Bishkek, Nov. 5, 2026 /Kabar/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has awarded the Order of Friendship to Zukhra Shidakova, Chair of the Coordinating Council of Organizations of Russian Compatriots in Kyrgyzstan. The Russian House in Bishkek reports.
The award ceremony took place on November 4 at the Kremlin, as part of events marking National Unity Day.
In recognizing the achievements of the recipients, Vladimir Putin emphasized the importance of strengthening humanitarian and cultural ties with Russia.
"In her work, Zukhra Shidakova places special emphasis on the values of interethnic peace and harmony, and does a great deal to promote the cultures of the peoples of Russia within Kyrgyzstan," the Russian president noted.
In her response, Zukhra Shidakova thanked Vladimir Putin for the high state honor and for his attention toward Russian compatriots living abroad.
"For me, as a daughter of the Karachay people, a small ethnic group, this is a great honor. I would like to wish prosperity to both Russia and Kyrgyzstan, and peace, health, kindness, and unity to the peoples of our countries. The unity of a people is the foundation of any state; it is the strength of a nation," she said.
Shidakova also extended an invitation for everyone to visit Kyrgyzstan, wishing the peoples of both nations peace and well-being. Zukhra Shidakova is the president of the public association "International Association of Karachays 'Ata-Jurt'," deputy chair of the Council of the Assembly of the People of Kyrgyzstan, and an Honored Cultural Worker of Kyrgyzstan.
Under her leadership, projects are carried out to preserve the language, traditions, and cultural heritage of the Karachay people, alongside the organization of festivals, concerts, and various educational and charitable events. For many years, with the support of Rossotrudnichestvo, she has also organized the "Culture of the Peoples of the North Caucasus" festival.
The Order of Friendship is a state award of the Russian Federation, awarded for contributions to strengthening peace, friendship, and cooperation among peoples, developing intercultural ties, and preserving cultural and historical heritage.
