Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — During the first official press conference dedicated to the III Games of the Commonwealth of Independent States, the official mascots for the upcoming sporting event were revealed. The Games will take place in Azerbaijan in 2025.

The mascots, named Bebir and Leyla, are cheerful and friendly leopards. Their images are inspired by the Caucasian leopard, a rare and majestic predator that has inhabited the picturesque territories of Azerbaijan since ancient times. The mascots symbolize the richness of the country's natural heritage, strength of spirit, and traditional hospitality.

The Caucasian leopard is included in the "Big Five" program, aimed at preserving five endangered species from the Caucasus region. The species is listed in the Red Book of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature as endangered.

It is worth noting that the III CIS Games will take place from September 28 to October 8. The sporting competitions will cover 23 disciplines and will be held across seven cities: Ganja, Mingachevir, Gabala, Sheki, Goygol, Yevlakh, and Khankendi.