Russian President Vladimir Putin has gifted more than 70 animals, including lions and brown bears, to North Korea’s Central Zoo, the TASS news agency reported on Wednesday.
According to a statement from Russia’s Ministry of Natural Resources, “Minister Alexander Kozlov has authorized the transfer of over 70 animals from the Moscow Zoo to Pyongyang’s Central Zoo.” The ministry added, “This is a gift from President Putin to the people of North Korea.”
The list of animals being sent includes one African lion, two brown bears, two yaks, five white cockatoos (parrots), 25 pheasants of various species, and 40 mandarin ducks, all of which will now reside in North Korea’s zoo.
Kozlov emphasized that this is the first time Russia has sent such animals to North Korea. Earlier this year, a delegation from the Moscow Zoo visited Pyongyang in April, where they donated several animals, including eagles, to the Central Zoo.
Kozlov further explained that the animals are currently in quarantine and will undergo an adjustment period before being transferred to their new home. “We expect these animals to receive proper care and adapt quickly to their new environment,” he said.
In recent months, Russia and North Korea have been showcasing their growing diplomatic and cultural ties through various gift exchanges. In August, Putin sent 24 Orlov Trotter horses, a breed famously known to be a favorite of Kim Jong Un. In return, Kim gifted Putin two Pungsan dogs, a breed native to North Korea, as a token of appreciation.