A gala reception in honor of the 30th Anniversary of the Independence of the Kyrgyz Republic was held in New Delhi.

The event was attended by representatives of the Government, ministries and institutions of India, the diplomatic corps accredited in New Delhi, representatives of the business community and the media of India.

The reception was also attended by Indian doctors treating Kyrgyz citizens and representatives of local universities and academics collaborating with Kyrgyzstan on various projects.

The Chief Guest of the event was the Minister of State for External Affairs/Minister of State for Culture of India, Ms. Meenakashi Lekhi.

In his welcoming speech, Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic to India Asein Isaev noted that Independence is one of the greatest privileges in the history of mankind. The people of the Kyrgyz Republic, all nationalities, all ethnic groups strive to preserve our country and be a responsible member of the international community. He also stressed that the Kyrgyz Republic and the Republic of India are closely and fruitfully cooperating in all areas and today are not only friendly countries, but also strategic partners.

State Minister for External Affairs Ms. Meenakashi Lekhi made a congratulatory speech on behalf of the Indian side. On behalf of the Government of India, she congratulated the entire Kyrgyz people on the Anniversary of Independence, noting that over the years, good, friendly relations of strategic partnership have developed between Kyrgyzstan and India. In her speech, Ms. Meenakashi Lekhi praised the development of Kyrgyz-Indian relations and expressed the readiness of the Indian side to develop and strengthen them.

The magnificent performances of the “Mirrors” dance theater, folk songs performed by Kyrgyz artists Aigul Dzhumakunova and Jiide Murat kyzy within the framework of the concert program entitled "Friendship of Peoples" allowed the guests of the event to enjoy the national flavor.

The guests of the event were especially impressed by Indian songs performed by Kyrgyz performers on the national instrument "komuz".

Guests were also offered various dishes of national cuisine and national soft drinks. National cuisine, presented in the best Kyrgyz traditions, was a great success among the guests of the event.