peru, the interim president was dismissed two months before the elections
In the world

In Peru, the interim president was dismissed two months before the elections

75 deputies voted for the dismissal of Jeri, while 24 opposed it, and three abstained. José Jeri had held the position of interim president since October 10, 2025, following the removal of Dina Boluarte amid rising crime in the country. His departure from office marks another stage in a prolonged political crisis that has been ongoing since 2016 and has already led to the replacement of seven presidents in Peru. The investigation was prompted by a leak of information regarding an unofficial

18.02.2026, 15:56
Nepal to Ban Climbing Everest for Unprepared Tourists
Sports

Nepal to Ban Climbing Everest for Unprepared Tourists

New access rules for Everest are set to be introduced in Nepal. The bill has already received approval from the upper house of parliament and will be considered by the lower house before the elections scheduled for March 5.

18.02.2026, 15:56
AgroDialogue – 2026. A farmer from Ak-Talinsky district produces oil and feed from safflower
Economy / Exclusive

AgroDialogue – 2026. A farmer from Ak-Talinsky district produces oil and feed from safflower

An agro-industrial forum called "AgroDialogue-2026" is taking place in Bishkek. During the event, a farmer from the Ak-Talinsky district of the Naryn region, Akylbek Abdildaev, shared information about the advantages of safflower. According to Abdildaev, he is currently selling safflower oil at a price of 200 soms per liter. The farmer also produces animal feed from this plant, which is sold for 25 soms per kilogram.

18.02.2026, 15:49
Local news / Exclusive

In the "Ala-Archa" Park, a cable car for tourists was officially opened

Today, February 18, the opening ceremony of the new cable car in the Ala-Archa Natural Park took place. President Sadyr Japarov delivered a welcoming speech. This cable car is 1 kilometer long and was built by the Austrian company Doppelmayr as part of an investment project. It is capable of serving up to 1,000 passengers per hour. Japarov also noted that the same company is involved in the construction of cable cars at the Ala-Tuu Resort ski complex.

18.02.2026, 15:44
"From Superpresidency to 'Strong State of Rules'"
Analytics

"From Superpresidency to 'Strong State of Rules'"

How President Tokayev is Completing the Architecture of a Just State The referendum scheduled for March 15, 2026, represents not just another set of amendments, but a serious overhaul of the entire state system and value foundation of Kazakhstan. Initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the reform symbolizes the end of the super-presidential era. These changes aim to create a balanced system that focuses on sustainable political institutions rather than the power of a single individual.

18.02.2026, 15:42