Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Edil Baisalov visited the dormitory of the medical faculty of the International University of Kyrgyzstan, which was attacked by marauders and hooligans on the night of May 18. He was accompanied by the Ambassador of Pakistan to the Kyrgyz Republic Hassan Ali Zaigham and the President of IUK, academician of the National Academy of Sciences Asylbek Aidaraliev.
Edil Baisalov addressed the gathered foreign students and teachers with words of sympathy and apologies for the violence and damage caused by a group of hooligans.
"These criminal actions of individuals have nothing to do with the culture and traditions of hospitality. Our people have always shown a particularly respectful attitude and care towards their guests who have come from afar. We call them 'musafir'. I know that there is a similar word in Urdu, which is an indicator of the closeness of our peoples. In our country, foreign students are treated with great sympathy, they are bridges of friendship between nations. We understand that there are political issues and a lot of false information on social media. Your parents and loved ones should know that you are not in any danger in Kyrgyzstan, and that the authorities take full responsibility for your well-being. The events of one night do not reflect the attitude of our people towards you. Law enforcement agencies are conducting a thorough investigation of all the circumstances and will definitely hold all those responsible accountable," he said.
He answered questions troubling foreign students. The official also inspected the premises and living quarters.
The spontaneous protest against foreigners, which began on the evening of May 17 in Bishkek, ended only in the early hours of May 18. The police managed to negotiate with the participants of the rally, and they opened Chui Avenue, after which they dispersed. According to the Ministry of Health, 29 people were injured during the protests.
Following the fight on May 13 at the hostel, which was one of the reasons for the protests, the police detained four Egyptian citizens. A criminal case has been initiated under the article "Hooliganism" of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic.
