Central Asia
Uzbekistan Talks Up Reforms
Kyrgyz Industry Short of Robot Technology
An innovative robot made as a student project merely underlines the general lack of high-tech research into industrial production.
Staffing Crisis in Tajik Mental Hospitals
Jamoliddin Saifiddinov reports from southern Tajikistan where the level of psychiatric care is declining because hospitals cannot recruit or retain doctors.
Pilgrims Urged to Consider Charity at Home
Tajik president Imomali Rahmon has urged Muslims to economise by refraining from going on the annual pilgrimage, especially if they have already been to Mecca.
Doorstepping Seen as Key Campaign Method
Candidates in the forthcoming Kyrgyz presidential election are focusing on meeting potential voters rather than on media appearances.
Kyrgyz Taxis Take Left Turn
Parliament is reviewing legislation that would ban the use of right-hand drive cars as taxis. Alina Kenjeeva reports that taxi drivers with Japanese-import cars are worried for their future.
Uzbekistan: Soviet Pesticides Leave Bitter Legacy
Farmland still contaminated with DDT from past decades, experts say.
Low Expectations of Presidential Poll Among Kyrgyz Voters
Informal survey suggests most people believe current president won’t face serious challenge.