Recently appointed head of the National Agency for Religious Affairs and Interethnic Relations of the Kyrgyz Republic, Talantbek Tashibekov, outlined his priorities, emphasizing the importance of supporting secularism and strengthening interfaith harmony. In an interview with VB.KG, he shared his views on the future, assessed the activities of his predecessors, and commented on the current state of the religious sphere in the country.
- How do you see the current religious situation in Kyrgyzstan?
- I believe that the religious situation in our country is stable and has positive trends. This has been made possible thanks to the systematic work of government structures, regulatory legal acts, and conceptual programs. Religious institutions also play an important role. We regularly hold meetings with religious leaders to discuss improvements in legislation concerning freedom of religion. In particular, we are working on a draft law regarding the "Waqf" fund, which currently does not exist in Kyrgyzstan. This term in Islam refers to the preservation of property for certain charitable purposes. We are also developing a concept for state policy in the field of religion and interethnic relations for 2027-2031.
Secularism is a crucial aspect of our work. We will consistently adhere to constitutional norms: religion should not interfere in state affairs, and politicians should not use religious themes in their election campaigns. This principle is non-negotiable.
- How does the National Agency monitor interethnic relations in the country?
- We actively work in regions with a multinational population, such as Osh, Jalal-Abad, and Batken regions. Our research groups regularly travel to collect information. Additionally, we have a network of representatives who report on the current situation. Based on this data, we send recommendations to local authorities for preventive work. In anticipation of the spring holidays and after Ramadan, events aimed at strengthening friendship and tolerance are planned.
How do you cooperate with the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kyrgyzstan?
- We support their work by implementing new legislative initiatives and electronic systems. One of our goals is to transition the registration process for pilgrims to an online format, which will significantly reduce the time required for processing Hajj and Umrah. Starting this month, the salaries of imams have also been increased from 8,000 to 15,000 soms, with further plans to raise them to 20,000 soms.
You became the head of the NADRMO in January of this year. How do you assess the work of your predecessors?
- I believe that the work of the previous leaders was satisfactory and laid the foundation for further systematic activities.
Radical religious movements pose a threat not only to Kyrgyzstan but also to many CIS countries. How do you plan to combat this problem?
- Law enforcement agencies, including the State National Security Committee, are actively working to prevent the activities of destructive groups. Within our agency, there is a Research Center that monitors and analyzes the situation, preparing analytical reports. Recommendations are sent to law enforcement agencies and the Presidential Administration. Our task is to focus on preventive measures.
Are you planning international events to strengthen cooperation with religious figures from other countries?
- Yes, we are planning a scientific conference with the participation of religious leaders and foreign experts. This year we are also celebrating the anniversary of the Issyk-Kul Forum named after Chingiz Aitmatov and will invite specialists on issues of tolerance.
Are you working with foreign theologians to engage with the youth?
- We have already started this work and compiled a list of scholars who adhere to traditional Islamic values. These specialists will be invited to various events to discuss religious tolerance and the relationship between religion and the state. If the Spiritual Administration wishes to invite a foreign scholar, we assess potential risks and, in the absence of threats, give our consent.
How do you assess the state of interethnic harmony in the country?
- The situation is stable and comfortable. In all regions, there are authoritative leaders and aksakals with whom we maintain a constant dialogue. Additionally, we plan to enhance cooperation with the Assembly of Peoples of Kyrgyzstan through cultural and educational events.
How do iftars with foreign guests contribute to strengthening Kyrgyzstan's ties with other countries?
- This is an important direction for dialogue between religions. Recently, iftars were held in Bishkek with representatives from Dagestan and Tatarstan, where diasporas and our religious leaders gathered. Iftars from other countries are also held, to which all religious organizations in Kyrgyzstan are invited. We maintain friendly relations with Tatar religious figures and actively cooperate with their educational institutions. Their participation in our international conferences is planned for this year, including events dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the NADRMO.
These events contribute to strengthening friendly ties and exchanging experiences in traditional Islam, as well as serving as a platform to counter extremist narratives.
What would you like to wish the people of Kyrgyzstan during the holy month of Ramadan?
- On behalf of the National Agency for Religious Affairs and Interethnic Relations, we congratulate everyone on the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan and the blessed night of Qadr. This month is a time for spiritual purification, mercy, and strengthening moral values. During this time, believers strive for self-improvement, showing care for others and supporting those in need.
May the month of Ramadan bring peace, prosperity, and harmony to every home. May the good deeds performed during this period become the foundation for strengthening social unity and mutual respect in our multinational society. We wish prosperity and unity to our country — Kyrgyzstan!
