Cesar Barrios is from Mexico. He is a clinical psychologist and arrived in Kyrgyzstan quite recently, but he has already fallen in love with the country and even managed to find similarities between Bishkek and Mexico City.
In an interview with 24.kg news agency he told about his impressions of the country, the importance of psychological assistance and what he has learned from the Kyrgyz people.
— How did you get to Kyrgyzstan? What do you do here?
— Now I work for the international humanitarian medical organization Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières). I supervise the direction of psychological support in the project on women’s health.
I travel a lot for work. This time I was offered to participate in a project in Sokuluk district of Chui region.
Cesar Barrios
As part of this project, we conduct screening to diagnose cervical cancer and breast cancer at an early stage. The mental health team provides support to patients to help them cope with possible reactions to the stress caused by the screening procedure. I’ve been here for three weeks and hope to spend at least six months in Kyrgyzstan.
— What surprises you about Bishkek and Kyrgyzstan?
— Like anything you meet for the first time, it’s quite an interesting experience. What I didn’t know about the country was its mountains and places for outdoor activities. You can discover incredibly beautiful landscapes here.
I also like that when I talk to people, they all recommend events and places for me to visit.
Cesar Barrios
This feeling of pride in what they possess is passed on to me, and, of course, I want to learn more.
— What in Bishkek reminds you of your hometown?
— I wouldn’t say there are many things here that remind me of Mexico. But there are places that make me think of my homeland — some streets, walking around Ala-Too square, the architecture of the buildings, people passing by, and even the traffic on the roads.
Sometimes I feel like I’m walking through Mexico City. I think this is a good way to connect Kyrgyzstan with my country.
— What do you miss in Kyrgyzstan?
— Whenever I am in a new country, I find it difficult to adapt. To cope with it, I try to find places where I can try food from my country. And I am very happy that there are such places in Bishkek.
There are also fruits and vegetables that are familiar to me here. So when I miss my family or home, I eat something that reminds me of Mexico.
— Do you already have a favorite place in Bishkek?
— I haven’t been to many places yet, but I have already made a list of places I would like to visit. I like the local parks, especially the park on Togolok Moldo and Oak Park.
I also like visiting local cafes and watching people walk by or reading.
Cesar Barrios
Of course, I will visit many places over time and then I will be able to decide which one is my favorite.
— What are your favorite national dishes?
— There are many dishes I would like to try. But from what I have already tried, I like plov, it reminds me of meat paella. I can also mention shashlyk and samsa with cheese.
— Or maybe you are afraid to try something?
— It seems to me that the word «afraid» does not quite fit... I know that this dish is very much loved here, and even in Mexico you can find it, but it is not as widespread there as in Kyrgyzstan. This is horse meat.
I know that it is delicious, and I have even tried the horse meat. But when I imagine this animal, I lose my appetite.
Cesar Barrios
So, if you ever offer me horse meat, just don’t tell me about it so I can eat it with pleasure.
— What has fascinated you in close acquaintance with the local population?
— I like that the people are proud of their culture. I have learned a lot from the Kyrgyz people and it is a very nice feeling. As a Mexican, I am proud of my country and I always hope everyone understands what that means. I like the local culture. People are very warm to you and want you to feel comfortable. This is what unites us.
I have noticed that Kyrgyz people like to have fun. I haven’t attended any local event yet, but I want to say that Mexicans are also very fun people.
Cesar Barrios
As a clinical psychologist, I clearly understand the role of culture and everyday life in a person’s mental health. These things provide a sense of community and mutual support. Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to invite everyone in Bishkek to visit the photo exhibition dedicated to the World Mental Health Day. It will open on October 11. This exhibition is about how simple routine activities, support of loved ones help to fight stress.
— Are there things that have disappointed you in Kyrgyzstan?
— I was disappointed when I learned that the level of air pollution in Bishkek is one of the highest in the world. I hope that this situation can be solved and that the beauty of nature will not be lost.
