Kyrgyz Government Plans to Extend New Year Holidays The Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic is proposing to extend the New Year holidays of 2026 until January 12. This initiative involves moving working days from January 8 and 9 to February 7 and April 25, 2026. The rationale behind this proposal includes promoting family values, enhancing social well-being, reducing seasonal illnesses, boosting domestic tourism, and stimulating economic development in various regions. The extension will allow citizens to rest in accordance with the Labor Code and provide parents more time to be with their children during winter school breaks. Furthermore, the plan considers economic benefits for small and medium businesses, reduction of energy and communal system pressure, and improvements in socio-economic indicators and public health. Importantly, implementing this resolution will not incur significant budget expenditures or require changes to other regulatory acts.

Kyrgyzstan Considers Adopting Azerbaijan's Agricultural Insurance Model Kyrgyzstan is looking into adopting Azerbaijan's agricultural insurance model to assist local farmers. The Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Food Processing Industry of Kyrgyzstan revealed this initiative. A meeting in Baku between Kyrgyzstan's Deputy Prime Minister, Bakyt Torobaev, and Azerbaijan's Minister of Agriculture, Mejnun Mamedov, focused on various areas such as virus-free seedling technologies, cloning, horticulture methods, and organic farming. Discussions also covered phytosanitary safety, including disinfection procedures, laboratory research, veterinary diagnostics, and regulations on breeding animal and genetic material trade. Both parties agreed to establish a joint Working Group post-meeting to ensure the systematic implementation of agreements and facilitate future cooperation.

Asian Youth Para Games Kick Off in Dubai The official opening of the Asian Youth Para Games took place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on December 10. During the opening ceremony, the Kyrgyzstan team paraded ceremoniously, led by the national team captain, powerlifting athlete Azizbek Narbayev, carrying the state flag. The event was graced by the presence of the Director of the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, Kazybek Moldazhiev, alongside athletes, coaches, and support staff. The games are scheduled to continue until December 14. Kyrgyzstan is well-represented at the event with 20 athletes competing across eight sports disciplines, including swimming, taekwondo, athletics, table tennis, powerlifting, goalball, arm wrestling, and boccia.

Lukashenko Shares Insights into Kurmanbek Bakiyev's Life in Belarus During his visit to Bishkek, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko revealed details about the life of former Kyrgyzstan President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, who has been residing in Belarus since 2010. Lukashenko mentioned that Bakiyev is feeling well and stated that they would not allow him to return to Kyrgyzstan, emphasizing that Bakiyev is living comfortably in Belarus and sometimes invites Lukashenko to visit him. The Belarusian President also acknowledged that despite Bakiyev missing his homeland and expressing a desire to visit his father's grave, they are working towards resolving this issue with the current leadership, as reported by "Belta." In April 2010, mass protests erupted in Kyrgyzstan against Bakiyev's government, leading to casualties and injuries. Following his departure from Bishkek on April 7th and subsequent exile, Belarus granted Bakiyev political asylum.

Al-nasr Emerges Victorious Over Istiklol in Tough AFC-2 Champions League Encounter In the fifth round of the AFC-2 Champions League group stage, Istiklol suffered a significant 0:4 defeat against Al-Nasr at the Central Stadium in Hissar. Despite high expectations from their home supporters, Istiklol struggled against Al-Nasr's superior class, speed, and physicality. Joao Felix and Muhammad Simakan's goals secured an early lead for Al-Nasr. Istiklol's attempts to rally after halftime were futile, with Sadio Mane and Ayman Yahya adding to the scoreline. The reasons behind Istiklol's defeat included the speed difference, Al-Nasr's squad depth, and the challenging high tempo of the game. Despite this setback, Istiklol still has a chance to advance to the playoffs by defeating Goa in their upcoming match. To improve their performance, Istiklol needs to focus on enhancing midfield aggression, reducing defensive errors, and effectively utilizing set-pieces and flank attacks.

Citizen Detained for Storing 850 kg of Licorice Roots A joint inspection carried out by various authorities in the Kyrgyz Republic revealed a case of storing licorice roots in Leninsky village. The inspection, prompted by a report, uncovered around 850 kg of licorice roots imported from Uzbekistan, stored in approximately 30 sacks at a specific residence on Almatinka street. As a result of the inspection, law enforcement sealed the storage facility temporarily for investigative purposes. The individual responsible for importing and storing the licorice roots confessed to their actions and was detained. Subsequently, the homeowners were escorted to the Alamudin District Police Department for further investigation procedures.

Increase in the Number of Hong Kong Flu Cases in Bishkek In Bishkek, the Center for State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance has confirmed 33 cases of Hong Kong flu. To prevent further spread, experts recommend simple precautions such as wearing masks, frequent handwashing, room ventilation, and maintaining social distance. The Hong Kong flu spreads through respiratory droplets and contact, with a short incubation period of one to two days. Symptoms typically include high fever, severe weakness, muscle and joint pain, headache, and cough. It is crucial for the public to stay informed and adhere to preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus.

Kyrgyz President Conveys Condolences to China Over Hong Kong Fire Tragedy President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov, expressed his condolences to the Chairman of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping, following a tragic fire incident in Hong Kong. In his telegram, President Japarov conveyed deep sorrow for the loss of lives in the Special Administrative Region and extended heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends of the victims. He also wished a swift recovery to those injured in the unfortunate event. The message from President Japarov emphasized the solidarity of the Kyrgyz people with the citizens of China during this difficult time, underscoring a sense of shared grief and support in the face of the tragedy.

Angelina Lucas to Step into the Ring Twice in December Kazakh boxer Angelina Lucas, in the second lightest weight class, has scheduled two upcoming fights. After the nullification of her November match in Egypt, she will fight on December 3rd at **The Agenda** arena in Dubai. The opponent for this match has not been revealed. Angelina's second fight is set for December 20th at the "Zhekpe Zhek" arena in Aktobe, with the opponent yet to be determined. Both dates are subject to change according to BoxRec. Promoters from TJ Boxing have confirmed Lucas' participation in the UAE event. She holds titles from IBO, WBF, WIBF, and WBC International, with a record of 15 wins and one loss, including eight wins by knockout.

Kurmangaliev Impresses at Youth World Table Tennis Championship Kazakh table tennis player Alan Kurmangaliyev has made a strong start at the Youth World Championship in Cluj-Napoca, teaming up with Egyptian player Hana Goda in the mixed doubles event. Together, they secured a convincing 3:1 victory over the Puerto Rican duo of Enrique Rios and Crystal Melendez, securing their spot in the next round. This successful performance in the opening match has set a positive tone for Kurmangaliyev as he competes in the championship. With a solid win under his belt, the Kazakh athlete is poised to continue showcasing his skills on the international stage, representing both his country and the spirit of sportsmanship.