Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are strengthening cooperation in wildlife protection, with a particular focus on preserving the endangered saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica), a rare species native to Central Asia.

The Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, together with the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, are systematically working to develop cross-border partnership in this field.

The saiga is a unique inhabitant of the steppe ecosystem that once roamed widely across Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and southern Russia. Its population has drastically declined in recent decades.

The species is listed in Uzbekistan’s Red Book of endangered species and is also protected under international conservation frameworks, including Appendix II of CITES and Appendix I of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), highlighting the importance of international collaboration for its survival.

As part of deepening bilateral dialogue, the two countries are preparing to sign a Memorandum of Understanding on saiga conservation. The document will serve as the legal and organizational foundation for implementing long-term programs to restore saiga populations in Uzbekistan.

The memorandum outlines a broad range of measures aimed at protecting and sustainably managing the saiga population. These include the establishment of transboundary protected areas and migration corridors to facilitate safe movement along historical routes, restoration of pastures, water sources and habitats, as well as the development and implementation of reintroduction programs.

Joint scientific research, field missions, anti-poaching patrols, professional training, monitoring, and data sharing are also planned. The countries will align their population census methods, create a shared database, and utilize satellite tracking, veterinary surveillance, and biotechnology solutions.

Public outreach efforts and engagement with local communities will be key components of the initiative, along with efforts to attract international partners to support conservation efforts.

This bilateral initiative reflects a strong commitment by both Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to regional biodiversity preservation and stands as a model of sustainable cross-border ecological cooperation.

It also reinforces the countries’ dedication to their international environmental obligations and to safeguarding Central Asia’s natural heritage for future generations.