Russian language to preserve official status in Kyrgyzstan

«The Russian language has the status of an official language in Kyrgyzstan and will preserve it in the future. This is prescribed in the Constitution,» the elected president of the country Sooronbai Jeenbekov said in an interview with RIA Novosti.

He noted that he himself studied at a Russian school, and for him the Russian language «became a window into the big world of science, knowledge, literature and art.»

«Knowledge of languages, including Russian, is the shortest way to personal development. Kyrgyzstanis should know three, and at best even more languages. The world becomes for them not so global and difficult for traveling, getting education. And many foreigners and tourists come to visit us. Therefore, knowledge of languages ​​only enriches a person’s life,» Sooronbai Jeenbekov said.

He stressed that he considers Russia as the main strategic partner of the republic.

«In recent years, relations with Russia are developing dynamically, and I will make efforts to further strengthen this course. We need to continue to increase political dialogue, cooperation in the field of security, intensify trade, economic and investment cooperation, as well as promote cultural and humanitarian cooperation,» he said.

Elections of the new president of Kyrgyzstan were held on October 15. 11 candidates ran for the main post of the country. Candidate from the party of power, ex-PM Sooronbai Jeenbekov scored 54.22 percent of the votes. The inauguration of the new head of state is scheduled for November 24.