Kazan will become the main platform for discussing the conservation of snow leopards around the world.
On March 13-15, Kazan will host the International Conference "Study and conservation of the snow Leopard in the world. Joining forces." According to scientists, the snow leopard is an indispensable symbol, indicator of the health and sustainable development of mountain ecosystems, which represent the most important natural resources. The Global Program for the Conservation of the snow leopard and its ecosystems was approved at the World Snow Leopard Conservation Forum in 2013 by all 12 countries of the snow leopard range. The international conference is dedicated to the conservation of the snow leopard population, which is one of the main goals of the national Environmental Well-being project.
All countries of the snow leopard range – Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan - will participate in the upcoming conference. Among the participants are world–renowned scientists Bilal Habib from India, Kong Shi from China and other representatives of the scientific community, public figures and environmentalists. At the end of the first working day of the conference, it will be proposed to adopt the Kazan Resolution.
The event is organized by the Government of the Republic of Tatarstan, the Interregional Association "Center for the Study and Conservation of the Snow Leopard "Irbis" and the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia.
"The snow leopard is not just a symbol of the mountain ecosystems of Central Asia, it is the guardian of the fragile natural balance on which the existence of dozens of other species depends. Unfortunately, today this majestic "spirit of the mountains" is facing unprecedented threats: habitat loss, poaching, climate change and conflicts with humans. But where there are challenges, opportunities inevitably appear. Thanks to the dedicated work of scientists, specially protected natural areas have been created, advanced monitoring technologies are being introduced, and a constructive dialogue with local communities has been established. However, we still have more to do. The main goal of the conference is to unite the efforts of all countries, transform all initiatives into a single, coordinated global strategy for the conservation of the snow leopard, find a harmonious balance between the interests of humans and wildlife, and inspire new generations to actively protect the snow leopard," said Alexander Shadrikov, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Tatarstan.
"Our snow leopard specialists will have the opportunity to communicate live with their foreign colleagues. The conference platform will provide an opportunity to exchange experiences, gain new acquaintances, expand the horizons of mutual cooperation, and arrange internships. This large-scale event in the field of snow leopard research and conservation will help promote Russia's image and position in the international environmental agenda. Thus, Kazan will become the starting point for the emergence of productive cooperation, close work and frequent meetings," said the director of the Interregional Association "Center for the Study and Conservation of the Snow Leopard "Irbis" Daria Petrova.
"The snow leopard is not only an indicator of the health of high-altitude ecosystems, but also a symbol of our unity in the face of global environmental challenges. The upcoming conference will give all participants the opportunity to talk about their work and activities in their country. The results of the conference will serve to strengthen international cooperation in the field of snow leopard conservation, as well as the development of cross-border cooperation. We thank the Republic of Tatarstan for its hospitality and support in organizing this key dialogue," said Chyngyz Kochorov, Head of the Secretariat of the Global Program for the Protection of Snow Leopards and Ecosystems of the Kyrgyz Republic.
The conference will be held at the Kazan City Hall. On March 13, in the lobby of the Town Hall, guests and participants will be able to see an exhibition of the winners of the Snow Leopard children's drawing contest, which was held among art school students. The business program starts on March 14, and the Head of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov will take part in the plenary session.