President Zhaparov’s statement on bill on gambling establishments

Bishkek, April 21, 2021 . / Kabar / . President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Zhaparov made a statement regarding the adoption by the Jogorku Kenesh in the first reading the draft law "On a specialized administrative district in Issyk-Kul, including a tourist and entertainment complex”, his press service said.

"The casino will not open for Kyrgyz citizens, but only for foreigners and tourists. The law forbids Kyrgyzstanis to visit casinos and play gambling. Deputies are rightly supportive. Would it be bad if the tourists' money stays in Kyrgyzstan? This practice is widespread in many countries, including neighboring ones,” the head of state said in the statement.

At a parliamentary meeting on Wednesday, Kyrgyz MPs approved the draft law "On a specialized administrative region in Issyk-Kul, including a tourist and entertainment complex."

According to the bill, the Kyrgyz Parliament approves bill on legalization of casinos in Issyk-Kul Oblast.

A total of 68 deputies voted for and 23 against.

Gambling business has been prohibited in Kyrgyzstan since 2012. Then the parliament of Kyrgyzstan adopted a law that completely prohibits gambling activities in the country.