Doctor Tasnim Atatrah works for the World Health Organization. She began her career in Palestine, and later worked in several countries, managing development and implementation of health care programs and humanitarian operations. She has visited 35 countries over the years of work.
She arrived in Kyrgyzstan in April 2018 to support the implementation of core capacities under the International Health Regulations.
— What did you like in Kyrgyzstan?
— I was surprised by the mix of old and modern buildings, as well as the irrigation ditches in the parks that carry water from the mountains. I admire the mountains and nature, which has a special beauty.
— What in Bishkek reminds you of your home town?
— In Kyrgyzstan, I met my first real winter and saw snow in October for the first time. I was struck by the white city, and I was surprised that life did not stop, despite the cold weather.
There is a lot of greenery; nice people make me feel at home, especially when I walk around Ala-Too square, watching children, who enjoy the coolness of the fountains.
— What do you miss in Bishkek?
— I miss my family and my best friends. I miss the Mediterranean Sea and play of the waves that break the silence ... I miss olive trees that are hundreds of years old, and which still stand in order to convey the history of those places.
— Where do you like to spend your leisure time?
— I like all the parks in the city, I enjoy sculptures and objects of art, especially when music sounds there that makes them unique.
— What do you think about the national cuisine?
— Kyrgyz cuisine is diverse and rich in taste. My favorite dishes are beshbarmak, lagman, kuurdak and plov. And I cannot resist a basket of boorsoks, especially if you dip them in kaimak.
The way you share a meal makes it special, as food becomes a part of a common memory of a place and people.
Tasnim Atatrah
Care and love gives special taste to food in Kyrgyzstan, which convey the history of the earth and generous culture.
— Are there dishes that are afraid to try?
— I’m not afraid to try any specific food. I trust recommendations of my dear Kyrgyz friends.
— What has fascinated and disappointed you in close acquaintance with the local population?
— The people I met were kind and friendly, open enough to meet others, learn about new countries and cultures. I was fascinated by the diversity of people in Bishkek, which gives even more beauty to the capital.
Osh city is extraordinary, has a rich history, especially considering that it was one of the main cities of the Great Silk Road. Issyk-Kul has a captivating beauty, and a winter in Naryn is something special ...
Tasnim Atatrah
Large number of traffic accidents and drivers, who do not comply with the traffic rules: drive at high speed and do not use seat belts, disappointed me.
I think that air pollution is a serious health problem. Leaders and key interested parties solve this problem in order to determine and implement sustainable solutions.
