A research centre called ‘Ak Ilbirs’ is being established at Issyk-Kul to conserve the snow leopard

A meeting took place at the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision between First Deputy Head Zhenish Seydaliev and Azat Ziganshin, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Tatarstan.

The main topic of the talks was the implementation of a joint environmental and scientific project — the ‘Ak Ilbirs’ research and rehabilitation centre, which is being established at Issyk-Kul.

The centre will serve as a specialised facility for Central Asia, combining scientific research, laboratory and veterinary care, as well as the rehabilitation of rare and endangered animal species.

One of the centre’s key areas of focus will be the conservation and restoration of the snow leopard population – one of the symbols of Kyrgyzstan’s natural heritage. The centre is set to carry out scientific research, veterinary diagnostics and animal rehabilitation, as well as implement biodiversity conservation programmes.

During the meeting, the parties noted the positive progress being made on the construction of the facility and discussed ways of speeding up the work to equip the centre with modern laboratory equipment.

In addition, particular attention was paid to expanding the joint programme for the conservation of the snow leopard and to developing scientific cooperation between the Kyrgyz Republic and Tatarstan.