The guest of honor was welcomed at Manas International Airport by Kyrgyzstan’s State Secretary Arslan Koichiev and Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy Timurlan Azhymaliev.

The Issyk-Kul — 40 Forum will bring together renowned public figures, scholars, writers, and cultural representatives from around the world. The event participants will discuss issues of developing intercultural dialogue, expanding humanitarian cooperation, and preserving world cultural heritage.

Mo Yan is considered one of the most renowned contemporary Chinese writers. In 2012, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his works that blend folklore, history, and modernity.