Putin plays komuz in Kyrgyzstan during state visit with Lukashenko

On Wednesday, Vladimir Putin briefly tried the komuz, the traditional three string Kyrgyz lute, during a short cultural stop on his state visit. The scene unfolded in front of Alexander Lukashenko and other officials gathered in Bishkek for the CSTO summit.

The gesture came during a tour that introduced visiting leaders to local traditions. Staff showed how the komuz sits at the centre of Kyrgyz music, and Putin tried a few notes before the group moved on to further meetings.

The visit also included the signing of agreements on trade, education, migration and security.