The goal of this initiative is to activate youth involvement in environmental protection, to foster ecological culture, and to promote a responsible attitude towards nature.
The rector of Bishkek State University named after Academician K. Karasaev, Professor Mirlan Dildaev, delivered a welcoming speech, emphasizing that the conservation of the snow leopard is critically important for Kyrgyzstan, as this animal symbolizes the unique natural heritage.
According to him, protecting biodiversity requires the combined efforts of the state, the scientific community, and society. In this context, such initiatives serve as an important platform for developing environmental education and spreading ecological values among the youth.
Among the participants were deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh, representatives of government bodies, as well as international and public organizations, including the special representative of the president on mountain issues, Dinara Kemelova, and renowned climber Eduard Kubatov.
During the presentation, the concept of the international ecological festival "Snow Leopard EcoFest Chon-Kemin - 2026" was also announced, which will take place on July 11 in the picturesque Chon-Kemin Valley.
As noted by the director of the public fund "Ilbirs - Green Generation," Talaybek Mambetaliev, the snow leopard holds a special place in Kyrgyzstan's ecology. In December 2023, the president signed a decree declaring this rare animal as the national symbol of the republic.
He added that the image of the snow leopard encompasses many ecological themes, including glacier protection, water resource management, and the development of eco-tourism.
It was specifically emphasized that the snow leopard is a source of pride for the country, as its population is successfully preserved across all regions of Kyrgyzstan.
The "Snow Leopard EcoFest Chon-Kemin - 2026" will be held as part of the initiative "We are the Green Generation" with the support of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision Almaz Musaev stated that the festival will serve as a platform for coordinating the efforts of the state, business, and civil society in the field of nature conservation and sustainable tourism.
The organizers emphasized that the choice of Chon-Kemin Valley for the festival is due to the uniqueness of this natural area, where it is necessary to maintain a balance between tourism development and the protection of mountain ecosystems.
The event program includes educational lectures, workshops, interactive ecological activities for the whole family, ethnocultural performances, and an eco-fair featuring natural products from local producers. The festival will conclude with a gala concert featuring well-known artists.
The organizers are confident that the "Snow Leopard EcoFest" will become not only an ecological platform but also a large-scale public event that contributes to the formation of a new generation that understands the importance of nature conservation and sustainable development.
Everyone interested can join the collaboration and become partners, as well as propose their ideas or perform at the festival. Guests are advised to reserve their spots in advance if they plan to actively participate in the event with family or friends.
