Mongolia continues to advance its COP17 preparations in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Mongolian ministries and UN agencies held a key consultative meeting in Ulaanbaatar.
This meeting brought together over 80 participants. Representatives from the President’s Office, various ministries, embassies, and international organizations shared their input. Officials discussed cooperation strategies and Mongolia’s plans for hosting COP17 in 2026.
Minister of Environment and Climate Change Odontuya Saldan leads the National Committee organizing the conference. She emphasized that COP17 is both a major opportunity and a critical responsibility for Mongolia. The Minister highlighted that 76.9% of the country’s territory suffers from desertification.
She explained that strong international support is vital for Mongolia’s COP17 preparations. Moreover, she added that this cooperation can help prevent further ecological damage.
During the consultative session, the COP17 Preparatory Office and UNDP signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement formalizes their cooperation on all aspects of COP17 preparations.
Chimguundari Navaan-Yunden, Director of the COP17 Preparatory Office, welcomed the MoU. She stated that the agreement reflects Mongolia’s global commitment to land restoration and sustainable development. According to her, the partnership with UNDP will ensure an inclusive and impactful event.
The MoU focuses on three priorities. First, it will build strong public and institutional engagement. Second, it will create lasting national and global legacy programs. Third, it will highlight Mongolian innovations that fight land degradation and desertification.
Additionally, both sides committed to mobilizing more financial and technical resources. This step will support the success of COP17 and long-term climate action goals.
Mongolia’s COP17 preparations aim to align national policies with international climate standards. This event will also spotlight local solutions and strengthen efforts to protect the environment.
With UNDP’s partnership, Mongolia is ready to lead a global conversation on restoring drylands, supporting rangelands, and fighting desertification. These joint COP17 preparations will shape a better future for Mongolia and beyond.
