Jeenbekov’s address to Kyrgyzstanis in connection with 2002 Aksy events

Bishkek, Mar.17, 2020 /Kabar/. Today, Mar.17 President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov sent an address to Kyrgyzstanis in connection with the Aksy events of 2002. Text of the President’s address: "Dear compatriots! The Aksy events of Mar. 17 remained in the country's history as a turning point on the path of democratic development. It was the beginning of the struggle of our people against injustice, served as an important prerequisite for the March and April popular revolutions. Current authorities are making every effort to justify the trust of people who, putting their lives at risk, acted for the future of the country. The country is resolutely fighting against corruption, the judicial reform, the reform of law enforcement bodies aimed at establishing justice is underway. A great deal of work is underway to ensure security, digitalization and economic development. Dear compatriots! We express our deep gratitude and appreciation to heroes of the Aksy events who were wounded and are near us. Their example teaches us to appreciate peace in the country, calls us to cherish stability and unity in society as the apple of the eye. May there always be harmony and unity among the people, and peace on our land!” the President’s message says. 2020 Aksy events is shooting of a demonstration by local people in the village of Bospiek, Aksy region of Dzhalal-Abad Oblast on Mar.17, 2002, protesting against the transfer of part of the Kyrgyz territory (90 thousand ha) to China. The immediate cause of the unrest was the arrest of a compatriot of Aksy residents oppositionist Azimbek Beknazarov by the authorities. The victims of the use of firearms were six people.