Officials from the 13 countries where tigers live in the wild signed a declaration in St.Petersburg, Russia, last night. The declaration aimed at saving the iconic big cats from extinction. The new accord stipulates that the nations will strive to double the tiger population by 2022, crack down on poaching and illicit trade in tiger pelts and body parts. The number of tigers worldwide has plunged some 95 per cent over the past century. The Global Tiger Recovery Program estimates, the 13 countries will need about USD 350 million in outside funding in the first five years of the 12-year plan. The Russian Prime Minister, Mr. Vladimir Putin told the participants of the “Tiger Summit” that the goal is difficult, but achievable.