Almaty conference unites global experts to protect Eurasia's mountain ecosystems

Almaty recently hosted the international conference 'Preservation and Sustainable Development of Mountain Ecosystems in Eurasia'. The event coincided with the 30th anniversary of Ile-Alatau National Park, one of Kazakhstan’s largest protected areas. Officials, researchers, and environmental groups from five countries attended the discussions. Ile-Alatau National Park covers over 200,000 hectares and has played a vital role in conserving the Northern Tien Shan’s ecosystems. Over three decades, more than 5 million trees have been planted within its boundaries. Nurken Sharbiyev, Vice Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, highlighted the park’s importance for biodiversity, scientific work, and ecotourism.

The conference featured contributions from experts like Vladimir Vukolov, who stressed that ecotourism must prioritise nature conservation. Marat Alsanaleev of GIZ called for stronger international cooperation and education to protect mountain ecosystems. A time capsule, ‘Legacy for Future Generations’, was buried to mark the park’s anniversary, alongside the opening of a memorial and information centre for Academician Aimak Djangaliev.

Kazakhstan has been developing ecotourism since 2021, with the Almaty cluster of national parks serving as a pilot for the strategy. The conference underscored the need for responsible land use and cross-border collaboration. Ile-Alatau National Park remains central to conservation efforts in the region. Kazakhstan continues to expand its ecotourism initiatives through its national park network.