The International Conference "Zoo for All" commenced on July 16 at the Moscow Zoo, coinciding with the 160th anniversary of the institution’s establishment. The event, meticulously organized with the backing of the Union of Zoos and Aquariums of Russia (SOZAR), fostered a collaborative environment. The conference convened a diverse array of stakeholders, including directors of Russian zoos, representatives of public organizations, veterinary and environmental services, and protected areas.

Representatives from 18 organizations within the CIS countries, China, the DPRK, the Philippines, Turkey, the Czech Republic, Israel, and Brazil were in attendance. Ali Uzdenov, Chairman of the general meeting of the Association "Irbis," extended a formal welcome to the assembled guests, conference participants, and particularly Director of the Moscow Zoo Svetlana Akulova, who has recently also been a member of the Board of Trustees of the Association "Irbis."

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Dear friends, colleagues, and dear Svetlana Vladimirovna, the preservation of nature and the world, animals, and plants is a mission of utmost importance. It is with great pleasure that I extend my congratulations on the commencement of today’s conference. The world is a delicate ecosystem, as evidenced by current events concerning climate change, overpopulation, and human impact on the environment. Zoos, reserves, and national parks serve as vital oases, providing opportunities for direct interaction with nature.

Ali Uzdenov.

Ali Uzdenov observed that, in addition to the animals themselves, there are two other groups that play a significant role at the zoo: visitors, who come to observe the animals, and staff members, who facilitate interaction between guests and animals.

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I would like to address the director of the Moscow Zoo, Svetlana Vladimirovna, who consistently prioritizes the well-being of both animals and people. I am confident that the animals are thriving here. Thank you for your dedication. It is imperative to prioritize the conservation of nature, humanity, and our global environment.

Ali Uzdenov

Association "Irbis" and Moscow Zoo share a long-standing friendship, strengthened by the Association's support. In 2022, the Moscow Zoo hosted an interactive exhibition titled "Irbis – the Invisible Cat," showcasing the Association's commitment to education and conservation. In 2024, the zoo unveiled a new aviary for snow leopards, a testament to its dedication to the well-being of these majestic creatures. This aviary, designed to resemble a section of wild nature, includes a mountain ridge with a mountain stream and plants characteristic of mountain meadows. The enclosure's design, taking into account the big cats' love for jumping, allows the irbis to move freely between the five main tiers and even jump on the mesh roof above the heads of visitors.

The new enclosure has been made available to Irbis Daina and Untsik, residents of the Center for Reproduction of Rare Species of Animals at the Moscow Zoo. The design of the enclosure is intended to provide adequate space for the comfortable habitation of multiple snow leopards, thereby allowing the pair to procreate.The Irbis Association, under the direction of Ali Uzdenov's family, serves as the trustee of the Moscow Zoo's snow leopards.