NEWS ARCHIVES                                                                                                         CURRENT NEWS 

 

Aitmatov’s book issued in Kyrgyz

 

World famous writer of Kyrgyzstan Chingiz Aitmatov’s book “When the Mountains Fall Down: The Eternal Bride” has been published in the Kyrgyz language. The book’s presentation will take place on September15.

 

 

60 disputed sites at the Kyrgyz-Uzbek border

 

There are about 60 disputed sites at the Kyrgyz-Uzbek state border. It was announced officially on August 19; here it is worth mentioning that the Kyrgyz-Uzbek state border’s total length is 3 378 km, and 371 km have not yet properly demarcated like Kavasai, Leshoz, Toruk and others.

 

According to officials, the Kyrgyz-Kazakh state border’s demarcation will finish in 2010 or 2011.

 

 

Ex-US senator voices hope for Central Asia democracy

 

A former US senator says success in promoting democracy in the turbulent Central Asian nation of Kyrgyzstan could serve as a positive influence in a region dominated by dictatorships.

 

Tom Daschle, a former Democratic Senate majority leader, told The Associated Press that he hoped the international community would seize the opportunity to build democratic institutions in Kyrgyzstan.

 

Kyrgyzstan is set to hold crucial parliamentary elections in October.

 

Daschle, who was in Kyrgyzstan in his capacity as vice chairman of the Washington-based National Democratic Institute, said that he feels authorities have made an effort to ensure smooth elections.

 

 

Turkish FM, Ata-Meken leader discuss upcoming Kyrgyz polls

 

Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu received Omurbek Tekebaev, leader of Kyrgyzstan's political party Ata-Meken, in the Turkish capital, Ankara on August 19. Earlier Takabaev was received by Turkish President Abdullah Gul in a meeting closed to press.

 

Davutoglu and Tekebaev discussed latest political development in Kyrgyzstan and the country's upcoming general elections scheduled for October 10.

 

The Turkish minister said his country attached great importance to Kyrgyzstan's prosperity and stability, and he pledged for continued support.

 

 

Police banned to inspect business structures

 

Kyrgyzstan’s militia is banned to inspect business structures with exception of cases connected with criminal cases, sanctions of prosecutor and courts, and inquiries of the state agencies. The Internal Affairs Minister Affairs Kubatbek Baibolov has signed an order in this context on August 19.

 

The order is signed within the framework of the interim government’s Decree about Restriction of Inspections Conducted by Law Enforcement Agencies, Revenue and other Authorized Services having the Right to Inspect Business Entities. It is hoped, this will improve the climate for the business development and eliminate needless intrusion of authorized agencies into the activity of business entities.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan stands at a crossroad, where it should make a choice

 

Kyrgyzstan stands at a crossroad, where it should make a choice. Deputy Chairman of the board of directors of the NDI (National Democratic Institute), former US Senate majority leader Tom Daschle stated August 19 following the results of his visit in Kyrgyzstan.

 

According to him, the upcoming parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan should not give preferences to any country, be it Russia or the US. “The elections will determine the future of the country, therefore much will depend on their quality and level,” the senator underlined. “In what direction the country will develop will depend on the level of participation of all groups of population in the elections.

 

The elections are an opportunity, and people see it and understand.”

 

 

Kazakhstan intends to support Kyrgyzstan

 

Kazakhstan may cancel a partial ban on export of petroleum products to Kyrgyzstan. On August 17, the Kazakh Prime Minister, Karim Masimov, has assigned the oil and gas ministry to define quota for Kyrgyzstan.

 

As informed earlier, Kazakhstan, as the OSCE chairman, intends to undertake a number of measures to support Kyrgyzstan; Kazakhstan has already decided to deliver coal to the Bishkek thermal power station and the urgent help with construction materials to the Osh and the Jalal-Abad areas.

 

Readers may remember that Kazakhstan along with the World Bank has already developed the anti-recessionary plan for Kyrgyzstan. Kazakhstan intends "to attract low-interest loans for Kyrgyzstan from the World Bank, Asian Bank, and the Eurasian Fund.

 

It is also noteworthy that Kazakhstan intends to make a proposal to the recently established three countries’ Customs Union to decrease duty on goods manufactured in Kyrgyzstan. "We are now searching for a way to import goods produced in Kyrgyzstan at low duties.

 

If the Kyrgyzstan government develops such a control technique, confirms these procedures, and issues certificates confirming manufacture of textiles produced in Kyrgyzstan, I think, we will be able to convince our partners to apply a simplified procedure for import of Kyrgyzstan goods to the Customs Union territory," a senior official of the Kazakh government said.

 

Now, as he said, the main question for Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan is "not allowing re-export from Kyrgyzstan of the Chinese production to the market of the Customs Union.

 

 

Japanese Embassy plans to attract investors to Kyrgyzstan

 

Our cooperation with Kyrgyz Republic is more than 19 years and therefore we plan to attract Japanese investors to Kyrgyzstan, Japanese Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan Sin Maruo told at a meeting with mass media representatives in Ala-Archa state residence on August 16. 

 

At present there are a few Japanese investors, Japanese Ambassador said.

 

He also told that for further development of Kyrgyzstan it is necessary to attract investors and that’s why we are negotiating with Japanese businessmen.

 

 

Finally, there are 57 political parties in fray – CEC

 

The Central Election Commission (CEC) completed the registration formalities of authorized representatives of political parties that presented notification on participation in the parliamentary elections, scheduled for October 10, 2010.

 

Accordingly, the CEC registered representatives of 57 political parties. In the republic, according to the justice ministry’s information, there are 148 registered political parties.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan approves anti-crisis plan

 

Kyrgyzstan has approved anti-recessionary plan. The new authorities have admitted that “the Kyrgyz Republic turned out to be in crisis, which affected all spheres of life.”

 

Political events broke out in April and June 2010 in the republic, caused profound economic disruption and social instability. This situation requires the implementation of high priority actions needed to address critical issues and tasks that will facilitate the way of Kyrgyzstan on medium-term economic growth,” the interim government officials explain.

 

The President of transition period Roza Otunbaeva has entrusted personal liability on the heads of ministries and other government agencies “for quality and timely implementation of anti-crisis plan.”

The authorities have agreed that “the public of regions hit by ethnic clashes fall short of food, medicine and other essentials, and therefore require significant amounts of humanitarian aid.”

 

Political instability has had its negative impact on the inflow of investment into the country. Experts register weakening of confidence of the private sector to the state, reduction of liquidity in the banking system.

 

The state budget also experiences difficulties, which are associated with reduced revenue as a result of slow economic growth, reduction of foreign trade and with forced increase of unplanned expenses. Small and medium-sized business has suffered serious losses because of the socio-political instability, especially in service sector, tourism, trade. The economy has experienced negative effects caused by external demand.

 

Closed state borders with neighboring countries, have almost led to the cessation of exports of agricultural produce and products manufactured by enterprises of light and processing industries.

 

According to preliminary estimates of the Ministry of Economic Regulation, the GDP (gross domestic product) is expected to drop down by 5.4 per cent, despite the forecasted 5.5 percent growth at the beginning of the year, GDP per capita declined from 888 to $ 839.4 US dollars (that is 48.3 less). General decline in production will be more than 5 per cent. The decline in the services sector will amount to 10.9 per cent, including the trade sector – 18.8 per cent, agriculture – 3.5. Inflation at the same time is expected to be 10.3 per cent.

 

The interim government has suggested implementing highest priority measures at the first phase of anti-crisis program up to the end of 2010: to ensure stability of government balance, to support of social stability, to maintain energy, food and public safety. In order to maintain socio-economic stability and to implement the above mentioned tasks the priority areas of spending budget funds are: rehabilitation of displaced persons and payment of compensation to the affected people; fulfillment of social obligations to the public (pensions, benefits, wages of public sector employees);

 

rehabilitation and development of affected areas, housing construction and social infrastructure; preparation for the heat deficit period; support of agro-industrial complex (analysis of the needs of the regions and logistical resources (fuel, seeds, fertilizers), preparing for the autumn sowing); liberalization of foreign trade regime with major trading partners; improvement in tax collection and ensuring revenue to the state budget, ensuring the sustainability of the state budget.  (24.kg)

 

 

New information about the roots of riots revealed

 

Foreign experts initially gave one-sided information about June events in the southern Kyrgyzstan, Abdygany Erkebaev, head of the National Commission for Investigation of Disorders in the southern region, stated at the press-conference on August 17. He said that some institutions overstated data and depicted not realistic picture in some cases. “Maybe it hass happened because many analytical and research organizations didn’t have enough information,” Abdygany Erkebaev said.

 

“Now we see that international organizations decide to correct some data. Reputed institutions have started an investigation of June events right now,” he concluded.

 

Noteworthy, he further informed that June events were planned in the middle of May, 2010; some provocations were noticed on May 18 and 19, in Jalal-Abad city, made by one of leaders of Uzbek Diaspora Kadyrzhan Batyrov. “June events weren’t spontaneous. We can assert this precisely. Rumors spread by both sides of the conflict served their purpose,” said Erkebaev.

 

Another member of the said commission Jypar Jeksheev, said at a press conference that: there was an influx of foreign reporters long before the events of June in southern Kyrgyzstan. According to him, several foreign media representatives wrote about unfortunate events before their happenings. “We have asked the Foreign Ministry to review the date of such publications and evaluate their content. In addition, we intend to find out who accredited and invited these media outlets and how they have learned in advance about how and what will happen in reality,” he stated.

 

 

Average monthly salary in Kyrgyzstan is $150

 

At present, average monthly salary in Kyrgyzstan is 6,618 soms (approximately 150 US dollars). The Finance Ministry informs, based on their data on socio-economic development of the country for January-June 2010. As noted, the growth of 9% was noticed in the in this sphere.

 

At the same time, as of the end of July 2010, the number of officially registered unemployed people is 66,600 people. The consumer price index for 7 months of 2010 has made up 3.3 percent compared with the analogous period of the last year and 5.2 percent compared with December 2009.

 

 

Parliamentary elections will be a test of maturity

 

The forthcoming parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan will be a test of maturity for each of us, first deputy Prime-Minister Amangeldi Muraliev said at the session for technical and organizational maintenance of the parliamentary elections. The whole world will be watching us, he stressed.

 

Situation in Kyrgyzstan is complicated, he further added. “We will face very hard task for reconciliation and harmony. And this is a mistake not to pay attention to this.”

 

The session is conducted behind closed doors. According to Amangeldi Muraliev they will consider issuing papers for residents of housing estates to allow them participating in voting.

 

 

President appoints opposition journalist her press secretary

 

The President of transition period Roza Otunbaeva has appointed Sultan Kanazarov her press secretary, who was earlier founder of the opposition newspaper in Kyrgyzstan.

 

Sultan Kanazarov started a newspaper “Reporter-Bishkek” with the assistance of the Russian news agency Fergana.ru in Bishkek last year. However, the publication ceased its existence after its analyst Syrgak Abdylaeva was severely beaten up by unknown people on March 3, 2009.

 

 

CEC registers 38 political parties

 

The Central Election Commission of Kyrgyzstan has registered 38 political parties. Earlier this number was 26. The registration process will last till August 16, 2010.

 

 

Ex-President Akayev loses immunity from prosecution

 

The President Roza Otunbaeva signed a decree on August 12 stripping the country‘s first President Askar Akayev of immunity from prosecution, a spokesman for the interim government told.

 

The Prosecutor General‘s Office has been ordered to "take all of the necessary measures to prosecute Akayev, as well as to secure his extradition to Kyrgyzstan," the spokesman said.

 

The decree came into force on the day it was signed.

 

 

Russia grants Kyrgyzstan additional 10 mln in aid

 

Russia will send a supplementary $10 million in humanitarian aid to Kyrgyzstan, RIA Novosti reported citing a Foreign Ministry source. "Russia issued a $20 million grant to the Kyrgyz government in May. A decision has been made to send an additional $10 million," the source said.

 

He added that a $30 million concessional loan to help stabilize the economic situation in the country after recent riots was also being discussed.

 

Russia sent a total of 400 tons of humanitarian aid to Kyrgyzstan in April-July, including food, medical supplies and tents. Moscow also plans to supply Bishkek with 20,000 metric tons of diesel fuel by the end of September.

 

 

Kyrgyz apricots possess unique characteristics

 

The apricots grown in Kyrgyzstan possess unique characteristics, such trees are rare in Italy,” Marco Kalsa, international consultant, said at a meeting of international donor projects and supporting organizations for the development of agricultural sector in Kyrgyzstan.

 

According to him, Issyk-Kul apricots are good for the production of baby food, since the production requires use of only high quality fruits. “Due to high-mountain climate apricots are less prone to diseases than those that grow in the lowlands of Italy,” summed up an international expert.

 

In anticipation of the marketing season, he told the farmers about the requirements to raw materials that apply the processing enterprises, and graphically presented them with signs of disease and pests, noting that such fruits should not be accepted for processing.

 

Meanwhile, according to the Agribusiness Competitiveness Center, in 2010 the processing plant Zhelden-Ata in the village of Ak-Terek in Issyk-Kul region intends to buy from local residents 200 tons of apricots and 1000 tons of apples at the rate of 5-7 soms per kilo, the cost of apples will be determined in September.

 

 

Swiss diplomat to head police advisory group in Kyrgyzstan

 

A Swiss expert has been named to head the Police Advisory Group in Kyrgyzstan established by the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

 

Markus Muller, who has worked in Kyrgyzstan both as director of the Swiss cooperation office and as head of the OSCE mission in Bishkek, is currently employed by the Swiss foreign ministry, which announced his appointment on August 12.

 

European foreign ministers decided last month to set up the group after ethnic riots in the south of the country in June between the Kyrgyz and Uzbek communities left at least 300 people dead and thousands homeless. The unarmed 52-strong group, which is expected to arrive in early September, is supposed to work with local police to reduce tension between the groups.

 

 

Thirteen parties submit written notification to CEC

 

Only 13 parties submitted written notification about participation in the parliamentary elections to the Central Election Commission (CEC).  On August 12, CEC considered the issue of registration of parties’ authorized representatives on financial and election problems. Each political party delegated two persons.

 

 

Beknazarov criticizes foreign partners

 

The deputy head of government, Azimbek Beknazarov, has used a press conference to lash out at regional and international organizations of which Kyrgyzstan is a member.

 

Referring to the carnage that broke out in southern Kyrgyzstan when fighting started between ethnic Kyrgyz and Uzbeks in June, Beknazarov said the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) "ignored us" when "the tragic events started....and we appealed through official channels for help from the SCO and CSTO."

 

Beknazarov also criticized plans to send 52 OSCE police officers to the south to ease tensions there, saying many people in Kyrgyzstan are against the introduction of foreign police. "We, Uzbeks and Kyrgyz, have to resolve this problem between ourselves on the basis of historic relations and diplomatically," he said. "These forces that are to be implemented could disturb the already fragile relations between the two nations. This is my personal point of view."

 

A leader of the protests that toppled President Kurmanbek Bakiev in April, Beknazarov also said today he would not run for a seat in parliament but rather stay in the government.

 

Beknazarov said he had been appointed deputy prime minister. He said his duties will be to help President Roza Otunbaeva work with the country's law enforcement system.

 

Beknazarov, 54, was the leader of the antigovernment protest in the northwestern city of Talas on April 6. The demonstration turned violent as police tried to force protesters from the provincial government building they had occupied.

 

 

Council for Development of Business and Investments to be set up

 

President Roza Otunbaeva has signed a resolution of the government on the council on development of business and investments. According to the government's press service, the document was accepted with a purpose of providing effective dialogue of the state with business-communities on issues of business environment and investment climate.

 

 

Parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan to take place October 10

 

The President Roza Otunbaeva has set parliamentary elections in the country for October 10, the government said on August 10. "The head of state Roza Otunbaeva signed a relevant decree late on Monday and it came into force," the government's information center said in a statement.

 

The elections will be held in accordance with a new Constitution, which was adopted after a national referendum in late June.

 

The majority of voters approved changes to the constitution that reduce the president's powers and make Kyrgyzstan a parliamentary republic. The new parliament will have 120 seats, but the winning party could not have more than 65 seats. It would be able to form a new Cabinet, though.

 

The official announcement of the election date comes shortly after the interim government lifted the state of emergency and curfew declared in southern Kyrgyzstan two months ago amid interethnic violence.

 

 

Otunbaeva to liquidate corruption system in Kyrgyzstan

 

The situation may worsen, if we do not liquidate corruption system in Kyrgyzstan and do not clear the road for business, the President Roza Otunbaeva stated at the closed session of the Security Council on August 10.

 

The second question of the agenda of the session was the state of economy and measures to be taken to overcome crisis conditions in certain industries and banking sphere.

 

Officials, invited to the session of the Security Council, stated that the situation in economy was under their full control; both the bank and financial sectors of the country were functioning normally. According to the Minister of Economic Regulation Emil Umetaliev, the country’s energy system is working in normal condition.

 

He further assured that all measures had been taken for continuous supply of electricity to Osh and Jalal-Abad cities. Umetaliev also informed the Security Council about the conditions of gas supply from Uzbekistan, concluded during the previous regime, were unprofitable for Kyrgyzstan.

 

The officials were assigned “to make efforts to solve the issue of provision of sufficient quantity of coal for winter period and to remove the problem, connected with gas supply, as soon as possible.”

 

Roza Otunbaeva underlined that the situation in economic sphere remains not simple. She appealed to the subordinates to refuse from the temptation of their engagement in politics and to work for the sake of economic development. “Those, who wish to take part in the elections, should announce about it and go to politics. We should devote more time to solution of economic issues. We do not have the right to waste time,” she said.

 

 

Kazakbaev meets with Japan’s Foreign Minister

 

The Foreign Minister Ruslan Kazakbaev had a bilateral meeting with Foreign Minister of Japan Katsuya Okada in Tashkent on August 8. The both sides discussed issues of bilateral relations between Japan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as the issues related to stabilization of the situation in the country, restoration of life in the south, and conducting the parliamentary elections in the autumn.

 

The Foreign Minister of Japan expressed readiness to activate cooperation for further development of relations between two states.

 

 

Otunbaeva congratulates on the holy month of Ramadan

 

The President Roza Otunbaeva has congratulated compatriots with approach of the holy month of Ramadan. The text of her congratulation has been distributed on August 9. “This month, revered by all Muslims, is associated by people with the time of approach of cleaning and renovation of the soul, with responsiveness and tolerance, with generosity and benevolence.

 

The holy month of Ramadan unveils all the best spiritual qualities of person, exalting spiritual cleanness and high thoughts of person; it is a month of kindness and peace, benevolence and forgiveness.”

 

 

Kyrgyzstan lifts state of emergency in South

 

The authorities have lifted a state of emergency in the country's southern cities of Osh, Jalal-Abad and other regions. Farid Niyazov, the Head of the Information Coordination Center under the Presidential Administration, said at a press conference.

 

“But this does not mean that all law enforcement agencies will stop working in medium security regime,” he explained. They will ensure security and order in the region.

 

 

Baryktabasov tried to seize power, Otunbaeva says

 

Formerly exiled opposition politician Urmat Baryktabasov tried to seize power through his supporters’ August 5 demonstration in Bishkek, President Roza Otunbaeva said in a statement.

 

Baryktabasov had no expectation that the government would meet his demands, she said, adding that the presence of armed men and known criminals among his supporters showed that he was motivated by a power-grab. Baryktabasov and more than 20 supporters are in custody, she said.

 

Baryktabasov supporters demonstrated in Bishkek August 5, calling for the government's resignation. Police later dispersed another group of his backers outside town and arrested him.

 

Baryktabasov tried to run for president in 2005 but was blocked from registering. He fled the country but returned after the overthrow of Kurmanbek Bakiev.

 

 

Turkic foreign ministers meet in Bodrum

 

The foreign ministers of Turkic countries met in Bodrum on August 5; Elmar Mammadyarov (Azerbaijan), Ahmet Davutoglu (Turkey), Ruslan Kazakbaev (Kyrgyzstan) and, Kanat Saudabayev (Kazakhstan) held an informal meeting chaired by the Turkish foreign minister.

 

The agenda included issues related to Central Asia, the recent situation in the region after events in Kyrgyzstan and the energy issue.

 

At the joint news conference Ahmet Davutoglu voiced hope that the permanent secretariat of the Turkic World Council will be created at the summit of Turkic countries to be held in Istanbul this year.

 

 

Bishkek prepares for celebration of the Independence Day

 

The authorities in Bishkek are preparing the central square of the capital and streets, parks and avenues for celebration of the Independence Day of Kyrgyzstan on August 31.

 

The department for information and publicity of the Mayor’s office will design the decorations, at the cost of 931 thousand soms.

 

 

Miss Bishkek-2010 contest to take place in August

 

Miss Bishkek-2010 Beauty Contest will take place on August 28 in the capital's National Opera and Ballet Theater. The winner will get a free air ticket in order to have rest in one of the best hotels of Turkey.

 

The Russian embassy will sponsor the visit of all contestants to Russia.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan will not always borrow external aid - Chorobek Imashev

 

Kyrgyzstan will not always borrow from foreign countries or international organizations. Finance Minister Chorobek Imashev stated this at the press-conference on August 5. According to him, the national debt at present is 56.6 percent of GDP. International Monetary Fund carefully controls that its level won’t go beyond 80 percent. Here it is worth mentioning that Kyrgyzstan has survived times when the national debt exceeded indexes of the gross domestic product.

 

Imashev stressed that foreign loans and donor’s help won’t be necessary when the country regain its footing. “We will generate enough funds from domestic resources.”

 

The Minister said that current national debt is $1 billion 233 million. All others indexes are connected with some major projects as construction of hydroelectric stations in Kambarata. “In total, our debt to different countries and structures is near to 2 billion 566 million soms.”

 

 

Kyrgyzstan moves on from riots with confident Expo celebration

 

Kyrgyzstan put on a united and confident face recently to celebrate its national pavilion day at the Shanghai World Expo.

 

A performance of distinctive pastoral music and songs drew a sustained applause from visitors to the pavilion, which is styled on a yurt, a movable dwelling traditionally used by the country's nomadic people.

 

The Economic Development Minister Emil Umetaliev told the gathering that since mass riots, the new government, which took office last month, had been working on "a series of important matters, bearing responsibilities for the country's future and its people." "This will strengthen national stability and the public's confidence in the government," Umetaliev said.

 

The Kyrgyzstan exhibition hall was temporarily closed early last month, due to a change of management team resulting from domestic political uncertainty, according to Kyrgyz media reports.

 

Umetaliev said that despite "the serious incidents," the country's foreign trade value had increased by 9 percent in the first half.

 

Ten members of folk band "Ordo Sakhna" played the "komuz," a traditional stringed instrument, at August 4's festivities, while a huge screen overhead showed Kyrgyz herders in ethnic costumes.

 

Located in the Joint Asian Pavilion in Zone A of the Expo park, the exhibition has the theme "Bishkek -- the city open for the world," showcasing the culture, traditions and development of the nation's capital. It depicts Bishkek as a highly industrialized but "livable" city with large green area. Films, posters, slides and cultural activities show the country's culture, history and customs and Bishkek's "harmonious development" of economy, culture and tourism.

 

The Shanghai Expo is the fifth world expo in which Kyrgyzstan has participated.

 

 

New appointments in the presidential administration of Kyrgyzstan

 

President Roza Otunbaeva has signed decrees on appointments in the presidential administration of Kyrgyzstan. According to her decrees dated August 2, 2010:

 

Bainazarovov Sabyrbek Nurkulovich is appointed as the presidential administration’s deputy head.

 

Niyazov Farid Abilezimovich is appointed as the chief of information and coordination center of the presidential administration of Kyrgyzstan.

 

Stambekov Alibek Maratovich is appointed as the head of energy and mineral resources department of the presidential administration.

 

Karabaev Akparaly Davletalievich is appointed as the head of control department of the presidential administration.

 

Orozov Taalaibek Saratanbekovich is appointed as the head of industry, transport and communication department of the presidential administration.

 

Isakov Sapar Zhumakadyrovich is appointed as the head of foreign policy department of the presidential administration.

 

Nogoibaeva Cholpon Sultanovna is appointed as the head of expert and analytical department of the presidential administration.

 

Toksobaev Bulat Temirbekovich is appointed as the head of economic development and monitoring department of the presidential administration.

 

Dadiev Zhayilbek is appointed as the head of department for affairs with appeals of citizens.

 

Mamyrov Erkinbek Tobokelovich is appointed as the head of department for legal protection and expertise.

 

Mukambetov Murat Kartaibekovich is appointed as the head of department for state service and state management policy.

 

 

Communist leader hopeful of six parties

 

I think not less than five political parties will enter the Kyrgyz parliament, Iskhak Masaliev ex-chairman of the Communist Party said at a press conference on August 2. According to him, 6-7 parties have real chances to win a seat in parliament. Masaliev divided them conditionally into three wings.

 

The first one is the party in power, whose representatives sit in the interim government. He said such political organizations as “Ata-Jurt and Respublica would oppose the party in power. He also mentioned that former Prime Minister Felix Kulov’ party Ar-Namys will have also chance in the parliament.

 

 

President explains necessity of OSCE police advisors

 

The interim president of Kyrgyzstan explained young residents of Osh city why OSCE police advisors were being brought in. Roza Otunbaeva during her recent visit to Osh met with representatives of local youth organizations in Osh city.

 

Leaders of the civil society complained the head of the government that officers of militia and army command abuse authority. Roza Otunbaeva confirmed she was aware of such violations and would monitor this problem. “We want to build a democratic state where the utmost value is human rights. We have to respect rights of every citizen,” Otunbaeva stressed.

 

She explained the necessity of OSCE police deployment “for the advisory help in stabilizing the situation in the south of the country.”

 

 

Kazakhstan will provide Kyrgyzstan with coal, fuel oil and diesel

 

During a meeting devoted to preparation to autumn-winter period 2010-2011, the Energy Minister Osmonbek Artykbaev informed that Kazakhstan would allocate to Kyrgyzstan 400 thousand tons of coal, 40,000 tons of fuel oil, 50,000 tons of diesel fuel for coming winter period.

 

In accordance with the decision of the Interim Government in this regard, to prepare for heating period 206 thousand tons of coal is needed. The country has 11,000 tons and will import 195 thousand tons.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan leads CIS on the rate of industrial output

 

Industrial production increased 10 percent on average throughout the CIS in the first half of 2010, the CIS Intergovernmental Statistics Committee announced. The highest figure - 41.8 percent - came from Kyrgyzstan after its Kumtor gold mining plant, a strategic enterprise and employer for the country, resumed its operations. Russia came in sixth among other CIS members, with 10.2 percent.

 

Tajikistan and Ukraine showed a 12-percent rise and Armenia registered a figure of 12.3 percent.

 

Kazakhstan's industrial output rose 11 percent, while that of Belarus, Moldova and Azerbaijan climbed 8.8, 6.6 and 3.5 percent, respectively.

 

In June 2010 compared to June 2009, industrial production moved up 9 percent in the CIS, with the best result coming from Belarus (14.8 percent), and the worst from Armenia (0.9 percent). In June alone, Russia was third in the CIS year on year, with an increase of 9.7 percent.

 

 

Foreign Ministry comments on deployment of OSCE police advisors

 

The Foreign Ministry has issued statement on the issue of deployment of the OSCE police consultative group in the country. According to it, in society “you can observe misunderstanding of the essence of mission of the OSCE police consultative group and incorrect usage of terms for its definition as “international police forces,” “international peacekeeping forces,” “OSCE police forces,” “OSCE policemen.”

 

“Wrong definition of the status of the OSCE police consultative group in Kyrgyzstan misleads the population of our country and does not answer the true contents of its forthcoming noble mission,” the ministry explains.

 

“One of the most important tasks of the OSCE police consultative group in Kyrgyzstan is to contribute to restoration of trust of the population in law enforcement bodies. It is expected that professionalism of officers of the police consultative group, their openness, honesty and availability will contribute to strengthening of mutual understanding in society. The OSCE police consultative group will do monitoring of the situation and the work of force structures in the south, which will refrain law enforcement bodies and population from wrongful acts, will induce local governments and state structures to examine statements and wishes of citizens closely.”

 

The group’s activity, as noted, will be realized according to the mandate of the OSCE Center in Bishkek.

 

“Its direction to the south of the country can be considered as expansion of activity of the field office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in Osh city, which conducted its work in this region in the past too,” the Foreign Ministry underlines.

 

 

Donors to give Kyrgyzstan 1.1 billion in aid

 

International donors pledged 1.1 billion US dollars in aid July 27 to help Kyrgyzstan rebuild after months of political and ethnic violence. The aid will be allotted over just 30 months - good news that is likely to boost the caretaker government working to stabilize the country before October parliamentary elections.

 

''The world has come to the Kyrgyzstan's aid in an impressive demonstration of speed and resolve,'' World Bank official Theodore Ahlers said after co-chairing the donor meeting in the capital Bishkek.

 

Aid earmarked for use this year totals around 600 million US dollars, and will go toward funding the public sector, helping economic recovery and building infrastructure. Officials with donor organizations said they were confident the interim government would spend the funds properly, despite Kyrgyzstan having been criticized for corruption and a lack of transparency in the past.

 

President Roza Otunbaeva said control will be maintained over reconstruction programs, as a new constitution adopted in a July referendum had strengthened laws against corruption ''and will help to destroy the schemes of grand larceny of people's money that were devised by the previous regimes.'' She said the prospect of aid would help preserve harmony, as poverty is a key source of tension in the country, where both the United States and Russia have military air bases.

 

''It is only with peace and stability that Kyrgyzstan can return to a path of social and economic growth, and it is in this spirit that we reach out for support to our friends and allies from many countries and international organizations,'' Otunbaeva said.

 

Investment prospects have been hurt by the interim government's swift moves to nationalize a swathe of businesses, including real estate, banks and media companies, in the wake of the April revolt. The Finance Minister Chorobek Imashev stressed the need to prop up the banking sector as a way of boosting credit.

 

Banking had relied on a major domestic lender that authorities say was controlled by Bakiev's family and has since been nationalized.

 

Otunbaeva said the nationalization drive was meant to root out corrupt practices. ''Nationalization was made necessary by exceptional circumstances and the desire to cancel the effects of the illicit acquisition of assets by aggressive takeovers, at below-market prices, and through the use of administrative resources by the deposed president, his family and his entourage,'' Otunbaeva said.

 

 

Turkish Government will write off 51 million

 

The Turkish Government will consider writing off debt of Kyrgyzstan worth $51 million. Deputy Chairman of the Interim Government Azimbek Beknazarov told journalists after coming back from Turkey. During his visit Beknazarov explained the Turkish side that Kyrgyzstan could not pay off debts in near future.

 

Besides, law enforcement officers of Kyrgyzstan have a opportunity to raise their skills during six months training in leading high schools of Turkey. In this context, the Interior Ministry shall submit a list of students in near future.

 

 

EU to allocate 118 million euro to support reforms in Kyrgyzstan

 

The European Union will allocate 118 million euro to support reforms in Kyrgyzstan, the EU representation in Bishkek said.

 

The EU allocates 118 million euro to support short and long term needs of Kyrgyzstan in the period 2010-2013. The support will be provided as humanitarian aid. The EU has also provided support to Kyrgyzstan for the stabilization of democracy. “We will continue our support aimed at the rehabilitation and socio-economic development of the country,” Katrin Ashton, Vice-President of EC, EU representative for foreign affairs and policy security told.

 

In response to a crisis situation in Kyrgyzstan, the European Commission has decided to allocate 12 million euro to finance new initiatives aimed at strengthening of social stability and establishment of democratic constitutional framework, as well as humanitarian assistance. In addition, the EU programs on assistance in 2010 will get 55 million euro, directed to support social security network, education and agriculture.

 

In the period 2011-2013 years the EU plans to allocate 51 million euro for the reforms in the spheres of social protection, education and the rule of law.

 

 

Otunbaeva meets with UNICEF Regional Director

 

President Roza Otunbaeva met with Steven Allen, Regional Director of the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) on July 26. The meeting was also attended by First Deputy Prime Minister Amangeldy Muraliev, Foreign Minister Ruslan Kazakbaev and Permanent UNICEF Representative in the Kyrgyz Republic, Jonathan Veitch. During the meeting, S. Allen stressed the importance of cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and UNICEF.

 

President Otunbaeva expressed the need to take urgent measures concerning education of children in the conflict zone. “We must do everything to prepare for the new academic year,” she said.

 

 

Otunbaeva joins most mentioned foreign figures in Russian press

 

President Roza Otunbaeva has been included in the list of the most mentioned foreign figures in the Russian press, News.ru informs with reference to the researches of the System for Complex Analysis of News and Media (SCAN).

 

According to the SCAN, over the period between July 19 and 25 her name was mentioned in Russian mass media 217 times, ranking 8 in the rating. The leaders of the list are still Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Premier Vladimir Putin. They were mentioned in the press 3,001 and 2,223 times respectively. Among leaders of the rating is also Mayor of Moscow city Yuri Luzhkov.

 

Among foreign figures, the rating of mentioning in Russian mass media is headed by President of Ukraine Victor Yanukovych (he was mentioned in 880 materials) and Premier Nikolai Azarov – 503 times. Further goes US President Barack Obama (534), Chief of the US Federal Reserve System Ben Bernanke (393), US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (339), Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko (281), Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili (226), Venezuela President Hugo Chavez (189) and Prime-Minister of Italy Silvio Berlusconi (168).

 

In the beginning of July 2010 Roza Otunbaeva occupied the forth place among the most mentioned foreigners in the Russian press with the result of 490.

 

 

President voices new approaches to economic issues

 

The President Roza Otunbaeva has voiced new approaches and decisions of economic issues during the international donor conference in Bishkek. She noted that first of all they would combat the system of bribery. “We know that due to corruption, the progress of the country and trust of the investors cannot be achieved. In this connection we are going to reduce state’s groundless interference in business,” Roza Otunbaeva said.

 

One more new approach is monitoring of the work of controlling bodies and processes of the business registration as well. “We have witnessed as fled Prime Minister publicly defended interests of corporative business and not of the nation,” Roza Otunbaeva continued.

 

The fourth approach is providing transparent work of the power industry. “This area is the most profitable. That’s why, it was the most corrupted area during times of former rulers.”

 

The President requested the donor community to assist in implementing market elements into the power industry. Roza Otunbaeva specified one more trend of the economic development; this is creation of independent and efficient platform for dialogue between authorities and business.

 

Otunbaeva noted that all tasks mentioned above are impossible to solve without rising of competitive ability of the economy. In the conclusion, the President noted that the interim government together with the donor community has to make proposals concerning creation of practical development institutions.

 

 

OSCE approves deployment of police advisors to Kyrgyzstan

 

The 56 OSCE member states agreed the deployment of police advisors to Kyrgyzstan in a decision taken by the Permanent Council in Vienna.

 

According to the decision, the Police Advisory Group will assist Kyrgyzstan in reducing inter-ethnic tensions and strengthening the capacities of the territorial units of the Interior Ministry of the Kyrgyz Republic.

 

"The OSCE Chairmanship welcomes the decision of the member states to deploy without delay a Police Advisory Group and thus enhance the OSCE's continuing work with Kyrgyzstan to resolve the current crisis, prevent the spillover of tensions in the region and promote post conflict rehabilitation," said the Ambassador of Kazakhstan Kairat Abdrakhmanov. "The police advisors will play an important role in reassuring the people of Kyrgyzstan following the tragic events of recent months, and will further strengthen the capacities of the police and help in restoring public trust."

 

The initial deployment of the Police Advisory Group will be for four months from the start of the operation, and the mission could be extended with the agreement of Kyrgyzstan and the Permanent Council.

The agreement with Kyrgyzstan on the Police Advisory Group envisages sending an initial 52 international police officers to monitor and advise counterparts in the Kyrgyz police force, with a focus on southern Kyrgyzstan. They will be unarmed and have no executive police powers.

 

All 56 OSCE member states may nominate candidates for the Police Advisory Group.

 

 

OSCE Chairperson says presence of Police Advisory Group in Kyrgyzstan will facilitate strengthening trust, stability and order in country

 

The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Kazakhstan's Secretary of State and Foreign Minister Kanat Saudabayev, praised the decision taken in Vienna by the OSCE Permanent Council to deploy a Police Advisory Group to Kyrgyzstan.

 

"From the onset Kazakhstan has been advocating for the OSCE's effective participation in the settlement of the situation in Kyrgyzstan, within the existing mandate of the organization. In view of this, we supported from the start the request of Kyrgyzstan's authorities to deploy a Police Advisory Group.

 

I sincerely welcome the fact that all 56 member states of the OSCE have demonstrated their wisdom and achieved consensus about the deployment of OSCE police advisers in Kyrgyzstan, which was formalized by the decision of the representatives of our countries in Vienna," Saudabayev said.

 

"The presence of the Police Advisory Group in the regions that were the site of violent clashes will facilitate strengthening trust, stability and order in the country. As President Nursultan Nazarbayev emphasized during the informal ministerial meeting of OSCE foreign ministers in Almaty, Kazakhstan stands ready to continue supporting the brotherly people of Kyrgyzstan both as the OSCE Chair and on a bilateral level."

 

 

Scarcity of funds will be compensated by energy export

 

The scarcity of funds caused by decrease in tariffs for electrical energy will be compensated by energy export, Minister of Energy Osmonbek Artykbaev stated at the government session.

 

Reportedly, current scarcity of funds sums 1.5 billion soms. “Because of unprecedented water volume in Toktogul reservoir we are planning to provide regular energy supply to the country and to export it as well.

 

According to the agreement with Kazakhstan we will export 530 million kilowatt-hours. Besides, we have held tenders among several Kazakh companies for export over 2 billion 330 million kilowatt-hours. We are expecting to gain $57 million that will cover current deficit,” Osmonbek Artykbaev added.

 

 

New Government of the Kyrgyz Republic formed

 

On July 14, Roza Otunbaeva announced the members of the new government, which will work till the parliamentary elections, to be held in October 2010. The following is the list of the cabinet:

Amangeldy Muraliev - First Deputy Prime Minister

Jantoro Satybaldiev - Deputy Prime Minister

Alexander Kostyuk - Deputy Prime Minister

Uktomkhan Abdullayeva - Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Social Affairs

Aida Salyanova - Minister of Justice

Kubatbek Baibolov - Minister of Internal Affairs

Ruslan Kazakbaev - Minister of Foreign Affairs

Emil Umetaliev - Ministry of Economic Regulation

Chorobek Imashev - Minister of Finance

Sheraly Abdyldaev - Minister of State Property

Osmon Artykbaev - Minister of Energy

Mamatsharip Turdukulov - Minister of Agriculture

Kairat Jumaliev - Minister of Natural Resources

Sabirjan Abdikarimov - Minister of Health

Aigul Ryskulova - Minister of Labor, Employment and Migration

Duyshenkul Chotonov - Minister for Emergency Situations

Sadyk Sher-Niyaz - Minister of Culture and Information

Aliyasbek Alymkulov - Minister for Youth Affairs

Erkin Isakov - Minister of Transport and Communications

Kanat Sadykov - The Ministry of Education and Science

Baratali Koshmatov - State Committee for Water Resources and Land Reclamation

 

 

ADB to grant 40 million to support Kyrgyzstan’s budget

 

Asian Development Bank will allocate 40 million US dollars to Kyrgyzstan to support the country's budget, Lan Wu, director of the permanent mission of the Asian Development Bank in Kyrgyzstan, said at a meeting with journalists. He stated that the grant will ensure the government to pay the costs of protected expenditures (salaries to state employees, retirees).

 

Free surplus of turnover the government may use to restore the south of the country, said Lan Wu. According to him, the ADB is currently developing a program consisting of several projects that will support the southern cities of Kyrgyzstan, suffered during the riots.

 

 

United States ready to support Kyrgyzstan

 

My main mission in Kyrgyzstan is to explore additional ways for assistance that the United States of America can provide to the country with regard to developments in the south. We also stand ready to propose an initiative to include the OSCE police forces into the international forces to resolve the situation. It was said by Michael McFaul, Special Assistant to US President in charge of Russian and Eurasian Affairs in context of National Security.

 

According to him, the US is interested to study the causes of the tragic events in southern Kyrgyzstan and to collaborate with the Kyrgyz government and civil society in ways to prevent similar events in future. “Soon in Almaty (Kazakhstan) will be held informal conference of foreign ministers of OSCE, where among other issues the situation in Kyrgyzstan and the possible introduction of police forces into the country will be discussed,” said Michael McFaul. “I will join the US delegation that will participate in the conference.”

 

The second part of the mission, he said, is studying the process of “re” democratization in Kyrgyzstan.

 

 

Alteration to be introduced in parliamentary elections

 

Some alterations will be introduced in the parliamentary elections to be held in Kyrgyzstan, Omurbek Tekebaev, deputy chairman of the interim government, the leader of the Ata-Meken political party said at a press conference on July 13. According to the amendments to the Code, the day of announcement of elections cannot be 75 days prior to the elections, as it was before, but in a period of 90 days.

 

Thus, we will hold elections in October 2010, according to the schedule. This decision was upheld at a meeting of more than 40 parties, Tekebaev said. He also mentioned that it was also approved to lower the election fund from required 100 million soms to 50 million soms. 


In addition, he said, parties registered before the announcement date of the elections, would begiven the right to participate in parliamentary elections.

 

 

Japan intends to import gold from Kyrgyzstan

 

Delegation of Mirage Group industrial corporation, registered in UAE, headed by chairman of board of directors, businessman from Japan Ichiro Fukuda and a group of Japanese TV Tokyo company visited Kyrgyzstan on July 2-4.

 

The main purpose of the visit was to find out ways for investing in the development of gold mining and import of gold to Japan. The Japanese also made a documentary on the prospects of gold mining in Kyrgyzstan.

 

 

OSCE Center to help ensure security of energy infrastructure

 

The OSCE Center in Bishkek will help ensure security of energy infrastructure of Kyrgyzstan.

 

In this context, the center has provided CCTV system for Toktogul Hydro Power Plant, which is of great importance not only for Kyrgyzstan, but also for the whole Central Asia. “It will allow enhancing security of strategic locations of energy infrastructure of Kyrgyzstan.”

 

Head of the OSCE Center in Bishkek Andrew Tesoriere emphasized that the recent disorders in Kyrgyzstan force to pay attention to importance of protection of key national energy infrastructure from diversion or attack.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan assists Afghanistan to fight against smuggling

 

Kyrgyzstan assists Afghanistan to fight against smuggling, OSCE Centre in Bishkek informs. 


Reportedly, the OSCE Centre in cooperation with the State Customs Service of Kyrgyzstan organized six-week course for customs officers from Afghanistan.

 

“This project, implemented in Kyrgyzstan, with the support of the organization, is an example of more extensive regional relations in the fields of customs services,” the head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, Andrew Tesoriere said. 


Training for Afghanistan customs officers will be held on regular basis.

 

 

Atambaev pays an official visit to Russia

 

On July 10-11 first deputy chairman of the Interim Government Almazbek Atambayev paid an official visit to Russian Federation.

 

During the trip, Almazbek Atambayev met with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. The both sides discussed a wide range of issues of bilateral cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and Russia.

 

Taking into consideration the situation in the country the Russian government has decided to allocate an additional grant to Kyrgyzstan in the amount of 10 million US dollars. In addition, humanitarian aid in the form of 20 thousand tons of diesel and 1.5 tons of wheat seeds will be sent to Kyrgyzstan in this month.

 

Also preliminary agreement was reached on abolishing duties on fuel supplies to Kyrgyzstan, which could significantly reduce the prices of petrol and diesel.

 

 

Roza Otunbaeva meets with representatives of int’l organizations

 

President Roza Otunbaeva met with representatives of international donor organizations on July 7.

International organizations were represented by the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, Asian Development Bank and European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

 

The head of the state was accompanied by Minister of Economic Regulation Emil Umetaliev, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ruslan Kazakbaev, Director General of the state directorate for the restoration of Osh and Jalal-Abad Jantoro Satybaldiev. The main agenda of the meeting was the rehabilitation of the southern regions, which had suffered during the recent ethnic violence.

 

 

New Russian military base in Kyrgyzstan still relevant

 

The issue of creating a new Russian military base in Kyrgyzstan's south is still on the agenda, the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry said. "No official negotiations are currently being held on the issue, but it remains relevant today," acting Foreign Minister Ruslan Kazakbaev said.

 

Russia already has a military base in Kant, some 20 kilometers (12 miles) outside the capital, Bishkek. The United States also has a facility, previously a military base and now a transit center for supplying troops in Afghanistan.

 

The both countries signed a memorandum in August 2009 on the opening of a Russian training center for Russian and Kyrgyz soldiers and the deployment of additional troops in Kyrgyzstan (up to 500 soldiers). The troops are to operate in Kyrgyzstan under the aegis of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).

 

In line with the memorandum, Russia plans to unite all its military facilities in Kyrgyzstan into a United Russian Military Base. It would include the airbase in Kant, a new training center, and some smaller facilities.

 

On July 1, CSTO Secretary General Nikolai Bordyuzha said talks on the issue could be renewed following the June 27 referendum. The vote turned the country from a presidential to a parliamentary republic and made the interim prime minister, Roza Otunbaeva, the country's President for a transitional period until 2012.

 

Bordyuzha said the creation of the base was possible as the new Kyrgyz authorities had pledged to maintain the previous government's policies towards Russia. He said the decision would "depend on the stabilization of the situation in Kyrgyzstan" and could be made after the situation improved.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan to produce less white sugar in 2010

 

In 2010, mills in Kyrgyzstan will produce only 25 percent of total needs of population in white sugar, according to official sources. It is expected that farmers will collect around 180-200 thousand tons of sugar beet. Thus, sugar mills will produce around 25-27 thousand tons of white sugar. Such amount of production is not enough for domestic market, the officials say.

 

Kyrgyzstan needs about 110-120 tons of white sugar annually for its domestic market; the government intends to import the white sugar to meet the needs of the population.

 

 

OSCE Permanent Council reiterates offer to assist Kyrgyzstan

 

The OSCE Permanent Council issued a statement last week that expressed its readiness to assist Kyrgyzstan and called for a quick conclusion of negotiations with Kyrgyzstan's authorities.

 

The statement said the Permanent Council "expresses its readiness to consider the early deployment of a Police Task Force to Kyrgyzstan and calls for the swift conclusion of the negotiations with the competent Kyrgyzstani authorities so that the Permanent Council can take an appropriate decision."

 

The statement, adopted unanimously by representatives from the 56 OSCE member states, took note of an OSCE Needs Assessment Mission that recently visited Kyrgyzstan. It also recalled that the Permanent Council in June had offered "to assist Kyrgyzstan upon its request in resolving the current crisis, preventing the spillover of tensions in the region and in promoting post-conflict rehabilitation."

 

 

China supports Kyrgyzstan's efforts to maintain national stability

 

China has expressed congratulations on the inauguration of Kyrgyzstan President Roza Otunbaeva, vowing to further push forward healthy bilateral ties. "As a friendly neighbor of Kyrgyzstan, we applaud the smooth holding of national referendum and extend congratulations to the country's newly inaugurated President Roza Otunbaeva," said Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang at a regular press briefing.

 

China respects the choice of the Kyrgyz people, and supports the country's efforts to resume national stability and develop the economy, he said. "China is willing to make joint efforts with the country to further strengthen political trust and the traditional friendship, enhance cooperation in the areas of politics, trade, culture, transportation and security, and beef up cooperation in international and regional affairs," the spokesman added.

 

 

Indian aid flown to Kyrgyzstan

 

India on July 6 sent its first consignment of humanitarian aid for violence-torn Kyrgyzstan. The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) IL-76 aircraft, carrying around 50 tons of food items, medicines and tents, left for Osh in Kyrgyzstan. A aircraft with another 50 tons of aid material will head for the southern Kyrgyz city, badly hit by ethnic violence that erupted last month, within a week.

 

The humanitarian dimension of the crisis hit home when over 100 Indian students were feared trapped at the height of the ethnic violence in mid-June in the southern Kyrgyz cities of Osh and Jalal-Abad. The Indian mission chartered a special plane to airlift them to safety.

 

 

 

Roza Otunbaeva inaugurated as Kyrgyz President

 

Kyrgyzstan's provisional leader Roza Otunbaeva was sworn in as President on July 3, making her the first female president in the history of Central Asia.

 

Her inauguration in a concert hall in Bishkek comes just days after the country overwhelmingly approved a new constitution. Over the course of her tenure as caretaker President, which lasts to the end of 2011, Otunbaeva will oversee the implementation of the new constitution and the establishment of the region's first parliamentary democracy.

 

"Today Kyrgyzstan is going through one of the most dramatic periods in its history," Otunbaeva said to a cheering audience in a packed Soviet-era concert hall in the capital Bishkek, in her inaugural speech. She expressed sorrow at the violence in the southern regions and promised a new political era for a country riddled with instability. "Unfortunately, we have seen tragic events in the Osh and Jalal-Abad regions, where dark forces were guilty of causing the blood of many innocent people to be spilt," she said. She also pledged that all those rendered homeless by the unrest would receive new housing by the onset of winter and urged the international community to help avoid a "humanitarian catastrophe."

 

Parliamentary elections are set for October 10.

 

Here, it is worth mentioning that in a landmark referendum, overwhelming 90.55 per cent voters in Kyrgyzstan backed a new constitution to transform the country a parliamentary democracy and strip the Presidential post of its wide ranging powers.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan intends to join the Customs Union

 

Kyrgyzstan intends to join the Customs Union, President of Kyrgyzstan for transition period Roza Otunbaeva said. "We intend to enter the Customs Union. We must correlate all conditions taking into consideration mutual benefit for all sides," she noted making a statement following the session of the EurAsEC Interstate Council held in Astana.

 

"Being a member of the WTO Kyrgyzstan has established an expert group for studying the terms of its accession to the Customs Union," Otunbaeva added.

 

 

Roza Otunbaeva meets with President Nursultan Nazarbayev

 

On the sidelines of the 27th meeting of inter-state council of Eurasian Economic Community in Astana, the Kazakh capital, President Roza Otunbaeva held a bilateral meeting with President of Kazakhstan Nursulatan Nazarbayev.

 

The Kazakh President congratulated Otunbaeva on her election as the President of Kyrgyzstan for the transition period and adoption of the new Constitution of the country. The Presidents of two states discussed the issues of development of bilateral relations.  

 

Roza Otunbaeva took part in the work of inter-state council of the Eurasian Economic Community. She also had a bilateral meeting with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.

 

The official delegation of Kyrgyzstan included of deputy chairman of Interim Government Temir Sariev, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ruslan Kazakbaev, national coordinator for EurAsEC affairs Bazarbai Mambetov, Minister of Economic Development Emil Umetaliev, chairman of State Customs Service Kubanychbek Kulmatov, Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to Kazakhstan Janysh Rustenbekov and other officials.

 

 

Otunbaeva meets with Turkish President A. Gul

 

In Astana, President Roza Otunbaeva met with the Turkish President Abdullah Gul. The meeting was held behind closed doors. The Turkish leader arrived in Kazakh capital to take part in celebration of the Day of Astana and the 70th jubilee of President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev.

 

 

Kyrgyz voters back parliamentary democracy

 

Kyrgyzstan has voted in a referendum to create Central Asia's first parliamentary democracy, after a wave of ethnic violence in which hundreds of its citizens were killed earlier this month. The constitutional changes were proposed by the interim government, led by former Foreign Minister Roza Otunbaeva, which took office after President Kurmanbek Bakiev was overthrown in a revolt in April.

 

With almost all votes counted, official results showed 90.6 percent of voters backed the new constitution. Just 8 percent voted against, according to preliminary data from 99.6 percent of polling stations. Following are some facts about the new constitution.

 

-- Like the Bakiev-designed constitution, the new version defines mainly-Muslim Kyrgyzstan as a secular state.

 

-- It declares Kyrgyzstan a parliamentary republic, meaning the Prime Minister would have more power than the President.

 

-- Parliamentary elections will be held every five years. The interim government plans to hold the first elections in October this year.

 

- The number of seats in parliament will be increased to 120 from 90. A proportional representation election system will be used. No single party will be allowed to control more than 65 seats.

 

-- The President is limited to a single six-year term. He or she must be no younger than 35 and no older than 70, fluent in Kyrgyz and have lived in the country for at least 15 years.

 

-- Otunbaeva will be acting President until December 31, 2011, after which she will not be entitled to run for President.

 

-- Kyrgyz citizens aged 18 and over will be entitled to vote.

 

-- Members of the armed forces, police and the judiciary are not allowed to join a political party.

 

-- No political party can be created on religious or ethnic grounds.

 

Source: Kyrgyz draft constitution published on the interim government's website, www.kyrgyz-el.kg, and the Central Election Commission's website, www.shailoo.gov.kg.

 

 

Parliamentary elections to be held on October 10

 

Supporters and opponents of the interim government came to a conclusion that the parliamentary elections should be held on October 10, Deputy Head of the interim government Omurbek Tekebaev announced after his meeting with leaders of political parties the other day.

 

“It has also been decided to cut down the fund for elections from 100 million to 50 million soms, so that all parties could participate in the elections on equal terms. The start of the race will be announced on July 10,” said Omurbek Tekebaev. He further noted that at the meeting the parties came to a conclusion that some amendments should be made to the Election Code with consideration of the outcome of the  referendum.

 

The Deputy Head of the interim government stated that such meeting of the reconcilable supporters of policy of the interim government, in particular, of holding the plebiscite, and the leaders of parties, who are now temporarily in power, had been held for the first time and laid the foundation of a new political tradition of dialogue.

 

“Today, Kamchibek Tashiev, leader of Ata-Jurt Party, opponent of those political organizations, presented in the interim government, has officially acknowledged the results of the nation-wide vote,” mentioned Omurbek Tekebaev.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan has undergone a planned attack – Bordyuzha

 

Kyrgyzstan underwent a planned attack to split off the southern regions of the country, told the Secretary General of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) Nikolai Bordyuzha, reported by RIA Novosti. "

 

National Security Service of Kyrgyzstan has evidence that foreign mercenaries were involved in provoking unrest and riots between the Uzbek and Kyrgyz communities ... We believe that these representatives of extremist organizations, i.e. mercenaries, arrived in Kyrgyzstan, and provoked citizens to illegal activities," said Bordyuzha.


According to him, "it was a well-planned attack, which was to split off from the Kyrgyz Republic south and creating a well-defined public education such as the caliphate." "I think that such plans still exist. It is likely that the caliphate has created mafia," considers CSTO Secretary General. "All the security services of Kyrgyzstan noted vastly increased the flow of drugs coming through the south," he explained. "Many local drug lords took part in the riots: a few days ago when they searched the house of one of the southern drug lords several Kamaz trucks, having a huge quantity of drugs were discovered," said Nikolai Bordyuzha.

 

According to him, also "found huge quantities of arms and explosives." "This confirms the fact that the drug mafia is interested in destabilizing the situation and its contribution to this has made," stressed the CSTO Secretary General.
 


Atambaev appeals world community to assist Kyrgyzstan

 

Voice of every citizen of Kyrgyzstan determines future of the country,” Almazbek Atambaev, deputy chairman of the Interim Government told during the meeting with Assistant Secretary of State for Population, Refugees, and Migration Eric P. Schwartz.

 

Atambaev told that the referendum was participated by 90% of electors, who supported the decision of the Interim Government and President in Transition. Deputy chairman also hoped that countries with developed democracies, such as the USA and EU countries would help Kyrgyzstan to get on its feet as a new and democratic Kyrgyzstan. "Despite the blockade of borders, the country continues to develop, but, unfortunately, we cannot cope with the destroyed south on our own. We hope that with your help and support from donors, we will provide everybody with housing.” According to him, the problem of refugees in Kyrgyzstan is very serious: "the main task at present - is to restore the country's south.”

 

 

Special attention to be given to coal production

 

In Kyrgyzstan, 30 coal companies mine around 450,000 tons of coal that is several times below the potentials of the sector. The Interim Energy Minister Osmonbek Artykbaev stated at a press conference. According to him, it is now especially necessary to support domestic producers regardless of the form of their ownership.

 

The minister also informed that to further develop the coal sector, the Interim Government has adopted a special regulation in June, according to which Komur state enterprise, which earlier was under the Ministry of Natural Resources, now has been handed over to the Ministry of Energy.

 

According to Osmonbek Artykbaev, 650 million soms have been allocated for Kara-Keche state enterprise for development of the coal field. “This amount will allow increasing the coal production up to 250,000 tons by 2012,” said the minister. “Total coal reserves in the country to date are nearly 1.3 billion tons.” He informed to journalists.

 

 

US assures full cooperation for prosperity in Kyrgyzstan

 

The United States urges the interim government and all citizens of Kyrgyzstan to use the referendum as an opportunity for reconciliation,” the US Assistant Secretary of the State Philip Crowley said. It was informed by the American Embassy in Bishkek.

 

“The United States welcomes peaceful and orderly referendum held on June 27 in Kyrgyzstan, and notes the positive assessment of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, which emphasized the merit of the interim government in organizing a peaceful voting process, which contributed to the high voter turnout,” said Philip Crowley.

 

“The United States urges the interim government and all citizens of Kyrgyzstan to use this opportunity for reconciliation and accountability of government to ensure inter-ethnic harmony and promote Kyrgyzstan on a path of stability, security, democracy and prosperity for all residents of the country,” Crowley emphasized.

 

The US in cooperation with the international community and partners will provide all necessary support and assistance to the people and the Government of Kyrgyzstan.

 

 

Minimum $1 billion required to restore south

 

According to our estimates, the restoration of infrastructure of the southern regions of Kyrgyzstan will require minimum $1 billion, well-known economist Zhumakadyr Akeneev told to 24.kg news agency. According to him, this figure has appeared as a result of approximate assessment of damage, caused to property during the unrest.

 

The estimates have been made by members of an independent expert group. “We have considered the data about how many houses, social and other facilities were burnt, destroyed and brought to emergency condition,” noted Zhumakadyr Akeneev. He also added that a billion dollars are the minimum amount, which will be required for construction of new houses and other facilities.

 

 

Catherine Ashton admires the holding of referendum

 

The referendum indicates the persistence of the citizens of Kyrgyzstan and their desire to jointly create a stable foundation for the sustainable development of their country, the Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice President of the European Commission Catherine Ashton stated in Brussels. The European Union’s mission in Kyrgyzstan informs.

 

“I welcome the Kyrgyz Republic’s peaceful conduct of referendum on constitutional reform on June 27, which is an important step towards the restoration of constitutional order and the democratic process in the country,” she stated. “The European Union expresses readiness to provide support to the country within this process.”

 

The EU Representative called on Kyrgyz authorities to take “immediate and decisive action” to address the deficiencies noted by the OSCE / ODIHR in anticipation to the upcoming parliamentary elections in the republic.

 

 

OSCE Chairperson calls for large-scale assistance to Kyrgyzstan

 

The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Kazakhstan's Secretary of State and Minister of Foreign Affairs Kanat Saudabayev, welcomed the successful holding of referendum in Kyrgyzstan, and called on international community for large-scale assistance to the country. The OSCE Center in Bishkek informs.

 

“The referendum is a decisive step towards political stability and the restoration of constitutional order and political legitimacy," Kanat Saudabayev stated. "The OSCE Chairmanship supports the preliminary assessment of the referendum by the mission of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. But holding the referendum is only the beginning of a hard path towards restoring the rule of law and furthering the democratic, social and economic development of Kyrgyzstan.”

 

“The OSCE is keenly interested in seeing the situation in Kyrgyzstan return to a constructive framework, and calls on all the participating states and international bodies to develop a plan of large-scale assistance for the country,” Saudabayev emphasized. “We believe timely, effective and coordinated actions by the international community will become an important factor in stabilizing the political situation, maintaining regional security and cooperation, ensuring sustainable economic development and fully protecting democratic foundations in Kyrgyzstan.”

 

 

Uzbek President congratulates Roza Otunbaeva

 

The press-service of interim government of Kyrgyz Republic informed that Uzbek President Islam Karimov congratulated Roza Otunbaeva with being granted the presidential power in Kyrgyzstan and underlined the common interests of Kyrgyz and Uzbek people.

 

"Please, accept my congratulations with being granted the presidential power in Kyrgyzstan for interim period, based on recent referendum results. I sincerely wish peace, stability, well-fare to the friendly nation of Kyrgyzstan," the message indicates.

 

The President of Uzbekistan hoped that unbiased and fair investigation of bloody events in Osh and Jalal-Abad provinces "…will confirm the common nature of interests of both Kyrgyz and Uzbek people that have been living in southern Kyrgyzstan for many years. At the same time it will identify the face of instigators from outside that were ready to sacrifice thousands of innocent people for the sake of their dirty goals.

 

" In conclusion, Uzbek President noted "I would like to assure the wisdom of Kyrgyz people will give energy to overcome today’s challenges."

 

 

Iran hails tranquility and peace in Kyrgyzstan

 

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast hailed tranquility and peace in Kyrgyzstan, ISNA reported. He welcomed the referendum on constitution held on Sunday in Kyrgyzstan and appointment of Roza Otunbaeva as President of the country.

 

He also congratulated Kyrgyzstan on massive turn-out in the referendum.

 

Mehmanparast expressed hope the event could establish peace, security and progress in the country.

 

Final results showed that more than 90 percent of Kyrgyz people voted "yes" in Sunday's referendum.

 

 

Turkey welcomes approval of Kyrgyzstan's new constitution

 

Turkey welcomed the approval of Kyrgyzstan's new constitution in a referendum on June 27, Turkish Foreign Ministry said in an official statement. The statement said, "the referendum, which was held in a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, undoubtedly constituted a significant step for development of a democracy and rule of law in Kyrgyzstan."

 

"Turkey as the current president of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA), will continue extending full support to Kyrgyzstan's democratization and reform process. We are also determined to make any contribution to Kyrgyzstan to complete the parliamentary elections on Oct. 10 in a democratic atmosphere," it said.

 

The statement said that Turkish diplomat Fatih Ceylan held a series of talks with Kyrgyz authorities in Bishkek on June 15 and 18 as the special envoy of the Turkish government and informed them on an action plan that could be carried out by the chairmanship of CICA.

 

The statement added that Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu would travel to Kyrgyzstan in the coming days.

 

 

Roza Otunbaeva: People have accepted the new Constitution

 

The referendum in Kyrgyzstan is accomplished, the new Constitution is adopted, despite the violent resistance of its opponents, President in Transition Roza Otunbaeva stated at a meeting with journalists.

 

According to her, more than a half of citizens of the country – 1,077,352 people (as of 8 p.m.) – have voted for the new draft of the Constitution and thereby put a end to the period of the authoritative government of two previous presidents. “We see that people have supported the new Constitution. Unseen activity of citizens was observed in Bishkek city. I was in Osh city and have voted there. The country is united, people are indivisible. We did not see any incident or case of violation of voting rules during the referendum,” she said.

 

She also expressed gratitude to all international observers from the CIS and the SCO, as well as to local observers.

 

 

Otunbaeva thanks Kazakhstan and President Nazarbayev for consistent support

 

The OSCE Chairman-in-office, Kazakh State Secretary - Foreign Minister Kanat Saudabayev held a telephone conversation with President of Kyrgyzstan in Transition Roza Otunbaeva June 28, the Kazakh Foreign Ministry reports. Saudabayev welcomed the successful holding of the referendum in Kyrgyzstan noting that the referendum symbolized an important step toward political stability, reconstruction of constitutional order and legitimacy of acting authorities. He also said that he supported the preliminary evaluations of the held plebiscite by the mission of the OSCE ODIHR.

 

Otunbaeva expressed gratitude to Kazakhstan and President Nursultan Nazarbayev for consistent support of Kyrgyzstan rendered on the bilateral basis. The interlocutors discussed the further measures on consolidation of achieved results and creation of conditions for stable social and economic development of Kyrgyzstan.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan's authorities succeeded in organizing peaceful referendum - OSCE

 

Despite challenging circumstances, Kyrgyzstan's authorities succeeded in creating the necessary conditions for the conduct of a peaceful constitutional referendum, the observation mission deployed by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) concluded in a statement issued on June 28. The statement also said that although there were evident shortcomings, the reported high turnout indicated citizens' resilience and desire to shape the future of their country.

 

"Considering the extremely difficult environment in which the referendum took place only weeks after the violence in Osh and Jalal-Abad, the provisional government and other authorities should be commended for organizing a remarkably peaceful process," said Ambassador Boris Frlec, head of the observation mission.

 

He added that immediate and resolute measures are required to build on the positive developments and remedy the observed flaws in the run-up to parliamentary elections scheduled for later this year.

 

"The citizens of Kyrgyzstan turned out in large numbers to vote for a new, democratic and peaceful future for their country. It is now up to all political forces to work together to improve the electoral framework ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections and build a democratic society based on respect for human rights and the rule of law," Frlec said.

 

As a result of the conflict, preparations for the referendum were temporarily disrupted in the south of the country. While many poll workers had been displaced, the authorities succeeded in staffing all polling stations and opening them on referendum day. Efforts were made to enfranchise internally displaced voters who often had no identification papers. The pervasive atmosphere of fear and intimidation in parts of the south, compounded by arrests of prominent public figures of the Uzbek community, may have dissuaded some voters from casting their ballots.

 

The observers reported that in polling stations visited, voting proceeded orderly, although voters were not always checked for ink, an important safeguard against multiple voting. The counting and tabulation were assessed less positively, with commissions at times not being aware of procedures or not respecting them. Overall, the election commissions administered the process in a largely transparent, collegiate and timely manner

 

 

Foreign Minister thanks SCO observer

 

The Foreign Minister Ruslan Kazakbaev met with representatives of the Mission of International Observers from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which monitored a referendum on adoption of the new constitution of Kyrgyzstan.

 

The observers said the referendum was conducted in a transparent and remarkably peaceful manner.

 

They visited about 47 polling stations, located in Bishkek, Kant, Karabalta, Tokmok and other settlements of the Chui province. Kazakbaev expressed gratitude to the observers for monitoring the referendum.

 

 

Akun: The Kyrgyz citizens show the high consciousness

 

Visiting a polling station on the referendum day, I was surprised to see the large number of electors. This is a fact that the Kyrgyz citizens are worried about the country’s destiny,” said Ombudsman Tursunbek Akun at a press conference.

 

Another human rights defender Baret Ergaliev endorsed Akun’s statement and told about a monitoring that conducted by his center. The highs turnout of electors was registered in the Issyk-Kul and Chui provinces.

 

 

Nephew of former President Sanjar Bakiev detained

 

The Kyrgyz Interior Ministry on June 25 announced it has detained the nephew of ousted President Kurmanbek Bakiev, suspected of organizing riots in the south of the country earlier this month.

 

The capture of Sanjar Bakiev and the operation was successful and there had been no fatalities, the interior minister Bolot Sher said

 

 

Russia, US vow to support democracy in Kyrgyzstan

 

Russia and the United States pledged to continue their support to the economic development of Kyrgyzstan and will assist the Central Asian state in the fight against terrorism and drug-trafficking.

 

"We intend to continue our joint efforts with Kyrgyzstan, to combat threats from narcotics trafficking and terrorism and work together to promote economic development of a stable Kyrgyzstan," Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and his US counterpart Barack Obama said in a joint statement following their meeting in Washington last week.

 

"The United States of America and the Russian Federation confirm their common interest in supporting the people of Kyrgyzstan in their efforts to restore democracy and stability after the April 7 events and tragic confrontations in the south of the country," the statement said. "We call for the use of nonviolent political methods of resolving the current problems, for a rapid restoration of public order, civic peace and interethnic understanding," the document said.

 

 

Interim Government alleges Bakiev’s links with Islamic militants

 

The head of Kyrgyzstan’s State Security Service, Keneshbek Duishebaev, said last week that relatives of former president Kurmanbek Bakiev conspired with Islamic militants to destabilize southern Kyrgyzstan.

 

According to Duishebaev, Maxim Bakiev, the son of ousted president, met with representatives of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) in Dubai, while the former president’s brother Janysh brokered deals with Afghan Taliban and Tajik fighters. “The transfer of militants to the south of the republic was made on the eve of the June events from Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province via Tajikistan’s Khorog and Murghab districts.

 

Cooperation in transferring the militants was made by a former Tajik opposition commander and drug baron, whose contact was Janysh Bakiev,” Duishebaev said.

 

Taliban, Tajik, IMU, and Islamic Jihad Union (IJU) fighters were offered $30 million in payment, he added. In addition, Duishebaev endorsed statements by Uzbek President Islam Karimov, who asserted that a “third force” was involved in the violence, which left hundreds dead and hundreds of thousands displaced.

 

 

UN: Situation in Kyrgyzstan is improving

 

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that the situation in Kyrgyzstan was improving.

 

It said the situation in Osh in southern Kyrgyzstan has improved with many small shops and banks opening up, traffic in circulation and farmers from neighboring provinces bringing in products. However, food, shelter, non-food items and hygiene kits remain important needs, it said.

 

It is still tense and humanitarian workers are finding it difficult to reach all of those in need due to security concerns, OCHA noted.

 

A high-level UN delegation visited Osh and met with the local authorities, non-governmental organizations and UN agencies. OCHA said that in Osh, the interim government had registered a total of 2,200 tons of humanitarian relief, in addition to relief items that had not been registered by the authorities.

 

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said that amid the mass returns from Uzbekistan to Kyrgyzstan, its field officers had been visiting groups of returning refugees and displaced people near Osh and Jalal-Abad.

 

According to the Kyrgyz authorities, 70,000 refugees have returned so far.

 

UNHCR said that both refugees and internally displaced persons had expressed mixed feelings about going back; although they wanted to be reunited with their families, many were worried for their safety and about going back to destroyed, damaged or looted homes.

 

 

Roza Otunbaeva says referendum will pave the real way to development

 

Adoption of the new Constitution of Kyrgyzstan will mean people’s victory over authoritarianism and immorality of the previous two regimes, lay the foundation for fighting against corruption, lawlessness and judicial arbitrariness, President in Transition Roza Otunbaeva stated in her latest address to the nation.

 

According to her, “the Interim Government realizes that the referendum will be held at a difficult and dramatic time.” “Destructive forces do not want real changes and have tried to fire up a civil war. Certain forces are trying to frustrate the referendum nowadays too, in order to again come to power under other names and to continue looting people,” stated Roza Otunbaeva.

 

The President in Transition promised that “on June 26 the curfew will be withdrawn in the territories, where the state of emergency was declared,” noting that it will happen in case of improvement of the situation. Roza Otunbaeva appealed to all residents of the country, having the voting right, to come to polling stations on June 27 and to take part in the nationwide voting.

 

 

Foreign Ministry concerned over partial media coverage

 

The Foreign Ministry on June 24 issued a special statement to express concern over what it argues is subjective coverage of the on-going events in the country’s south. "The coverage of the situation in southern Kyrgyzstan has been subjective since the first days of the tragedy and geared to fomenting inter-ethnic intolerance between the Kyrgyz and Uzbek people," the Foreign Ministry said.

 

Bishkek considers as unacceptable the use of "one-sided facts of June events in the interests of this or that people” and their "widespread dissemination in the global information network.”

 

The Foreign Ministry believes that the centuries-old historical and cultural ties and neighborly relations between the two sister communities cannot be "undermined by information attacks from those forces who want to see Kyrgyzstan fragmented, unstable, and a weak link in international relations." "Only objective and unbiased information may help rehabilitate the situation around and inside of Kyrgyzstan," the Foreign Ministry said.

 

 

China sends delegation to Kyrgyzstan

 

China pays serious attention to the developments in Kyrgyzstan and has sent a delegation to the country, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang. On June 16, China has sent to Kyrgyzstan a delegation headed by Gao Yusheng, the former Ambassador of China to Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Ukraine, the former SCO Deputy Secretary General.

 

Upon arrival at Bishkek Gao Uusheng held negotiations with heads of the Kyrgyz Interim Government, including the Foreign and Interior Ministers, head of the Security Council, people from all walks of life of the country, as well as diplomatic missions of Russia and the US in Kyrgyzstan.

 

Qin Gang stated that the Chinese government expressed hope for earliest restoration of stability in Kyrgyzstan, first of all in the southern cities of Osh and Jalal-Abad, emphasized seriousness of relations with Kyrgyzstan and readiness for intensification of cooperation in political, commercial and economic, humanitarian sectors, in the spheres of transport and security.

 

He further told China promised to continue to provide assistance to Kyrgyzstan, including humanitarian and material assistance, would maintain close communication and coordination of actions with interested parties to ensure and contribute to peace, stability and development of Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia as a whole.

 

 

Interior Ministry puzzled at “strange attitude of human right activists

 

The Interior Ministry is puzzled at “strange attitude of human right activists, reporting about facts of police officers marauding. It is stated in a recent statement issued by the law-enforcement department. Recently some leaders of the non-governmental organizations adopted strange attitude toward internal affairs officers.

 

They prevented mass disorders and assisted normalization of the situation in the emergency situation zone, the statement said.

 

According to the ministry, media outlets publish more and more often information that destabilizes the situation in the south regions, assault reputation and authority of the law-enforcement authorities. “Statements concerning marauding facts among police officers, food shortages do not correspond to the realty. The officers have been provided with ration,” the statement reads.

 

The government has allocated 6 million soms for accommodation, food, and special means for the officers.

 

The ministry provides financial assistance and hot meals for more than 900 officers.

 

 

Almazbek Atambaev meets with World Bank official

 

The interim government’s first deputy head Almazbek Atambaev met with the regional director of the World Bank for Central Asia Motu Konishi last week.

 

.Atambaev informed the guest about internal political situation in the country, preparation for a referendum on adoption of the new Constitution. He said the situation is stable, but very complicated. The interim government is making everything for soonest stabilization of the situation and restoring the order.

 

Motu Konishi informed about a report of the joint donor estimation of the economic situation in Kyrgyzstan.

 

He pointed out the necessity of introducing alterations and amendments into the report, taking into account the events in the Osh and Jalal-Abad provinces.

 

Issues of organizing a conference of donors and international community, scheduled for late July 2010 in Bishkek were also discussed at the meeting.

 

 

Otunbaeva says the referendum will prevent further conflict

 

The forthcoming referendum on the new Kyrgyz constitution may prevent further unrest in Kyrgyzstan, the Interim President Roza Otunbaeva said on June 21, Russian news agency RIA Novosti reported. Despite protests from a number of senior politicians, Otunbaeva said the government would go ahead with the June 27 referendum.

 

"If you listen to them (those who oppose the referendum), the county will never get out of this whirlpool.

 

Then Kyrgyz won't just be fighting with the Uzbeks, but with each other as well," Otunbaeva told Russian newspaper Izvestia. "We must hold the referendum, or the country will remain in turmoil." Otunbaeva said the government was certain that the referendum was the only way to bring stability to the Central Asian republic. "There is no other way than forward. Any deviation... and we are done for," she said. Otunbaeva confirmed once again that she would not run for presidency. "I will head the government during the interim period; that's all. Other people will run for president. Such are the rules," she said.

 

Parliamentary polls in Kyrgyzstan are slated for October, 2011, with the new Kyrgyz leader expected to enter office the following January. If adopted, the new constitution will completely reform the Kyrgyz political system, giving greater power to the Prime Minister.

 

The interim government last week introduced amendments stating that the referendum could be canceled if the state of emergency in its south is not lifted. The state of emergency in Osh has been extended until June 25, while in Jalal-Abad, where the curfew has already been shortened, it is due to end on June 22.

 

 

Uzbek leader says events in Kyrgyzstan – not interethnic conflict

 

The events in south Kyrgyzstan are caused not by interethnic conflict, but by subversive activities, organized externally, stated Uzbekistan President Islam Karimov, Uzbekistan’s Embassy in Kyrgyzstan informs.

 

According to him, “neither Uzbeks, nor Kyrgyz are guilty” in the conflict in the south of Kyrgyzstan. “These are subversive activities, organized and managed externally,” emphasized Islam Karimov. “The forces that organized the subversion strived to involve Uzbekistan in this confrontation.”

 

The Uzbekistan President noted that in the current situation more than ever are important vigilance, endurance and ability to soberly estimate the situation, since “in the near and far-abroad countries there are those who claim to be our friends.” “Such a position is traced in regard to the events, happening in Kyrgyzstan,” considers Islam Karimov. “It is hard to talk about these events,” he emphasized. “Murder of innocent people, children, pregnant women – it is nothing else but barbarism, cruelty. I am sure that the roots of bloody crimes will be revealed, and they will be given legal assessment.”

 

The President of Uzbekistan cautioned fellow citizens against revenge in regard to residents of Kyrgyzstan. “I am not only against it, but I also consider that those thinking in such a manner are enemies of our people,” stated Islam Karimov. “Barbarism and cruelty never bring to good.

 

This should never be forgotten. We are great people, able to find common language with the Kyrgyz people, with whom we have been living side by side through millenniums and to solve our problems independently.”

 

 

Otunbaeva held telephone conservation with Hillary Clinton

 

The interim leader Roza Otunbaeva held telephone conservation with US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on June 16. They discussed issues regarding the situation in the Osh and Jalal-Abad provinces. Clinton expressed condolences to the people of Kyrgyzstan and underlined that the United States would continue to render humanitarian assistance to the country in this difficult time.

 

 

Interim Government amends the decree on referendum

 

The Chairwoman of the Interim Government Roza Otunbaeva has signed a decree, changing the conditions of conducting a referendum in the country, its press service informs.

 

According to it, the amendments concern point 3 of the document, according to which “the referendum shall not be held in case of military situation or state of emergency, established in the whole territory of Kyrgyzstan. If the state of emergency is established in particular regions, then the referendum shall be held provided that the number of citizens, included in the list of participants of the referendum and residing in the territory of these regions, amounts to less than a half of citizens of Kyrgyzstan, included in the list of participants of the referendum.”

 

 

UN, OSCE, EU back interim government's efforts for stability

 

The United Nations, OSCE and European Union have issued a joint statement backing the Kyrgyz interim government's effort to restore stability in the country. The statement said the UN, the OSCE and the EU had worked out an emergency action plan with clear-cut moves for helping prevent an escalation of conflict and facilitating reconciliation and reconstruction.

 

The priority for the time being, the joint statement said, is to set up and secure a corridor for humanitarian aid supplies to the Osh and Jalal-Abad regions.

 

 

Life returns to normal in Osh

 

Life returns to normal in the ravaged city of Osh as the military continued to remove the remaining barricades from the streets on June 22, media reports say.

 

With most municipal services already operating in usual mode, a state of emergency has been extended until June 25 in Osh, where the situation remains tense, a police spokesman said.

 

He additionally cited simmering tensions in the Uzgen, Kara-Sui and Aravan districts, where he said a state of emergency is also in place.

 

In a statement on June 22, interim leader Roza Otunbaeva warned against overdramatizing the situation in southern Kyrgyzstan, urging the population not to yield to provocations. 

 

 

Enough will vote to legitimate the referendum

 

According to Asel Azemkulova, head of the non-governmental organization “Alternativa,” based on the results of interviews, 70 percent of Bishkek residents are ready to participate in referendum.

 

The survey reveals that in general people believe the future of the country depends on their expression of will. The people were asked, did they believe that the referendum would change the country’s future, the answer was - the Constitution is a key factor in preserving of statehood.

 

Though, three-quarters of respondents did not know what questions would be on the referendum, but almost every one said, “People want to live in stability. They are tired of turmoil.” They do not care what would be written in the bulletin, anyway they will vote.

 

When asked, whether the referendum would be legitimate, people were of the opinion that at least 50 percent of population resides in the north part of the country and all of them will vote, for the south, 15-20 percent of voter turnout will be enough for the successful and legitimate referendum.

 

 

Otunbaeva meets with US Assistant Secretary of State

 

The US will allocate more than $32 million for Kyrgyzstan to normalize the situation in the republic; the interim government quoted US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert Blake as saying at a meeting with Interim President Roza Otunbaeva.

 

Robert Blake said the US would allocate assistance amounting to $32.267 million for humanitarian relief programs to ensure normal living conditions for the displaced persons who suffered during the events and normalize the situation.

 

Otunbaeva informed Blake about the outcomes of her trip to Osh on June 18.

 

 

Permanent Representative to the UN dismissed from the post

 

Permanent Representative of the Kyrgyz Republic to United Nations Organization and to others international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kyrgyzstan to the Swiss Confederation Muktar Jumaliyev has been dismissed from the post. The press service of the interim government informs. Reportedly, a correspondent decree was signed by the interim leader Roza Otunbaeva.

 

 

Turkish PM expresses condolences to the people of Kyrgyzstan

 

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke with Almazbek Atambaev, first deputy head of the interim government, by phone, Anadolu Agency reported. Both leaders exchanged views on incidents that took place in Kyrgyzstan. Erdogan told Atambaev Turkey hoped that stability and tranquility would soon take place in the country.

 

Almazbek Atambaev thanked the government of Turkey for supporting the interim government and told about works on regulations of the situation in the Osh and Jalal-Abad provinces.

 

 

The New York Times: Evidence of plans for Kyrgyz violence

 

Violence ebbed and people began emerging from their barricaded homes in Kyrgyzstan’s ethnically torn south, as evidence mounted that days of brutal bloodletting had been deliberately organized to ignite long-running tensions between Kyrgyz and Uzbeks.

 

As humanitarian aid began to flow into a south depleted of supplies, the office of the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights said its investigators believed that the conflict may have been touched off by five coordinated attacks by separate groups of armed men last Thursday night in different parts of Osh, the largest city in the south.

 

Rupert Colville, a spokesman for the commissioner, said the attacks - which left over 100 dead and 100,000 or more Uzbeks as refugees - were “orchestrated, targeted and well planned,” not a spontaneous outbreak of ethnic violence. He did not mention any names, but the interim government blamed the country’s deposed president, Kurmanbek Bakiev. Bakiev’s opponents contend that he provoked the conflict between majority Kyrgyz and minority Uzbek to destabilize the fragile interim government and try to return to office. Bakiev has denied any involvement.

 

The interim government has maintained that he has used his relatives in southern Kyrgyzstan to foment instability, but he said he was not speaking to them because he was worried about getting them into trouble. “My brothers and my children have gone underground,” he told reporters in Belarus.

 

At the same time, the detention in Britain on Sunday of Bakiev’s son, Maksim, seemed to deepen the speculation. The Kyrgyz authorities said they would ask London to extradite Maksim Bakiev “for crimes committed on Kyrgyz territory.” Maksim Bakiev himself said he would seek political asylum.

 

 

Interim Government creates Security Council

 

A Security Council under the President in Transition has been created in Kyrgyzstan. The decree has been signed by the Interim Leader Roza Otunbaeva. Colonel of secret services Alik Orozov has been appointed to the post of Secretary of the Security Council of the Kyrgyz Republic by the decree of the Interim Leader.

 

Alik Orozov is a permanent officer of the Committee for State Security, earlier he worked in the structure of the Security Council. In April 2007 he resigned in protest against Kurmanbek Bakiev’s “authoritative country management policy.”

 

 

One of unrest initiators held in Jalal-Abad

 

One of the instigators of provocations that led to death of peaceful population, member of Ak Zhol Party Paizullabek Rakhmonov has been detained in Jalal-Abad province. The headquarters of the special representative for the south told the news agency 24.kg. According to the sources, Paizullabek Rakhmonov - closest friend of Bakiev family – was one of the main initiators of the mass disorders in April, May and June.”

 

“The former official is already giving confessionary statements and telling who prepared the scenario, including the latter one, stirred up by mercenaries of carnage in the south of the country,” notes the official.

The headquarters of the special representative for the south also underlined that apart from the evidences of the detained; there are enough proofs of implication of some very close friends of Kurmanbek Bakiev’s brothers, who all this time after 7 April 2010 have nurtured a plan of unleashing interethnic conflict.”

 

 

Kyrgyzstan to set up state company to supply fuel to US base

 

The government says it plan to create a state-owned company to provide a US air base with fuel, replacing a series of private intermediary firms set up under the previous government.

 

A decree signed by interim President Roza Otunbaeva orders the company to be formed over the next 10 days.

 

The prosecutors say that companies owned by a son of ex-president Kurmanbek Bakiyev avoided almost $80 million in taxes on aviation fuel sold to the Manas base. The base acts as a key refueling point for warplanes flying over Afghanistan and a major hub for combat troop movement.

 

 

Police in Osh institute 67 criminal proceedings, 22 arrested

 

The Prosecutor-General's Office has reported the initial results of the investigation of criminal cases, instituted for committing mass murders, turmoil in Osh and Jalal-Abad.

 

According to the report, as of June 18 a total of 195 bodies were recovered in the southern capital and in the region; 122 with gunshot wounds and 73 with trauma and burns. The interdepartmental investigative group has instituted 67 criminal cases and detained 22 people.

 

Reportedly, 13 criminal cases have been initiated on the fact of death through violence, mass disorders; 4 criminal cases on the basis of kidnapping and illegal deprivation of freedom, 1 criminal case is initiated on the fact of embezzlement of property. Besides, the police seized 4 units of shotgun from the illegal trafficking – 2 automatic weapons, 1 rifle-attached grenade launcher, 1 improvised weapon and 152 cartridges.

 

 

SCO urges restoring Kyrgyzstan's stability through dialogue


Member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on June 11 called for restoring stability in Kyrgyzstan through dialogue, saying they were willing to provide necessary support to Bishkek. In a declaration issued at the end of the SCO summit in the Uzbek capital of Tashkent, the SCO member countries reiterated their stance of supporting each other's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and opposing interference in the internal affairs of sovereign countries and actions that may trigger regional tensions.


Any difference should be settled through dialogue and consultations by political and diplomatic means, said the declaration of the SCO, which groups China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.


The member states emphasized that restoring Kyrgyzstan's political stability is significant to the entire region and they were willing to provide necessary support and assistance to Kyrgyzstan.


The Interior Ministry of the Kyrgyz interim government on June 11 declared a state of emergency in the southern city of Osh after hundreds of youths smashed windows, looted shops and set cars to fire in the city.

 

Roza Otunbaeva, leader of the interim government, declared a curfew in Osh and the surrounding region between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. local time.
 

 

No more vigilance on the opposition movements

 

Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kyrgyzstan has abolished 9th department in accordance with decree of acting minister Bolot Sher. “From now onwards, agencies of the internal affairsministry are not to control opposition movements for analysis of political situation,” message of the minister reads.

 

The 9th department was formally established to combat religious extremism, information and ideological terrorism, and illegal immigration. In reality, however, its activities consisted of compiling lists of 'untrustworthy' politicians and opposition leaders, spying on them and bugging their telephone conversations.

 

The said department had vast powers for shadowing, wiretapping and intelligence surveillance. The events watchers and experts have called the step of the ministry “revolutionary.”

 

 

In Kyrgyzstan GDP increased by 9.7 in percentage points

 

In Kyrgyzstan GDP increased by 9.7 in percentage points comparing with 2009 as National Statistic Committee reports. According to it, the GDP increased by 5.5 in percentage points without consideration output of mining company Kumtor.

 

Output of industrial products was raised by 56.8 percent. Rates of growth of mining industry are 45.6 per cent, manufacturing industry - 67.8 per cent, energetic – 13.1 per cent respectively.

 

The GDP of agriculture, forestry and hunting was increased by 2.2 in percentage points. Rate of growth of construction sector remained 29.3 percent. Permanent investments raised by 13.1 percent.

 

Inflation comparing with 2009 is 2.8 per cent while average monthly earning increased by 13.7 per cent and amounts 6 thousand 424 soms. Number of jobless was decreased by 1.4 per cent. At present, the number of unemployed is 66.7 thousands in Kyrgyzstan.

 

 

People remember Chingiz Aitmatov

 

Not many know that in 1986 the world-famous writer of Kyrgyzstan Chingiz Aitmatov was awarded with the Children’s Smile Order, the award with an image of the smiling sun. The peculiarity of the award is that its knights are selected by children. In 1979, the United Nations entitled it with an international status. Till now, this award has been conferred on 903 persons in 45 countries.

 

On 10 June, 2010, it will be two years since the death of the writer, who stated that the present-day world is “on the threshold of a new height of consciousness,” which means understanding that the main mission of human and the mankind is “to win the Evil within.” Priceless heritage of his works and his memory have left deep roots of respect.

 

 

NATO Special Envoy informed about public security issues

 

NATO Secretary General’s Special Representative for the Caucasus and Central Asia Robert F. Simmons and the President in transition of Kyrgyzstan Roza Otunbaeva discussed public security issues last week.

 

According to sources, Otunbaeva informed to the guest about the reasons of April events, current socio-political and socioeconomic situation in the country, as well as about measures taken by her government on preparation for the upcoming referendum and parliament elections.

 

 

Foreign Minister Ruslan Kazakbaev arrives in Tashkent

 

The interim Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan Ruslan Kazakbaev arrived in the capital of Uzbekistan on June 10 to participate in the annual session of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which will take place tomorrow in Tashkent. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan Bahtiyar Islamov received him at the Tashkent airport.

 

The SCO summit will be held under the chairmanship of the President of Uzbekistan. The leaders are expected to consider issues of further development of SCO, improvement of activity of its bodies, political, economic and humanitarian cooperation of member states, strengthening SCO's ties with international and regional organizations, as well as problems related to security and other issues. 

 

 

Over 16 thousand Kyrgyz citizens live abroa

 

The head of the Central Election Commission Akylbek Sariev citing the data of the country’s foreign ministry told at a press conference that over 16 thousand Kyrgyz citizens live in foreign countries at the present moment.

 

He mentioned that the majority of them live in Russia and Kazakhstan: “With a purpose of carrying out the nation-wide referendum, three polling stations in Moscow, Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk have been set-up. As for Kazakhstan, two polling stations will function in Almaty and Astana.”

 

In total, 29 polling stations have been set up in foreign countries, so that Kyrgyz people there can participate in the voting process.

 

 

Bishkek asks Moscow assist in coming days

 

Russian Presidential Representative Vladimir Rushailo and Kyrgyz interim President Rosa Otunbaeva met on June 10 to discuss humanitarian aid to Kyrgyzstan, Interfax reported citing a source at the Otunbaeva office.

 

"The negotiations held were focused on the current sociopolitical situation in the country and preparations for a constitutional referendum on June 27," the source said. "Otunbaeva asked Russia for rendering humanitarian aid to Jalal-Abad and Osh regions harmed by recent floods and mudslides," the source said.

 

Russian Central Election Commission Chairman Vladimir Churov, who also attended the meeting, told Otunbaeva that the commission was ready to assist the Kyrgyz constitutional referendum, in particular, with the opening of polling stations for Kyrgyz labor migrants in Russia.

 

Rushailo also met with interim Defense Minister Ismail Isakov. "Isakov informed the Russian presidential representative about stabilization efforts in the Jalal-Abad and Osh regions and preparations for the constitutional referendum," a source at the Kyrgyz Defense Ministry told Interfax.

 

 

CEC accredits 43 international observers

 

Central Election Commission of Kyrgyzstan has accredited 43 international observers from 23 countries from all over the world that will follow the course of referendum planned to be held on June 27, 2010. As of June 8, the CEC has also given accreditation to 18 more international observers. According to sources, they are 7 people from inter parliamentary assembly council of Commonwealth of Independent States; 5 - ODIHR/OSCE mission; 2 - the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA); 3 from SCO secretariat and 1 from inter parliamentary assembly of EurAsEC.

 

 

US embassy says role of ethnic minorities in political life is crucial

 

The United States of America calls for sensitivity to ethnic issues and the inclusion of all ethnic groups in the development in the republic, the US Embassy in Bishkek informs. “Participation of ethnic minorities in political life is crucial for Kyrgyzstan, the message reads, The US Embassy has been following closely the issue of inter-ethnic relations in Kyrgyzstan.  Resolving the questions of participation and representation of minorities in public life is crucial to stability, governance, and freedom in Kyrgyzstan.

 

With the upcoming referendum on constitutional reform and the pre-October election period, we call for sensitivity to ethnic issues and the inclusion of all ethnic groups in the development of Kyrgyzstan into a fully democratic society, the statement said.

 

 

All nationalized objects to be sold - Roza Otunbaeva

 

All objects nationalized by the Interim Government will be sold for enhancement of state treasury. It was made clear by Roza Otunbaeva, the Interim President. According to her, at each session the Interim members have been taking decisions on nationalization of objects.

 

“There are already 30 such objects. I want to note that the process itself is not the best variant, especially under market conditions. But when the matter concerns the objects that belonged to Bakiev family, we must do it certainly, since they were seized either forcibly or bought for trifling sum. Everything that shined was in the hands of Bakievs. Analyzing the situation, I understand that Kyrgyzstan has been brought to the hammer. I remind about illegal sales of Kyrgyztelecom, Severelectro. The latter was sold for only $3 million to Chakan Company, which is an offshore enterprise of Bakiev family. For comparison, if to sell 27,000 kilometers of cables of the enterprise, then we could earn $50 million. I will not mention the buildings and enterprises of Severelectro,” said Roza Otunbaeva.

 

She noted that the nationalized objects will be further sold, and the money will go to treasury. “For this money, we will build schools, kindergartens and increase wages of public sector employees. Kyrgyzstan is not a poor country, and we do not ask alms from other states. Our citizens have always worked fruitfully,” added Roza Otunbaeva.

 

 

Integrated coal sector policy for Kyrgyzstan

 

The Energy Ministry is working out an integrated coal sector policy, which would improve the whole system as well. Reportedly, coal production continues to drop down in Kyrgyzstan. “So in 1990 this index was at the level 4, 5 million tons of coal, but in 2009 gross coal output fall down to 4,500 tons, the report issued by the Energy Minister said.

 

The coal production companies have also pleaded to the Energy Ministry to advise some government electricity companies to pay for the coal provided in heating period 2009-2010. This sum touches the figure of 56 million soms (1$=45 soms).

 

The report said that nevertheless fueling for boilers would be provided in the form of tender and priority will be given to local coal producers with a regard to price analysis on Kazakh and Kyrgyz coal.

 

 

Kazakhstan favors plan of international support to Kyrgyzstan

 

Kazakhstan has called upon the world community to develop an ambitious plan of international support to Kyrgyzstan. Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev has said it at the III CICA Summit in Istanbul on June 8.

 

The President has further added that for the proper use of aid this country needs effective system of governance. According to him, the main reason of the current situation in Kyrgyzstan lies in many unsolved socio-economic problems. "Difficult and unstable situation in Kyrgyzstan still exists.

 

Kazakhstan supports the measures taken by the Kyrgyz side on legitimization of power. In its turn Kazakhstan takes all necessary measures to stabilize the situation in Kyrgyzstan and prevent an economic collapse there," Nazarbayev emphasized.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan discusses accession to Customs Union

 

The Economic Regulation Ministry of Kyrgyzstan continues discussing the issue of Kyrgyzstan's possible accession to the Customs Union, Kazinform reported citing the press service of the ministry.

 

In this context, it should be noted that 40.9% of total foreign trade turnover of Kyrgyzstan is conducted with the countries, which are members of the union. (Russia - 28.5%; Kazakhstan - 10.7%; and Belarus - 1.7%) Export makes up 22.7% and import - 49.5%.

 

In accordance with the Governmental instruction as of February 26, 2010, the Kyrgyz Ministry of Economic Development has conducted a preliminary analysis of the national legislation, the international treaties regulating foreign trade activity and their compliance with the CU contractual legal framework. As a result, 37 CU documents have been revised, 25 out of which only conform to the national legislation and the country's international treaties. 12 documents need corrections.

 

Besides, in case of Kyrgyzstan's accession to the Customs Union, the country will need to negotiate the issue regarding changing its commitments to the WTO on customs tariffs which differ from the CU single customs tariff with the organization's member countries.

 

 

Kazakhstan to keep on rendering assistance to Kyrgyzstan

 

Kazakhstan renders and will keep on rendering assistance to Kyrgyzstan at the bilateral level and as the OSCE chair country, OSCE Chairman-in-office, Kazakh Secretary of State - Foreign Minister Kanat Saudabayev said at the meeting with Foreign Minister of Kyrgyzstan Ruslan Kazakbaev held in Istanbul within the framework of CICA meeting.

 

Saudabayev emphasized the importance of the referendum on new constitution of Kyrgyzstan scheduled for June 27 and coming into power of head of the interim government Roza Otumbaeva for a transitional period.

 

Kazakbaev on behalf of the Government and people of Kyrgyzstan expressed gratitude to Kazakhstan for assistance provided during current situation.

 

 

Senior interim government official quits post, creates own party

 

The interim government's chief of staff says he has resigned from his post in order to establish a new political party ahead of parliamentary elections this fall, Radio Liberty reports.

 

Edil Baisalov told that the process set in motion by the ouster in April of President Kurmanbek Bakiev has begun to lose momentum and orientation. He said the new government has failed to change the way appointments are made to official posts, prompting him to establish his own party.

 

Baisalov said that while the country already has many political parties, they are now on equal footing and no single party has the command of resources enjoyed by the previous ruling party.

 

"That is the major guarantee that the parliamentary elections will be fair," Baisalov said.

 

He said the name of his party is still under discussion. Its provisional name is Generous Nation (Aikol El).

Baisalov becomes the senior most member of the interim government to have stepped down since it came to power in the wake of protester deaths on April 6-7 and Bakiev's subsequent flight into exile.

 

Baisalov is the former president of the Coalition for Civil Society and Democracy, a leading civic advocacy group in Kyrgyzstan. He played a key role in the so-called Tulip Revolution of March 2005 that toppled President Askar Akaev and ushered Bakiev into power.

 

A vocal critic of Bakiev's failure to crack down on organized crime, Baisalov survived an assassination attempt in April 2006. In December 2007, Baisalov left Kyrgyzstan for Sweden, fearing for his life and safety.

 

He returned to Kyrgyzstan on April 9 after the mass antigovernment protests that led to Bakiev's ouster. He then took the position of chief of staff of the interim government.

Parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan are scheduled for October 10.

 

 

Otunbaeva: Elections will be fair and transparent

 

The Interim Government in Kyrgyzstan has established a headquarters to help the Central Election Commission. The head of the headquarters, Omurbek Tekebaev (the leader of the Ata Meken Socialist Party and the deputy head of the interim government) gathered all the governors and discussed...the organizational issues regarding referendum recently. A lot of preparatory work will be carried out including putting banners and billboards about the referendum in cities, towns, villages (and) clarifying voter lists before the event. The country has about 3,155,000 voters according to the 2009 data, but it needs to be checked. The migration process has been high in Kyrgyzstan. Besides that, some voters might have gone to rural areas for the summer, and some to resort places with their children.

 

These words were said by the President in transition Roza Otunbaeva while granting an exclusive interview to Radio Liberty (Burulkan Sarygulova, acting Bishkek bureau chief) in Bishkek on June 4.

 

Otunbaeva further informed that once this work is done, the government would have objective conditions for a fair referendum. Many international observers are coming to Kyrgyzstan. The OSCE alone is sending about 300 observers. About six members of the Central Election Commission are coming with a UN mandate. It means there will be many observers, many different eyes watching the event.

 

In her view, the referendum would be held on June 27 and new amended constitution would be adopted. “It would be a great step forward for us.” Then many political parties are preparing themselves for the general elections by holding their congresses, and organizing blocs, and signing agreements. It’s said Kyrgyzstan has about 100 political parties, and more are always emerging.

 

Otunbaeva also clarified her position on not-contesting elections in future by herself. “The interests of my country and my nation are more important than my own personal ambitions. I would say of the opponents who are criticizing us from the sidelines - saying that we are trying to develop new terms of power - that they were serving ousted former Presidents Askar Akaev and Kurmanbek Bakiev.” “We are trying to get our nation out of a severe crisis. If they are eager to win the presidency, there will be an opportunity in a year and a half. I’m not offering my candidacy for the presidential elections. I am just a part of the transition scheme to transfer society from the old 2007 constitution to the new 2010 constitution,” she added.

 

 

No future without women’s support – official says

 

Kyrgyzstan would not have prosperity without support of the women. These are the views of  Omurbek Tekebaev, deputy head of the interim government, who was speaking at the National Conference “Women’s political participation in constitutional reform and parliamentary elections.” Tekebaev stated that the most powerful governments could not exclude women from political processes. “Kyrgyzstan is not an exception.

 

For example, in 90s in transition period the economy was built exactly by women. As the practice shows the politics they are representing – is noted by greater tolerance, social justice, human development, as well as mitigate politics,” Tekebaev added.

 

He said in the case of good results of referendum, Kyrgyzstan will set two precedents in Central Asia. “The first one is approval of new parliamentary government, second – the government would be headed by a woman. Roza Otunbaeva is already entrusted with enormous responsibility for country development. We hope she will ensure peaceful transition of power,” he concluded.

 

 

Roza Otunbaeva - women to occupy worthy place in new parliament

 

In Kyrgyzstan women must occupy worthy places in new parliament. Roza Otunbaeva, the President during transition period of Kyrgyzstan said at the National Conference “Women’s political participation in constitutional reform and parliamentary elections.” According to Otunbaeva, it will become a matrix for further advancement of women in power echelon. ”This is the moment to prepare women for upcoming elections. It should be noted that many developed countries are accustomed to women-politicians; they occupy high ranking positions, take portfolio and etc. We also have political active women and they are bearing all severities of the period, she added.

 

Roza Otunbaeva said women contributed to developments of 2005 and 2010 as well. “We already have an image of woman- picketer. This phenomenon was noted worldwide and as known women are more sensitive to current problems. They also cannot stand inequality and fight for equality of treatment. “Nevertheless, I suppose, that we shall abandon this practice – to use women as a defense tool,” she concluded.

 

 

Turkey to grant 21 million to Kyrgyzstan

 

Turkey will allocate $21 million for Kyrgyzstan. The agreement was reached during a working visit of the first deputy head of the interim government Almazbek Atambaev to Turkey last week.

 

According to the sources, the Prime Minister of Turkey Redjep Erdogan confirmed readiness of Turkish government to assist Kyrgyzstan in such responsible and troublesome time.

 

Almazbek Atambaev informed the official Ankara that new authorities of Kyrgyzstan require international support for stability of the region, especially during the period of elections. He also suggested Turkey to influence Organization of the Islamic Conference to render assistance for stabilization of business environment in Kyrgyzstan by means of Islamic Development Bank.

 

 

Five famous species included in the Red Book  

 

Five famous species in Kyrgyzstan have been included in the Red Book. These are:

 

Snow leopard (Uncia uncia Shreber, 1775) – In Kyrgyzstan, they are found in the mountains like Pskemsky, Chandalashsky, Talas, Kyrgyz, Suusamyr, Chatkal, Fergana, Fergana, Turkestan, Alay, as well as Kungey and Teskey Ala-Too, Naryn-Too, Moldo-Too, At-Bashi, Sary-Jaz and Kakshaal-Too. Over the last 10-12 years the population of snow leopard has decreased by 5-10 times and now still going on not exceeding 150-250 species. Hunting in the territory of Kyrgyzstan was forbidden since 1948 and from 1959 a legal liability was established for hunting and capturing of snow leopard without license. It is now included in the International Red Book and Amendment 1 of the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Wildlife Species. Since 1975 it was included in the list of specially protected species of Kyrgyzstan.

 

Central Asian tortoise (Agrionemys horsfieldi) – a representative of a monotypic variety is endangered in Kyrgyzstan due to the change of habitat and capture. Limiting factors are: anthropogenic impact – change (due to many years overgrazing) and loss of their habitat, poaching for expert. Currently neither species nor their habitats are protected. Until recent periodical export of tortoise has not been controlled (in 2005 illegal export of 1000 tortoise was stopped).

 

Aigul flower (Fritillaria eduardii Regel) - one of the three locally grown species in northern area displaced from its main area. As a highly decorative species with reducing area and number due to human factors it was included in a number of regional Red Books. Small as it is their number keeps decreasing today.

 

Issyk-Kul sheer osman (Diptychus dybowskii lansdelli Gunther) – is a lake form, very small in number now under threat of extinction. In the first half of 20th century the volume of trade was up to 700–800 centners per year, in the 60s – only 20 centners.

 

Brandt's Hedgehog (Hemiechinus (Paraechinus) hypomelas) - rare and vulnerable species can rarely be found in the south of Kyrgyzstan. Limiting factors are anthropogenic: virgin land cultivation, seeding and irrigation of agricultural lands.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan eager to recover economic relations with Belarus

 

Kyrgyzstan intends to recover the economic relations with Belarus in full and as soon as possible, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kyrgyzstan to Belarus Ishenkul Boldzhurova told a press conference on June 3, Belta reported. “I hope that after the legitimization of the interim government our economic relations will be resumed in full,” she said.

 

The Ambassador added that the present situation has indeed negatively affected the cooperation between the two countries. “Nevertheless, things go on. We hope that we will reach good results again soon,” said Ishenkul Boldzhurova. She reminded that the dynamics of Belarusian-Kyrgyz relations is remarkable: in 2005 the bilateral trade stood at $10 million, in 2008 it reached $50 million, in 2009 it went up to $75 million. Kyrgyzstan demonstrates almost the fastest growth among Belarus’ trade partners, said the Ambassador.

 

Ishenkul Boldzhurova reminded that a session of the intergovernmental commission took place on April 12 2010. The commission was supposed to discuss the creation of new joint ventures, increase in the joint assembly of MTZ tractors, increase in sales of Belarusian products, in particular, lifts and municipal vehicles. There were joint plans to create an agro-town in Kyrgyzstan.

 

After recalling the Kyrgyz proverb “Governors come and go, but the nations stay,” the Ambassador remarked: “There are no contradictions between our nations. We have always supported each other in the international arena.”

 

The diplomat was pleased with a recent statement by Alexander Lukashenko about the great projects that Belarus plans to implement in Kyrgyzstan. “We sincerely hope for their implementation,” said Ishenkul Boldzhurova.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan keen on economic ties with Iran

 

The new government in Bishkek is resolved to reinvigorate its relations with Tehran in trade and economic fields, head of the office of Kyrgyzstan's interim government Emilbek Kaptagaev said on June 3. "In Kyrgyzstan's new political conditions, good facilities have been provided for strengthening economic cooperation with other countries, including the Islamic Republic of Iran, and we hope consultations between Tehran and Bishkek officials would result in the deepening and expansion of relations in all fields, especially in economic areas," Kaptagaev told Fars News Agency. He also stressed that following the collapse of Kurmanbek Bakiev's government in Kyrgyzstan a suitable atmosphere has been created for economic activities and investment since the interim government supports this sector as one of the main priorities in its economic and financial policy.

 

Describing the Iranian government's support for the establishment of stability and security in Kyrgyzstan as positive, Kaptagaev announced Bishkek's interest in the expansion of relations with Tehran. Meantime, Bishkek's ambassador to Tehran praised Iran's support for the Kyrgyz interim government during the recent political unrests in the Central Asian state, saying Tehran's support will ensure expansion of ties and cooperation between the two countries in future.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan offers tourism in the lap of nature

 

It will be interesting to know that Kyrgyzstan is not only a gifted mountainous country, but has also a rich flora and fauna. It has 10 conservation areas, 9 national parks and 68 wildlife sanctuaries. Besides, the authorities are considering the reorganization of Dashman state conservation area in Bazar-Korgon region of Jalal-Abad province. This will help to preserve unique nut plants.

 

Within nearly six months, a new conservation area covering a territory of 187,000 hectares will be declared in Sary-Djaz of Issyk-Kul province, which will have landscapes of unique trees and flower plants.

 

 

Hunters will get 60 permissions for shooting Marko Polo

 

In 2010, the authorities will issue 60 permissions for shooting Marko Polo sheep and wild goats, but organizers of such hunting tours demand to increase the limit up to 75 heads. On the other hand, authorities are considering setting a moratorium on hunting pheasants in state territories as birds of some species are becoming less year after year. In Kyrgyzstan, hunting is allowed in private territories.

 

The lovers of hunting can apply to authorized travel agents; their list is available with the consul department of the embassy.

 

 

Issyk-Kul offers reasonable prices for package tours

 

According to Mikhail Halitov, leader of tourism industry is Kyrgyzstan; the prices at resorts in Issyk-Kul are lower than in Turkey and Egypt. In addition, to lure more tourists, many resorts will not take payment for additional services, such as payment for lounges, sunshades and fridges in rooms.

 

Special leisure and pleasure activities will be organized and excursions will be offered, which are also included in the cost of trip ticket. This year resorts have invited creative managers, who will arrange such events for tourists.

 

The experts have also conducted homework before deciding the prices for relaxation this summer; the survey has found that in comparison to the resorts of Turkey, Egypt and Bulgaria, the prices are quite reasonable in Kyrgyzstan. For example, the cost of staying in a hotel, approximately corresponding to the level of two-three star ones, will be $25-35 per day per person; in hotels of higher level tourists will have to pay $60 per day. This price includes three-time meal and additional services. Thus, in summer 2010 a ten-day holiday in Issyk-Kul in such a hotel will cost about $270. If the level of hotel corresponds to 4-5 stars, then it will be $540.

 

 

Majority of Kyrgyz favors multilingualism

 

According to the results of a poll conducted by the news agency 24.kg, in Kyrgyzstan multilingualism must be sustained, one third of respondents (35.24 per cent) think. The internet polling with held with participation of 800 people. 28.24 per cent of respondents think that only basic languages (Kyrgyz, Russian and Uzbek) should be developed in the country while 9.13 per cent of respondents believe that multilingualism must be developed at all levels of government.

 

At the same time 11.25 per cent thinks that only Kyrgyz must be developed among other languages and 9.77 per cent stated “Everybody must speak only in Kyrgyz.”

 

3.18 per cent of respondents consider “there is no need to interfere in this process and time will show what happen in the language sphere.” 1.06 per cent thinks that multilingualism is concern of ethnic Diasporas while 1.27 per cent doesn’t understand need of multilingualism development. And only 0.85 per cent didn’t know what to answer.

 

On the other hand, 54.13 per cent of respondents are in favor of Russian as an official language while 10.12 per cent thinks Russian should be deprived of this status. It is quite interesting that 47.84 per cent of respondents are ready to support the idea to make Russian second state language. And 8.23 per cent doesn’t understand the necessity of such status for Russian.

 

Concerning discussions about making English official language 23.32 per cent supports this idea while 21.78 per cent thinks “What a silly idea.” And 10.31 per cent is totally against that.

 

 

Interim government creates advisory board for cooperation with public

 

Interim government of Kyrgyzstan has established advisory board for cooperation with public.

Earlier new authorities declared that “the board is created for supporting close connection and cooperation of the interim government with representatives of political parties, non-commercial organizations, public associations and movements.”

 

The advisory board will consider such issues defined by the head of the interim government and suggested by members of the board.

 

The board is headed by Roza Otunbaeva and consists of 22 persons including head of Uzbek national and cultural center Kadyrzhan Batyrov, head of the legal clinic “Adilet” Cholpon Zhakupova, director of human rights center “Civil Society against Corruption” Tolekan Ismailova, well-known lawyer and human right activist Dmitry Kabak, leader of Ar-Namys party Felix Kulov, ex-prime-minister Amangeldy Muraliev, leader El Armany party Miroslav Niyazov, president of Market and Trade Association Sergey Ponomarev.

All members of the advisory board will work pro bono.

 

 

A national program for democracy reversion

 

Kyrgyzstan has developed a national program for democracy reversion, which will last for one and half year.

 

The deputy head of the Interim Government Omurbek Tekebaev announced at the meeting with Manfred Grund, deputy head of Central Asian group of Bundestag (Germany). “We suggest new form of government – parliamentary. Only democrats can secure human rights and freedoms of citizens,” Omurbek Tekebaev noted. He said “it is supposed to form new political culture within framework of the national program and to reform security agencies, legal system and local government.”

 

 

Kyrgyzstan leads in industrial growth in CIS countries

 

According to the results of first quarter, Kyrgyzstan is leader in industrial growth among CIS countries, as reported by PRIME-TASS referring to data of CIS Interstate Statistic Committee.

 

According to its data the rate of industrial growth of Kyrgyzstan for January-April, 2010 is 61.3 per cent comparing with the same period of 2009. Such significant growth is explained by work of gold mining company “Kumtor” at full capacity.

 

Second and third places were occupied by Tajikistan (16 per cent) and Armenia (12.9 per cent). Ukrainian industrial growth increased by 12.6 per cent while in Kazakhstan it increased by 11.8 per cent; in Russia it has 6.9 percentage points.

 

In general, industrial growth of CIS countries increased by 8 per cents in comparison with 2009.

 

 

Civil society to monitor referendum on June 27 in Kyrgyzstan

 

The civil society will monitor independently referendum on June 27 in Kyrgyzstan. Last week, NGO coalition “For Democracy and Civil Society” declared beginning the campaign for independent monitoring referendum and pre-election processes. They said that “35 well-trained observers would monitor processes before the day of voting as well as would keep close watch on public and political situation in regions.”

 

The coalition will also hold trainings for one thousand of independent observers and will monitor 500 ballot stations throughout the country during referendum. Besides, together with Central Election Commission, the coalition intends to hold campaign for specification lists of electorate at 80 ballot stations.

 

 

Swiss to finance At-Bashy HPP rehabilitation project

 

The Swiss Coordination Bureau will finance the At-Bashy hydro power plant rehabilitation project in Kyrgyzstan. According to concerned officials, the work has already started, and the Swiss plan to allocate 15 million francs for its completion.

 

Though the consent from Kyrgyz authorities for completion of the project had been received back before the April events, however under the current conditions it is necessary to start a new process of coordination on key positions. In general, the Swiss organization supports the initiatives of Kyrgyzstan on ensuring transparency in the sphere of energy and considers that it is necessary to strengthen corporate governance in state enterprises, working in this sector.

 

Over 15 years of activity in Kyrgyzstan the Swiss Coordination Bureau has funded three projects in the sphere of energy for the amount of 30 million francs; the energy sector however will still remain among priorities of the organization.

 

 

Kyrgyz prove power belongs to people

 

The history has given us chance to change penal character of law enforcement system derived from USSR. It was stated by Erkin Alymbekov, member of the interim government, at the civil forum Right to the life; Time to go-ahead. According to him, for real reform a strong civil society is needed, otherwise any transformation will be impossible. Erkin Alymbekov believes that only under total transparency changes can take place.

 

“Public opinion must become key factor serving as watchdog for officials. People of Kyrgyzstan have demonstrated two times within last five years that power belongs only to people,” he noted.

 

Erkin Alymbekov said that he hoped penitentiary and justice systems would be humanized and power of law and enforcement bodies will be distinguished.

 

 

Americans to taste Kyrgyz vodka

 

An American Company Silhouette, which has been in touch with the Kyrgyz Company Ayu for the last four years, will buy informal alcoholic liquor from the latter. This time, the Kyrgyz Company will supply hooch – originally Russian drink made by special technology.

 

It is notable here that Ayu Company is a pioneer in export of informal alcoholic drinks; its products are not available in markets or supermarkets, but are sold only in bars and restaurants.

 

The Director General of Silhouette Company Albert Edwards is excited with the cooperation of his company with the Kyrgyz one. “The Shpilka ladies’ vodka has an exceptional aroma. As for the hooch, then one of our best tasters Dick Frost states that it is the best drink of all he had ever tasted. I think Americans will like it.

 

They like qualitative and strong drinks,” underlines Albert Edwards.

 

 

Third of Kyrgyzstan’s population aged 14 to 28

 

The third of Kyrgyzstan’s population are young people aged from 14 to 28. Coordinator of the Interim Government for social sector, public relations and mass media Elmira Ibraimova stated at the presentation of the national report 2009-2010 on human development.

 

According to her, the report is dedicated to the young people, who were a moving force of the revolution on April 7. “The main idea of the report is to teach the youth to express their interests in a democratic manner, on the basis of dialogue. Young people are the future leaders of our country. We plan to pay more attention to their problems,” noted Elmira Ibraimova.

 

 

Japan to assist Kyrgyzstan

 

Japan is considering a possibility of assisting Kyrgyzstan in different socio-economic sectors. In particular, the assistance will be provided for carrying out a referendum and elections and restoring National TV channel, damaged after April developments. It was informed by the resident representative of Japanese International Cooperation Agency in Kyrgyzstan, Hideaki Maruyama to deputy head of the Interim Government Omurbek Tekebaev. They also discussed issue on introduction of electronic voting system in the country. According to JICA, the Japanese stand ready to provide adequate support in organizing campaign of the upcoming referendum and elections.

 

 

Constitutional amendments ready for referendum

 

The final draft of the Constitution is ready for the referendum to be held on June 27 2010; simultaneously with the draft, a law has been prepared to bring into force the amended Constitution of Kyrgyzstan, which will partially take effect from the day of official publication of results of the referendum. Among exclusions, which will start having effect from the day of the first session of newly elected parliament (October 2010), there are a number of regulations of section 3, chapters 2 and 3 of section 4, sections 5-6. Regulations of part 2 of article 30 will be effective starting from January 1 2011.

 

Election of members of parliament (October 2010) shall be held in accordance with the requirements, specified by article 70 of the Constitution. Judges of the Supreme Court and local courts shall preserve their authorities till the election and appointment of new judges will be made in accordance with the new basic law.

Members of local councils preserve their authorities till the end of their term, for which they were elected. Mayors of cities and towns, heads of city administrative boards and village administrations preserve their authorities till the election of appropriate officials of executive bodies of local government.

 

Along with the Constitution, a decree “On President of Kyrgyz Republic for transition period” will be put to the referendum. It specifies that the term of powers of the Transition President is established till December 31 2011, and also that the powers of President “for the transition period are given to the Chairwoman of the Interim Government Roza Otunbaeva.”

 

Till the first session of new parliament, the President will execute powers of the head of the country, specified by the Constitution dated October 23 2007. From the day of the first session of the new parliament, Roza Otunbaeva will execute powers, specified in the Basic law, which is supposed to be approved at the referendum.

 

Here it is worth mentioning that “The President of Kyrgyz Republic for the transition period is not entitled to be involved in any political party, shall observe political neutrality and refrain from any actions, connected with support of any political parties,” reads the decree. “The President shall ensure conducting of free, honest and transparent elections of President and members of Parliament.”

 

 

US official assures support to democratic development

 

Washington will continue assisting Kyrgyzstan in democratic development, ensuring press freedom and introduction of free market economy, George A. Krol, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs has stated at the press conference.

 

He said he came with a message from Barack Obama administration that Washington follows Kyrgyzstan developments with interest and “support your country’s intention to preserve democracy, transparency as well as economic growth. “Our aim is to continue work in Kyrgyzstan and we shall make every effort to cooperate with Kyrgyz people,” the US official added.

 

George A. Krol also mentioned that he found the situation in Kyrgyzstan as stable, but the interim government must be on “caution and attention.”

 

 

Land reforms attract 17.876 million soms of investments

 

In Kyrgyzstan, 17.876 million soms of investments have been attracted within the USAID Project. Senior Lawyer of the Project Gulzat Namatbekova stated at the concluding conference on land reform and land market development held recently.

 

According to her, peasants need solution of the problem of atomism of land plots and improvement of economic stability of local communities. The pilot program on voluntary consolidation of lands has contributed to it. “In three village administrations 396.98 hectares of land (928 plots) have been consolidated and 17.876 million soms of investments have been attracted to these land plots,” said Gulzat Namatbekova.

 

Besides, she noted that within this project about 12.5 thousand people received information materials. (24.kg)

 

 

Draft Constitution of Kyrgyzstan in Uzbek

 

The draft Constitution of Kyrgyzstan is now available in Uzbek language. Reportedly, in the nearest future, it will be published in Uzbek media outlets. The amended constitution has been translated in order to facilitate understanding of suggested reforms by Uzbek community living in Kyrgyzstan. Here it is worth mentioning that the Uzbeks represent the second ethnic nation in Kyrgyzstan followed by Russians, who are the third largest.

 

 

Minister of Energy discusses energy sector with donors

 

At a last week meeting with the representatives of the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, EBRD and UNDP, the Interim Minister of Energy of Kyrgyzstan Osmonbek Artykbaev touched the vital issues concerning situation with energy sector in the country. He particularly emphasized on the issue of hectic privatization and tariff hike created by the previous government and subsequent withdrawal of the price hike by the Interim Government.  “Our main task is to return the trust of donors that is equal to zero nowadays,” admitted by the minister.

 

The minister however noted that the situation in energy sector is stable, but the question is of financing and collection of payments, as revenue from consumers has decreased sharply. He further informed that collection of payments in April 2010 was only 63.3 percent; there are arrears of organizations, funded from the government stands at 516.3 million soms as of 1 April 2010; at the same time, the problems of repairs and technical modernization of the sector, ensuring energy security of the country still remain relevant.

 

Osmonbek Artykbaev noted that in connection with withdrawal of tariff hike, the Energy Ministry needed approximately 2.5 billion soms for repair of energy equipment. Therefore, the government looks to the donor organizations to compensate the deficit.

 

The Head of the World Bank Program for Energy in Central Asia Sunil Khosla noted that after studying of the impact of taken decisions on energy sector and identifying of priorities and needs, the energy sector will receive appropriate assistance. In this context, the working group of the ministry and missions of donors have started negotiations in order to sort out the problem.

 

 

OSCE Commissioner explains reasons of nationalism’s wave in Kyrgyzstan

 

Knut Vollebaek, OSCE High Commissioner for National Minorities said wave of nationalism in Kyrgyzstan was a foregone conclusion of the political course of Bakiev’s administration, where members of the parliament explicitly followed xenophobia guidelines. Knut Vollebaek expressed concern over current situation in interethnic attitude. He said national minorities became more vulnerable that testified last clashes in village of Maeyvka and Tokmak town. OSCE, as he said, must help Kyrgyzstan to preserve its human diversity. OSCE High Commissioner has made a report summarizing the results of his trip to Kyrgyzstan.

 

“I was impressed by the intention of the interim government of KR to protect and encourage human rights, said Vollebaek. I suppose this intention is real and we should support it as much as we can.”

 

Reportedly, the US delegation in OSCE after the report of High Commissioner has stated that Kyrgyz problems are not limited to issues of ethnic minorities. Spanish delegation on behalf of European Union expressed concern over growth of nationalism, interethnic conflicts and welcomed intention of the interim government in observing its obligations in the sphere of human rights. Russian delegation condemned more frequent manifestations of nationalism in Kyrgyzstan and called on the interim leaders to take strict measures for their constraint. At the same time the delegation noted with satisfaction preservation of the Russian language in the project of new constitution as an official. (24.kg)

 

 

Anticorruption Center opens at Bishkek Airport

 

The international airport of Kyrgyzstan – Manas airport (Bishkek) now has a consulting center of the Anticorruption Business Council. Any passenger, if he or she encounters difficulties with customs clearance or passing the border, can address the center for help. Operators (6 persons) work in the center 24 hours a day and can readily suggest your further appropriate action in this or another situation, what the passenger’s rights are, whether pretention of border guard is correct or not, to what extent it is reasonable.

 

It is not a secret that both foreigners and locals face troubles during passing the customs and border control; sometimes police officials do not behave too politely. At the same time, it is noticed that very often passengers themselves violate the rules: for example, they try to take extra bottle of alcohol or do not declare the amount exceeding $3000.

 

The second such center will soon be opened at Ak-Jol checkpoint, bordering Kazakhstan.

 

The OSCE has funded the opening of the center.

 

 

Russia continues to assist Kyrgyz border guards

 

May 28 is the Day of Border Guards in Kyrgyzstan. Since the same day is also celebrated in Russia, we wish to elaborate the significance of the day and cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and Russia in protecting the borders. Traditionally on May 28 veterans of border forces of the erstwhile USSR, Kyrgyz and Russian border guards gather in order to remember everybody who had devoted his life to the main national border in Tien-Shan as well as to look through the pages of its history. Kyrgyzstan and Russia have a common history in this context.

 

Between Kyrgyzstan and Russia there is an agreement on cooperation on border issues dated July 17, 1999, under which the Border Force of the Russian Federal Security Service operates in the country.

 

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, under the bilateral agreement of 1992 between Russian Federation and Kyrgyz Republic there was joint defense of external borders of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

 

The cooperation, defending the Kyrgyz-Chinese border, detained hundreds of violators, confiscated more than one and a half tons of narcotics, hundreds of tons of various smuggled goods and got failed numerous attempts of export of unique species of animals and birds.

 

In 1999 a new agreement on border cooperation was signed, on the basis of which defense of external borders of CIS, passing along Kyrgyz Republic, was transferred to Kyrgyzstan. Moreover, an operative border group of the Federal Security Service (FSS) of Russia was created. Its advisory administration is in Bishkek, Osh, Naryn and Karakol cities to the present day. Every five years the agreement extends, as a rule, automatically. Under the agreement, Russian Border Guards assist their Kyrgyz counterparts in routine matters and provide them with professional training. Besides they also coordinate in fight against drug trafficking, terrorism, religious extremism and illegal migration. Indeed, fighting such kind of crimes has the international character.

 

The Operative Border Groups of Russia in Kyrgyzstan is the very interlink between the managements of border services of the two countries. Here it is noteworthy that from September 10 ill September 20 2009 alone, within the framework of “Meken Chegi-2009,” officers of the State Border Service of Kyrgyz Republic detained 148 violators of border, 96 illegal migrants from Afghanistan; confiscated 609 kilograms 298 grams of narcotics; destroyed 1,468 bushes and 2 hectares of hemp.

 

Russian border guards have been drawing combat duty in Kyrgyzstan for the last 18 years.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan is rich in biodiversity

 

More than 1 per cent of world biodiversity belongs to Kyrgyzstan; the country has eleven bi-systems. The most important of them is walnut forests in Jalal-Abad region from which walnut and walnut wood is exported to almost all European countries. Besides, there are 4 thousand 300 sorts of plants in Kyrgyzstan; among them are 300 rare plants, 380 endemic species and around 200 herbs. However, medicinal features of some herbs are not examined yet. There are also some disappearing and extinct species.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan awaits you this summer for holidays

 

The tourist season in Kyrgyzstan is, in the eyes of locals as well as citizens of mainly Russia, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, is confined to only three months of the year – June, July and August. So, only few days are left for this summer season. Unfortunately, as it happened in 2005, this time too, foreign media outlets and some people with vested interests project such a situation in context of recent April uprising, mainly to frighten potential tourists. However, the tour operators in Kyrgyzstan are ready to welcome all kinds of tourists from all corners of the world.

 

In this context, a Coordination Center has been established to sort out all kinds of issues concerning tourism and tourist season.

 

Here it is necessary to remind that resorts and hotels in Colpon-Ata, the town which hosts the priceless and beautiful lake Issyk-Kul, have not suffered from marauding and retain their operational integrity. These resorts and hotels and motels are ready for tourists and undertake additional safety measures.

 

There is also a list of affiliated companies and people should know it. The list includes 400 enterprises and 126 individuals. Special banners and bill-boards are being installed on the main roads leading to Cholpon-Ata in order to assist tourists.

 

The tourists from India can spend their summer vacations in Issyk-Kul.

 

For visa and other related information, Indian citizens are advised to contact the Embassy of Kyrgyz Republic in India, New Delhi or their travel agents.

 

 

Roza Otunbaeva leaves Social-Democratic Party

 

The Interim Prime Minister Roza Otunbaeva has quitted his membership of the Social-Democratic Party of Kyrgyzstan, which she has been representing during all these years. According to Roza Otunbaeva, she has taken this decision in connection with a decree on “President for transition period” and necessity of ensuring of free, honest and transparent elections of the head of the country and members of Parliament, that, in turn, entrusts her with a responsibility “to observe political neutrality and to refrain from any actions, connected with support of any party.”

 

“I will work for all people of Kyrgyzstan, ensuring equal conditions and opportunities for millions of our citizens: women and men, regardless of their political and other opinions, as well as ethnic background,” emphasized Roza Otunbaeva.

 

 

Kazakhstan reopens border with Kyrgyzstan

 

Kazakhstan has reopened its border with Kyrgyzstan on May 20, 2010, after sealing because of the populist uprising against Kurmanbek Bakiev’s government.

 

The reopening came after numerous pleas from citizens of both countries and a rise in food prices in southern Kazakhstan.

 

At the moment, all checkpoints are working normally; Kyrgyz citizens have to show only their internal passport. There are no restrictions on freight.

 

Southern Kazakhstan suffered from the closed borders, too. The prices on some groceries rose 50%.

It is noteworthy that Kyrgyzstan exports huge quantities of meat and meat products like sausages to Kazakhstan, besides cream, beans, apples and potatoes.

 

The traders from neighboring countries have waited more than a month for the chance to visit Dordoi, Central Asia’s largest wholesale market.

 

As people in the region are aware of that Dordoi has cheap merchandise. Moreover, half of Kazakhstan wears clothes from Dordoi; goods from Dordoi are exported to Russia too.

 

According to unbiased reports, to some, it appeared that Kazakh authorities were not allowing vehicles with cargo to cross the border. But a Kazakh border guard said that was not the case. "Customs enforcement was stepped up; every vehicle was thoroughly inspected; this creates the impression that they were not allowing anything through.

 

 

Roza Utunbaeva to stay as President in transition

 

Six months is a long time for a government to last without a legitimate leader, caretaker authorities in Bishkek appear to have realized. Therefore, initial reports suggest Roza Otunbaeva would stand unopposed for an 18-month term and then be barred from running for President again at a June 27 nationwide referendum.

 

According to a unanimous decision of the Interim Government, "Roza Otunbaeva has been named President of the Kyrgyz republic during the transition period through December 31, 2011.”In October, only parliament elections will be held," Ishenbai Kadyrbekov, a member of the commission, charged with drafting the new constitution, said recently.

 

The interim government, which took power after the ousting of President Kurmanbek Bakiev in an April uprising, had earlier said it would hold presidential polls in October.

 

 

Brief Profile of Roza Utunbaeva

 

Roza Otunbaeva, 59, has a reputation of "Ms. Clean." She's considered an articulate, moderate and pragmatic politician. Some journalists describe Otunbaeva as "one of the most experienced Kyrgyz politicians" and that "she might actually be the most experienced politician in Kyrgyzstan today. By Kyrgyz standards, she certainly has huge international experience."

 

The former career diplomat speaks several languages - English, French, and German, in addition to Kyrgyz and Russian - and her lifestyle is considered "Westernized."

 

Otunbaeva served as the country's first post independence foreign minister in 1991. She again held the post in the mid-1990s and served as acting foreign minister in 2005 after "Tulip" revolution.

 

She joined the opposition in January 2006, becoming the co-chairwoman of the Asaba political party. The party's key demands included constitutional reforms that would transform the presidential system into one that afforded the parliament greater power.

 

In an interview with Radio Liberty in March 2006, she said, "People have to feel something new. If the government stamped out corruption, then there would be a lot of money available for reform."

 

On the foreign-policy front, Otunbaeva's experience in dealing with diplomatic issues and her pragmatism lead some observers to predict that she would follow a more consistent line when it comes to relations with Russia, China, and the United States.

 

Born on August 23, 1950, in the southern city of Osh, Otunbaeva studied in Moscow, graduating in 1972 from the philosophy faculty of Moscow State University, where she subsequently completed graduate studies.

 

Otunbaeva returned to the Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic (SSR) in 1975 and taught for six years at Kirghiz State University before transferring to full-time work as a functionary for the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in the republic's capital, Frunze (now Bishkek). In 1986, she was appointed deputy chairwoman of the Kirghiz SSR Council of Ministers, and foreign minister. From 1989 to 1991, she worked at the Soviet Foreign Ministry in Moscow, before returning to Kyrgyzstan in late 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

 

In the 1990s, Otunbaeva alternated spells as foreign minister with diplomatic postings as an ambassador - first to the United States and Canada (1992-94) and then to the United Kingdom and Ireland (1997). Between 2002 and 2004, she worked for the United Nations in Georgia.

 

 

OSCE Centre supports conference on legislative framework for police activities in Kyrgyzstan

 

05/12/2009

 

A conference organized by the Kyrgyz Interior Ministry and supported by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek on the new draft police law was held in Bishkek today.

 

More than 50 international and local participants discussed the draft law elaborated by the Interior Ministry and provided recommendations to bring the draft in line with international standards.

 

"The conference is expected to stimulate wider public discussion and raise awareness of best international practices with regard to legal regulation of police activities. The OSCE Centre hopes that the ensuing recommendations will be taken on board by the Ministry of Interior," said Lilian Darii, the Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek.

 

Sabyrbek Kurmanaliev, the Deputy Interior Minister, added: "The improvement of the legislative framework for policing will lead to better protection of the interests of citizens, society and state, better working conditions and social protection for police officers and increased public trust in the police service.

 

"The Interior Ministry will consider the conference's recommendations and post the resulting new draft law on the Government's website for further public discussion."


Representatives of the Government, Parliament and the judiciary, as well as officials from the Ombudsman's office, civil society and the UN Development Programme took part in the event.

 

D.Kenzhebaev: The Ministry of Agriculture is making every effort to renew meat export

 

04/12/2009

 

“We are making every effort to renew meat export to neighbor countries. Deputy Agriculture Minister of Kyrgyzstan Diykanbai Kenzhebaev told yesterday during presentation of a trademark “Kyrgyz Beef”.

 

At the present moment, the borders of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Russia are closed for Kyrgyz meat. But, the work on solution of this issue is continuing: “Minister of Agriculture Iskenderbek Aidaraliev had negotiations with his Russian and Kazakh counterparts recently. Later, veterinaries of these neighbor countries came to Kyrgyzstan to study epizootic situation. The preliminary reports were positive”, - said D.Kenzhebaev.


He added the vaccination of animals conduct in time. The government purchases all necessary medicines.

 

France to open embassy in Kyrgyzstan

 

04/12/2009

 

France is going to open an embassy in the Kyrgyz Republic to reinforce bilateral relations and economic exchange, the French foreign ministry announced on Thursday.

 

Since 2004, it has been the French embassy in Kazakhstan that deals with diplomatic affairs related to Kyrgyzstan. With an ambassador to Bishkek, the Kyrgyz capital, "France as well as Germany will become the first European countries that have diplomatic net in Central Asia," ministry spokesman Bernard Valero said.

The ministry confirmed French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner had discussed the issue with Kyrgyz State Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev in Greece, where the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe held the latest foreign ministerial meeting a few days ago.

 

"This decision shows France's hope to develop the relation with Central Asia to a higher level in line with its strategic status," the ministry said.

 

Delegation of the Jogorku Kenesh participated in the work of inter-parliamentary institutions of CIS, EurAsEC and CSTO

 

04/12/2009

 

The Kyrgyz parliament’s delegation led by speaker Aytibai Tagaev pays a working visit to Saint Petersburg starting from December 1, 2009. The visit will last till December 4, Nurbek Satvaldiev, the envoy of the Jogorku Kenesh in the Inter-Parliamentary Assembly of CIS (IPA CIS) reported.

 

The Kyrgyz deputies participated in the 33rd plenary meeting of IPA CIS. Representatives of the delegation delivered speeches at the 3rd plenary meeting of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Collective Security Treaty Organization and session of permanent commissions of IPA EurAsEC.


This year Saint Petersburg marks the 220th anniversary of Tauride Palace – historical building of the Russian State Duma. Here, speaker A.Tagaev delivered a welcoming speech at the solemn meeting on December 3.

 

Parliament approves N.Tursunkulov’s candidacy for the post of prosecutor general

 

03/12/2009

 

Deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh has approved Nurlan Tursunkulov’s candidacy for the post of prosecutor general of Kyrgyzstan.

 

This issue was submitted for consideration of parliamentarians by the president’s envoy in the Jogorku Kenesh Dosaly Esenaliev.

 

N.Tursunkulov before appointing to this post headed the country’s justice ministry and closely cooperated with the Jogorku Kenesh.

 

 

17th meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of OSCE state-members started in Athens

 

December 1, 2009 17th meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of OSCE state-members started in Athens. The official delegation of the Kyrgyz Republic was headed by the State Minister of Foreign Affairs K. Sarbaev.

 

K. Sarbaev noted key issues of interaction with OSCE, announced the position of Kyrgyzstan on priority directions of cooperation in the frame of OSCE including the rehabilitation of Afghanistan, attracted attention of OSCE state-participants to "Bishkek Initiative", which was suggested by the President of the Kyrgyz Republic K. Bakiev, during the appearance at the plenary session.


K. Sarbaev emphasized that "Bishkek Initiative" could be permanent active platform for consolidation of confronting groups in Afghanistan, solutions of tasks of strengthening regional security and stability in Central Asian region.


The meeting of the State Minister of Foreign Affairs K. Sarbaev with OSCE General Secretary Marc Perrin de Brichambaut, the Foreign Minister of Hungary Péter Balázs, the Foreign Minister of France Bernard Kouchner, the Foreign Minister of Slovakia Miroslav Lajcak, Assistant of US Deputy Secretary of State J. Kroll took place in the frame of OSCE Foreign Ministers meeting.


During the meetings, the issues of cooperation in bilateral as well as multilateral format were discussed.
The meetings with OSCE Acting Chairman, Prime Minister of Greece G. Papandreou and other Heads of foreign states delegations are planning on December 2, 2009.

 

 

The Ambassador at-large - Adviser of the State Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic A. Bakiev visited United Arabic Emirates with working visit

 

During 3-5 November 2009, the working visit of Kyrgyz delegation led by the Ambassador at-large - Adviser of the State Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic A. Bakiev to United Arabic Emirates took place.

 

The meetings with the State Minister of Foreign Affairs of United Arabic Emirates, Doctor Muhammad Anvar Gargash, the Minister of Energy Mohammed bin Dha'en Al Hamili, "Abu-Dhabi Group" Executive Director Bashir Ahmad Tahir and Arab businessmen took place during the visit. The Head of Kyrgyz delegation informed Emirates side about basic foreign political priorities of the Kyrgyz Republic.

 

A. Bakiev emphasized that the leadership of Kyrgyzstan attaches higher importance to develop multilateral relations with UAE and other Arabic states. The agriculture, hydro energy, telecommunication, mining industry, tourism and hotel business was noted as perspective spheres of trade-economic cooperation.


In his turn, Emirates side greeted the intension of the Kyrgyz Republic in establishing political dialogue and developing trade-economic cooperation with United Arabic Emirates.


The officials noted positive dynamic, transparency and confidence in bilateral relations and also real perspectives of its development.

 

 

Time for Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan to make decisions on many issues: Kyrgyz PM

 

01/12/2009

 

"It is time for Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan to make decisions on many issues", Kyrgyz Prime Minister Daniyar Usenov has said today at the enlarged session of Heads of the Governments of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
"It is time to make decisions on many issues commissioned by the Heads of our States now. Those technical deficiencies that we have now are not principal and don't interfere us in making decisions", D.Usenov said.


As Kazakh Prime Minister Karim Massimov noted, the relations between two countries always were close and warm.


"The issues considered by two Governments are very important for us. These are issues in the field of energy, water transport, and mutual trade. I believe, we will discuss them today in details and reach particular decisions.

 

 

Bakir uulu Tursunbai handed over credentials to the King of Malaysia

 

 

01/12/2009

 

Kyrgyzstan’s Ambassador to Malaysia Bakir uulu Tursunbai handed over his credentials to the 13th King of Malaysia Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin on November 26 at the Istana Negera Royal Palace in Kula-Lumpur.


T.Bakir uulu conveyed the warmest greetings and invitation of President Kurmanbek Bakiyev to visit Kyrgyzstan.


The parties pointed out progressive development of bilateral relations and expressed further intention in expanding cooperation in all fields: political, economic, cultural and humanitarian.


The King of Malaysia asked the ambassador to convey his sincere welcoming and best wishes to the president and people of Kyrgyzstan.

 

 

The number of population as of October 1 made up 5 mln.356 thousand people

 

01/12/2009

 

The number of population as of October 1, 2009 in Kyrgyzstan has made up 5 mln.356 thousand people. The national statistic committee of Kyrgyzstan reported it.


The number of the republic’s population for January-September 2009 has increased by 52.1 thousand people or 1%.


For January-September 2009 it was born 101.3 thousand children. 26/7 thousand people died.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan clubbed with DPR Korea in the 2010 AFC Challenge Cup

 

01/12/2009

 

The final draw for the 2010 AFC Challenge Cup took place on Monday at the Galadari Hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka. A source in the football federation told it.


The third edition of this biennial tournament which is contested among the emerging countries of Asia, will be held in Sri Lanka between 16th and 27th February.


Kyrgyzstan’s Dordoi-Dynamo has been placed in the Group B together with DPR Korea, Turkmenistan and India.


The draw put Tajikistan, Myanmar, Bangladesh and hosts Sri Lanka in Group A.

 

 

Kyrgyzstan is started to prefer taxi services to public transport

 

01/12/2009

 

Kyrgyzstan is started to prefer taxi services to public transport. The national statistic committee reported it.
In comparison with the corresponding period of 2008, the volume of conveyance of passengers by all kinds of transport has increased by 7.3% for January-October 2009. At the same time, the conveyance of passengers by trolleybus has reduced by a quarter, air transport – by 4%.


In the country, the number of people, who prefers taxi services, has increased by 14%. For January-October 2008, the quantity of clients of taxi has made up 9197.6 thousand people, this year it reached 10484.l thousand people.

 

AUB Charity Foundation: Ask a Child of its Dreams…

01/12/2009

 

Following The Alpine Path of Dreams Photo Exhibition was opened on November 18 and will continue until December 16, 2009 by CAMP Alatoo Public Foundation jointly with UNICEF-Kyrgyzstan and AUB Charity Foundation. The main idea behind this event is to sketch current life and perspectives in mountainous regions of Central Asia as perceived by children.


The event is organized as multiple exhibitions held simultaneously in various public venues, such as UNDP Bishkek Office, American University in Central Asia, Kyrgyz-Slavic University, Seitek National Center for Children, Youth, Kyrgyz Graphics Art Museum named after G. Aityiev, VEFA Department Store and Koldo Art Gallery.


In 2009 a group of photographers-researchers visited remote mountainous localities of Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan to learn about life of children in highlands. Over 600 children from 35 alpine villages and townships, including orphans and students of boarding schools, have been surveyed during visits.

 

Central Asian highlands revealed the research team a whole diversity and complexity of life in mountains where oftentimes material poverty neighbors spiritual riches and pride for motherland makes routine difficulties of mountainous areas so special to local folks.


Researchers produced an outstanding set of 10 000 pictures and collected dreams of children expressed through paintings and compositions reflecting an attitude to motherland, nature, culture, traditions, education, family, labor, health, sport and relationships among ethnicities.


After returning to Bishkek researches decided to share the unique material with society and organized the photo exhibition to give everyone a personal journey to alpine lands of Central Asian. The pictures, paintings and compositions open a path to the future that had been sketched, described and predicted by children from remote mountainous areas. And that future seems to be bright and warm, where people live in deep harmony with nature and guard family and spiritual values, as well as seek tolerance to other ethnicities.


“When a person comes to this world it brings a dream along. Life without a dream becomes murky and pointless, because it is achievement of the dream that makes the person happy”, Lisa Usonolieva, the thirteen year-old teen form Naryn Province of Kyrgyzstan, said.


“God gave everyone a heart that lets people feel and dream. I wish every good dream would come true and people would keep dreaming”, Khamidoza Avloyer, resident of Elok village, Tajikistan, added.

 

At the opening ceremony on November 18 in Koldo Art Gallery dreams were shared not only by kids, but also by partners of this unique project. Tim Shaefer, Head of UNICEF Office in Kyrgyzstan, noted that he had two dreams, namely help people and travel a lot. Both dreams became a reality and now Tim works for the international organization which task is to make childhood happy and healthy.

 

Ulan Sarbanov, CEO of AUB Charity, said that his dream was to play basketball professionally and the dream was fulfilled, although in part only. “I believe that children should have bright and optimistic dreams and we need to put all efforts to make it happen”, said Mr. Sarbanov.


Pictures and other pieces reflecting dreams of alpine children from three countries can be found at: www.photo.kg and www.photoasia.ru

 

Credit for education – contribution to future

 

01/12/2009

 

A conference “Credits for education” with the participation of representatives of educational establishments, private sector, credit organizations and students will be held on December 4 at Hayatt Regency hotel.

 

The conference will be held in frames of USAID program Credits for education, realized by the Eurasia Fund of Central Asia with the partnership of Academy of High Education and Bishkek Business Club.

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev congratulates people of Kyrgyzstan on Kurman-ait holiday

 

26/11/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev has congratulated people of Kyrgyzstan on Kurman-ait holiday.


In his congratulations, the head of state, pointed out values of this holiday, particularly the generosity and charity, mercifulness and decency, tolerance and other values.


He wished successful pilgrimage to those people, who are in Saudi Arabia, performing the Hajj and safely return to the motherland.


President K.Bakiyev wished everybody family happiness and peace, prosperity and well-being.

 

2 mln.500 hundred facemasks to be delivered to Kyrgyzstan

 

17/11/2009

 

Head of the department of drug provision and medicinal technique under the Healthcare Ministry of Kyrgyzstan Rustam Kurmanov and its collaborators gave a press conference at the 24.kg news agency dedicated to the swine flu.


According to him, it is expected to import 2 million 500 thousand facemasks to the republic within a month. The agiotage with purchase of facemasks are reducing.


Besides, six local firms are producing gauze bandage and delivering to drugstores.

 

Regular meeting of the Council of SCO Prime Ministers to take place in Kyrgyzstan in 2010

17/11/2009

 

KABAR, November 16. Kyrgyzstan’s State Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev in his interview to the Chinese Xinhua News Agency and Kyrgyz National News Agency “Kabar” told that the Kyrgyz side during the Kyrgyz Prime Minister’s official visit to China on October 13-15 had confirmed its readiness to conduct a regular meeting of the Council of Prime Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Kyrgyzstan in 2010.


During the visit it was also signed an agreement on receiving 200 million US dollars lax credit for rehabilitation of the Bishkek-Naryn-Torugart highway.


The main attention was paid to a project on construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway.
It was also agreed to conduct joint events in 2012 dedicated to the 20th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Kyrgyzstan and China.

 

Mars Sakkaraev appointed the akim of Alamedin region

04/11/2009

 

President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev has signed a decree to appoint Sakkaraev Mars Namarbekovich as head of the state administration – akim of the Alamedin region of the Chui oblast of Kyrgyzstan.


According to the president’s another resolution, Birimkulov Temirlan is dismissed from the post of akim of the Alamedin region.


The presidential press service reported it.

 

Deputies of the Ak Zhol fraction to visit Kambarata-2 hydroelectric power station

29/10/2009

 

KABAR, October 29. A trip of the Ak Zhol deputy fraction to the Kambarata-2 hydroelectric power station in order to meet with builders will take place on October 31. It was disclosed during the fraction’s meeting in September 2009, when was discussed issues of constructing the Kambarata-2 hydroelectric power station.


The Kambarata hydroelectric power stations’ exploitation will solve issues of energy balance in Kyrgyzstan, problems of water-energetic regulation in the Central Asian region, increase energy export to other states and provide energetic safety of the country.

 

D.Krol: USA interested in establishing close cooperation with Osh

27/10/2009

 

The field of economy, social sphere and healthcare”. Assistant of the US Secretary of State for Southern and Central Asian Affairs George Krol told during a meeting with the southern capital’s mayor Melisbek Myrzakmatov.


According to G.Krol, this is his familiarizing visit to Osh. “We are glad to visit this ancient city. We know the city’s economic potential and we heard a lot about you. Hope, the cooperation with Osh will expand after our visit”, - said G.Krol.


In his turn, M.Myrzakmatov offered to develop interaction in the fields of agrobusiness and healthcare.

 

 

President K.Bakiyev handed over keys of motor vehicles to Heroes of the Socialistic Labor

27/10/2009

 

KABAR, October 27. President Kurmanbek Bakiyev participated in solemn events devoted to the Naryn oblast’s 70th anniversary within the framework of his working visit to the region.


The head of state congratulated the region’s residents on the jubilee and handed over keys of four motor vehicles (VAZ-2107) to Heroes of the Socialistic Labor – Bilal Zhusupov (resident of the Kochkor region’s Ortok village), Kuttubai Abdraev (resident of the Kochkor region’s Kok-Zhar village), Kasymbek Zhunushev (resident of the Kochkor region’s Cholpon village) and Orozakun Mambetakunov (resident of the At-Bashy region’s Acha-Kayindy village).


The head of state thanked the veterans for their contributions in the region’s development and said these motor vehicles are his personal present to them.


K.Bakiyev also awarded the Dank medal to residents of the Naryn oblast Askarbek Abdarsulov and Zholdoshbek Musaev.

 

K.Bakiyev had telephone conversations with Tajik President E.Rahmon

27/10/2009

 

President of Kyrgyzstan had telephone conversation with President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon on Monday October 26.


They discussed the state and prospects of further expansion of bilateral cooperation between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan as well as a number of regional and international issues, Asia-Plus reported citing to the presidential press service of Tajikistan.


The same day, Emomali Rahmon had a telephone conversation with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari. The two considered a broad range of issues related to bilateral cooperation between Tajikistan and Pakistan as well as the process of implementation of regional projects with participation of a number of neighboring countries. Rahmon and Zardari also discussed a number of regional and international issues being of mutual interest.

 

K.Sarbaev received the US delegation

27/10/2009

 

Kyrgyzstan’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs K.Sarbaev received the American delegation, headed by Assistant of the US Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs George Krol.


The parties discussed issues of further development of bilateral relations and expanding economic cooperation within the framework of activities of the Kyrgyz-American Development Fund, which is setting up currently.


K.Sarbaev informed the guests about internal political situation in the republic and about goals and tasks of the president’s state management reforms.


The parties agreed to conduct the first meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission in December 2009.

 

President Bakiyev to make working tour to Naryn oblast

26/10/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev will make a working tour to the Naryn oblast starting from today.


During the tour the President will take part in solemn events devoted to the 70th anniversary of formation of the oblast.

 

Oksana Malevanaya met with George Krol

26/10/2009

 

Head of the Kyrgyz President’s Secretariat Oksana Malevanaya and Assistant of the US Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs George Krol discussed issues of reforming the state management system in the Kyrgyz Republic and aspects of bilateral cooperation.


O.Malevanaya said the main attention in the new system will be paid to improvement on quality of accepting decisions.


In his turn, G.Krol said the American side is watching closely the reforms in Kyrgyzstan and believe in successfulness of the reforms. “We are also interested in expanding dialogue in the field of socio-economic development”.


The parties exchanged opinions on further strengthening cooperation between the two states.

 

Acting chairman of Frontier Service dismissed

26/10/2009

 

By the decree of President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, acting chairman of Frontier Service Mamytov Toktokuchuk Boltbekovich is dismissed from his office.

 

CIS Foreign Ministerial consultations to be held in Bishkek

26/10/2009

 

Inter-ministerial consultations of CIS Foreign Ministers will be held in Bishkek on October 28-29 to discuss problematic issues of stay and activity of Commonwealth citizens in the territory of CIS states-members.

 

The second round of Two Stars project to be held in Bishkek

25/10/2009

 

The second round of the project "Two Stars" of Kyrgyz National TV Company will be held next week in Bishkek at the Kyrgyz National Philharmonic building, public relations manager of the Philharmonic building Svetlana Sitolenko told the correspondent of the Kabar Agency.


At the second round of the project famous statesmen, deputies of Parliament, businessmen will sing together with stars of local variety.

 

V. Putin congratulated D. Usenov on his new appointment

24/10/2009

 

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin congratulated Daniar Usenov on his appointment to the post of Prime Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic and wished him success in his new activity, the governmental press service reports.

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev to visit the Jalalabad oblast

22/10/2009

 

President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev will pay a working visit to the Jalalabad oblast on October 23-24, the presidential press service reported.


The head of state is expected to visit numerous industrial enterprises and will participate in the festivities devoted to the 90th anniversary of the Suzak region

 

Parliament approves the government’s new structure

22/10/2009

 

Deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh have approved a new structure of the government of Kyrgyzstan during today’s session. It will head by the Prime Minister, First Deputy Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister – head of the prime minister’s office.


It will gave 14 ministries, whose heads will be members of the government, and seven agencies, six state services and two funds – the fund of obligatory medical insurance and the fund of state material reserves.

 

Foreign ambassadors presented credentials to K.Bakiyev

22/10/2009

 

Ambassadors of Iran Manuchehr Moradi, Canada Steven Millar, Armenia Vasily Kazaryan, Belgium Daniel Bretran, Norway Dag Malmer Halvorsen and Turkey Nejat Akcal handed over their credentials to President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev.


The diplomats of six states conveyed warm wishes of their presidents and expressed hope for further strengthening bilateral cooperation.


K.Bakiyev welcomed intentions of these states to develop and deepen interstate relations.

 

Kyrgyz delegation participates in Tashkent International Tourist Fair

21/10/2009

 

The 15th Tashkent International Tourist Fair "Tourism on Silk Road -2009" has opened today in Uzbek capital. Representatives of more than 150 companies from 130 countries of the world are taking part in it.


According to its organizers, this forum is aimed to further expansion of business partnership, establishment of new contacts.


The delegation of Kyrgyzstan under the chairmanship of stats-secretary of Tourism Agency A. Jigitov is taking part in the fair, which will last till October 23.

 

Customs Union Commission to coordinate projects of decisions of EurAsEc Inter-state Council

21/10/2009

 

The Customs Union Commission will coordinate the projects of decisions of the EurAsEc Inter-state Council on October 21 in Moscow, Kazakhstan Today reports citing BELTA news agency.


"The Customs Union Commission of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan plans to coordinate the projects of decisions of the EurAsEc Inter-state Council at the level of the heads of states, which will be signed on November 27."


According to the agency, the projects of decisions concern the Customs Code, uniform non-tariff and customs-tariff regulation, organization of the work of the Customs Union Commission, and some other questions.


The decision on creation of the Customs Union was made by the Presidents of the EurAsEC countries on October 6, 2007. In October, 2008, Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan created the Customs Union Commission.

 

Prime Minister Igor Chudinov resigns

20/10/2009

 

Prime Minister Igor Chudinov has resigned today during a governmental meeting with the participation of President Kurmanbek Bakiyev.


In his turn, the head of state has accepted I.Chudinov’s application and thanked the current members of the government for their works.


“I’m signing a decree today that all members of the government will fulfill their duties until formation of the new cabinet”, - said K.Bakiyev.

 

Kyrgyz President disbands staff in first administrative reform

20/10/2009

 

Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev has launched an administrative reform and the first thing he did was to disband his staff, which is to be replaced by the Institute of the President.


"The first step in the reform of the authority lies through a reform of the institute of the president," K.Bakiyev told a conference on Tuesday.


"The presidential staff will be disbanded and it will be replaced by the Institute of the President," K.Bakiyev said after he announced a large-scale administrative reform and cuts in the administrative staff.


The Institution of the President will have the following agencies, reporting directly to the president: the presidential office, secretariat and central agency for development and investment," he said.


The Institute of the President will also include the president's state advisor for defense, security, law and order, who will be in charge of coordinating the law enforcement ministries and make recommendations on defense, security, law and order.


The institution of this post will be followed by the disbandment of the Security Council as a separate constitutional body. Its functions will be partially handed over to the state advisor for defense, law and order.
The Institute of the President will also include state minister for foreign affairs, who will have a special status outside the government. His functions will be strengthened.


The next innovation is the president's Conference with the following permanent members: the president, parliamentary speaker, prime minister, and state minister for foreign affairs. "The president will make all strategic decisions on foreign and domestic policy following a discussion with the Conference," K.Bakiyev said.


The reform aims to cut the presidential staff by 40%, he said.


The new lineup is based on a legal groundwork, K.Bakiyev said. The relevant decrees will be signed, instructions issued and appointments announced soon, he said.

 

K.Bakiyev announces the government’s new structure

20/10/2009

 

All state committees in the country are abolishing. President Kurmanbek Bakiyev told it during a republican conference with the participation of deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh, members of the government, chairmen of the Constitutional and Supreme Courts, heads of central and local authorities, administrative departments, state enterprises and representatives of mass media.


The government’s new structure, except the prime minister’s office, will consist of the following ministries:


The Ministry of Finance;
The Ministry of Justice;
The Ministry of Defense;
The Ministry of Interior Affairs;
The Ministry of Emergency Situations;
The Ministry of Energy;
The Ministry of Economic Regulation;
The Ministry of Agriculture;
The Ministry of Natural Resources;
The Ministry of Transport and Communication;
The Ministry of State Properties;
The Ministry of Healthcare;
The Ministry of Education and Science;
The Ministry of Labor, Employment and Migration.
There will be seven agencies under the government:
The Agency of Antimonopoly Regulation;
The Agency of Protection of Environment and Forestry;
The Agency of Social Protection;
The Agency of Communication;
The Agency of Physical Training and Sport;
The Agency of Architecture and Transport;
The Agency of Culture.
Besides, there will be six services under the government:
The service of execution of punishment;
The service of financial intelligence;
The boundary service;
The tax service;
The customs service;
The service of supervision and regulation of financial market.


There will be funds: the fund of state material reserve and the fund of obligatory medicinal insurance.
All state committees are abolishing.


The State Committee of National Security is reorganizing into the State National Security Service and removes from the government’s structure.

 

K.Bakiyev: The Security Council is abolishing

20/10/2009

The Security Council, which is the separate constitutional body, is abolishing. President Kurmanbek Bakiyev told it during a republican conference with the participation of deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh, members of the government, chairmen of the Constitutional and Supreme Courts, heads of central and local authorities, administrative departments, state enterprises and representatives of mass media.


The next agency of the President’s Institute is the Presidential Secretariat.


It aimed to organize events with the participation of the President, inform about activities of the head of state and all agencies of the President’s Institute.


One more agency of the President’s Institute is the Central Agency of Kyrgyzstan on Development, Investments and Innovations. It will support business and entrepreneurship, attract investments and others.

 

K.Bakiyev: The Presidential Administration reorganizes into the President’s Office

19/10/2009

 

The main task of the President’s Office is organizational and administrative provision of the head of state’s activities. President Kurmanbek Bakiyev told it during a republican conference with the participation of deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh, members of the government, chairmen of the Constitutional and Supreme Courts, heads of central and local authorities, administrative departments, state enterprises and representatives of mass media.


The President’s Institute will include the following state agencies: the President’s Office, the Presidential Secretariat, the Central Agency on Development, Investments and Innovations as well as the State Adviser of the President for Defense, Security, Law and Order, the State Foreign Minister.

 

President K.Bakiyev to promulgate a program of reforming the state management system

19/10/2009

 

A republican conference of the heads of state run public authorities with participation of Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev will take place on October 20 in the Government House.


The head of state is expected to promulgate a program of further transformations in the system of state management.


Heads of the presidential administration and secretariat, deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh, chairmen of the Constitutional and Supreme Courts, members of the government, heads of central and local authorities, administrative departments, state enterprises and others are invited to the conference.


The conference will be broadcasted through the National TV/Radio Corporation.

 

Kyrgyz Deputy FM participated in a consultative meeting in Ashgabat

19/10/2009

 

Kyrgyzstan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Baktygul Kalambekova participated in a first consultative meeting of State Parties to the Treaty on Nuclear Weapons Free Zone in Central Asia, which took place on October 15 in Ashgabat.


The meeting was the first concrete step in implementing the Treaty, which was signed by all Central Asian states in Semipalatinsk in September 2006 and supported by the international community through the United Nations. The meeting identified further joint efforts of Central Asian countries aimed at fulfilling the obligations set forth in the document and cooperation with international bodies on disarmament issues. A number of procedural issues of interaction were also discussed.


The next consultative meeting will take place in Uzbekistan.

 

China grants 400 million soms to Kyrgyzstan

16/10/2009

 

China will grant 400 million soms (80 million yuan) to Kyrgyzstan. Prime Minister Igor Chudinov of Kyrgyzstan told journalists in Beijing.


According to him, about 200 million soms will be directed to modernize roads of the capital and Osh. The rest of them will be directed to purchase buses.


Besides, Kyrgyzstan will get lax credit for reconstruction of the Torugart-Naryn-Bishkek highway.

 

China, Kyrgyzstan pledge to expand transportation cooperation

15/10/2009

 

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao vowed on Thursday to expand cooperation with Kyrgyzstan in transportation, a significant step to boost bilateral ties.


This was stated in a joint communique signed by Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao and Kyrgyz Prime Minister Igor Chudinov.


Both sides agreed to build an international transportation road connecting China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. China and Kyrgyzstan will take active measures to accelerate the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project. A joint discussion will be carried out on the funding of the three-country railway construction in Kyrgyzstan.


Both countries will tap the potential for cross-border transportation and offer mutual convenience in railway, aviation and road transportation.


China will also deepen the cooperation with Kyrgyzstan in customs, border check, etc. to jointly prevent and strike cross-border crimes to ensure the security and stability of the border areas of the two countries.

 

China's top legislator meets Kyrgyz PM

15/10/2009

 

Top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo on Thursday vowed to enhance parliamentary cooperation with Kyrgyzstan in a meeting with Kyrgyz Prime Minister Igor Chudinov.


Chudinov paid official visit to China and attended a regular prime ministers' meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states, which was held on Wednesday.


"We are ready to work with Kyrgyzstan to increase friendly cooperation between the two governments, parliaments and political parties," said Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature.


"China and Kyrgyzstan should also expand pragmatic cooperation in areas like economy, trade and culture," Wu said.


Wu also expressed the willingness to work with Kyrgyzstan to jointly fight "East Turkistan" forces and the "three forces" of separatism, terrorism and extremism.


"This would help the comprehensive development of China-Kyrgyzstan good-neighborly friendship," he noted.
Hailing the smooth growth of China-Kyrgyzstan ties since forging diplomatic ties 17 years ago, Wu said the two nations had solved the boundary issue left by the history, and signed good-neighborly treaty of friendship.


Wu said the two countries have enjoyed mutual understanding and support in major issues concerning each other's concern, made pragmatic cooperation in various areas, and maintained close coordination within the framework of the United Nations and the SCO, he noted.


"To advance China-Kyrgyzstan ties accords with fundamental interests of the two nations and the two peoples, and is conducive to regional stability and prosperity," he said.


Chudinov congratulated China on the 60th anniversary of the founding the People's Republic of China, saying the achievements China has made in the past 60 years proved the country's right choice of the development path.


Chudinov reiterated that his country firmly adheres to the one-China policy and support China's measures to safeguard stability of the far western Xinjiang region.


The prime minister said Kyrgyzstan would work with China to fight the "three forces" and enhance cooperation in security areas.

 

I. Chudinov suggests SCO businessmen cooperation in the sphere of tourism

15/10/2009

 

"We have big reserves for interaction and profitable investment into tourism industry", Prime Minister Igor Chudinov told today in Beijing during the meeting of heads of governments of Shanghai Cooperation Organization states-members.
Kyrgyzstan can suggest cooperation in various spheres of tourism, such as eco-tourism, mountaineering and others. Rich deposits of mineral and thermal water, therapeutic muds, unique Issyk-Kul lake, relic nuciferous reserve Arslanbob with natural climate conditions create successful basis for realization of joint projects.
I. Chudinov told that these are just a part of priority directions, in frames of which foreign investors can arrange mutually beneficial contacts with our country.

 

Igor Chudinov meets with Wen Jiabao

15/10/2009

 

Kyrgyzstan’s Prime Minister Igor Chudinov has met with Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao within the framework of his official visit to the People’s Republic of China.


I.Chudinov congratulated all Chinese friends on the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 30th anniversary of China's reform and opening up.


The Kyrgyz PM expressed satisfaction on development of bilateral relations and noted that China is important political and economic partner of Kyrgyzstan.


I.Chudnov added that there are no principle and disputable issues, which hamper the further development of relations between the two states.

 

Air-companies, which carry pilgrims from Kyrgyzstan, could not land in Saudi Arabia

15/10/2009

 

Deputy Parhat Tulendybaev during today’s session of the parliament said the air-companies - “Kyrgyzstan Trans Avia” and “Air Manas”, which carry pilgrims from Kyrgyzstan, have not yet received permission to land in Saudi Arabia.


According to him, it may repeat the last year’s conflicts, when people did not get Saudi Arabia to make pilgrimage.


Parliamentarian Begaly Nargozuev expressed anxiety on organizing pilgrimage this year and asked to consider it soon.


Speaker Ayitbai Tagaev offered to discuss it at a meeting of the corresponding parliamentary committee and submit for consideration of the parliament tomorrow.

 

I.Chudinov met with Kazakh PM and Chinese Minister of Railways in Beijing

15/10/2009

 

Kyrgyz Prime Minister Igor Chudinov had a meeting in Beijing yesterday with Kazakh Prime Minister Karim Masimov. They discussed issues of energetic safety.


Later, the Kyrgyz PM had a meeting with Minister of Railways Liu Zhijun and discussed issues of implementing a project on construction of transboundary trunk-railway.

 

Session of SCO Prime Ministers comes to the end in Beijing

14/10/2009

 

Session of SCO Prime Ministers ended in Beijing. A number of final documents were signed today following the results of the session of the Council of SCO Prime Ministers. On the results of the forum the joint initiative on activization of multilateral economic cooperation in overcoming of the consequences of the world financial economic crisis and maintenance of further economic development of the SCO member states was accepted today.


The SCO prime ministers accepted the joint statement on struggle against infectious diseases and the joint communique, following the results of the session of the Council of SCO Prime Ministers.


The prime ministers approved the report of the SCO Secretariat on the course of realization of the program of multilateral trade and economic cooperation of the SCO member states, SCO financial report on execution of the budget of the organization for 2008 and the SCO budget for 2010.


"Following the results of the session, the protocol between customs services of the SCO member states of cooperation in preparation and improvement of professional skills of the customs service officials was signed in the presence of the SCO prime ministers.


SCO is a permanently operating regional international organization founded in June, 2001 by the leaders of Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.


Premier Wen Jiabao stressed that the session was successful, constructive dialogues and talks were held, the results of cooperation in frames of SCO were summed up.

 

I. Chudinov met with K. Masimov

14/10/2009

 

Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Igor Chudinov met with Kazakh Prime Minister Karim Masimov in Beijing.


During the talks the issues of energy security were discussed. The sides discussed agreements, concluded in Bishkek during the recent visit of K. Masimov to Bishkek.

 

SCO Prime Ministers signed final documents

14/10/2009

 

Prime Minister Igor Chudinov took part in signing Joint Communiqué on the results of a meeting of Prime Ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the governmental press service reports.


Prime Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization six member countries have concluded their meeting with a joint communiqué.


They have also signed a number of agreements, including the budget for 2010 fiscal year. Premier Wen Jiabao chaired this year's one-day meeting. Attending were his counterparts from Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, as well as representatives from the SCO observer nations and Afghanistan.


The focus was on deepening economic and cultural cooperation amid international and regional challenges.

 

The participants reviewed progress in the area since meeting last year in the Kazakh capital Astana.

 

Switzerland to assist Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan in water management improvement

13/10/2009

 

Switzerland will assist Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to raise effectiveness of water distribution and use, 24.kg reported citing the head of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Micheline Calmy-Rey.


The foreign official says the water problem in Central Asia is obvious and Switzerland would like to contribute to its solution.


"There are regional projects elaborated especially for effective distribution of water between Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. We are going to continue working in this direction, but it does not mean that we promise to settle all water-related issues. Problematic water use in Central Asia has to do with human rights, security and environment. Switzerland is ready to assist the region in organizing discussions and dialogs between the parties," Micheline Calmy-Rey said.

 

Chudinov’s official visit to China kicks off

13/10/2009

 

Prime Minister Igor Chudinov has left for the People’s Republic of China to participate in the session of the Council of Prime Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which will take place tomorrow in Beijing. I.Chudinov will also visit the trade-industrial forum of SCO.


The Kyrgyz PM will meet with President of China Hu Jintao, Prime Minister Wen Jiabao, Minister of Railways Liu Zhijun and president of the China Road Company.

 

The 35th session of UNESCO General Conference continues in Paris

13/10/2009

 

The 35th session of the UNESCO General Conference takes place in Paris at the UNESCO Headquarters. It started on October 6 and will last till October 23, 2009, the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry reported.


UNESCO budget and program for 2010-2011, as well as approval of new Director General are on agenda. UNESCO Executive Council nominated Irina Bokova of Bulgaria to the post of UNESCO Director General. She will be first woman to lead UNESCO.


The main topics on the agenda of the conference refer the reports on the UNESCO activity in 2006-07 and 2008-09, the UNESCO medium-term revised strategy for 2008-13, the draft programmes and budgets for 2010-11 and 2012-13 as well as some aspects related to the UNESCO general policy for its activity and to the UNESCO working methods or to the judicial, administrative and financial components of the organization.


Permanent Representative to the UNESCO J.Azylov represents Kyrgyzstan at the Conference.

 

K.Bakiyev meets with His Highness the Aga Khan

13/10/2009

 

President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev has met with His Highness the Aga Khan, the Spiritual Leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and Founder of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).


On behalf of himself and Kyrgyzstan’s people, the head of state expressed gratitude for those works, carrying out in the country by the AKDN: “Kyrgyzstan is mountainous country and the population’s life in remote regions have not economically developed. We welcome those works, carrying out by the AKDN and support”.


His Highness the Aga Khan also thanked the President of Kyrgyzstan and government for supporting projects of the AKDN. “I hope these projects will enter a new phase soon”.


The head of state told about upcoming reforms in the country in the field of education.


The meeting’s participants discussed issues related to perspective projects of the AKDN in Kyrgyzstan, in particular, it was noted the importance of projects in the field of tourism and aviation.

 

Prime Minister I. Chudinov arrived in Beijing

12/10/2009

 

The Kyrgyz delegation headed by Prime Minister Igor Chudinov arrived in Beijing. The delegation was met at the airport by Kyrgyz Ambassador to China J. Kulubaev, deputy minister of foreign affairs of China Van Guan and Chinese Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan Van Kaiven.    During Chudinov's China visit, Chinese President Hu Jintao, Chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress Wu Bangguo, and Vice Premier Li Keqiang will meet with him. Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao will hold talks with him.


Chudinov will also attend the eighth prime ministers' meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states slated for Wednesday.


The SCO groups China, Russia, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Mongolia, India, Iran and Pakistan are observers of the regional organization.

 

Kyrgyz-Swiss cooperation develops

12/10/2009

 

The head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) Micheline Calmy-Rey visited Kyrgyzstan on October 9. She was received by Kyrgyzstan’s Prime Minister Igor Chudinov and subsequently met with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baktygul Kalambekova.


The meetings were an opportunity for reviewing the development of bilateral relations in the framework of a technical cooperation partnership which Switzerland established with the Kyrgyz Republic 15 years ago. They also discussed the question of water management in the region.


The Kyrgyz Republic is one of the first countries of the former Soviet Union with which Switzerland has signed economic and trade agreements as well as for the protection of investments and in relation to double taxation. It is the only Central Asian nation that belongs to the World Trade Organization.


In the opinion of the two Ministers prospects are currently favourable for the further development of economic and trade relations. Another important aspect of the consultations, cooperation in the framework of the Bretton Woods voting group headed by Switzerland which includes Kyrgyzstan, was satisfactory to both sides.

 

CIS foreign ministerial consultations to be held in Bishkek

11/10/2009

 

Consultations between representatives of Ministries of Foreign Affairs of CIS countries will be held in Bishkek on October 28-29.


Discussion of visiting and activity of citizens on the territory of Commonwealth states-members is planned during consultations.

 

CIS states decided to create system of collective security on external borders

10/10/2009

 

The leaders of the CIS states at the session in Kishinev decided to create the system of collective security on their external borders, Kazakhstan Today reports citing daily information-analytical newspaper The Moscow Post.

According to the newspaper, the system assumes cooperation in ensuring security of external borders, coordination of efforts in the field of struggle against organized crime, illegal migration, trafficking of people, smuggling of goods, and drug trafficking.

 

CSTO members to support system of equal security for all Eurasian states

10/10/2009

 

The statement of the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, as the official document of the 64th session of the UN General Assembly, directed at support of the Russian initiative on signing the Contract on the European Security was made in the UN headquarters in New York, Kazakhstan Today reports citing the UN press service.

 

The statement informs of an intention of the CSTO member states to support this initiative in various international formats.

 

The Minister of the CSTO member states declared that they support the system of uniform, equal and indivisible safety "for all states of the Euro-Atlantic and Eurasian states, having underlined the necessity of strict observance of the obligations of the states undertaken at the highest level not to strengthen their security at the expense of safety of other countries.

 

President K.Bakiyev meets with acting president of Moldova M.Ghimpu

09/10/2009

 

President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s bilateral meeting with acting president of the Republic of Moldova, speaker of the parliament Mihai Ghimpu took place in Chisinau.

 

President K.Bakiyev congratulated M.Ghimpu on election as the speaker of Moldova’s parliament and thanked for invitation to participate in the summit of the CIS Presidents.

 

He said the bilateral cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and Moldova is developing stably. The both sides cooperate within the framework of international and regional organizations such as the UN, OSCE, CIS and WTO. These efforts aimed to carry out achieved agreements and deepen bilateral cooperation in trade-economic, scientific-technical, cultural and humanitarian fields.

 

Speaker of Moldova’s parliament Mihai Ghimpu said that Kyrgyzstan and Moldova have good potential for expanding trade-economic, cultural and humanitarian relations, expressed hope for further strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation between the two states.

 

The parties discussed some issues of activating the Kyrgyz-Moldavian relations.

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev will return to Bishkek today.

 

Kyrgyzstan, Switzerland expand cooperation

09/10/2009

 

Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Igor Chudinov received Foreign Minister of Switzerland Micheline Calmy-Rey in Bishkek.

 

The PM expressed gratitude to the Swiss Foreign Ministry for organizing successful visit of the Kyrgyz delegation to Berne in June 2009.

 

I.Chudinov told Micheline Calmy-Rey about the latest political and socio-economic transformations in the country, particularly about Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s initiative on reforming the state management system, about tasks of the government in conditions of the world economic financial crisis’s influence on economy of Kyrgyzstan. I.Chudinov informed about measures, which are accepting in the country on upcoming autumn-winter period.

 

During discussion of an issue on using water resources in the Central Asian region, the PM emphasized the importance of working out mutually acceptable economic mechanism, which will take into account the interests of all sides.

 

I.Chudinov expressed gratitude to the Swiss government for intention to solve issues of formalizing visa for citizens of Kyrgyzstan to enter the Swiss Confederation. He positively appreciated the Swiss side’s readiness to hold the regular meeting of bilateral intergovernmental trade-economic commission in 2010.

 

Issues of constructing Kyrgyz-Chinese railway to be discussed

09/10/2009

 

First Deputy Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Omurbek Babanov will meet with President of the “Sinohydro” Corporation Fan Jixiang. The parties are expected to discuss issues of this company’s participation in construction of Kyrgyz-Chinese railway.

 

I.Chudinov to meet with Swiss FM Micheline Calmy-Rey

09/10/2009

 

A meeting of Kyrgyz Prime Minister Igor Chudinov with Foreign Minister of the Switzerland Micheline Calmy-Rey will take place today in the Government House. The governmental press service reported it.

 

Swiss FM arrives in Bishkek

08/10/2009

 

Foreign Minister of Switzerland Micheline Calmy-Rey will pay a working visit to Kyrgyzstan tomorrow.


During the visit, she intends to meet with the country’s officials, particularly Prime Minister Igor Chudinov and Deputy Foreign Minister Baktygul Kalambekova.


The parties will discuss issues of activating economic cooperation between Switzerland and Kyrgyzstan.

 

I.Chudinov congratulated V.Putin on birthday

08/10/2009

 

Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Igor Chudinov had congratulated his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, who turned 57 yesterday.


I.Chudinov’s congratulatory message says: “I’m sure that your rich professional experience will assist in further prosperity of Russia, strengthening its authority at the international scene.


Using the chance, I want to express my since gratitude to you for paying constant attention to strengthening Kyrgyz-Russian cooperation. The government of Kyrgyzstan will make every effort on further strengthening relations, friendship, alliance and partnership with the Russian Federation”.

 

K.Sarbaev met with General J.Johnson

08/10/2009

 

Kyrgyz Foreign Minister had a meeting yesterday with adviser of the US President for National Security General James Johnson within the framework of his working visit to the United States of America.


The parties discussed issues of bilateral and regional cooperation, including the current situation in Afghanistan. On behalf of the US President B.Obama, J.Johnson expressed gratitude to President K.Bakiyev for his personal contribution in development of the Kyrgyz-American relations and strengthening regional security.


The FM confirmed Kyrgyzstan’s readiness to assist in achieving peace and stability in Afghanistan and Central Asia within the framework of Kyrgyz President K.Bakiyev’s “Bishkek Initiative”.
The parties considered issues of carrying out contacts at the high level.

 

 

R.Kazakbaev to attend a session of CIS Foreign Ministers’ Council

 

08/10/2009

 

A regular session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) will take place in Chisinau on October 9, 2009.


First Deputy Foreign Minister Ruslan Kazakbaev will represent Kyrgyzstan at the session.


About 20 various multilateral cooperation issues are on the session’s agenda, including those concerning further cooperation in "enhancing security and increasing the efficiency of joint border protection policies.


The ministers would also focus on migration issues and coordinate forthcoming top-level CIS events and meetings.

 

R.Gates expresses gratitude to Kyrgyzstan for contributions in fighting with terrorism

08/10/2009 

 

A meeting of Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev with US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates took place in Washington yesterday within the framework of K.Sarbaev’s working visit to the United States of America.


The parties discussed issues of developing military and military-technical cooperation between the two states.


The parties confirmed intention to strengthen mutually beneficial contacts in fighting with terrorism, drug trafficking and strengthening security of borders.


R.Gates expressed gratitude to Kyrgyzstan for contributions in fighting with international terrorism and for cooperation on stabilizing situation in Afghanistan, underlining Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s personal role.

 

K.Sarbaev met with J.Steinberg

08/10/2009 

 

A meeting of Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev with US Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg took place yesterday within the framework of K.Sarbaev’s working visit to the United States of America.


The parties discussed issues of bilateral cooperation, including plans of setting up join economic development fund. They confirmed mutual interests in bringing out bilateral relations to a new level, strengthening mutually beneficial relations in political, economic, military, cultural and humanitarian fields.


The parties also discussed joint actions in the field of regional cooperation and international security.

 

Russian Ambassador V.Vlasov visits Batken

07/10/2009

 

Ambassador of Russia to Kyrgyzstan Valentin Vlasov pays two-day working visit to the Batken oblast. Russia’s consul general to Osh Muhamadzhan Ziganshin accompanies him.


V.Vlasov is expected to meet with governors of the regions to discuss issues of developing regional bilateral relations. Besides, meetings with the akim of the Batken region and mayor of the Batken town are expected.


Ambassador V.Vlasov will meet with students of the University and pupils of the local school with the Russian language teaching. He will visit a plant on processing agricultural products, located in the Batlen oblast.

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev received Kazakh Prime Minister Karim Masimov

07/10/2009

 

President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev on October 7 received Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Karim Masimov, who arrived in Bishkek with one-day working visit. The presidential press service reported it.
During the meeting K.Masimov informed the President of Kyrgyzstan about results of the negotiations with the Kyrgyz side. In his words, it were discussed numerous issues regarding to bilateral cooperation in the field of trade-economic, water-energetic, cultural, humanitarian relations.

 

Sessions of CIS Foreign Ministers and Presidents to take place in Chisinau

07/10/2009

 

In Chisinau, sessions of the Council of Foreign Ministers and the Council of Heads of States of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) will take place on October 8-9, 2009. The Foreign Ministry of Kyrgyzstan reported it.


The session of CIS Foreign Ministers is expected to consider 22 issues related to activation of cooperation between the member-states in humanitarian field, in the sphere of providing security and other priority directions of the Commonwealth.


The session of the CIS Council of Heads of States will consider some 20 documents, including a more intensive joint response to the world financial crisis, deeper humanitarian and security integration and preparations for the 65th anniversary of the end of the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945.


It is also expected to discuss documents aimed to further optimizing the procedure of activities of the CIS institutions.


President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev will participate in the session of the CIS Council of Heads of States.

 

K.Sarbaev delivered speech at the Carnegie Endowment

07/10/2009

 

A roundtable entitled “Kyrgyzstan and Regional Security” took place yesterday in the building of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington. Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev’s attended the roundtable and delivered speech before representatives of governmental structures of USA, American expert community and accredited diplomatic corps.


Answering to numerous questions of the meeting’s participants, K.Sarbaev stated Kyrgyzstan’s position on current problems of regional security, particularly, the situation in Afghanistan and related Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s “Bishkek Initiative”.

 

Issues of energetic security discussed

07/10/2009

 

Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev had a meeting in Washington with U.S. Special Envoy for Eurasian Energy Richard Morningstar on October 6, 2009.


According to the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry, the parties discussed issues of bilateral and regional cooperation in the field of national and regional energetic security.


The FM offered concrete proposals of Kyrgyzstan’s government to the American side about solution of problems in this field, existing in the republic and needing joint coordinated actions.

 

Secretary of Security Council met with Ambassador of Kazakhstan

06/10/2009

 

Secretary of Kyrgyzstan’s Security Council A.Madumarov has met with Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Kyrgyzstan B.Isabaev. The presidential press service reported it.


Issues of Kyrgyz-Kazakh mutual relations and perspectives of their development were discussed at the meeting. Besides, the parties talked about preparations for upcoming exercises of the member-states of the Collective Security Treaty Organization “Interaction-2009”, which will take place in Kazakhstan.


The Secretary of Kyrgyzstan’s Security Council has been informed on intentions of the Kazakh Embassy to shoot a documentary film about friendship of brotherly Kyrgyz and Kazakh peoples.

 

A new mechanism of Kyrgyz-American cooperation is setting up

06/10/2009

 

The Kyrgyz-American political consultations took place yesterday within the framework of Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev’s working visit to USA. At the consultations, the parties exchanged opinions on wide range of issues and discussed perspectives of cooperation between the two states.


According to the Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry, during K.Sarbaev’s meeting with Assistant of the US Secretary of State Robert Blake, who headed the American delegations at the consultations, it was talked plans on strengthening political, trade-economic and military-technical cooperation.


The parties agreed to set up a mechanism of contacts such as the Kyrgyz-American commission and agreed to hold its first meeting in December 2009 in Bishkek.

 

Issues of cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and USA discussed

06/10/2009

 

Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev had a meeting yesterday with US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs William Burns within the framework of his working visit to USA. Issues of developing bilateral relations were discussed during the meeting and the parties confirmed intentions to strengthen mutually beneficial contacts. The Foreign Ministry of Kyrgyzstan reported it.


The parties discussed joint actions in the field of regional cooperation and international security.


K.Sarbaev noted Kyrgyzstan’s readiness to assist in strengthening security and stability in Afghanistan and Central Asia within the framework of President Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s proposed “Bishkek Initiative”.


The American side had showed interest in carrying out the Initiative and expressed thanks to President K.Bakiyev for his personal contribution in developing the Kyrgyz-American relations and strengthening regional security.

 

 

 

Issues of cooperation with USAID discussed

 

06/10/2009

 

Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev, within the framework of his working visit to the United States of America, had a meeting yesterday with USAID Deputy Administrator James Michael and discussed issues of implementing USAID programs and projects in the Kyrgyz Republic. The Kyrgyz side emphasized the importance of further cooperation with the Agency on priority directions, reflected in Kyrgyzstan’s Development Strategy.

 

J.Michael highly appreciated the Kyrgyz government’s efforts, congratulated with achieved progress in the World Bank Rating “Doing Business” and expressed readiness to continue cooperation within the framework of actual projects for Kyrgyzstan.

 

Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Karim Masimov arrives in Kyrgyzstan

05/10/2009

 

Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Karim Masimov arrives in Kyrgyzstan today on a working visit, the governmental press service reported.


It is expected that the high guest will meet and conduct negotiations with Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Igor Chudinov.


The parties are expected to discuss problems of energetic security and issues of trade economic cooperation.

 

Russian presidential administration chief arrives in Kyrgyzstan

05/10/2009

 

Russian Presidential Administration Chief Sergei Naryshkin arrives in Kyrgyzstan today, a source in the Presidential Administration of Kyrgyzstan told it.


Sergei Naryshkin is scheduled to meet with Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, the source said.

 

K.Sarbaev leaves for Washington

05/10/2009

 

Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev has left for Washington today on a working visit at the invitation of the American side. According to the Foreign Ministry, the two-day visit’s goal is to discuss the current condition and perspectives of bilateral Kyrgyz-American cooperation. K.Sarbaev is expected to meet with top leadership of the US State Department, Defense Ministry and hold meeting in the US Congress, the Council of National Security.


K.Sarbaev will also deliver a speech at the Carnegie Center on a topic of regional security in Central Asia.

 

X Summit of the Heads of the Turkic Speaking States to be held in Kyrgyzstan

05/10/2009

 

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Kurmanbek Bakiev and President of the Republic of Turkey Abdullah Gul participated at the IX Summit of the Heads of the Turkic Speaking States held on 2-3 October 2009 in Nakhchivan city, Republic of Azerbaijan.

The Heads of States,

Noting the importance of the existing high level contacts and cooperation in all spheres, based on affinity of history, language and culture, equality and mutual benefit,

Affirming the advantage of Summits of the Heads of Turkic Speaking States and the provisions of declarations adopted at the previous Summits, including the Antalya Declaration, adopted at the Summit in the Republic of Turkey in 2006,

Being convinced that strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations and existing solidarity among Turkic speaking states deepens the cooperation in Eurasian region,

Noting with satisfaction the signing of “Nakhchivan Agreement on the Establishment of the Council of cooperation of Turkic Speaking States” at the IX Summit of the Heads of the Turkic Speaking States held on 2-3 October 2009 in Nakhchivan city,

Noting the leading role of economy and trade in contemporary international relations,

Expressing their adherence to the purposes and principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter, to the documents of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, and above all to the Helsinki Final Act,

Aiming at strengthening political and economic security of the states on the basis of principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of borders, non-interference into domestic affairs of each-other, non-use and non-threat of the use of force,

1. Noted that the IX Summit of the Heads of the Turkic Speaking States held in Nakhchivan city shall contribute to further development and deepening of multilateral and bilateral relations and cooperation among Turkic speaking states in various fields,

2. Expressed their intention to develop, on the basis of mutual interests, relations and solidarity implying from commonness of history, affinity of language and culture among Turkic Speaking States,

3. Reaffirmed their adherence to the principles of democracy, respect for human rights and development of market economy, rule of law and good governance,

4. Expressed their intention to develop mutual relations in the field of trade and economy, and to enlarge cooperation, in particular, in the fields of industry, agriculture, transport, communication and in other fields on the basis of principles of equality and mutual benefit,

5. Emphasizing that dynamically developing economies of Turkic speaking states create conditions for cooperation in various fields, noted the necessity of adopting additional measures aiming at increasing the level of trade-economic, scientific-technical and humanitarian cooperation among Turkic speaking states in accordance with their potential,

6. Confirmed the increasing role of the energy resources of Caspian region ensuring the energy security of Europe, expressed the assurance that the strategic Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil and Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum natural gas pipelines serve for global energy security and sustainable economic development countries of the region. In this context, they highlighted the importance of increase of pipe capacity of Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline and emphasized the importance of the connection between the Aktau port and the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline.

7. Noted that the establishment of the new railway connection Baku-Tbilisi-Kars which is one of the integral parts of the East-West corridor and directed to increase freight volumes between Europe and Asia, shall significantly contribute to expansion of international transport-communication links and economic development, security and stability of the region.

8.Emphasized that they shall attach much more importance to deepening relations among Turkic speaking states and with this aim shall contribute to organization of mutual visits, exchange of experience and cooperation. Expressed their support to enhancing contacts among parliaments, central and local authorities, mass media, which will serve to strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation, as well as development of links among peoples of the Turkic Speaking States,

9. Affirming mutual interest in broadening relations in the spheres of science, education, culture, art, tourism, sports, and in other spheres, expressed their adherence to support and strengthen spiritual and humanitarian contacts among Turkic speaking peoples,

10. Expressed support to the contacts between scientific organizations and scientists, as well as to the concrete projects in the relevant spheres, and reaffirmed the necessity of cooperation in the field of education,

11. Confirmed the necessity of further promotion of political consultations directed to the strengthening of regional and global security, development of interaction in all spheres of cooperation, close contacts and joint action. Expressed their intention to promote strengthening the confidence and mutual understanding among Turkic speaking states.

12. The Parties stated for continuation of further interaction on the reconstruction and peaceful reestablishment of Afghanistan and welcome the elections held in Afghanistan on 20 August 2009, which were serious challenge on the part of the Afghan authorities given the situation in the country.

13. The Parties expressed the intention to jointly take part in aid programs of international community for Afghanistan, and in realization of joint projects on reconstruction of its economy. In this connection the Parties solute all initiatives of Turkic Speaking States on the Afghan solution, in particular “Bishkek initiatives” of the Kyrgyz Republic.

14. Drew attention to the necessity of preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq and guaranteeing the rights and liberties of the Turkic origined community which is an integral part of the whole Iraqi society.

15. Underlined the importance of the contribution of the Conference on Interaction and Conference Building Measures in Asia-CICA to the development of the dialogue and cooperation on security matters in Asia and stressed that during the Kazakh chairmanship CICA has made important progress in the way of institutionalization, emphasized full support to the CICA Chairmanship of Turkey during June 2010-2012.

16. Noted with satisfaction the progress Turkey has achieved in the EU accession process whereas Turkey is significant state of the Eurasian area whose membership in the EU will create political, economic and social momentum for the development of region as a whole.

17. Expressing their expectation for a settlement of the Cyprus problem within the framework of a new Partnership to be established on the basis of UN parameters. Expressed their support for the ongoing comprehensive settlement negotiations between the two sides in Cyprus as well as UN Secretary-General’s calls and OIC resolutions concerning the lifting without delay of the isolations upon the Turkish Cypriots.

18. The Parties underlined importance of joint efforts for strengthening multilateral cooperation within the structure of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC)in order to increase effectiveness of OIC and welcomed the foreseen chairmanship of the Republic of Kazakhstan in 2011 in the CMFA of OIC.

19. Affirmed their position on inadmissibility of forcible change of the borders, declared that consolidation of efforts of the international community against acts of aggression, endangering international peace and stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, is a main factor in providing the global security.

20. Noted that they pay special attention to strengthening the role of the UN in solving global and strategic issues to achieve international security, sustainable development, as well as the purposes enshrined in the UN Charter. They mentioned that the reforms being carried out in the UN should be directed to strengthening of central role of UN in international issues, the fast and effective use of its potential against new threats and challenges to international legal order.

21. Confirmed intention in serious manner to consider candidature of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Kyrgyz Republic to the non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council for a period of 2012-2013 at the election to this body to be held in the course of the 66th session of the UN GA in 2011.

22. Affirmed the concern over the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and its severe consequences and noted the importance of peaceful resolution of the afore-mentioned conflict, which is one of the obstacles for stability and regional cooperation, on the basis of the principle of territorial integrity, inviolability of borders of the Republic of Azerbaijan and norms of the international law; reaffirmed their conviction that resolution of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict will be a significant progress in providing peace, stability and prosperity in Eurasian area.

23. Noted with satisfaction the contribution of the Alliance of Civilizations – UN initiative as well as the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions – initiative of the Resident of Kazakhstan H.E.Mr. Nursultan Nazarbayev, aiming at encouraging greater cross-cultural mutual understanding and inter-religious dialogue and fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect to the promotion of peace, harmony and mutual understanding amongst world different cultures.

24. Confirmed that the cooperation of the Turkic speaking States within the ECO will continue with a view of contributing to strengthening of organization and establishing economic stability and increase of welfare in the region.

25. Expressed the support for the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic Speaking States, the activity of which is aimed at deepening the cooperation amongst Parliaments representing the brotherly peoples.

26. Emphasized the significance of cooperation and joint action in fight against terrorism, human trafficking, illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, crime, including illicit arm trade, as well as other threats and challenges endangering international security. Reaffirmed their intention to interact with each other and with international organizations and forums for further strengthening the cooperation in this field.

27. Noted that Council of Cooperation of Turkic Speaking States established on the basis of the Nakhchivan Agreement on establishment of Council of Cooperation of Turkic Speaking States signed at the IX Summit of the Heads of Turkic Speaking States, defines the new stage in strengthening the interaction amongst the Turkic Speaking States.


28. Expressed that the high level contacts between Turkic speaking states based on historical roots are in the spirit of friendship and good neighbourhood, meeting the interests of Turkic speaking states. The Parties will make efforts in order to develop close cooperation in protection of common cultural heritage, passing this heritage to future generations and promote its propaganda in an international arena.

29. Emphasized that TURKSOY plays an important role in identification, development, expansion and popularization of the common values of Turkic world in international level, as well as appreciated its contribution to the deepening of cultural relations among Turkic speaking countries. In this regard, they noted the significance of the TURKSOY in further strengthening the links and cooperation based on common language, culture and spiritual values of the peoples of Turkic speaking countries.

30. Unanimously supported the initiative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the establishment of the TURKSOY Fund for the preservation and maintenance of the rich Turkic cultural heritage which significantly contributed to the development of the world civilization. The Governments of the States of Parties are charged to work over organizational matters related to the establishment and activity of the TURKSOY Fund.

31. Made a decision to hold X Summit of the Heads of Turkic Speaking states in Kyrgyzstan.

32. The guests expressed their satisfaction with the result of Summit and pronounced their gratitude to the People of Azerbaijan and to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev for the warm welcome and hospitality.

Signed on 3 October 2009, in Nakhchivan city in the Azerbaijani, Kazakh, Kyrgyz, and Turkish languages.

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev took part in Summit of Turkic-Speaking countries

03/10/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev took part in 9th Summit of heads of Turkic-Speaking countries in Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan.


During the Summit Kurmanbek Bakiyev made a speech on condition and perspectives of cooperation of states-participants.


On the results of the Summit Nakhchivan Declaration is signed and an agreement to set up a Council of Cooperation of Turkic-Speaking countries.


President Bakiyev returned Bishkek the same day.

 

President Bakiyev met with Kazakh leader N. Nazarbaev

03/10/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev met with Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev in frames of Summit of heads of Turkic-Speaking countries in Nahichevani, Azerbaijan.


During the meeting the two leaders discussed perspectives and condition of mutually beneficial cooperation between the states. In particular, they achieved an agreement that Kazakhstan will advance $25 million as a payment for power supply.

 

Parliamentary delegation of Russia visited airbase in Kant

28/09/2009

 

Parliamentary delegation of Russia, which arrived today in Bishkek at the head of chairman of the Inter-parliamentary Assembly on Cooperation between Jogorku Kenesh and Federal Assembly of Russia Michail Zalihanov became acquainted with activity of Russian airbase in Kant. The delegation is accompanied by a group of Kyrgyz parliamentarians, the press service of Jogorku Kenesh reports.

 

The delegation visited headquarters, caserns, gymnasium and secondary school, where children of officers study.

 

I. Chudinov met with Hilary Clinton

28/09/2009

 

In frames his working visit to USA Prime Minister Igor Chudinov met with US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton. The governmental press service reports.

During the meeting the sides discussed a wide circle of issues concerning bilateral relations in the sphere of political, trade

 

Delegation of Russian parliamentarians arrived in Kyrgyzstan

28/09/2009

 

Delegation of Russian parliamentarians arrived in Bishkek to participate in a work of the second meeting of Inter-parliamentary commission on Cooperation between Jogorku Kenesh and Federal Assembly of Russia on September 29 in Cholpon Ata.

 

Deputies of the Kyrgyz Parliament Maksat Kunakunov, Yury Danilov, Abdireim Kulbaev met the Russian delegation at the Manas airport.

 

Today the delegation will visit the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavonic University named after B. Yeltzin and Russian aviation subdivision in Kant.

 

On September 29 in Cholpon-Ata parliamentarians will discuss fulfillment of agreement between Kyrgyzstan and Russia, perspectives of joint scientific researches in the sphere of high technologies and tourism development in the republic.

 

Kyrgyzstan is bidding for a non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council in 2011-2013

27/09/2009

 

Kyrgyzstan is bidding for a non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council in 2011-2013, Kyrgyz Prime Minister Igor Chudinov said Saturday at a 64th session of UN General Assembly.

 

"I would like to confirm that my country is for the first time nominating itself as a candidate to become one of the non-permanent members of the Security Council for the period of 2012-2013," Chudinov told.

 

"The Kyrgyz Republic located in the heart of Central Asia is taking an active part in maintaining peace and security and environmental stability at both global and regional levels," he said.

 

"We are ready to contribute as much as we can to the work of this key body of the United Nations," he said.

 

Delegation of Kyrgyz Parliament arrived in Baku

27/09/2009

 

Delegation of Jogorku Kenesh headed by chairman of the Kyrgyz Parliament Aitibai Tagaev arrived in Baku to participate in a summit of Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic-speaking countries.

 

At the international airport named after G. Aliev the Kyrgyz delegation was met by deputy chairman of Milli Medlis Bahar Muradov and Valeh Aleskerov. Answering questions of journalists at the airport the Kyrgyz Speaker stressed the importance of this event in intimacy of Turkic-speaking countries.

 

Chudinov met in Washington with US Senator S. Brownback

25/09/2009

 

Prime Minister Igor Chudinov met with US Senator Sam Brownback in Washington in frames of his visit to USA.

 

During the meeting I. Chudinov expressed gratitude to the Senator for his support in developing Kyrgyz-American cooperation. The head of the Kyrgyz Government emphasized the important role of USA in developing democracy in Kyrgyzstan.

 

In his turn, Sam Brownback told that he intends to support Kyrgyzstan further.

 

11 session of Coordination Council of Chairmen of Tax Investigation Institutions to be held in Kyrgyzstan

09/09/2009

 

The 11th session of Coordination Council of Chairmen of Tax Investigation Institutions of the CIS member states will be held on September 9-10 in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan Today reports citing Financial Police Service of Kyrgyzstan. The agenda of the forum, which will be held in Issyk Kul, includes cooperation of tax (financial) investigation bodies of the CIS memebr states in counteraction to threats in the sphere of economic safety and minimization of negative consequences of the world financial crisis, the role of these structures in counteraction to corruption criminality, and cooperation in the questions of improvement of professional skills of staff and others. The chairmen of tax investigation bodies of Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Ukraine, and Russia are taking part in the session.

 

Session on counteraction to drug trafficking of CSTO member states to be held in Kyrgyzstan

09/09/2009

 

The session of the Coordination Council of chairmen of competent bodies for counteraction drug trafficking of the member states of Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) will be held on September 10, 2009 in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan Today - reports citing the CSTO Secretariat press service.

 

"The session participants will discuss the questions of putting into operation of the uniform databank concerning circulation of drugs, psychotropic substances and their precursors and counteraction to illegal drug circulation; preparation of joint events against transnational criminal drug-related groups and their leaders during the operation Channel, and coordination of the mechanism of participation of divisions of financial investigation of the member states of the Eurasian group on counteraction to financing of terrorism and legalization (money laundering) of the income received in criminal way," CSTO Assistant Secretary General, Valery Semerikov, informed.

 

Parliamentarian asks to speed up delivering roofing slates to remote regions

03/09/2009

 

Parliamentarian Roza Otunbaeva at the parliament’s session has asked to draw attention to the Jalalabad oblast’s Toguztoro village, where destroyed roofing slates of many houses after last month’s strong winds.


“The damage from this natural disaster has amounted to over 700 thousand soms”, - she said.


The parliamentarian asked leadership of corresponding ministries and departments to take it under their control and speed up delivering roofing slates to the scene.

 

K.Bakiyev: Duplicating duties in the state management system to be reduced

31/08/2009

 

The parliament’s session has started its work today with the participation of President Kurmanbek Bakiyev.
The head of state, delivering a speech here, said the duplicating duties in the presidential administration, prime minister’s office, ministries and departments will be reduced. It is expected to strengthen the role of the state agency on affairs of state employees, which is aimed to provide training, retraining and transferring personnel, reforms of the state management system.


On the first phase of reforms, it is expected to reform the government. The government’s main work should become creation of conditions for development of small and medium business, development of culture and increase the population’s living standard.

 

Jogorku Kenesh’s session begins with the participation of K.Bakiyev

31/08/2009

 

The third session of the Jogorku Kenesh (parliament) has started its work today. The session of the parliament’s fourth convocation takes place with the participation of President Kurmanbek Bakiyev.


K.Bakiyev is delivering a speech in the parliament at the present moment.

 

Kyrgyzstan marked the Independence Day

31/08/2009

 

Kyrgyzstan marked the 18th anniversary of its independence on August 31.


At a ceremony in Bishkek’s Kyrgyz Philharmonic Society, President Kurmanbek Bakiyev told the assembled crowd that the country had “big tasks” ahead of it.


“The most important of those tasks are to further develop our national heritage, preserve the diverse cultures, ensure private property rights, establish the rule of law, and to build a state governed by the rule of law,” he said.


K.Bakiyev also said the nation had put its trust in him for another presidential term, and that this gave him additional energy for the work ahead.


The festive events held in all settlements of the country. The main celebrations, which attended by leaders of the state, held in the central square of the Kyrgyz capital. Mass gatherings were took place in the square.

 

President K.Bakiyev participates in opening of the Manap-biy’s monument

28/08/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev visited Tokmok within the framework of his working visit to the Chui oblast, where participated in opening of the Manap-biy’s monument.

 

The head of state in his speech, here, said Manap-biy was historical figure, who fought for freedom and independence of his land. “This monument is erected in honor of our ancestry that fought for freedom and bright future of our people. In XVI century, Manap-biy played a special role in fighting united Kyrgyz and Kazakh tribes for maintaining independent native land”, - said K.Bakiyev.

 

The head of state expressed thanks to sculptor Duishen Zholchuev, builder Zhumabek Toktogaziev, and those people, who rendered assistance in the monument’s erection.

 

Separate ministries and departments to be united or closed

27/08/2009

 

The reforms in the state management system will be carried out without fail. First deputy chairman of the Ak-Zhol people’s party Tabyldy Orozaliev told at a press conference at the “Kabar” News Agency, answering to questions of journalists.

 

“Those structures, which duplicate each other, should be united and those structures, which are not effective, should be eliminated”, - said T.Orozaliev.

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev conducted a meeting yesterday on issues of reforms in the state management.

 

The head of state will deliver a speech at the parliament on September 1 and inform the people about expecting reforms in the state management.

 

According to T.Orozaliev, the documents are ready. “Everything will be clear on September 1”, - he added.

 

President K.Bakiyev received the Kyrgyzpatent’s head Ulan Melisbek

26/08/2009

 

A working meeting of the State Patent Service’s head Ulan Melisbek with President Kurmanbek Bakiyev took place yesterday. The head of state had shown interest in situation in the field of domain administration “KG”. U.Melisbek informed him about processes in the field of administration and upcoming transformations.

 

According to the Kyrgyzpatent’s press service, the parties discussed upcoming visits of U.Melisbek to events of international level.

 

U.Melisbek informed the head of state about those issues, which will be discussed at a joint meeting of the Interstate council on issues of protecting industrial property, which will take place in Yerevan on September 9-10 and numerous meetings of the WIPO that will take place between September 22 and October 1 in Geneva.

 

President K.Bakiyev to deliver a speech at the parliament’s opening autumn session

26/08/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev received speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh (parliament) Aytibai Tagaev, who informed the head of state about starting of the regular parliament’s session and plans for September. The presidential press service reported it.


A.Tagaev told the Jogorku Kenesh received 15 bills from the government and 7 of them are economic bills. He informed about the parliament’s readiness and intention to closely cooperate with all institutions of authorities and civil society.


K.Bakiyev pointed out the importance of the parliament’s consolidated works with other branches of authorities, especially in connection with upcoming reforms in the state management system.


The head of state told that he intends to deliver a speech at the parliament’s opening autumn session on September 1.

 

K.Bakiyev orders to finish rebuilding the Nura village in time

25/08/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev received Prime Minister Igor Chudinov, who informed the head of state about restorations works in the Nura village of the Osh oblast that suffered from an earthquake on October 5, 2008. The presidential press service reported it.


According to I.Chudinov, the earthquake destroyed 134 houses. The Chinese company, which won a contest for the right of building houses, is constructing 151 houses now. These houses will resist a quake of magnitude 9 on the Richter scale and will be provided with heating using the coal.


460 people involved in the construction works. Presently, it is completed 46 houses. By September 7 it is expected to finish construction of other houses and put into commission a new sports complex, bath and other social buildings.


I.Chudinov told that it is also expected to open a memorial complex for victims of the earthquake by the end of September 2009.


I.Chudinov informed the head of state about situations in the field of industry, particularly activities of big industrial enterprises such as the Maily-Suu electric-bulb plant, the Tashkumyr silicon productions, the Karabalta mining plant, the Kyzylkiya cement works and others. The PM also informed about accepting measures on preparations for the upcoming winter period.


K.Bakiyev pointed out the necessity of rebuilding houses for residents of the Nura village in time.


The head of state ordered to solve issues of restoring the Kurmentyiskiy cement works within September and take control providing the Heating Power Station with necessary fuel.

 

K.Bakiyev: The current reform must change the system of state management radically

25/08/2009

 

“The reforms, carried out in the state management till today, represented only reorganization. Some structures were united, liquidated and created. The current reform must change the system of state management radically”, - said President Kurmanbek Bakiyev during a meeting with the participation of Secretary of State Dosbol Nur uulu, head of the Presidential Administration Daniyar Usenov, heads of the Presidential Secretariat Oksana Malevanaya, secretary of the Security Council Adahan Madumarov, heads of departments of the Presidential Administration.


The head of state said the state machinery must be compact, mobile, capable to operatively and adequately react to demands of the times.


The head of state pointed out the necessity of effectively using the budgetary funds.


President K.Bakiyev told that he intends to partake in a plenary session of the Jogorku Kenesh in early September.

 

Kamchybek Tashiev visited America

21/08/2009

 

Minister of Emergency Situations Kamchybek Tashiev had paid official visit to Helene, Montana between August 9 and 16. K.Tashiev met with Commander of the National Guard of Montana John Walsh. The parties discussed issues of cooperation between the Emergency Situations Ministry and the National Guard in the field of liquidating and warning extreme situations.


Minister K.Tashiev had addressed to partners to render assistance in equipping the Emergency Situations Ministry with special technique and equipment.


Besides, it was discussed issues of attracting representatives of the parties for participation in workshops, scientific-technical conferences, meetings on issues of civil protection and emergency situations, radiation and industrial safety.

 

K.Bakiyev sends message of condolences over the former Korean president’s death

20/08/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev sent a message of condolences addressed to President of Korea Lee Myung-bakon in connection with the former Korean president’s death.


On behalf of Kyrgyzstan’s people and personally himself, the head of state in his message expressed deep grief over the death of Kim Dae-jung to the Korean people and relatives of the former president.

 

K.Bakiyev sends message of condolences to D.Medvedev over terrorism act in Nazran and accident at Sayano-Shushenskaya HPP

20/08/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev sent a message of condolences addressed to President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev in connection with terrorism act in Nazran, the capital of Ingushetia and accident at Sayano-Shushenskaya hydropower plant in Khakassia.


The message says:


“Dear Dmitry Anatolievich,


It was with deep shock and sadness that I learned about the explosion in Nazran and the accident at Sayano-Shushenskaya HPP, which occurred on August 17 and claimed lives of many civilians.


On behalf of Kyrgyzstan’s people and personally me, convey our deepest sympathy to the people of Russia, and in particular, to those who were directly affected by these tragedies”.

 

Kyrgyz FM meets with chief of the US Central Command

18/08/2009

 

A meeting of Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev with commander of the US Central Command David Petreus took place in Bishkek on August 17.

 

Issues of bilateral cooperation, issues of interaction in the field of regional security, including the fight with terrorism, drug trafficking and situation in Afghanistan were discussed at the meeting.

 

K.Sarbaev said that Kyrgyzstan attaches a great importance to development of the Kyrgyz-American relations and expressed hope for further constructive partnership between two states.

 

In his turn, D.Petreus asked K.Sarbaev to convey his greetings to President Kurmanbek Bakiyev on occasion of re-election as the President of Kyrgyzstan and 60-year jubilee, expressed thanks for decision to deploy the Transit Center.

 

Ombudsman meets with head of the state patent service U.Melisbek

18/08/2009

 

A meeting of Ombudsman Tursunbek Akun with head of the state patent service Ulan Melisbek took place in the Ombudsman’s Office.

 

T.Akun and U.Melisbek discussed numerous issues. The state patent service’s head offered to meet with members of the council of human rights defenders under the Ombudsman in order to discuss issues regarding to the Ombudsman’s internet-site in detail.

 

A meeting on preparations for autumn-winter period to take place today

18/08/2009

 

A meeting on preparations of the republic for autumn-winter period will take place today under the First Deputy Prime Minister Omurbek Babanov. The governmental press service reported it.


Heads of regional state administrations, heads of profile republican ministries and departments, representatives of interested structures of fuel and energy complex will participate in the meeting.

 

K.Bakiyev signs a law on youth policy

10/08/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev signs a law on basis of state youth policy.

 

The presidential press service informs the law determines foundations of creating legal, economic, social and other conditions that aimed to carry out the rights and interests of young citizens, youth organizations, their potential in interests of the state and society.

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev takes a short leave

09/08/2009

 

Starting from August 10, 2009 President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev takes a short leave of absence for the period between March 28, 2006 and March 28, 2007. The presidential press service reported it.


The head of state intends to spend his vocation in Kyrgyzstan together with his family.

 

Robert Gates thanks Kurmanbek Bakiyev

07/08/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev received a letter of thanks from U.S Secretary of Defense Robert Gates. The Kyrgyz president’s press service says, in the letter, the U.S. Secretary of Defense thanked Kurmanbek Bakiyev for opening the Transit Center at the Manas International Airport.


R.Gates thanked K.Bakiyev for his leading role in allowing the United States to open the Transit Center at Manas. The Transit Center will play an important role in the operations providing support to Afghanistan.


The decision by the Kyrgyz government is a substantial contribution to the international efforts to organize stability in Afghanistan where we are faced with a common enemy and share a common interest in achieving success, the letter said.


The agreements between the U.S. and Kyrgyz governments regarding the transit center opening and cooperation will enable the U.S. and Kyrgyzstan to continue their highly productive military relations created earlier, as well as cooperation in fighting against the threats of terrorism, extremism and drug trafficking, the document said.

 

Tajik President E.Rahmon and Kyrgyz FM K.Sarbayev discussed cooperation issues

07/08/2009

 

State and prospects of further expansion of bilateral cooperation between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan were the focus of a meeting of President Emomali Rahmon with Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbayev that was held in Dushanbe yesterday afternoon, Asia-Plus reported.


Speaking to reporters after the meeting with President E.Rahmon, Kyrgyz minister said that he had informed the Tajik leader of the results of the first session of the council of foreign ministers of the two countries. He, in particular, told President E.Rahmon that the agenda of the upcoming first session of the High Interstate Coordination Council of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan had been prepared.


“We discussed where the first session of the High Interstate Council will be held,” said K.Sarbayev, “The meeting is expected to take place this year.”


According to him, during the first session of the council of foreign ministers of the two countries they reached an agreement to hold the next ninth session of the Tajik-Kyrgyz economic commission in the Kyrgyz city of Osh from September 29-30 this year.


Asked whether the border delineation issues were discussed at the session, Kyrgyz minister said that those issues had not been discussed. “Working groups are continuing to work and there are no any political aspects that would require discussion at any higher level,” K.Sarbayev said.

 

Tajik, Kyrgyz foreign ministers sign four cooperation documents

06/08/2009

 

The first session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan that was held in Dushanbe on August 6 resulted in signing of four cooperation documents, Asia-Plus reported.

 

Speaking to reporters after the session, Tajik Foreign Minister Hamrokhon Zarifi said that they had considered a number of issues related to further expansion of political, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation between the two countries.

 

“We reached mutual understanding practically on all issues that were discussed,” Tajik minister said, expressing hope that the session that had been organized on the instructions of the leaders of both states would open a new page in history of relations between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.

 

Tajik Foreign Minister Hamrokhon Zarifi and Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbayev, signed the protocol of the session, the program of cooperation between MFAs of the two countries for 2009-2010, the protocol on exchange of notes on ratification of the agreement on military cooperation between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, and the protocol on exchange of notes on ratification of the agreement on the procedure for stay of and interaction between officers of the law enforcement and special agencies in the territories of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.

 

T.Akun: President K.Bakiyev proved himself the worthy leader

06/08/2009

 

Newly elected president of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev proved himself the worthy leader. Ombudsman Tursunbek Akun told journalists at a press conference at the “Kabar” News Agency.

 

“As against leaders of opposition, he stood up to the last degree and proved himself the real leader. We conducted monitoring and it showed that the elections took place fairly. The people have chosen K.Bakiyev, so, we should respect him”, - said T.Akun.

 

According to him, the authorities are ready for negotiations with opposition. It is necessary to sit for negotiations and solve all problems through dialogs and negotiations.

 

K. Sarbaev will visit Tajikistan

06/08/2009

 

Today Minister of Foreign Affairs Kadyrbek Sarbaev will start his working visit to Tajikistan. Within the framework of the visit, the first session of Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of two states will be held. The Council of Ministers is the coordination body of high inter-state coordination Council of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, formed in May, 2008.

 

Besides, K. Sarbaev plans to meet with Tajik leaders to discuss Kyrgyz-Tajik bilateral relations, including cooperation in trade and economic, water, power, transport and communication, cultural and humanitarian spheres.

 

M.Kongantiev met with representatives of China’s Public Safety

05/08/2009

 

Kyrgyzstan’s Interior Minister Moldomusa Kongantiev received adviser of the Chinese Ambassador Ihn Gohai, first secretary of the Embassy Dai Suikiu and third secretary Wan Sinyan yesterday.

 

The parties discussed issues of developing cooperation and interaction between the Ministry of Public Safety of China and the Ministry of Interior Affairs of Kyrgyzstan. The meeting took place in warm and friendly atmosphere.

 

Presidents of Kyrgyzstan and Turkey held telephone conservation

04/08/2009

 

President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev held a telephone conservation with President of Turkey Abdullah Gul. The Turkish President congratulated Kurmanbek Bakiyev on his 60 years jubilee and re-election to the country’s high post, wished the strong health and successes. He assured the Kyrgyz leader that the Turkish side will make every effort in order carry out those agreements in full that reached in the course of his official visit to Kyrgyzstan in May 2009.


In his turn, Kurmanbek Bakiyev noted the agreements have started to implement, in particular, signing of a partnership agreement between air-companies “Kyrgyzstan” and “Pegasus” testifies it. He expressed confidence in strengthening and expanding the Kyrgyz-Turkish relations in the future.


The Kyrgyz President’s press service informs the telephone conservation took place on the initiative of the Turkish side.

 

President K.Bakiyev conducted first meeting

03/08/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev conducted a meeting with the participation of Secretary of State Dosbol Nur uulu, head of the Presidential Administration Daniyar Usenov, head of the President’s Secretariat Oksana Malevanaya, secretary of the Security Council Adahan Madumarov, heads of the Presidential Administration’s structural departments.


The head of state informed the meeting’s participants about results of the informal summit of the
Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) that took place on July 31 and August 1, 2009 in Issykkul’s Cholponata.


The President has been informed about preliminary figures of the republic’s socio-economic development for January-July 2009. It was noted that the GDP has made up 94.1 billion soms and increased by 1.1 percent in comparison with the last year’s similar period. The volume of external commodity circulation has made up 1 billion 905 million soms.


Revenues of the country’s state budget for January-July 2009 has made 30 billion 24 million soms, including receipts from tax bodies – 11 billion 819 million soms, from customs bodies – 7 billion 94 million soms. In comparison with the last year’s similar period, revenues of the state budget has increased 5 billion 914 million soms or 24 percent.


There are no debts on pensions and allowances as of July 1, 2009.

 

President K.Bakiyev meets with D.Medvedev

01/08/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev had bilateral meetings with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev within the framework of the informal summit of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) in Cholponata.


The Kyrgyz leader thanked D.Medvedev for his active participation in the summit’s work. “The summit was successful. Important issues of cooperation were discussed. I think, the leaders of CSTO states will draw corresponding conclusions on further improvement of the Organization’s activities”, - said K.Bakiyev.


In his turn, D.Medvedev, congratulated the head of state on his birthday and wished success. He noted the summit’s participants discussed the current situation in the CSTO, perspectives of its further development and determined plans for the future. The Russian leader expressed thanks for invitation to visit Issykkul. This is his first visit to Issykkul.


The leaders of two states signed a memorandum on intentions of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Russian Federation on further development and improvement of bilateral treaty and legal base, regulating the Russian military presence in Kyrgyzstan and deployment of the additional Russian military contingent in the territory of Kyrgyzstan.

 

 

Inauguration ceremony of Kyrgyzstan's President K.Bakiyev took place (video)

 

01/08/2009

 

Kyrgyzstan's newly re-elected leader, Kurmanbek Bakiyev, was sworn in as president on Sunday.

 

The inauguration took place at the government building in Bishkek, and was attended by lawmakers, diplomats and the president of the neighboring Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev.

 

The Kyrgyz Constitutional Court ruled on Thursday that the July 23 presidential election was carried out in line with the country's constitution. However, opposition parties and European monitors said the vote was flawed.

 

In his inauguration speech, Bakiyev said he managed to ensure peace and stability in Kyrgyzstan over the course of his first term.

 

He also called for national unity and described his re-election as a “win for everybody.” ”Most importantly, the very principle of democracy and the ideals of tolerant society were victorious,” he said.

 

The inauguration ceremony lasted around 40 minutes.

 

Several days ago, K.Bakiyev made a televised address to the nations assuring the people that he would fulfil all his pre-election promises. He intends first of all to conduct the reform of the state government bodies and modernisation of the national education system.

 

Russia, Kyrgyzstan sign military memorandum

31/07/2009

 

President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev and President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev signed a memorandum on Russian military presence in Kyrgyzstan.


Kyrgyzstan already hosts a Russian airbase in Kant and four other Russian military facilities.
The airbase in Kant, some 20 kilometers (12 miles) outside the capital, Bishkek, was opened in 2003.
Some 250 Russian officers and 150 enlisted personnel from Russia's 5th Air Army are deployed at the base, as well as Su-25 Frogfoot strike aircraft and Mi-8 transport helicopters.


In line with the memorandum, the republic will also host an additional Russian military contingent the size of up to a battalion and a training center for both countries' servicemen.


The memorandum noted "the expediency of working out and signing by November 1, 2009 of a Russian-Kyrgyz agreement on the status and terms of stay of a united Russian military base on the territory of the Kyrgyz republic."


The agreement will be valid for 49 years and could be automatically extended for 25-year periods.
D.Medvedev arrived in Kyrgyzstan on Friday for an informal regional security treaty organization summit in Issykkul.


Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told journalists on Saturday that the training center, to be hosted by Kyrgyzstan, will be open for all CSTO members.

 

CSTO leaders agree to create information security center

31/07/2009

 

Leaders of the Collective Security Treaty Organization agreed Friday to create an information security center in Moscow.
Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, whose country is hosting a two-day CSTO summit in Cholponata on Saturday and Sunday, said the center will help member states exchange information on Internet security and their experiences with combating cyber crime.


A center for youth education will also be established in Cholponata, K.Bakiyev said.

 

Situation in zone of CSTO responsibility is knotty – K.Bakiyev

31/07/2009

 

Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev considers the situation that is developing in the zone of responsibility of the CSTO member states as knotty.


In the opening remarks at an informal summit of the heads of state of the Collective Security Treaty Organization, K.Bakiyev noted that he first of all implied “issues of security and issues connected with international terrorism”.


Focusing on them, he mentioned the events in the Caucasus and in Kyrgyzstan “Two groups of gunmen were destroyed within June, and 18 people were arrested. They are all connected with international terrorism. This is an important issue, and it concerns everybody,” K.Bakiyev noted.

 

CSTO summit kicks off in Cholponata

31/07/2009

 

An informal summit of the member-countries of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) has kicked off in Cholponata at the Ruh-Ordo complex.


Presidents of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan, Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbaev, Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev, Russia Dmitry Medvedev, Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon and Uzbekistan Islam Karimov are attending the summit.


The CSTO leader will hear the report on approaches and practical measures of formation of the coordinated information policy of the CSTO states. The leaders of the states will discuss the question of construction on the bank of the lake Issykkul of the international youth military-sports centre of the organization.


The meeting will come to an end with a working dinner on behalf of the President of Kyrgyzstan in honor of the honored guests. During the summit, the leaders of the CSTO states will hold a number of bilateral negotiations.


As informed earlier, the informal summit of the CSTO state leaders will be held on July 31 - August 1 in Cholponata. According to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, during the informal summit, the heads of the CSTO member states will discuss the questions of international security and activities of the organization.

 

CSTO informal summit to open in Kyrgyzstan today

31/07/2009

 

The informal summit of the heads of the states of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) will open today in Kyrgyzstan, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan reported.


According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the summit will start its work in the evening in the state residence №2 in the city Cholpon-Ata. President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev will personally meet his counterparts.


After the heads of the states and CSTO Secretary General gather in the cultural-ethnographic centre Ruh Ordo, they will hear the report on approaches and practical measures of formation of the coordinated information policy of the CSTO states. The leaders of the states will discuss the question of construction on the bank of the lake Issyk Kul of the international youth military-sports centre of the organization.


The meeting will come to an end with a working dinner on behalf of the President of Kyrgyzstan in honor of the honored guests. During the summit, the leaders of the CSTO states will hold a number of bilateral negotiations.


As informed earlier, the informal summit of the CSTO state leaders will be held on July 31 - August 1 in Cholpon-Ata. According to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, during the informal summit, the heads of the CSTO member states will discuss the questions of international security and activities of the organization.

 

Kyrgyz Constitutional Court recognized results of presidential elections legitimate

30/07/2009

 

The Constitutional Court of Kyrgyzstan has recognized the presidential elections legitimate and having been held in conformity with the Constitution of the country, the press service of the Constitutional Court of Kyrgyzstan reported.


The Central Election Commission of Kyrgyzstan directed on July 27th the results of the presidential elections of Kyrgyzstan to the Constitutional Court. According to the Code on Elections, the court must confirm the results not later than seven days after the last election day.


Today, the Constitutional Court recognized the presidential elections of the country legitimate. According to the legislation, the elected leader of the state will take the oath to the people of Kyrgyzstan in the presence of deputies of Parliament within 30 days.


The inauguration is planned for August 2, 2009.

 

CEC registered K.Bakiyev as the head of state for second-term

30/07/2009

 

Members of the Central Election Commission (CEC) of Kyrgyzstan have adopted a resolution on registering Kurmanbek Bakiyev as the head of state for second-term.


Head of the CEC’s organizational legal department Amankul Moldaliev told K.Bakiyev, assuming the office of the president, will get a certification on election him as the country’s president, breastplate and the president’s color,


He told the CEC is obliged to publish today’s resolution on “Kyrgyz Tuusu”, “Erkin Too” and “Slovo Kyrgyzstan” newspapers within three days.

 

OSCE/ODIHR praises progress of democracy at presidential elections in Kyrgyzstan

29/07/2009

 

The mission of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OSCE/ODIHR) has reported about the progress in human rights protection and democracy in preparation and holding of the presidential elections in Kyrgyzstan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kyrgyzstan to Belarus Ishenkul Boldzhurova told BelTA on 28 July. According to her, the mission praised the activity of the non-governmental sector during the election campaign and the equal TV exposure opportunities created for all candidates.

 

According to the latest data of the Kyrgyz Central Election Commission, the turnout was around 80%. There were 2330 polling stations including 49 polling stations abroad. Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev was re-elected with 77% of the vote. Six candidates for Presidency took part in the elections in Kyrgyzstan. Some 516 international observers and around 20,000 national observers monitored the presidential elections in Kyrgyzstan. The presidents of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and other countries congratulated the newly-elected Kyrgyz President on his reelection. This is the first press conference that Ishenkul Boldzhurova has given in the capacity of the Kyrgyz Ambassador. The new Ambassador has a Doctor Decree (History and Pedagogic Science). She held the posts of Education Minister of Kyrgyzstan (twice), Culture Minister and Science Minister.

 

I.Boldzhurova: Kyrgyzstan chooses stability and development

28/07/2009

 

The people voted for stability and development at the presidential elections that were held in Kyrgyzstan on 23 July, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan to the Republic of Belarus Ishenkul Boldzhurova told reporters on 28 July, BelTa reported.“In Kyrgyzstan Kurmanber Bakiyev is seen as a guarantor of the country’s social, economic and political growth, increasing prestige of the country in the international arena, the diplomat said.Ishenkul Boldzhurova also informed that Kurmanbek Bakiyev attaches special attention to cooperation with Belarus. Since his first election to the post of the president, the political and especially economic relations with Belarus have raised to a brand new level. Minsk will soon play host to the fifth session of the Belarusian-Kyrgyz intergovernmental commission, the Ambassador reminded.Kyrgyzstan welcomes direct business contacts between the two countries.

 

“I hope that the cooperation between our economies will open up big prospects for the goods, especially the goods made by joint companies, in the markets of China, Central Asia, Middle East and other regions,” said the Ambassadress. Kyrgyzstan is a WTO member, she reminded.She also pointed to the rapid development of cultural cooperation. In October 2008 Belarus held its Days of Culture in Kyrgyzstan. This year the Days of Culture of Kyrgyzstan will be organized in Belarus.Kyrgyzstan, as Belarus, will celebrate the 65th anniversary of Great Victory on a big scale. Around 200,000 Kyrgyz citizens died during the Great Patriotic War. The population of the republic was around 1 million then, she reminded.

 

President K.Bakiyev to address to the nation

28/07/2009

 

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev will make TV address today, a source in the president’s administration told.The address to the nation will be broadcasted through local channels. The First National Channel will broadcast it at 21:00 in Russian and at 22:00 in Kyrgyz.Yesterday the Central Election Commission (CEC) approved results of the presidential elections that carried out on July 23.K.Bakiyev collected 1 million 779 thousand 447 hundred votes or 76.43 percent of whole electors’ votes. 2 328 069 people or 79.13 percent of electors participated in the voting.

 

CEC approved newly elected President of Kyrgyzstan

27/07/2009

 

The Central Election Commission of Kyrgyzstan approved the newly elected President of the country Kurmanbek Bakiyev. Counting of votes has finished.


Kurmanbek Bakiyev collected 1 million 779 thousand 447 votes or 76,43%.
Almazbek Atambaev – 195 thousand 291 votes (8,39%)
Temir Sariev – 149 thousand 650 votes (6,43%)
Toktaim Umetalieva – 25 thousand 96 (1,08)
Nurlan Motuev – 21 thousand 754 (0,93%)
Jenishbek Nazaraliev – 19 thousand 198 (0,82%)
4,625 of electors voted against all or 107 thousand 317 people.
In total 79,13% of voters or 2 million 328 thousand 69 people took part in voting.

 

 

 

Bishkek prepares for international kickboxing tournament


15/07/2009


An international kickboxing tournament for the Cup of Kyrgyzstan’s President will take place on July 17 in Bishkek’s Kojomkul Sports Palace. The state agency on physical training and sport, youth affairs and protection of children reported it.


Sportsmen from Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Kazakhstan and Armenia in the weight up to 76 kg will attend the tournament. The champion of Asia and Eurasia, the world’s bronze prizewinner Kumar Zhaliev will represent Kyrgyzstan.


The tournament will be conducted for the third time. In previous tournaments, Kyrgyz kick boxers Ruslan Abasov and Alen Ofoyo won the Cup.

 


K.Bakiyev: We should all work in order to live better


15/07/2009


Presidential candidate Kurmanbek Bakiyev met with electors of Nookat region yesterday. During his meeting with electors in Jany-Nookat village, K.Bakiyev said that he knows problems and shortcomings of rural area and he will make every effort in order to develop rural infrastructure. He added that it is necessary to attract investments, improve the living standard of peoples.


The region’s residents support policy of incumbent president K.Bakiyev and ready to vote for the worthy candidate.


The candidate also met with residents of Kyzylkiya town. He pointed out the country’s economic development. “The standing plants resumed their works again, it is creating new working places in the republic. If the country’s economy will be developed than the people will live better. On this occasion, we should all work”, - said K.Bakiyev.

 


All religious organizations passed registration after adoption of new law


14/07/2009

 

All religious organizations passed registration after adoption of the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic on Freedom of Religion and Religious Organizations in the Kyrgyz Republic. Director of the state agency on religion under the government of Kyrgyzstan Kanybek Osmonaliev told at a press conference at the “Kabar” News Agency.


K.Osmonaliev told the Law was adopted in 2008 and came into effect on January 2009. 60 percents of religious organizations out of 2 thousand, which exists in the republic, passed registration after its adoption.


The Law requires that a religious organization should have no less than 200 members-citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic living in the country (the previous law required only 10 such members). Religious associations should include no less than 10 religious organizations. Children are not allowed in religious organizations.

 


The volume of investments amounts to over 12 billion soms for six months


14/07/2009


The volume of investments for the current year’s six months has made up 12 billion 31 million soms or 135.2 percents against the last year. Director of the state agency on architecture and construction Kanybek Narbaev told at a press conference at the “Kabar” News Agency.


The home investment has made up 9 billion 204 million soms, the external – 2 billion 828 million soms. “I can say with confidence that the investments in the field of construction has increased. For example, in 2005 the volume of investments was 10 billion 632 million soms, in 2006 – 14 billion 330 million soms, in 2007 – 24 billion 87 million soms, in 2008 – 29 billion 208 million soms”, - said K.Narbaev.

 


Letter-Agreement between Kyrgyzstan and IDA ratified


14/07/2009


President Kurmanbek Bakiyev has signed a law on ratifying the letter-agreement between Kyrgyzstan and the International Development Association (IDA) on the grant for preparing a project on development of ecosystem of Tian-Shan (Grant GEF PPG № TF 091930), signed on December 30, 2008 in Bishkek. The presidential press service reported it.

 


K.Bakiyev: Launching of the southern Kyrgyz cement works is very important for Kyrgyzstan’s economy


14/07/2009


“The southern Kyrgyz cement works has a great future and its launching is very important for development of the whole republic’s economy”, - President Kurmanbek Bakiyev told during the plant’s launching in Kyzylkiya town of Batken oblast. The presidential press service reported it.


The head of state inspected the plant’s workshops and familiarized with process of their works.
The plant will produce about one million tons of high-quality cement a year and cover the region’s whole needs. Besides, it will be used for construction of hydroelectric power stations.


The plant is equipped with modern international technologies. The plant’s launching will assist in solution of numerous social problems and development of separate branches of economy. 3-4 thousand people will be provided with jobs.


The head of state expressed thanks to builders for their qualitative works. “I’m glad that we have such professional builders. I’m sure your children and grandchildren will take proud of yours participation in the large-scaled production’s construction”, - said K.Bakiyev.


The president wished the strong health and success to the event’s participants and handed over state prizes to the best builders of the cement works.

 


About 5 thousand militiamen to keep order during the elections


14/07/2009


About 5 thousand militiamen would keep order during the upcoming presidential elections, which will take place on July 23. Deputy interior minister Sabyrbek Kurmanaliev told at a press conference in Bishkek.
Besides, 7 thousand militiamen will be in reserve. These measures are undertaking in order to provide transparent and fair elections.


S.Kurmanaliev told the local population expressed desire to join the people’s militia units.

 


IFC and the MEDT signed Memorandum of understanding on private sector growth


14/07/2009


IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, and the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade signed a Memorandum of Understanding and an Action Plan for 2009-2010. The IFC business Enabling environment project is partnership with the government of Switzerland, will work with the Kyrgyz government to identify and remove regulatory and administrative barriers to business.


The Memorandum and the Action Plan highlight a strategy for collaboration between the Kyrgyz government and ifc for streamlining inspections practices and SME taxation. Through the project, IFC monitors changes to the business environment in the Kyrgyz Republic by conducting nationwide surveys of the private sector.

 

Other efforts include helping increase entrepreneurs’ awareness of the their legal rights and foster dialogue between the government and private sector.

 


Presidential candidate Bakiyev to visit southern regions


14/07/2009


Presidential candidate, incumbent President Kurmanbek Bakiyev will visit today southern region of the country. He will meet with electors of Kadamjai, Nookat, Karasuu, Aravan regions and Kyzyl-Kiya town.


During the trip the candidate will participate in opening of the Southern-Kyrgyz cement works.

 


CEC registered about 400 observers


13/07/2009


The Central Election Commission registered 206 international observers. CEC member K. Mamatkerimov told Kabar Agency.


According to his words, the CEC received 206 applications for accreditation of international observers. The most of the observers are registered from ODIHR/OSCE – 186 observers, 4 from international Republican Institute, 3 from CIS Inter-parliamentary Assembly, SCO Observation Mission and others.
At present the total sum of international observers made 400 people.

 


W. Burns: Cooperation with USA should work for Kyrgyzstan’s prosperity (video)


13/07/2009


Under Secretary of United States for Political Affairs William J. Burns told at a meeting with journalists in Bishkek, that his visit to Kyrgyzstan was fruitful, he met with President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, Prime Minister Igor Chudinov, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kadyrbek Sarbaev and representatives of civil society.


According to his words, creation of transi center in Kyrgyzstan is the important step in strengthening cooperation between USA and Kyrgyzstan, besides, the issues of bilateral cooperation in political and economic spheres as well as aspects of joint efforts on providing security in the region and fighting terrorism and drug trafficking were discussed at meetings.


He also told that the Kyrgyz and American sides will make all efforts in order to the activity of the center was transparent.

 


President of Kyrgyzstan believes in EurAsEC


10/07/2009


President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev in his interview to the Russian “Isvetiya” newspaper, which is published today, named Russia as a key strategic partner of Kyrgyzstan, including in security issues. “A document was signed recently with the Russian side on extending the Russian military base’s presence for 49-years. We are an active partner of Russia within the framework of CSTO, EurAsEC and SCO…The aspiration to find common concord, understanding of mutual dependence and responsibility for our countries’ future unite us.


According to K.Bakiyev, Kyrgyzstan pins hopes on the Eurasian Economic Community’s future. During the Community’s summit in Moscow, it was accepted unprecedented decision in the history of EurAsEC to establish the EurAsEC Joint Fund with a capital of 10 billion dollars. Of course, this fund is set up to minimize consequences of the world crisis for the member-states of EurAsEC. The fund may also serve as effective tool in counteracting to negative consequences in the economy and finances of EurAsEC.

 


K. Bakiyev: Two brands Aitmatov and Issyk-Kul made Kyrgyzstan famous


10/07/2009


“Our pearl Issyk-kul and well-known writer made our country famous to the world”, presidential candidate, incumbent President Kurmanbek Bakiyev at a meeting with electors in Issyk-Kul oblast.


The meeting was held in cultural-memorial complex Aalam-Ordo, which was the last point of pre-election trip of the candidate to Issyk-Kul oblast. He also called his electors to cherish Issyk-Kul lake –giant of tourist industry in Central Asia like the apple of one’s eye.

 


Presidential candidate Bakiyev met with electors of Issyk-Kul oblast


09/07/2009


Presidential candidate Kurmanbek Bakiyev met with electors of Issyk-Kul oblast.


At the meeting the candidate briefed the residents of Tyup, Ak-Suu, Jety-Oguz regions and Karakol city with his election program and stressed the importance of achievements in economic sphere for the last years. He also emphasized the importance of development of agriculture.


On the second half of the day the candidate plans to meet with electors of western part of the Jeti-Oguz, Ton regions and Balykchy city.


On July 10 K. Bakiyev will met with electors of Naryn oblast.

 


President K.Bakiyev signed a law on pre-school education


08/07/2009


President of Kyrgyzstan Kurmanbek Bakiyev has signed a law on pre-school education, the presidential press service reported.


The law determines main principles of state policy in the field of pre-school education and development of children, legal, organizational and financial foundations of functioning system of pre-school education in Kyrgyzstan.

 


CEC started to deliver ballot-papers throughout the country


08/07/2009


In Bishkek, it is started to ship and send ballot-papers of upcoming presidential elections throughout the country. Head of the Central Election Commission’s information and analytic department Bakytbek Jumagulov told it.


Today ballot-papers will be sent to Osh, Jalalabad and Batken oblasts. These ballot-papers will be delivered by the state enterprise “Special Communication”, whose workers provided with all necessary equipments to deliver it safely to the destination point.


“Collaborators of the state committee on national security, the ministry of interior affairs and members of the CEC will accompany the state enterprise”, - said B.Jumagulov.


He noted the CEC has also handed over ballot-papers to the foreign affairs ministry in order to deliver to 23 states, where lives Kyrgyz. Over 2 million 800 thousand ballot-papers issued.

 


Agreement on transit transportation center ratified


07/07/2009


President Kurmanbek Bakiyev signed the Law “On ratification of the agreement on cooperation between the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Government of the Unite States of America, signed on June 22, 2009 in Bishkek and the Agreement between the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Government of the Unite States of America concerning transit transportation center at Manas International airport, signed on June 22, 2009 in Bishkek”. The presidential press service reports.


The Law comes into force since the day of its signing.

 


Presidential candidate T.Umetalieva visits Batken oblast


07/07/2009


Presidential candidate Toktayim Umetalieva will conduct numerous meetings with electors in Batken oblast today. The candidate will meet with residents of regions in the town’s stadium and cultural house.
Yesterday T.Umetalieva met with electors in Kadamzhai region.


T.Umetalieva will visit tomorrow Leilek region and Suluktu to conduct meetings with electors.


The presidential elections will take place on July 23. Presently, six candidates are running to the high post in Kyrgyzstan, including incumbent president Kurmanbek Bakiyev.

 


President K.Bakiyev proposes five initiatives on development of agriculture


03/07/2009


“Implementation of initiatives on development of agriculture will be a new step in our economic policy aimed to protect interests of the state and domestic commodity producers”, - said Kurmanbek Bakiyev, delivering a speech before participants of the fourth republican meeting of cattle breeders, took place on July 3 in Suusamyr valley, Chui oblast.


The head of state proposed five initiatives on development of agriculture.


1.To create engineering stations and organize a leasing company. It will be allocated 500 million soms for this purpose in 2010. Each region will have own engineering stations.


2.Improve financing the agriculture. 1 billion soms will be invested in agriculture. 400 million of the allocated by the development fund, 300 million soms – the National Bank and 300 million soms – commercial banks.


3.Improving principles of insurance in agriculture. 100 million soms will be allocated from the budget for this purpose.


4.Development of economy on principles of cluster.


5.Improving principles of state purchases.


The head of state expressed hope the similar exchange and discuss of problems during the meeting will assist in successful solution of tasks.

 


A.Atambaev: We should provide youths with workplaces


03/07/2009


Presidential candidate Almazbek Atambaev has met with electors in the town of Balykchy, Issykkul oblast.

 

The social-democratic party’s press service reported it. About 4 thousand residents of the town have gathered for the meeting with the candidate. Issues of water shortage for irrigation were raised at the meeting. A.Atambaev said he had worked out a national project on irrigation and water supply, when he was the country’s prime minister. He emphasized that if he will be elected as the country’s president then he will submit a new law about water resources of Kyrgyzstan.


Residents of Balykchy have shown interest in A.Atambaev’s intentions that how he will reduce immigration.

 

The candidate, in answer to resident’s questions, told: “We should provide young peoples with workplaces in order to they could work and support their families in the motherland”. He named the absence of employment and workplaces as one of the key reasons of immigration.

 


Kyrgyz and Belarusian entrepreneurs to produce meat and mil products


03/07/2009


Issues of bilateral cooperation of Kyrgyz and Belarusian entrepreneurs on production of meat and milk products were discussed at the embassy of Belarus. Deputy minister of agriculture and foodstuff of Belarus Mikhail Savelyev, ambassadors of two states Ishengul Boljurova and Valeriy Brylev, representatives of meat and milk enterprises of two states also attended the meeting.


The Kyrgyz side offered to construct a plant in Tokmok on processing of milk and meat, launch an enterprise on production of tinned meat in Balykchy (Issykkul), launch a dairy in Jalalabad and others.


The Belarus side promised to consider these proposals and invited representatives of these enterprises to familiarize with principle of operation in Belarus.


The Belarusian delegation led by M.Savelyev pays three-day visit to Kyrgyzstan. The visit’s main goal is to establish bilateral cooperation on processing of meat and milk products in Kyrgyzstan.
 

 

K.Bakiyev: The government succeeded to do a lot of works for the last four years


02/07/2009


The country’s government has succeeded to do a lot of works for the last four years: to reduce corruption, poverty and develop democracy. Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev told it in the Government House during a meeting with chair of Transparency International Huguette Labelle.


“I’m glad to welcome you in Kyrgyz land. I think you will enjoy it. It is better to see once than hear one hundred times”, - said the president.


During the talks, the head of state noted that Kyrgyzstan in 2005 was characterized as the state with high level of corruption and poverty. On this occasion, the people’s revolution took place.
In her turn, H.Labelle also pointed out the importance of this meeting.

 


OJSC Asia Universal Bank acquires precious metals trading license


02/07/2009

 

OJSC “Asia Universal Bank” became one of the two banks in the Kyrgyz Republic to hold a full license to trade in precious metals.


Under the terms of the license, AUB can provide its corporate and private clients with a full range of services regarding precious metals trading and other related operations.


These include the purchasing and selling of ingots, financial operations on precious metal accounts, accepting precious metal as collateral against loans, the purchasing and distribution of commemorative coins, and futures trading on precious metals. As a result, AUB (aub.kg) has considerably expanded its range of services for both domestic and international clients.


“This expanded range of banking services means the bank can enter new markets and service new clients,” – says Mikhail Nadel, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, AsiaUniversalBank, “We are a universal bank committed to provide the widest range of services to our clients, and this license is a sound confirmation of this commitment. We therefore enter the market of precious metals and contribute to its trade and market development, primarily in the Kyrgyz Republic”.


Prices of precious metals are relatively less vulnerable to market volatility making investment in these assets more reliable in the long term. In the Kyrgyz Republic, gold exports are one third of the general export figures in 2009. However, precious metals are not yet fully recognized as a reliable investment instrument. Consequently, the market for precious metals and commemorative coins is still relatively underdeveloped.

 

Banks with large domestic branch networks, such as AUB, increasingly engage in precious metals operations, and this market is expected to grow. Trade in precious metals will contribute to the further strengthening of financial intermediation, investment flows, and economic growth in the Kyrgyz Republic.


“Currently, the Kyrgyz Republic has certain legal limitations on precious metals operations. In particular, Kyrgyz banks are not allowed to operate with ingots which do not meet the requirements of international standards as issued by the London Association of Precious Metals, and are not supplied with a manufacturer’s certificate. In addition, while banks can engage expertise to assay precious metals, they are not authorized to issue certificates for metals intended for delivery to third parties. However, banks are permitted to accept precious metals as collateral against loans or as an instrument for saving,” - says Bakyt Zakirov, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Law.


“Our clients can use precious metals accounts to minimize their risks, which is very important. The accounts make sense as inflation proof investments, as client risks are primarily associated with the world prices for precious metals, not on the economic situation in the country or its national currency exchange rate which is determined by both macro and micro economic factors. Thus our clients have an opportunity to diversify their investment portfolios and reduce general risks” - adds Nurdin Abdrazakov, Chief Executive Officer, AsiaUniversalBank.

 


SCO will have own “Eurovision”


02/07/2009


Kyrgyzstan’s culture and information minister Sultan Raev received a letter from the national coordinator of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Tolondu Makeev, who informed the minister about the Russian’s side’s proposal to establish a song contest within the framework of the SCO similar to the “Eurovision”. The culture and information ministry’s spokesperson Mamasaly Apyshev told it.


In the opinion of the Russian side, young talented performers in the Eurasian area have not yet presented properly at international song contests. The broadcast of the contest’s final concerts by central TV-channels, selection of the winner through voting, of course, should assist in strengthening and popularizing cultural contacts and exchanges, raise up the SCO’s image.


This idea was discussed at the meeting of SCO Culture Ministers in Kazan on April 26-28, 2009. The idea was supported. The Russian First-Cannel expressed readiness to participate in the project.

 


Students go to Kambarata-2 HPS


02/07/2009


Over 200 students of Kyrgyzstan’s higher educational institutions will go to the Kambarata-2 Hydroelectric Power Station (HPS). Director of the youth labor exchange Aziz Idrisov told it.


He told that these students offered their help voluntarily. “Of course, they will not work free-of-charge. Their wages will make between 10 and 12 thousand soms per month. They will work till September 2009”, - said A.Idrisov.

 


OSCE Centre-supported course on environmental journalism concluded in Bishkek


02/07/2009


An OSCE-supported course on environmental journalism for 19 young journalists concluded yesterday.
The series of training sessions, held over five months, increased participants’ awareness on climate change and other environmental matters.


Media and environmental experts led sessions on relevant media legislation, international journalism standards, professional ethics, the environment and ecological disaster reporting. Other topics covered during the course, organized by the Institute for Public Policy, included ecological security, bio-diversity, balanced reporting, interview techniques and online reporting.


“The OSCE Centre in Bishkek prioritizes work to tackle environmental problems in Kyrgyzstan. This course was important because the participants will help to highlight environmental topics and raise awareness about such themes. It also helped to build effective co-operation among all stakeholders - the government, media and civil society - on addressing the environmental issues,” said Lilian Darii, the Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, at a ceremony marking the end of the course.


Muratbek Imanaliev, the president of the Institute for Public Policy (IPP), added: “This project was of crucial importance, as environmental problems worsen world-wide and cause concern to people international organizations and governments, including Kyrgyzstan. Raising awareness among citizens and bringing together environmental specialists and journalists in Kyrgyzstan to provide quality coverage of important environmental issues was our aim. We hope that this course has made a contribution to attracting people’s attention to environmental problems.”


Some of the course participants produced several articles on topics such as garbage and waste management, air and water quality. The works are available at www.bpc.kg. Three of the journalists were selected for an internship with IPP’s Bishkek Press Club during the summer.


The training series was part of the OSCE Centre’s work to encourage environmental journalism in Kyrgyzstan. Similar environmental journalism training courses will be held in the provinces.

 


R.Attakurov hands over credentials to the Georgian President


02/07/2009


Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan R.Attakurov handed over credentials to President of Georgia M.Saakashvili in Tbilisi yesterday. The embassy of Kyrgyzstan in Russia and Georgia reported it.


During the talks, the parties discussed issues of Kyrgyz-Georgian cooperation in trade-economic, scientific-technical, educational and social fields. The parties pointed out necessity of activating bilateral relations.


R.Attakurov also negotiated with the Georgian foreign ministry’s leadership, doyen of diplomatic corps, heads of mission, accredited in Tbilisi, other officials.


Issues of further political and economic contacts, attracting possible investors and companies of Tbilisi to Kyrgyzstan’s economy were discussed during these meetings.

 


CEC accredited observers from the US Embassy and USAID


01/07/2009


The Central Election Commission of Kyrgyzstan accredited 7 representatives from the US Embassy and 3 from USAID as international observers during presidential elections in Kyrgyzstan.


At present 100 representatives from 26 countries of the world are accredited as international observers.
The accreditation process lasts till July 19.

 


New Kyrgyz Ambassador to Pakistan named


01/07/2009


By the presidential decree Asanov Bektur Jantoroevich has been appointed the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

 


Meeting between Kyrgyz Prime Minister Chudinov and Swiss President Merz


01/07/2009


On 30 June Kyrgyz Prime Minister Igor Chudinov met with Swiss President Merz in Bern. Chudinov subsequently also met Micheline Calmy-Rey, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and Martin Dahinden, Director-General of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). In addition, Prime Minister Chudinov signed up to a project on business development in the textile sector with the State Secretary for Economic Affairs Jean-Daniel Gerber.


The meeting between President Merz and Prime Minister Chudinov took place in a friendly and constructive atmosphere. Both dialogue partners praised the excellent relations between Switzerland and the Kyrgyz Republic. Discussions focussed on cooperation between the two countries in the Bretton Woods Institutions, along with bilateral relations. In the International Monetary Fund, Switzerland and Kyrgyzstan belong to the same constituency. In addition current topics such as the financial crisis and Swiss development cooperation in Kyrgyzstan were discussed.


Federal Councillor Calmy-Rey conducted an exchange of views with Prime Minister Chudinov on the situation in Central Asia. The Director-General of the SDC, Martin Dahinden, outlined the various joint projects with Kyrgyzstan.


The State Secretary for Economic Affairs, Jean-Daniel Gerber, signed up to a project on business development with the Kyrgyz Prime Minister in the textile sector. The aim of the project is the sustainable expansion and diversification of exports from small and medium-sized enterprises. Along with support at the institutional level, activities such as the introduction of quality standards for productions processes, improving finished products and the marketing thereof, taking part in international fairs and promoting contacts between buyers and suppliers are amongst those activities which this project will tackle.


The cooperation project is being carried out jointly with the International Trade Centre (ITC) in Geneva and will run up until 2012. The cost of the project is USD 1.85 million.

 


K. Bakiyev: Introduction of electronic taxation management system will start starting from the next year


01/07/2009


Introduction of electronic taxation management system will start in Kyrgyzstan in 2010, President Kurmanbek Bakiyev told at solemn meeting devoted to the day of tax officers.


At the beginning of the meeting the head of the state congratulated the participants of the meeting on their professional holiday and expressed gratitude for their contribution to social and economic development of the country.


Then the President told his view concerning further development of domestic tax system, role and tasks of tax service at a new stage of Kyrgyzstan’s development.


This system is an important anti-corruption mechanism excluding personal contact of tax officer with tax payers. “It is an effective tool in fight against corruption. Meanwhile, I am sure that the majority of revenue service officers are honest and devoted to their work people,” the president said.


At the end of the meeting the President handed over state awards to best employees of the tax service.

 


Kyrgyztelecom deploys Cisco ASR 1000 Series Router


01/07/2009


Kyrgyztelecom’s business and residential customers will benefit from new broadband-based services.


Cisco today announced that Kyrgyztelecom, Kyrgyzstan’s national telecommunications operator, has deployed the Cisco(R) ASR 1000 Series Aggregation Services Router as the network platform to enable a more flexible, efficient, and cost-effective delivery of broadband-based voice and data services to its subscribers. The implementation is a key element of Kyrgyztelecom’s plans to build a next-generation Metro Ethernet fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) aggregation network, initially in the capital of Bishkek and then across other cities. Over the next two to three years, Kyrgyztelecom plans to connect 5 million people to broadband services.

 


New research network to provide high speed connectivity for Central Asia


01/07/2009


Central Asian researchers and students will be able to better collaborate with their colleagues across the world, through a new EU-funded high speed data-communications network. The CAREN (Central Asia Research and Education Network) project will provide high capacity Internet links for the first time to one million students and researchers in over 200 universities and research institutions along the ancient Silk Road in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan to each other and to the global research community through connection to the high-speed pan-European GЙANT network.


Progress on the network will be discussed at two high profile meetings to be held in Almaty, Kazakhstan between 30 June and 2 July 2009. The CAREN Executive Committee meeting of the CAREN project partners will be followed by the first CAREN Steering Group meeting. Chaired by the European Commission, attendees to the Steering Group meeting include high level representatives from the central Asian partner countries, demonstrating the importance of this project to the region and beyond.


Existing and future projects that will benefit from CAREN span areas such as environmental monitoring, radio astronomy, telemedicine, the digitalisation of cultural heritage, palaeontology and mineral extraction.


Scheduled to come into operation in early 2010, CAREN is currently tendering for a terrestrial broadband network that will replace current links via the satellite-based, NATO-funded virtual silk highway project. As it is fibre-based, CAREN will deliver improved connectivity through a more stable, cost-effective network infrastructure.


The network is co-funded by the European Commission, which is providing initial financial support of Ђ 5 million until the end of 2011 and by the Central Asian countries. The project will be operated and managed by research networking organisation DANTE in conjunction with the National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) of the countries involved.


The CAREN network is a unique project that will continue and improve connexion between researchers of EU and Central Asia. We very much welcome this initiative and the benefits it will bring”, Head of Delegation of the European Commission, Ambassador Norbert Jousten said.


CAREN builds on existing EC-led research network programmes, including the Black Sea Initiative (BSI), which connects the neighbouring South Caucasus to Europe, the TEIN3 network which covers Eastern Asia and the ORIENT link to China. This is part of an overall strategy to connect researchers across the globe, increasing collaboration and stimulating development through high speed network infrastructures.


“Today’s research community needs to be truly global if it is to solve the challenges mankind faces,” said Dai Davies, General Manager of DANTE. “The creation of the CAREN network is a natural progression in fostering worldwide collaboration. We welcome the addition of the skills and knowledge of central Asian researchers to the global research community.”


“Local researchers are extremely positive about the advantages that the new CAREN network will bring,” said Professor Askar Kutanov, Regional CAREN Project Coordinator. “By recreating the links of the old Silk Road between East and West we will be able to benefit from increased collaboration and the ability to co-operate with our colleagues across the globe.”

 


K.Karabekov discussed issues of deepening cooperation with congressman E.Faleomavaega


30/06/2009


Head of the Kyrgyz parliament’s committee for international affairs and inter-parliamentary cooperation Kabai Karabekov has met with a delegation of the United States of America led by chairman of the Asia Pacific subcomittee of the US Congressional Foreign Relations Committee Eni Faleomavaega.


His visit to Kyrgyzstan is started on June 29 and takes place within the framework of a tour to the Central Asian region. The visit’s main goal is to familiarize with political, social and economic situation in the region.

 

E.Faleomavaega expressed gratitude on behalf of the US parliamentarians for ratifying the agreement on setting up a center of transit shipment. He emphasized that Kyrgyzstan renders appreciable assistance in stabilizing situation in Afghanistan and Pakistan, fighting with terrorism and the Islamic extremism.


“The decision on setting up the center of transit shipment is accepted taking into account the national interests of Kyrgyzstan”, - said K.Karabekov.


The parties discussed issues of humanitarian cooperation.

 


90 observers from 26 states accredited to monitor Kyrgyzstan’s presidential elections


30/06/2009


To date 90 representatives from 26 states of the world accredited to monitor Kyrgyzstan’s presidential elections, scheduled for July 23, 2009. Head of the Central Election Commission Damir Lisovskiy told it at a press conference.


According to him, representatives of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan Armenia, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Korea, Macedonia, USA, Austria, Georgia, Romania, Great Britain, Poland, Germany and other states are accredited.


“I want to emphasize that the Kyrgyz CEC guarantees to each observer the full access to pre-election, election and post-election processes”, - said D.Lisovskiy.


It is started to accredit observers on May 23, 2009 and the number of observers are increasing. The accreditation will end on July 19.

 


2 thousand 331 hundred polling stations set up in Kyrgyzstan


30/06/2009


In Kyrgyzstan, it is set up 2 thousand 331 polling stations. Head of the Central Election Commission (CEC) Damir Lisovskiy told it at a press conference.


According to him, in Osh oblast, it is set up 467 polling stations, in Osh town – 82, in Batken oblast – 191, in Bishkek – 221, in Jalalabad oblast – 407, in Issykkul oblast – 243, in Naryn oblast 164, in Talas oblast – 114, in Chui oblast – 393, in CIS and Europe – 49 polling stations.


Representatives of 23 parties: Akshumkar, SDPK, the party of communists of Kyrgyzstan, Atameken, Ak-Zhol, Erkindik and others included as members of divisional election committees. As a whole 20 thousand 689 members of election committees are registered.

 


A meeting of heads of security agencies of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan took place in Osh


29/06/2009


With a purpose of positively developing and strengthening interstate relations of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, on the instructions of Presidents Kurmanbek Bakiyev and Islam Karimov, a meeting of security agencies of neighbor states took place in Osh on June 26.


Interior Minister Moldomusa Kongantiev, Prosecutor General Elmurza Satybaldiev, Head of the State Committee on National Security Murat Sutalinov attended the meeting from Kyrgyzstan, Interior Minister Bahadyr Malyubov, Prosecutor General Rashidzhan Kadyrov, Chairman of National Security Service Rustan Inoyatov - from Uzbekistan.


Numerous issues of bilateral interaction and cooperation of security agencies in fighting with trans-national organized crime, religious extremism and terrorism, on fighting with drug business and drug trafficking were discussed at the meeting. The parties discussed issues of searching, arresting and extraditing criminals and boundary problems of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.


The parties discussed accumulated problems and expressed opinion on interest in development of cooperation and close interaction in solution of tasks on providing public safety.


On the results of reached agreements, the next day, on June 27 a working meeting of the heads of interior affairs departments, prosecutor offices of Osh, Jalalabad and Batken oblasts with counterparts deom boundary regions of Uzbekistan: Abdizhan, Ferghana and Namangan oblasts took place in Khanabad. The parties discussed and planned to conduct numerous operative events aimed to fight with criminality, provide stability and public safety.

 


U.Abdullaeva met with Zhang Deguang


29/06/2009


Deputy Prime Minister Uktomhan Abdullaeva has met with President of the China Foundation for International Studies Zhang Deguang.


U.Abdullaeva emphasized that Kyrgyzstan watches China’s socio-economic development with a great interest and strengthening its role in international affairs. She noted the Summer Olympic Games, which took place in Beijing, as the key international event of 2008.


She positively estimated the results of bilateral meetings of the heads of states of two states during the SCO Summit in Yekaterinburg on June 15, which gave additional impulse to development of interstate relations. She underlined that development of cooperation with SCO is a priority direction of Kyrgyzstan’s foreign policy.


Zhang Deguang thanked the government of Kyrgyzstan for warm reception and noted that the similar relations underlines close contacts between the states and public organizations of Kyrgyzstan. He invited U.Abdullaeva to visit China and familiarize with activities of public organizations.

 


I.Chudinov met with Miroslav Jenca


29/06/2009


In Geneva, Prime Minister Igor Chudinov met with Miroslav Jenca, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative, the governmental press service reported.


The parties expressed hope the international forum will be fruitful. A resolution, which will be adopted by participants of the forum, will be concrete and all states of Central Asia could implement it. I.Chudinov said the initiative on conducting the international forum belongs to President Kurmanbek Bakiyev.


The parties also discussed issues of cooperation of Central Asia, particularly the water-energetic problems and issues of achieving stability in Afghanistan.

 


Presidential candidate K.Bakiyev meets with electors in Batken oblast


29/06/2009


Presidential candidate Kurmanbek Bakiyev has left for Batken oblast in the morning. During his visit the head of state is expected to familiarize with a work of newly constructed central sports center of Batken town, visit a rest park and participate in a meeting with electors of Batken town, Batken and Kadamzhai regions of Batken oblast.


Later, the candidate will meet with electors of Suluktu town and Leilek region of Batken oblast.
In the evening, the head of state will leave for Osh, the southern capital of Kyrgyzstan.

 


K.Bakiyev called youths to conduct health life-style


29/06/2009


“Lately the state has paid a special attention to development of sport. Our sportsmen represent the country at international competitions with dignity. We intend to continue a work in this direction”, - President Kurmanbek Bakiyev told it at opening ceremony of newly constructed sports complex in Batken. The presidential press service reported it.


He called youths to go in for sport, conduct healthy life-style and be persistent in achieving their goals.
The head of state inspected the sports center’s building, talked with sportsmen and wished them success.
The sports center’s costs 12 million soms.

 


Agency on atomic and radiation security to be formed in Kyrgyzstan


29/06/2009


Agency on atomic and radiation security will be formed in Kyrgyzstan. Prime Minister Igor Chudinov told today in Geneva during the international forum on problems of uranium tailings.


According to his words, such measure will effectively coordinate the work on national level, links with neighbouring countries and international community.


I. Chudinov told that, there are more than 90 tailings and mountain dumps in Kyrgyzstan on the area of 6,5 thousand hectares. They contain 286 million tons of uranium and other highly toxic dumps. The condition of the most of tailings does not meet modern security standards. They are destroyed because of impact of natural factors, such as rain, mudslide, landslide and earthquake.

 


Agreement on financing small towns ratified


29/06/2009


President Kurmanbek Bakiyev has signed a law on ratifying the agreement on additional financing the infrastructure and raising potential of small towns project between Kyrgyzstan and International Development Association, signed on April 24, 2009 in Bishkek.


The laws comes into effect on the date of its signing, the presidential press service reported.

 


I.Chudinov leaves for Switzerland on a working visit


29/06/2009


Prime Minister Igor Chudinov has left for Switzerland on a working visit, the government’s press service reported.


I.Chudinov will participate today in an international high-level forum on problems of uranium tailing dumps in Central Asia. Participants of the forum will discuss numerous issues relating to security of uranium tailing dumps, national problems, ecological consequences of their presence in the region, global solutions of uranium tailing dumps in Central Asia. The meeting will result in accepting of a joint resolution.


I.Chudinov will also conduct numerous meetings with heads of international organizations and business structures of Switzerland, director general of the International Road Transport Union M.Marmy, the UN Secretary General’s Special Representative Miroslav Jenca and others.

 


Sulamain-Too Sacred Mountain became the first site in Kyrgyzstan to be added to the UNESCO World Heritage List


28/06/2009
 

Sulamain-Too Sacred Mountain of Kyrgyzstan has become the country’s first site to be inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Kyrgyzstan’s Culture Minister Sultan Raev told it through a telephone from Spain.


Sulamain-Too Sacred Mountain (Kyrgyzstan) dominates the Fergana Valley and forms the backdrop to the city of Osh, at the crossroads of important routes on the Central Asian Silk Roads. For more than one and a half millennia, Sulamain was a beacon for travellers revered as a sacred mountain. Its five peaks and slopes contain numerous ancient places of worship and caves with petroglyphs as well as two largely reconstructed 16th century mosques. One hundred and one sites with petroglyphs representing humans and animals as well as geometrical forms have been indexed in the property so far.


The site numbers 17 places of worship, which are still in use, and many that are not. Dispersed around the mountain peaks they are connected by footpaths. The cult sites are believed to provide cures for barrenness, headaches, and back pain and give the blessing of longevity. Veneration for the mountain blends pre-Islamic and Islamic beliefs. The site is believed to represent the most complete example of a sacred mountain anywhere in Central Asia, worshipped over several millennia.


The World Heritage Committee is listing new sites from the 37 nominations during its current meeting, which is scheduled to run through June 30.

 


K. Sarbaev is taking part in a meeting of Foreign Affairs Ministers in Italy


26/06/2009


Today head of the Kyrgyz Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kadyrbek Sarbaev is taking part in a meeting of Foreign Affairs Ministers of G8 in Triest (Italy) at the invitation of Italian Foreign Minister Franko Fattini. The press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports.


The economic meltdown will top an agenda that includes climate, energy and trade. United States President Barak Obama can expect a lecture on the need to adopt regulations to prevent economic catastrophes.


According to the University of Toronto, which follows G8 proceedings closely, the main issues in 2009 pick up on 2008 agenda topics. The leaders are likely to be pressed to direct trade officials responsible for the WTO Doha negotiations to advance their discussions on climate-related issues, with an emphasis on eliminating trade barriers to the spread of clean energy technologies. At the 2008 meeting the leaders agreed to continue to work together to promote the success of the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference in December 2009, when the UN negotiations launched in Dec 2007 in Indonesia are set to conclude.

 


OSCE Centre supports roundtable discussion on DNA forensics in Kyrgyzstan


26/06/2009


A roundtable discussion on the use of DNA in forensic investigations in Kyrgyzstan, supported by the OSCE Centre, was held today.


The discussion, organized by local company “DNA-Technologies-Manas” brought together more than 50 representatives from the government, law enforcement agencies, parliament and civil society to discuss the organizational and legislative aspects of establishing a DNA forensic database in Kyrgyzstan.


“Today’s event was supported by the OSCE Centre to promote discussion among specialists on steps to take advantage of DNA forensics in Kyrgyzstan to detect crimes,” said Lilian Darii, Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, adding that the roundtable discussion has helped DNA-Technologies-Manas identify potential sponsors for setting up a DNA database.


Andrey Semihodsky, the Director of UK-based company “Medical Genomics”, described experience of foreign countries in the use of DNA expertise. The event concluded with the participants adopting a resolution with practical recommendations and creating a working group to revise related legislation.

 


OSCE Centre hands over computer equipment to Kyrgyz Police Academy


26/06/2009


The OSCE Centre in Bishkek handed over computer equipment to the Kyrgyz Police Academy’s pedagogy and psychology department today, marking Graduation Day at the Academy.


“Supporting the government with its comprehensive police reform programme is a priority of the OSCE Centre, and the Police Academy plays an important role as a leading educational institution in the Kyrgyz Republic,” said Lilian Darii, the Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre, at the handover ceremony.


The equipment was provided as part of an OSCE project that aims to strengthen the institutional, operational and educational capacities of the Kyrgyz police.


At the ceremony Richard Monk, the former OSCE Senior Police Adviser and former United Nations Senior Police Commissioner and Commissioner of Police in Kosovo, also presented the Endeavour Cup to police cadet Ulan Ermatov for his academic achievements.


The Police Academy awarded more than 219 diplomas this year. Interior Minister Moldomusa Kongantiev, Deputy Minister of Education and Science Boris Kubaev, Lilian Darii, the Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, Evgeny Cherenkov, the OSCE Police Reform Programme Manager, police veterans and other guests attended the event.

 


Besh-Aral state reserve turned 30 years


26/06/2009


Besh-Aral state reserve turned 30 years. The reserve is located to the north-west of the country in spurs of Chatkal mountain range.


It was formed in 1979 on the area of 116,7 thousand hectares with the purpose of protecting natural complexes of mountain plain and deserts of Chatkal hollow, coniferous forests.

 


Presidential candidate Kurmanbek Bakiyev to conduct meeting with electors of Chui oblast


25/06/2009


Presidential candidate Kurmanbek Bakiyev will conduct a meeting with electors in Sokuluk, Moscow, Jayil and Panfilov regions of Chui oblast tomorrow. K.Bakiyev is expected to tell about his pre-election program at the meetings.


The candidate is also expected to visit numerous industrial enterprises during the visit to the region.

 


First week of presidential election campaign finished


25/06/2009


The public movement “For fair elections” jointly with two non-governmental organizations presented a report about the first week of presidential election campaign.


6 presidential candidates are running for the presidential chair in Kyrgyzstan: Almazbek Atambaev, Kurmanbek Bakiyev, Nurlan Motuev, Jenishbek Nazaraliev, Temir Sariev and Toktayim Umetalieva. The first week passed in the calm atmosphere.


Presidential candidate from the Akshumkar party T.Sariev has started his election campaign on June 19 in Osh. Later he visited Batken oblast. A.Atambaev conducted his first meeting with electors in Jalalabad oblast.

 

J.Nazaraliev pays special attention to Internet editions. On June 23 the doctor organized on-line conference.


T.Umetalieva conducts meeting with electors of Talas oblast. However, her election headquarters has not disseminated detailed information. The same information situation develops around the presidential candidate N.Motuev.


Presidential candidate K.Bakiyev has started his election campaign in Talas oblast and up to 7000 people participated in it.


The public movement “For fair elections” will continue to monitor the election campaigns of presidential candidates and present information week by week.

 


I.Chudinov to give a press conference in Switzerland


25/06/2009


A press conference with participation of Kyrgyzstan’s Prime Minister Igor Chudinov and Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev will take place in Geneva (Switzerland) on June 29. A source in the Foreign Ministry of Kyrgyzstan reported it.


The conference’s subject is “The survey of economic situation and development in Kyrgyzstan”. 20 businessmen from Kyrgyzstan will participate in the conference together with I.Chudinov and K.Sarbaev. Entrepreneurs will tell about economic situation in the republic and talk about capabilities of trade relations between Kyrgyzstan and Switzerland.

 


Kyrgyzstan’s parliament approves opening of a transit center at Manas


25/06/2009


The Jogorku Kenesh has ratified agreements between the governments of Kyrgyzstan and USA on cooperation and on the establishment of a transit center at the Manas International Airport. The parliament’s press service reported it.


75 deputies voted for ratification of the agreements and 5 deputies abstained from voting.


The majority of deputies from the “Ak-Zhol” fraction expressed their supports during discussions. Leader of the communists’ party Ishak Masaliev told that his fraction will abstain from voting.

 


Kyrgyzstan established diplomatic relations with Montenegro


25/06/2009


A protocol on establishing diplomatic relations between Kyrgyzstan and Montenegro was signed yesterday in Moscow. The embassy of Kyrgyzstan in Russia reported it.


Kyrgyzstan’s ambassador to Russia Rayimkul Attakurov and Montenegro’s ambassador to Russia Slobodan Batzkovich have signed the document.


Montenegro is the youngest states of Europe, which located in the southern part of the Balkan peninsula. To the west, north and east it borders on Croatia, Bosnia-Hercegovina, Serbia and Kosovo, and to the south borders on Albania. Montenegro is a maritime country, with 200 km of the Adriatic coastline. The independence of Montenegro was declared on June 3, 2006.

 


Kyrgyz FM calls the parliament to approve opening of a transit center at Manas


25/06/2009


Foreign Minister Kadyrbek Sarbaev called the parliament to ratify agreements on conditions of functioning a transit center at the Manas International Airport. The parliament’s press service reported it.


“The main goal of signing agreements is to render support to the government of Afghanistan in fighting with terrorism”, - said the FM, presenting a bill on ratifying agreements between the government of Kyrgyzstan and USA on cooperation and the center of transit shipment at the Manas International Airport.


“It is necessary to take into account the latest events and situations in Afghanistan and Pakistan. These events may negatively influence on security of our country. On this occasion, we should be guided by national interests”, - said K.Sarbaev.


The FM addressed to deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh to support the bill, submitted by the government.

 


Investors from Saudi Arabia are in Kyrgyzstan


25/06/2009


A meeting with investors from Saudi Arabia took place in the office of the Secretariat of the Investment Council under the President of Kyrgyzstan. The Arabian businessmen’s visit to Kyrgyzstan is the result of Kyrgyz-Arabian Investment Forum, organized last months by the ministry of economic development and trade-industry chamber.


The Investment Council’s Secretariat presented information about investment climate in Kyrgyzstan and measures, accepting by the government on improving business-environment.


The center on promoting investments “Kyrgyzinvest” offered guests the investment projects and business plans.


The Arabian investors have shown interest to issues of purchase and sale of grounds for constructions, infrastructure projects, including the modernization of airports, projects in the field of tourism on the shore of Issykkul.

 


Presidential candidate A.Atambaev met with electors in Osh


25/06/2009


A meeting of presidential candidate Almazbek Atambaev with electors took place in Osh’s national drama theater.


The candidate answered to questions of electors, which concerned to economic and political aspects of the country’s life. Deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh Asylbek Jeenbekov, head of Osh oblast election headquarters S.Jeenbekov and numerous active members of the United People’s Movement attended the meeting.


A.Atambaev has also met with residents of Alai region of Osh oblast.

 


Situation in Afghanistan and Pakistan became reason for signing new agreements with USA


24/06/2009


The deteriorating situation in Afghanistan and Pakistan has become the reason for signing of the agreement on creation of the transit center at the international airport Manas for rendering support to the antiterrorist operations. The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan, Kadyrbek Sarbaev, informed at the session of Committee for International Affairs and Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation of the Parliament of Kyrgyzstan.
According to K. Sarbaev, the addresses and of the leaders of some foreign states and resolutions accepted by the UN Security Council have been taken into consideration.


K. Sarbaev emphasized that the government of Kyrgyzstan has made a decision on carrying out the negotiations and signing of the corresponding intergovernmental agreements with the American government on creation at the international airport Manas of the transit centre for rendering support to the antiterrorist operations conducted by the international forces in Afghanistan, including rendering assistance to the government of Afghanistan.

 


Presidential candidate K.Bakiyev met with electors of Chui oblast


24/06/2009


Presidential candidate Kurmanbek Bakiyev met with electors of Chui oblast today. During his meeting with electors in Tokmok, which was also attended by residents of Kemin and Chui regions as well as Tokmok town, K.Bakiyev told about the republic’s achievements for the last years in the field of agrarian sector, social development and youth policy.


K.Bakiyev also met with electors of Issykata region. The meeting took place in Kant.


Later, the presidential candidate had a meeting with electors of Alamedin region in Leninskoe village.

 


Agreement on protection of investment approved


24/06/2009


The parliament’s committee on development of industry, trade, tourism, small and medium business, transport, communication, construction and architecture discussed and approved a bill on ratifying the agreement on encouragement and mutual protection of investments in the member-states of the Eurasian Economic Community, signed on December 12, 2008 in Moscow.


The agreement worked with a purpose of creating and supporting favorable conditions for investors, who carry out their activities in the territory of EurAsEC.


Minister of economic development and trade Akylbek Japarov presented the draft agreement.

 


I.Chudinov: We interested in the Kuwaiti investments


24/06/2009


Kyrgyzstan is interested in direct investments of the Kuwaiti businessmen to Kyrgyzstan’s economy. Kyrgyz Prime Minister Igor Chudinov told it during a meeting with representatives of the Kuwaiti company “Al Kharafi Group” in the Government House.


According to him, the government carries out works on liberalizing doing business in the republic. “We have very interesting projects on completion of construction and reconstruction of two airports in Osh and Tamchy.

 

There is also a big potential in the hydropower engineering. There are numerous projects on construction of small and medium power stations. The republic needs in construction of new power lines”, - said I.Chudinov.


The Kyrgyz PM offered the Kuwaiti businessmen to participate in organizing processing of agricultural products, mining industry and tourism. “We are ready to discuss any kind of your proposals”, - said I.Chudinov.


In his turn, representative of the Kuwaiti company Ali Mohammed told that the Al Kharafi Group and many Arabian banks are interested in investing Kyrgyzstan’s economy.

 


The First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic R. Kazakbaev took part at the frame work of the 3rd NATO Security Forum/ North-Atlantic Partnership Council in Astana


24-25 June 2009, the delegation of the Kyrgyz Republic led by the First Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic R. Kazakbaev took part at the frame work of the 3rd NATO Security Forum/ North-Atlantic Partnership Council in Astana. The issues of regional and global security were discussed at the Forum. The Head of the Kyrgyz Republic’s delegation spoke at the session of “Normalization of the situation in Afghanistan and the role of its border countries” thematic group. In his speech, R. Kazakbaev emphasized the importance and urgency of realization of “Bishkek Initiative”, which was suggested by the President of the Kyrgyz Republic K. Bakiev. The principle of systematic and complex approach to the regulation process in Afghanistan besides military component laid in this initiative. In the frame of it, Bishkek offered as a platform for permanent international conference for security and stability in Central Asia, the place for holding negotiations between official Afghan authorities and Taliban representatives, establishing analytical centers for monitoring of the situation in the field of security in the region.


R. Kazakbaev informed about Kyrgyz-American Agreement ratification, which concerns to establish of the Center for transit transportations to Afghanistan in “Manas” airport. The basic aims of signed agreements are the support of alliance in battle with international terrorism and providing assistance in the field of security in Afghanistan.


In connection with forthcoming presidential election in Afghanistan on August 2009, the Head of Kyrgyz delegation invited Afghan specialists to take part at the election of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic on 23 July 2009 as observers for studying of Kyrgyzstan’s experience. R. Kazakbaev informed about the preparations for holding of presidential elections in Kyrgyzstan in the context of international obligations implementation in the sphere of elections in the frame of the cooperation of Kyrgyzstan with ODIHR and OSCE Parliamentary Assembly.


The issues of security in Central Asia and Caucasus, the situation in Afghanistan, problems of energetic security were discussed during the plenary sessions and thematic conferences. The EU Special representative in Central Asian countries Pier Morell paid participants attention on the necessity to solve the issues of regional ecological security in the frame of “Regional Perspective: Basic security issues in Central Asia” thematic conference. Particularly, he positively noted the holding of International Forum on uranium tailing dumps, which will take place in Geneva on 29 June 2009 by the initiative of Kyrgyzstan.

 


The total number of electors in the country makes up 2.7 million people


24/06/2009


The total number of electors, who have the right to vote at the upcoming presidential elections on July 23, 2009, according to preliminary data, makes up 2.7 million people. Prime Minister Igor Chudinov told it during a meeting of the republican headquarters on preparation for presidential elections.


I.Chudinov has drawn attention of the cabinet’s members and governors to quality of work on drawing up the list of electors.


He told the ministries and local state administrations have done a lot of works for the last three months. “It was formed election committees, completed work on registration of presidential candidates, who have already started to election campaign. It was also solved issues of financing election campaign. It will cost 153 million soms”, - said the PM.

 


Presidential candidate Temir Sariev conducts election campaign


24/06/2009


Leader of the Ak-Shumkar party and presidential candidate Temir Sariev has met with residents of Issykkul oblast today. The candidate’s election headquarters reported that T.Sariev had a meeting with electors of Balykchy town and plans to meet with residents of Grigorevka village.


Tomorrow the presidential candidate is expected to meet with residents of Ak-Suu village and Karakol town.

 


T.Mamashov: The tourism season to take place despite everything


24/06/2009


This year the tourism season should take place despite everything. Director of the state agency on tourism Turusbek Mamashov told it at a press conference at the “Kabar” News Agency. T.Mamashov told the results of this year’s first quarter show that the number of people, who are having a rest, is more by 30% in comparison with the analogous period of 2008 according to information of the national statistic committee.


According to the agency’s head, it means that the citizens of Kyrgyzstan, in spite of difficulties o