Russia has transferred four Amur tigers, including two cubs, to Kazakhstan as part of efforts to help the Central Asian nation restore its tiger population, President Vladimir Putin announced ahead of his visit to Kazakhstan this week. The animals, captured in Russia’s Khabarovsk region in the Far East, were transported to Kazakhstan and are expected to be released into the wild, according to a statement posted on the Kremlin’s website.

Kazakhstan, which shares a lengthy border with Russia and maintains a close alliance with Moscow, regards the Amur tiger as a natural relative of the now-extinct Caspian tiger that once roamed Central Asia. The introduction of these tigers adds to the country’s existing population, which has been supported by previous shipments from countries such as the Netherlands. The tiger restoration initiative reflects Kazakhstan’s broader environmental goals to reestablish native species.

The transfer also highlights the ongoing cooperation between Russia and Kazakhstan amid growing regional competition involving China and the United States. Kazakhstan is rich in energy resources and critical minerals, making it a key partner in the region. During Putin’s visit, he is expected to oversee a nuclear energy agreement, marking a significant development since Kazakhstan currently does not operate any nuclear power plants. The nuclear deal is designed to support the country’s energy diversification efforts.

Additionally, discussions are planned to enhance the transit of Russian oil through Kazakhstan en route to China, further strengthening economic ties between the two nations. Putin’s use of symbolic gestures involving animals is consistent with previous diplomatic moves, including Russia’s 2022 gift of 30 grey thoroughbred horses to North Korea—a country with which Moscow has also sought closer relations following the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine.

The delivery of Amur tigers underlines the multifaceted nature of Russia’s relationship with Kazakhstan, encompassing environmental cooperation, energy collaboration, and strategic regional partnership.