The Zhetysu region recently celebrated a significant cultural festival known as the "Blossom of Sivers Apple Trees," which garnered the attention of ecotourism enthusiasts who can witness the vibrant natural beauty of the area, particularly in the Zhonggar-Alatau National Nature Park, which boasts the largest population of rare Sivers apple trees, media reports.
The trees are believed to be the progenitors of all apple trees globally and have been cultivated in Kazakhstan since ancient times. The National Park staff works tirelessly to preserve this storied legacy, planting between 60,000 and 70,000 saplings annually.
According to Kuralai Karibayeva, a professor of Biological Sciences, the significance of these ancient apple trees extends far beyond Kazakhstan and Central Asia.
"Our research and achievements have garnered recognition from the global scientific community. Therefore, these apple trees are important for our country and Central Asia," she notes.
Their research has led to the development of 300 unique apple varieties. In addition, the Zhonggar-Alatau National Nature Park is a popular tourist destination, featuring 12 distinct routes and many hiking trails for visitors to explore.
Marat Kabiev, the General Director of "Zhonggar-Alatau," envisions the "Blossom of Sivers Apple Trees" becoming a major annual event, akin to Japan's national cherry blossom holiday. These trees' beauty and cultural significance make them an exceptional national commodity that locals and visitors can appreciate.
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