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Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan Daily: 12-year schooling set for 2025, dollar edges higher, Cabinet gains project powers, and EAEU council meets in Cholpon-Ata

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Politics

Issyk-Kul District Chief Detained on Corruption Charges, Held Until September 4

Published: 2025-08-18

A First May District Court judge in Bishkek ordered the pretrial detention of Issyk-Kul district akim (governor) Zhaparbek Ormonov until 4 September on suspicion of corruption linked to organized crime interests, according to court statements reported by multiple outlets. Investigators from the Interior Ministry sought his detention; the court said their request was partially granted. Ormonov faces charges under Criminal Code Article 336 (corruption), part 2, and is additionally referenced under Article 40 as an alleged perpetrator in some reports. He was appointed Issyk-Kul district chief in August 2023 after serving as mayor of Cholpon-Ata, deputy mayor of Osh, and speaker of the Osh City Council. The case underscores continuing law-enforcement pressure on alleged corruption networks in local administrations. No official defense statement or detailed case facts were disclosed, and authorities have not publicly outlined the purported damages or specific schemes involved.

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President Japarov Defends Demolition Drive, Offers Housing via State Mortgage Company and Reaffirms Open-Door Investment Policy

Published: 2025-08-18

"We legalized homes built before 2021; from now on there will be no concessions for land grabs." - President Sadyr Japarov (24.kg)

President Sadyr Japarov justified ongoing demolitions of illegal structures in Bishkek and Osh, saying authorities legalized pre‑2021 settlements but will not regularize post‑2021 builds to protect agricultural land. He blamed collusion between local officials and fraudsters for enabling fresh violations and said prosecutions have followed. Japarov instructed mayors to prevent displaced residents from being “left in the field,” noting priority housing through the State Mortgage Company for those with no alternatives. Addressing criticism over a negotiated settlement at Bishkek’s Atatürk Park, he said residents agreed to fund park upgrades of about 500 million som to avoid demolition. On sanctions-related concerns tied to Moldovan politician Ilan Shor, Japarov denied any role in sanctions evasion and reiterated a multi‑vector stance: > "Anyone—whether Ilan Shor or Ilon Musk—may come to invest; our doors are open." - President Sadyr Japarov (24.kg)

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Security Service Halts Alleged Land-Grab Scheme in Bishkek, Recovers State Plots

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan’s State Committee for National Security (UKMK) says it disrupted a corruption scheme involving current and former officials from district administrations, architecture, cadastre, and state archives in Bishkek. Investigators allege suspects forged the city’s general housing plan and district resolutions on “private development issues” to seize more than 21 state land parcels—exceeding one hectare in total—in the capital’s Oktyabr district. The scheme purportedly caused over 300 million som in damages. Two alleged organizers, identified as B.K.E. and U.M.I., were detained and placed in a temporary holding facility. Authorities report the individuals admitted guilt and voluntarily returned the plots to state ownership. The investigation continues to assess officials’ actions and identify additional participants, signaling sustained scrutiny of land governance and archival integrity in municipal planning.

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Security Service Expands ‘Criminal’ Sweep to Three More Regions, Logs Hundreds Linked to Gangs

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan’s State Committee for National Security (GKNB) broadened its nationwide “Criminal” operation to Batken, Issyk-Kul, and Naryn, intensifying scrutiny of suspected organized crime networks. Authorities report 26 individuals linked to gangs in Batken (nine imprisoned domestically, three abroad), 144 in Issyk-Kul (16 in correctional facilities, nine outside the country), and 33 in Naryn listed in the Interior Ministry’s specialized registry. Police conducted preventive interviews with those residing at registered addresses, collected some biometric data (fingerprints), and recorded video statements pledging to abandon criminal affiliations and comply with national laws. Investigations continue for individuals not found at registered locations. Previous rounds documented 255 alleged affiliates in Chui, 48 in Talas, and 82 under preventive monitoring in Osh. The campaign indicates sustained pressure on regional criminal structures and tighter identity verification practices.

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Government Approves Framework for State Fire Oversight and Prevention

Published: 2025-08-18

The Cabinet of Ministers has adopted a regulation establishing procedures for state fire safety oversight and preventive measures nationwide, formalized by a resolution signed by Cabinet Chair Adylbek Kasymaliev, according to Kabar. Implementation will be carried out by the Ministry of Emergency Situations within its existing staffing and funds allocated in the current and subsequent annual budgets. The move signals a tightening of regulatory standards and coordination on fire risk management across public and private facilities, with potential compliance implications for businesses, construction projects, and industrial sites. While the text of the detailed regulation is available via an attached link, the announcement indicates no immediate additional budgetary outlays, suggesting a focus on institutional clarity, enforcement protocols, and integration with current emergency response structures.

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Economy

Dollar Edges Higher as Exchange Spreads Narrow Over Three Days

Published: 2025-08-18

The som held broadly stable against the U.S. dollar over the past three trading days, with minor firming on the cash buy side and a slightly tighter spread. As of 09:30 on 18 August, commercial banks and exchange offices were buying dollars up to 87.30 som and selling at 87.60, while the National Bank’s reference rate stood at 87.43. On 15 August at the same time, the cash market buy rate reached 87.17 and sell rate 87.67, with the central rate at 87.37. The data indicate marginal appreciation in the official rate (+0.06 som) and a modest narrowing of the buy–sell spread in cash venues, suggesting limited volatility and ongoing liquidity in retail FX. For businesses, pricing and payrolls denominated in som face minimal near-term FX pressure, though intraday quotes may vary across venues.

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New Investment Law and FEZ Amendments Shift Key Powers to Cabinet to Accelerate Projects

Published: 2025-08-18

"The amendments transfer authority to create, extend, modify borders, and dissolve free economic zones to the Cabinet, expediting decisions and improving management efficiency." - Presidential press service (24.kg)

President Sadyr Japarov signed two laws aimed at streamlining capital inflows and special-zone governance. Amendments to the Free Economic Zones (FEZ) law move core decisions—creation, term extensions, boundary changes, and closures—from parliament to the Cabinet, enabling faster administrative action and potentially more responsive zone management. A separate investment law sets principles of state policy, guarantees investor rights, and defines mechanisms to protect interests and coordinate participants in investment activities. The package aligns with the National Development Program to 2026, targeting average annual real growth of 5%, GDP per capita of at least $1,500, unemployment at 5%, and annual FDI inflows of no less than 13% of GDP, signaling a push for regulatory clarity and execution speed.

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Bishkek and Moscow Seal $270M in Deals at Cholpon-Ata Forum, Including Plan to Acquire Two Passenger Jets

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan and Russia concluded nearly 30 agreements worth about $270 million during the VII Kyrgyz-Russian Economic Forum in Cholpon-Ata, spanning industry, energy, transport, agriculture, digital, and education. Financing packages include $55 million from the Russia-Kyrgyz Development Fund (RKDF), the Eurasian Development Bank, and Halyk Bank to support “Kyrgyzstan Airports” JSC in purchasing two Airbus A320/A321 or Boeing 737NG aircraft, with project launch targeted for September 2025. Rail cooperation featured localization and financing for “Lokorobot” shunting units and related equipment, alongside metallurgical, glass, software, dairy processing, and media-content deals. Green energy MoUs set guaranteed off-take frameworks, while capital-market steps pave RKDF securities issuance in Kyrgyzstan.

"This step will give a strong boost to national aviation and expand our flight geography... improving quality and affordability for passengers." - Manasbek Samidinov, Chairman of Kyrgyzstan Airports JSC (24.kg)

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Livestock Exports Halve as Authorities Move to Curb Domestic Meat Price Rises

Published: 2025-08-18

Livestock exports from the country fell by roughly half year to date after authorities introduced measures to prevent unwarranted meat price increases and ensure domestic supply, according to the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry. From January to mid‑August 2025, 30,493 head of cattle, 31,781 sheep and goats, and 1,636 horses were exported—down from 77,907 cattle, 70,392 sheep and goats, and 5,113 horses during the same period in 2024. The sharp reduction—47,414 fewer cattle, 38,611 fewer small ruminants, and 3,477 fewer horses—signals tighter control over outflows to stabilize the local market. For meat processors and traders, lower export volumes could ease domestic supply pressures and temper price volatility, while cross‑border livestock trade may face continued constraints pending policy recalibration.

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Agriculture Output Rises While GDP Growth Eases Slightly in Early Q3 Data

Published: 2025-08-18

Overall agricultural gross output reached 179 billion soms year-to-date, with real growth at 2.3 percent versus the same period in 2024, according to the Economy and Commerce Ministry (24.kg). Livestock led gains: meat up 3.7 percent, milk 2.1 percent, eggs 1.9 percent, lifting animal production by 3 percent. Crop yields softened due to irrigation water shortages and earlier-than-usual ripening—by 2–3 weeks—bringing forward harvesting and tempering January–July growth. Still, crop output edged up 0.9 percent on stronger potatoes (+9.6 percent), fruits (+12.6 percent), vegetables (+11.9 percent), and melons (+13 percent).

National accounts show GDP at 865.22 billion soms for the first seven months of 2025, up 11.5 percent from January–June 2024 comparisons (24.kg). Growth eased from 11.7 percent in H1 but remains among the highest in the EAEU/CIS. Services comprised 51.1 percent of GDP, goods-producing sectors 32.8 percent, and net product taxes 16.1 percent; industrial output reached 374.62 billion soms (+11.33 percent). Consumer inflation ran at 8.8 percent year-on-year.

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Average Monthly Wages Rise 19.6% to 42,020 Som in H1 2025, Outpacing Inflation

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan’s nominal average monthly wage reached 42,020 som in January–June 2025, excluding small enterprises, according to the National Statistics Committee. The figure is up 19.6% year on year, while real wages increased 11.5% after accounting for consumer price changes. Wage gains were recorded across all sectors, with the strongest increases concentrated in a few leading industries (not fully specified in the release). For businesses, the broad-based acceleration signals tightening labor markets and rising payroll costs, potentially pressuring margins but supporting household consumption. For policymakers, the outpacing of inflation indicates real income growth, which may influence monetary policy calibration and budget planning for public-sector pay. Sectoral differentiation will matter for workforce retention, as higher-growth industries could attract talent away from slower-moving fields.

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Mining Output Rises on Strong Gains in Coal and Metal Ore Extraction

Published: 2025-08-18

Industrial mining maintained momentum in early 2025, with output reaching 36.4 billion soms in January–July, according to the Economy and Commerce Ministry. Mining accounted for 9.7% of total industrial production, while the physical volume index rose to 114.6%, signaling real growth beyond price effects. Coal extraction increased by 15.2% year-on-year—up 259.7 thousand tons—bringing total national coal production to 1,968.7 thousand tons. Metal ores expanded 22.3%, driven largely by gold-bearing concentrates, which comprise over 70% of mining’s industrial structure. Other minerals grew 19.3%. The sustained increase suggests improved operational conditions and potentially stronger export receipts, particularly in gold. However, the sector’s outsized reliance on gold concentrates underscores exposure to global price swings and the need for diversification within resource extraction and downstream processing.

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Mining Expert Urges EAEU-Based Processing Partnerships to Boost Kyrgyz Value-Added Output

Published: 2025-08-18

Mining specialist Ulukman Mamytov said the sector’s key progress is Kyrgyzstan learning to operate mines independently and build domestic capacity, beyond state revenues from Kumtor. He argued for a coordinated model linking research, business, and flexible state policy, with new training programs to expand a skilled workforce and university-led applied studies. Mamytov pressed for a pivot from raw exports to value-added processing through Eurasian Economic Union supply chains, citing potential cooperation with Russian shipbuilding and Belarusian agricultural machinery manufacturers.

"The time has come to move beyond selling raw materials and take up processing, and we can do this within the EAEU framework through large-scale cooperation." - Ulukman Mamytov (sputnik.kg)

He highlighted the rare local mineral glauconite as a candidate for EAEU-based processing partnerships that could make mining a strategic industry for Kyrgyzstan.

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Bishkek Free Economic Zone Reports KGS 2.5 Billion in Investment Over Two Years

Published: 2025-08-18

The Bishkek Free Economic Zone (FEZ) reported attracting KGS 2.5 billion in investment over the past two years, according to Director Umbriel Temiraliev. The FEZ framed the results as aligned with President Sadyr Japarov’s priority to accelerate investment inflows and industrial development, underscoring the zone’s role as a key industrial platform. The disclosure signals continued emphasis on manufacturing and export-oriented activities within designated zones, which offer tax and regulatory incentives designed to speed project deployment. Investors may interpret the update as evidence of sustained government backing for FEZ-led industrialization.

"These figures show that the Bishkek FEZ has become one of the main platforms in Kyrgyzstan for industrial development and attracting investment." - Umbriel Temiraliev, Director (kabar.kg)

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Concessionary Farm Lending Reaches KGS 3.84 Billion under “Agriculture Financing-13”

Published: 2025-08-18

No direct quotes were provided in the source report. - kabar.kg (https://kabar.kg)

As of August 15, the “Agriculture Financing-13” program issued 6,127 concessional loans totaling KGS 3.839 billion, according to the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry. Livestock dominates disbursements with 5,088 loans amounting to KGS 3.137 billion, indicating continued priority for animal husbandry in rural credit. Crop production received 896 loans totaling KGS 439.7 million, while water‑saving technologies saw 24 loans worth KGS 17 million—suggesting limited uptake of irrigation efficiency investments. Leasing accounted for 119 loans totaling KGS 246.2 million, supporting equipment acquisition. For international businesses in agrifood and inputs, the portfolio mix underscores demand for livestock-related financing and equipment, with a potential policy gap—and opportunity—in promoting scalable water-saving tech in a country facing seasonal water constraints.

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Diplomacy

EAEU Intergovernmental Council Convenes in Cholpon-Ata as Japarov Hosts Regional Leaders and Meets Russia’s Mishustin

Published: 2025-08-18

"Kyrgyzstan has felt all the advantages of Union membership." - President Sadyr Japarov (24.kg)

President Sadyr Japarov received prime ministers from EAEU member states and the Eurasian Economic Commission chair during the EAEU Intergovernmental Council in Cholpon-Ata, joined by Uzbekistan and Iran as guests. Japarov underscored the EAEU as a priority for Kyrgyzstan’s external economic policy, citing GDP expansion since accession and urging removal of internal market barriers to the free movement of goods, capital, services, and labor, along with more joint industrial and agro-projects localized in smaller economies. In a separate meeting, Russia’s Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin emphasized Russia’s role as a key trade partner, the presence of 1,700 Russian companies in Kyrgyzstan, expanding regional ties across 80 Russian regions, and upcoming projects including a 12th interregional forum and building nine schools issuing joint Russia–Kyrgyz diplomas. > "Effective interaction within the EAEU opens new opportunities for business and strengthens integration." - Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin (24.kg)

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Embassy Intervenes to Prevent Kyrgyz National’s Recruitment for War in Russia

Published: 2025-08-18

"I almost left for Ukraine to fight" - Rescued Kyrgyz citizen (azattyk.org)

The Kyrgyz Embassy in Moscow reported rescuing a recently arrived migrant worker who was allegedly lured into joining the war in Ukraine while job-hunting in the Russian capital. Authorities reiterated that Kyrgyz citizens participating in foreign conflicts face criminal liability at home, reflecting Bishkek’s ongoing efforts to deter recruitment of its nationals. The case follows disclosures by the “I Want to Live” project alleging 360 Kyrgyz individuals fought on Russia’s side, underscoring persistent recruitment pressures on Central Asian migrants in Russia. The embassy’s intervention highlights growing consular involvement in countering coercion and misinformation targeting labor migrants. For employers and organizations, the development signals continued legal and reputational risks associated with foreign combat participation, and suggests tighter scrutiny and consular outreach in Russian cities where Kyrgyz workers seek jobs.

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Central Asian Leaders Consult Putin Following Anchorage Summit with Trump

Published: 2025-08-18

Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov held separate calls with Vladimir Putin after the Russia–US talks in Anchorage, with both Central Asian leaders signaling support for de-escalation and continued engagement. Mirziyoyev discussed international and bilateral priorities with Putin, including accelerating industrial cooperation projects and strengthening trade ties. Japarov framed the Putin–Trump meeting as a step toward rebuilding trust and easing global tensions, linking improved US–Russia dialogue to prospects for a peaceful settlement of the war in Ukraine.

"The summit was an important step toward strengthening trust and reducing global tensions" - President Sadyr Japarov (kabar.kg)

"Kyrgyzstan... places special emphasis on strengthening regional stability and confirms readiness to cooperate with Russia for sustainable development" - President Sadyr Japarov (sputnik.kg)

Both calls underscored plans to maintain high-level contacts and consult on regional and international agendas, with Tashkent and Bishkek aligning messaging around dialogue and stability.

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Mishustin Joins EAEU Intergovernmental Council in Cholpon-Ata, Leaves Early for U.S.–Russia Leaders’ Meeting in Alaska

Published: 2025-08-18

"Thank you for your attention. At the same time, I apologize. I need to return to Moscow. You know there will be a summit in Alaska today with the presidents of Russia and the United States; I must be in Russia." - Mikhail Mishustin (24.kg)

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin arrived in Cholpon-Ata for the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council on 14–15 August, holding talks with Kyrgyz leadership and planning sessions on bilateral cooperation across economy, transport, and energy, according to Russia’s embassy in Bishkek. He then departed the meeting early, citing the scheduled Alaska encounter between the Russian and U.S. presidents at Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson, where leaders were expected to discuss Ukraine and broader de-escalation efforts. Mishustin’s brief presence underscores Moscow’s intent to maintain EAEU engagement while prioritizing high-level U.S.–Russia diplomacy, with implications for regional economic coordination and the bloc’s agenda pacing during the summit.

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Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyz Cabinet Chair Adylbek Kasymaliev met Afghanistan’s acting Minister of Industry and Trade, Nooruddin Azizi, to advance cooperation across trade, transport, textiles, energy, education, and healthcare, with a focus on new transit routes to strengthen regional connectivity and Central Asian economies. Bishkek signaled support for Afghanistan’s economic recovery and participation in regional programs and forums aimed at stability and development. Kasymaliev underscored opportunities in transport, energy, agriculture, and light industry, indicating readiness to back bilateral and regional initiatives. Azizi conveyed greetings from acting Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund and expressed Kabul’s commitment to deepen ties.

"The Kyrgyz side supports Afghanistan’s economic recovery and the Afghan authorities’ efforts to strengthen peace and stability." - Adylbek Kasymaliev (24.kg)

"Afghanistan is ready to further develop and strengthen cooperation with Kyrgyzstan in areas of mutual interest." - Nooruddin Azizi (24.kg)

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Bishkek and Tashkent Align Pension Rules to Ensure Equal Benefits and Prevent Double Payments

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan have preliminarily agreed on a mechanism to harmonize pension payments for their citizens following talks in Tashkent between Kyrgyz Social Fund deputy chair Gulmira Jumataeva and Uzbekistan’s Pension Fund director Muradbek Atajanov, according to the Uzbek side. The draft intergovernmental accord accounts for national legal specifics and aims to grant equal pension rights, eliminate double contributions, and aggregate employment tenure across both countries when calculating benefits. Payments are expected to be made directly to beneficiaries regardless of residence, with provisions also covering business travel to prevent overpayments. The arrangement is framed as a step toward deeper bilateral cooperation that could facilitate major cross-border projects, including the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, by reducing labor-mobility frictions and providing clearer social guarantees for workers.

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Uzbek PM Praises Issyk-Kul’s Tourism Potential during Intergovernmental Council Visit

Published: 2025-08-18

Uzbekistan’s Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov highlighted Issyk-Kul’s natural appeal and fast-improving infrastructure during a visit tied to the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council in Kyrgyzstan. Touring the lakeshore, he pointed to rapid regional development and ongoing construction of new facilities, underscoring momentum in Kyrgyzstan’s flagship tourism zone. His comments signal growing Central Asian interest in cross-border leisure markets and potential for expanded Uzbek tourist flows and investment in hospitality services around the lake.

"Issyk-Kul is a true blessing of nature. I believe this place will become a world-class tourism center in the coming years." - Abdulla Aripov, Prime Minister of Uzbekistan (kabar.kg)

For Kyrgyz authorities and investors, the endorsement from Tashkent’s top official may bolster efforts to attract regional partnerships, improve connectivity, and accelerate resort upgrades ahead of peak seasons.

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Infrastructure

Major Upgrades Advance on Balykchy–Barskoon–Karakol Corridor with Bridges and Rail Underpass

Published: 2025-08-18

Construction is accelerating on the 140 km Balykchy–Barskoon–Karakol highway, a key Issyk-Kul corridor linking tourism, mining, and China-bound routes. Four contractors are laying dual-layer asphalt; the first layer now covers 60 km and the second 30 km. Five planned bridges are reportedly complete, and a two-level road-rail interchange is being built near the 5 km mark to separate traffic from the Balykchy–Kochkor rail line. Engineers installed large corrugated metal structures to route rail under the roadway and constructed a 4 km drainage canal through marshland, improving resilience against floods and ground instability. A flagship element is a Russian-sourced corrugated steel pipe exceeding 50 m in length, 12 m in width, and up to 8 m in height to carry two rail tracks under the road, signaling a push for heavier-duty, longer-life road assets and safer multimodal flows along the Issyk-Kul ring road.

"A large corrugated metal pipe imported from Russia is being used on the first section... Two rail lines will pass under this structure." - Bakyt Ismailov, director of Kyrgyz Road Construction (kabar.kg)

"The construction of five bridges planned under the project has been fully completed." - Sultan Eshnazarov, engineer at Kyrgyzdortransproyekt (kabar.kg)

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Bishkek Announces Planned Water Shutdowns for Repairs and Reconstruction

Published: 2025-08-18

Water supply will be suspended across parts of Bishkek for scheduled works affecting municipal networks and a key intake facility. On 19 August, from 10:00 to 24:00, drinking water will be cut in a zone bounded by Toktonaliev, Gshließera, Minzhylkiev, T. Sagyndykov Streets, and A. Masaliev Avenue as crews repair 300 mm pipelines. A separate outage today runs from 09:00 to 20:00 for households and social facilities in areas around Ankara Street, Gorky Street, the Alamüdün River, the railway line, and Oktyabr Street due to reconstruction at the “HBO” water intake. Authorities have asked residents, institutions, and businesses to stock water in advance to minimize disruption. No official offered additional timelines beyond the stated windows, suggesting work completion is tied directly to the day’s operational progress.

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Three-Day Natural Gas Shutdown Planned in Parts of Bishkek for Pipeline Maintenance

Published: 2025-08-18

Natural gas service will be suspended from 20–22 August in select areas on Bishkek’s southeastern edge, including Alamüdün village and nearby streets (Drevesnaya, GES-2, Gogol, Chernyshevsky), as well as the “Kulikovskiy” confectionery facility. Operator Bishkekgaz says the shutdown supports maintenance on medium- and low-pressure pipelines to ensure reliable and safe supply. Businesses and households in the affected perimeter should prepare for temporary disruptions to cooking, heating water, and some industrial processes, and consider alternative energy sources such as electricity or LPG where feasible. The planned work underscores ongoing infrastructure upkeep in the capital’s gas network; coordination with power providers may be relevant if electrical demand rises during the outage. Service is expected to resume after 22 August barring unforeseen delays.

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Balykchy Unveils Bus Terminal, Municipal Markets, and Ethnopark in Billion-Som Upgrade

Published: 2025-08-18

Balykchy is undergoing a major urban upgrade under presidential directive, with projects spanning a new bus terminal, municipal market, specialized fish market, and an ethnopark, alongside green and digital-payment measures. The 1,500 sq m terminal will feature a 50-seat waiting hall, a 50-bed hotel for passengers, staff dormitory, landscaped grounds with drip irrigation, and controlled parking with the first 15 minutes free; all payments will be cashless and routed to the local budget. The city has acquired 10 electric buses to cut emissions. Construction is also underway on a two-block municipal market with 200 parking spaces and a 1.1-hectare year-round fish and produce market. An ethnopark reflecting symbols from seven regions is planned with parking for 500 cars. Completion targets run through 2026–2028 for a seven-project pipeline funded by 1 billion som.

"We are giving special attention to greening the city." - Mayor Baatyrbek Zhantaev (kabar.kg)

"After these seven projects, we will move to social facilities and aim to rank Balykchy among the country’s most developed cities within 2–3 years." - Mayor Baatyrbek Zhantaev (kabar.kg)

"Large projects that will radically change the appearance of the city have begun to be implemented on President Sadyr Japarov’s instructions." - Kanibek Tumanbaev, head of the Presidential Administration (kabar.kg)

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Society

Police Report 22,294 Traffic Violations in One Week, 290 DUIs, as Vehicles Impounded Nationwide

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan’s traffic police recorded 22,294 violations nationwide during 11–17 August, including 290 drunk-driving cases and 3,454 speeding incidents, according to preliminary data. Authorities also cited 893 drivers for lacking proper documents, 170 for illegal window tinting, 845 pedestrian-related infractions, and 3,937 vehicle operation breaches. A total of 2,097 vehicles were impounded across the country as enforcement actions intensified. In Jalal-Abad region alone (9–15 August), police identified 2,204 violations, including 45 DUI cases, 749 speeding violations, 120 instances of driving into oncoming lanes, and 51 drivers without documents; 190 vehicles were sent to impound. The sustained enforcement effort signals heightened road safety priorities and may affect commuting times and logistics as roadside checks and raids continue.

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Traffic Safety Directorate to Brief on Taxi Licensing, Foreign-Plated Vehicle Legalization, and H1 Results on August 19

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan’s Traffic Safety Directorate will hold a press briefing at the Kabar news agency on August 19 at 10:00, outlining plans and results on three fronts: licensing of taxi services, legalization pathways for vehicles with foreign license plates, and performance outcomes for the first half of the year. The session will be led by Nurdin Sambahiev, head of the Licensing and Technical Supervision Department under the Interior Ministry’s Traffic Safety Directorate, joined by deputy head Mirlan Akim uulu and press chief Baikazy Aytikul uulu. The focus suggests upcoming regulatory clarity for ride-hailing and taxi operators, and potential compliance measures for foreign-registered vehicles—issues relevant for cross-border mobility and service formalization. No advance statements or policy decisions were quoted ahead of the briefing.

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Environment

Flash Flood Risk Issued for Mountain and Foothill Areas as Heavy Rains Forecast Aug 18–19

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan’s Emergency Situations Ministry warned of potential flash floods in mountain and foothill districts from August 18–19 due to unstable weather and heavy downpours. The advisory covers multiple regions with elevated landslide and mudflow risk along river valleys and steep terrain. Short, intense rainfall can rapidly swell streams, affecting rural roads, pastures, and seasonal worksites. Travelers on interregional routes and those operating in highland zones should anticipate sudden water level rises, possible road washouts, and temporary closures. Authorities typically pre-position rescue teams and urge local administrations to monitor vulnerable riverbeds and culverts. Businesses engaged in logistics, mining, hydropower maintenance, and agriculture should review contingency plans, check drainage, and avoid night travel on mountain passes until conditions stabilize. No injuries or damages have been reported yet; the alert is precautionary as weather fronts move across the country.

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Innovation

12-Year Schooling Launches in 2025 with Expanded Preschool Access and Higher Education Budget

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan will formally shift to a 12-year general education system starting in the 2025–2026 academic year, with the first cohort graduating in 2036–2037. Grades 1–2, 5, and 7 begin new standards this year, and schools will gradually adopt updated textbooks, digital resources, and modern teaching methods. Entry ages are set at six for first grade and seven for second. Preschool policy is being overhauled to cover children from ages one to five, aligning with the earlier school start and a target to reach at least 80% preschool enrollment nationwide by 2030 through new facilities and improved access in the regions. Education funding in the 2025 state budget rises to 68.1 billion som, nearly double 2020 allocations, including capital works on schools and kindergartens and equipment for the 12-year transition.

"Reforms are underway, with special attention to preschool education," - Azamat Kadyraliev, Deputy Chief of the Presidential Administration (akipress.org)

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Tax Service Launches Automated Property Tax Calculation and Online Payment Module

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan’s State Tax Service introduced an automated “Tax Obligations” module in the taxpayer cabinet (cabinet.salyk.kg) that calculates property tax using official data from the state cadastral database. The system minimizes manual entry and errors by pre-populating tax amounts and property details (unified property code, address, tax period, area, and due amount), and enables immediate online payment via QR code, payment code, or bank cards. Users can view tax type, date, district, and amount, then pay within a few clicks. Calculations are generated 30 days before the due date, typically by September 1. The upgrade aligns with ongoing digitization of public services, potentially improving compliance and reducing administrative friction for property owners by providing transparency, accuracy, and faster settlement.

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Late Enrollment Opens for Grades 1–2 with 100,000 Seats Still Available Through Sept. 30

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan’s Education Ministry has opened late enrollment for grades 1–2 on the “Elektronduk kattöö” online system from August 18 through September 30, following closure of the main intake on August 15. As of the morning of August 18, 201,000+ pupils had secured places, leaving roughly 100,000 seats nationwide (53,765 in grade 1 and 46,236 in grade 2), including 71,108 in Kyrgyz-language classes and 22,554 in Russian-language tracks. Bishkek lists 2,103 places remaining. Parents can cancel a prior placement and reapply to another school if seats exist; those missing the deadline must wait until the next academic year unless granted exceptions by formal decisions of education authorities. Schools will use the “Kundoluk” system to form classes, and parents must submit original medical and vaccination certificates by September 5. Non-registration responsibility lies with parents or legal guardians.

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57 Schools and 20 Kindergartens to Open for New Academic Year, Expanding Education Capacity

Published: 2025-08-18

The Ministry of Construction, Architecture and Housing and Communal Services announced that 110 social infrastructure facilities will be commissioned nationwide by September 1, including 57 schools and 20 kindergartens, under a state program to develop education and social services. The openings are intended to ease classroom overcrowding and expand early childhood access across regions ahead of the new school year. Authorities also plan to bring additional cultural and sports facilities online in the near term, signaling continued investment in social infrastructure. Regional breakdowns were not provided, but the ministry framed the rollout as part of a broader, phased modernization of community assets. The scale suggests near-term benefits for thousands of students and preschoolers, with implications for local labor needs, construction supply chains, and municipal service planning.

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Health

EAEU to Mandate Unified Registry Certification for Medicines Starting 2026

Published: 2025-08-18

From 2026, only medicines and medical devices registered in the Eurasian Economic Union’s unified registry and carrying EAEU-issued certificates will be allowed on the market, following approval of a new framework at the Intergovernmental Council meeting in Cholpon-Ata on August 15. National registrations will remain valid until the transition. The Eurasian Economic Commission said the reform aligns member states’ laws and establishes common institutions for quality control, signaling tighter, bloc-wide oversight of pharmaceuticals. Companies will need to ensure products are migrated to the unified registry and obtain EAEU certification to maintain market access across the union. The change is expected to streamline cross-border trade within the EAEU while raising compliance requirements for manufacturers and importers operating in Kyrgyzstan and other member states.

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Cabinet Approves Isolation Rules for Patients Refusing Tuberculosis Treatment

Published: 2025-08-18

Kyrgyzstan’s Cabinet has approved procedures to isolate individuals who refuse tuberculosis (TB) treatment, aiming to safeguard public health and curb transmission. The decree, signed by Cabinet Chair Adylbek Kasymaliev, operationalizes Article 117 of the Law “On the Protection of Citizens’ Health” and will be implemented within the Health Ministry’s approved budget. The move formalizes a legal pathway for compulsory isolation of noncompliant TB patients, a step public health systems often use to prevent outbreaks of drug-resistant strains. While the measure underscores a preventive strategy, implementation details—such as due process, duration of isolation, and facility standards—were not disclosed in the announcement. Funding through existing allocations suggests no immediate supplemental budget, indicating reliance on current infrastructure and resources. No timeline or enforcement protocols were specified in the initial decree notice.

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Russian Volunteer Doctors Launch Kidney Care Trainings and Consultations in Bishkek

Published: 2025-08-18

Russian specialists from the “Goodwill Mission” arrived in Bishkek for a week of master classes, lectures, and patient consultations focused on kidney disease, as chronic kidney conditions rise rapidly in Kyrgyzstan—up roughly 15% annually, according to local experts. The delegation includes six doctors, among them Elena Sokolova, head of the hematology department at RZD-Medicine’s Central Clinical Hospital, who emphasized the need for early detection and professional exchange with Kyrgyz nephrologists. > "We came to share experience with our Kyrgyz nephrology colleagues" - Elena Sokolova (sputnik.kg) Health Minister Erkin Checheibaev said the visit strengthens professional cooperation and could seed joint projects. > "These meetings lay the groundwork for future joint projects. We hope to continue work with our Russian colleagues" - Health Minister Erkin Checheibaev (sputnik.kg) Rossotrudnichestvo’s Albert Zulkharnayev added another team will come in October to work in Bishkek and Osh with children affected by cerebral palsy and autism.

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