The National Assembly approved the ratification of the Framework Agreement on the International Big Cat Alliance with 93 votes in favour and 2 abstentions.
The Agreement, signed on 30 June 2025, aims to promote international cooperation in big cat conservation and to prevent further declines in their populations.
The RA Minister of Environment Hambardzum Matevosyan said this, presenting the draft law “On Ratifying Framework Agreement on the International Big Cat Alliance (IABC)”, at the NA sitting on March 25.
The Caucasian leopard (Panthera pardus ciscaucasica) has a unique place in the rich biodiversity of Armenia. It has been known in Armenia since ancient times, as evidenced by historical records, legends, literature, numerous rock carvings, ornaments and miniatures. At present, the Caucasian leopard is included in the Red Book of Animals of the Republic of Armenia and the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature with the status of “endangered” and “being critically endangered.” Currently, the number of leopards in Armenia ranges up to 10 individuals, while populations of its prey species have increased from approximately 1,000 to 3,000. Other species of felines, such as the lynx, the European forest cat (Felis silvestris Schreber) and the manul (Otocolobus manul), are also found in the territory of Armenia. The last two are registered in the Red Book of Animals of the Republic of Armenia.
The protection of key species, such as the leopard and other big cats, plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance and ensuring the sustainability of biodiversity.
Membership in the Alliance will create opportunities to strengthen international cooperation, conduct joint research, and apply best practices in biodiversity conservation.
Vahe Ghalumyan, Chairman of the NA Standing Committee on Territorial Administration, Local Self-Government, Agriculture and Environmental Protection, presented the Committee’s positive conclusion on the Agreement.