Islamabad : Pakistan and the Kyrgyz Republic have emphasised the need for joint efforts to protect snow leopards and their mountain habitats, with officials calling for stronger international cooperation, community participation and measures to address the impacts of climate change.
The message was highlighted at an event marking International Snow Leopard Day at FAST-NUCES (Foundation for Advancement of Science and Technology-National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences) Islamabad on Friday, organised by the Snow Leopard Foundation Pakistan in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination and the university.
Kyrgyzstan’s Chargé d’Affaires in Islamabad, Aibek Tilebaliev said both countries shared a commitment to protecting their mountain natural heritage and snow leopards, stressing that conservation efforts should also support the well-being of communities living in mountain regions.
He said the Kyrgyz Republic had hosted the secretariat of the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Programme (GSLEP) in Bishkek since 2014, facilitating cooperation among snow leopard range countries and international partners.
Wild Life Protectors Rewarded in Pakistan for their Exemplary Contributions by British IWTCF
Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Aamir Mohiuddin said International Snow Leopard Day underscored the importance of global cooperation and shared responsibility for protecting the endangered species.
He said 12 snow leopard range countries had adopted the Bishkek Declaration on October 23, 2013, while the United Nations declared October 23 as International Snow Leopard Day in 2024.
He stressed the need to protect snow leopard habitats and wildlife corridors, prevent illegal hunting and wildlife trafficking, and strengthen scientific research and measures to address climate change.
Inspector General of Forests Dr Syed Moazzam Nizami said climate change was creating new challenges for snow leopards and mountain ecosystems. He emphasised the sustainable use of water and natural resources, along with stronger institutional capacity and partnerships to implement Pakistan’s environmental commitments.
Kyrgyz Embassy Islamabad Celebrates International Mountain Day and International Snow Leopard Day
The event also featured electronic posters prepared by students on environmental challenges, particularly threats to wildlife, and a short film highlighting risks to snow leopard populations and Pakistan’s role in their conservation.
The Snow Leopard Foundation’s chairman of the board of directors, Dr Muhammad Rafiq, FAST-NUCES Rector Dr Aftab Ahmad Maroof, Islamabad campus director Dr Wasim Shehzad and foundation director Dr Jaffar ud Din also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of educating young people about the conservation of natural resources and wildlife.
An application developed using QR codes was also used at the event, enabling students and guests to take photographs with snow leopards and other rare animals.
Students, environmental experts and government representatives highlighted the threats facing snow leopards and the urgent need to protect Pakistan’s mountain ecosystems.
Students presented e-posters highlighting environmental and wildlife challenges, particularly in mountainous areas. A short film was also screened, focusing on threats to snow leopards and Pakistan’s role in their protection.
Kyrgyz Embassy to Pakistan Celebrates Third Consecutive World Wildlife Day
