Interview with Janez Mihelcic, who has been living more then 15 years in Kyrgyzstan

He speaks thirteen languages, including Greek, Latin and ancient Greek. Ethnic Slovenian, Janez Mihelcic worked for many years and lived in Yugoslavia, Japan, Italy, Ireland, and Russia. He studied linguistics, philosophy and theology.

With his amazing communication skills, he could achieve success and prosperity in any country in the world. But the prosperous and civilized West did not deceive. Janez Mihelcic has been living many years on the land of Ala-Too, which became as his home.

He lived almost 29 years in Japan. He was a professor of the Zeta Daigaku University in Tokio.  He studied philosophy in Rome, learned English in Ireland. He graduated from graduate school at the Philology of Belgrade University. Now serving in the Catholic Church in Bishkek and teaches Japanese in the National University of Kyrgyzstan.


Q: How have you come to Kyrgyzstan?

A: Ten years ago the Vatican decided to open a separate administration for the Catholic Church in Central Asia. And then the Nuncio asked the prior of the Society of Jesus in Moscow with a request to send a priest to a new parish. I served in Belokamennaya in Moscow.  Soon I have received a proposal to teach Japanese language at the Faculty of International Relations at the Kyrgyz National University in Bishkek, as well as Kyrgyz Russian Slavonic University and Bishkek’s Humanitarian University.

Q: Do you like Kyrgyzstan?

A: Bishkek seems to be simply a paradise. I have a feeling that the sun always shines. And the same is seen in human relations. Here people are more open than in metropolitan areas, where all people are gloomy and always in a hurry to somewhere. Kyrgyz people are so friendly. Here, even unknown people welcomes and smiles at me in the streets. I still remember how warmly we were greeted by the Kyrgyz Consul, when we visited Kyrgyz Embassy in Moscow. He patiently and politely explained everything and just talked with us friendly. Strong family ties, respect for parents and close relationship - it wonders. In the West, these affections almost lost.

Q: What is your own opinion on the current situation in Kyrgyzstan?  What do you think about the last mass disorders in the country?

A: I like living in Kyrgyzstan. The nature, landscapes, climate and everything inspires me. As for the last events in this country….. I think that all situation will be stabilized soon. As for me, nothing endangers my safety, I do my work as usually and I like my work.