Kyrygyztan has been trying to promote the country as a welcoming travel and tourism destination at the recent ITB trade show in Berlin, but it appears the people of this country are not ready to welcome foreign visitors.
According to the press service of “Kyrgyz Temir Zholu” (Kyrgyz Railways), a train carrying European tourists en route from Balykchy to Bishkek was attacked with stones on Kant-Alamedin track in Kyrgyzstan on Tuesday, April 8.
Unidentified individuals hurled stones at the train traveling along the popular Kant — Alamedin route. As a result, the windows of two carriages were shattered, and a member of the train crew sustained injuries.
“Such acts not only cause significant inconvenience to passengers but also pose a direct threat to their safety. Criminal actions like these harm the visitors to our country, potentially tarnishing the international reputation of the Kyrgyz Republic,” stated the national carrier in its announcement.
The company called on residents of communities near the railway lines to demonstrate awareness and civic responsibility.
The carrier’s statement warned that “Any actions that compromise traffic safety and endanger the lives and health of passengers and railway personnel will be addressed in accordance with the existing laws of the Kyrgyz Republic.”
Kyrgyz aw enforcement agencies are currently conducting the required investigations regarding this matter.
Kyrgyzstan, known officially as the Kyrgyz Republic, is a landlocked nation situated in Central Asia and was once part of the Soviet Union. It is located within the Tian Shan and Pamir mountain ranges, with Bishkek serving as its capital and largest city. The country shares its borders with Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west, Tajikistan to the south, and China to the east and southeast. The population of Kyrgyzstan exceeds 7 million, with ethnic Kyrgyz constituting the majority, alongside notable minority groups of Uzbeks and Russians.
The history of Kyrgyzstan encompasses a rich tapestry of cultures and empires. Despite its geographical seclusion due to the rugged mountainous landscape, Kyrgyzstan has historically been a pivotal junction for numerous great civilizations, particularly as part of the Silk Road and other trade routes.
Renowned for its breathtaking mountainous landscapes and vibrant cultural legacy, Kyrgyzstan attracts many visitors seeking adventure and cultural experiences.
Tian Shan mountain range is a notable tourist attraction favored by foreign visitors.
Lake Issyk-Kul is another major tourist attraction in Kyrgyzstan, which boasts a variety of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses along its northern coastline. The most frequented beach areas are located in the city of Cholpon-Ata and nearby communities, including Kara-Oi (Dolinka), Bosteri, and Korumdy. In 2006 and 2007, the lake welcomed over a million visitors annually.
However, in recent years, the influx of tourists has decreased due to economic and political instability in the region.