Warden Message - November 28, 2008

This warden message is being issued to inform U.S. citizens of a planned gathering of opposition groups (Kurultay) scheduled to occur on Saturday, November 29, 2008 in Bishkek.  The opposition groups may gather at various locations in Bishkek, such as Alamedin- 1 micro district, outside Nazaraliev Medical Center (intersection of Chui and Fuchik Streets), and South Gate (between micro districts #8 and #10).  The groups plan to then proceed to the Old Square to hold their gathering.  The Embassy has also received reports that supporters of President Bakiev will conduct their own rally in Osh.

Though the Embassy has no information that the demonstrations will be violent, we remind American Citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  The Embassy has received reports from the local police that there will be increased security forces present throughout the city.  The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens to avoid large gatherings such as the Kurultay, and to obey all instructions given by security forces.  U.S. citizens are urged not to provoke or confront protestors or the security forces.

U.S. citizens are urged to register and update their contact information through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/. The U.S. Embassy in Bishkek is located at 171 Prospect Mira, 720016 Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic. The phone number is 996-312-551-241 and may be used after hours. Fax: 996-312-551-264, and website: http://bishkek.usembassy.gov.

Updated information on travel and security in the Kyrgyz Republic may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 within the United States and Canada, or from overseas, 1-202-501-4444. U.S. citizens should consult the Department of State's Country Specific Information Sheet for the Kyrgyz Republic at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_945.html and the current WorldWide Caution at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1161.html,  and the travel publication "A Safe Trip Abroad" at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html.