Archaeology & Heritage: Underwater digs in Lake Issyk-Kul have uncovered a submerged medieval Silk Road trading center—roads, public buildings, a cemetery and Islamic burials—after an early-15th-century earthquake. Culture & Arts: Bishkek opened the IV International Film Festival, with funding rising to 928 million soms, and will host Mongolian Film Week (June 9–12) plus a new Aitmatov-based puppet play premiering June 6. Education & Language: Kyrgyzstan’s Education Minister pushed back on criticism over Kyrgyz-language schooling, warning that if reading skills don’t improve, the language could face extinction; she also pointed to bilingual programs. Cyber Safety: The Interior Ministry says nearly 40% of crimes in the first four months were cyber-related, with phishing and scam calls topping the list. Sports Infrastructure: Work has started on renovating Bishkek’s Academy of Physical Culture and Sports, including a long-closed swimming pool. Youth & Environment: A China–Kyrgyz youth initiative launched “Defenders of the Panda and Snow Leopard” to boost wildlife conservation awareness. Local Governance & Public Life: Bishkek’s CIS Forum of Creative and Scientific Intelligentsia begins June 9, focusing on culture, science, education and youth policy.