Warden Message- March 25, 2009

This warden message alerts U.S. citizens of planned opposition demonstrations throughout Kyrgyzstan on Friday, March 27th.  In Bishkek, a permit has been issued for opposition parties to hold a demonstration at Gorky Park at the intersection of Isanova and Ryskulova streets.  The protest is planned to begin around 11:00 AM.

Be advised that the demonstration is planned for Gorky Park, but the protest could spread to adjacent streets and throughout central Bishkek.  The Embassy is directing its staff and their dependents to avoid the area around Gorky Park, and to avoid all large gatherings and any altercations between police and demonstrators.

We remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations.  American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website at http://bishkek.usembassy.gov and the U.S. Department of State's, Bureau of Consular Affairs’ website www.travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information can be found.  The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html, which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad.  In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, outside the United States and Canada, on a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444.

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.