Mongolia Prime Minister Zandanshatar Gombojav has directed a government working group to accelerate the implementation of Mongolia’s National Anti-Corruption Program, first approved by parliament in May 2023. The directive was issued during a meeting held on December 9, 2025, at the State Palace. Chaired by First Deputy Chief of Cabinet Secretariat Munkh-Erdene Dembereltseren, the group includes state secretaries from all ministries. Discussions focused on progress in combating corruption, addressing root causes of graft, preventing conflicts of interest, and strengthening the justice system. The Prime Minister stressed leadership, transparency, and integrity across all levels of public service and announced that 2026 will be designated the “Year of Strengthening Discipline and Accountability in the Civil Service,” amid concerns over Mongolia’s declining ranking in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.

Parliamentary inquiry intensifies scrutiny of Oyu Tolgoi mining project

A high-profile parliamentary inquiry into the Oyu Tolgoi mining project continued last week, led by MP O. Batnairamdal. More than 300 current and former officials and company representatives have been summoned to testify over three days. The hearings are examining Mongolia’s ownership of natural resources, benefit-sharing arrangements, and the possibility of renegotiating the investment agreement. Witnesses included former presidents, senior government officials, and Oyu Tolgoi executives, who addressed issues such as classified documents, loan interest negotiations, and governance decisions. Several testimonies and statements drew public attention, and the inquiry is expected to continue with further evidence review.

Mongolia and UN discuss SDGs and desertification conference

Prime Minister Zandanshatar met with UN Resident Coordinator Jaap van Hierden on December 10, 2025, to discuss accelerating the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and preparations for hosting the 17th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in August 2026. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Mongolia’s commitment to cooperation with the UN and highlighted draft reforms aimed at increasing transparency in political and election financing under the UN Convention against Corruption. The UN reiterated its support for addressing Mongolia’s social and economic challenges, reducing inequality, creating jobs, and advancing energy and digital transitions.

Mongolia recovers smuggled dinosaur fossils from France

Mongolia has successfully repatriated 29 sets of dinosaur fossils that were illegally smuggled out of the country and seized by French authorities in 2013 and 2015. The official handover ceremony took place in Paris on December 11, 2025, following a confirmed investigation establishing the fossils’ origin in the Mongolian Gobi Desert. The collection includes remains of Tarbosaurus, Theropods, Ornithomimosaurs, and Hadrosaurs, dating back 65 to 70 million years. Officials said the return concludes nearly a decade of cooperation between Mongolian and French authorities.

Mongolia participates in IOM Council session in Geneva

The Mongolian delegation took part in the 116th Session of the International Organisation for Migration Council, held from December 8 to 10, 2025, in Geneva. Led by Permanent Representative Gerelmaa Davaasuren, the delegation engaged in discussions with representatives from 175 member states and other stakeholders on global migration challenges. Mongolia highlighted cooperation with IOM on safe, orderly, and humane migration, while IOM Director General Amy Pope thanked Mongolia for its continued support and announced plans to launch an IOM Country Office in the nation’s capital, Ulaanbaatar.

Mongolia’s Prime Minister Gombojavyn Zandanshatar has issued a strong appeal to government officials, urging them to concentrate on their core duties and work toward preventing the nation’s growing weather-related hardships. The warning comes as the country faces another harsh seasonal cycle, with the potential of a dzud , the deadly winter phenomenon that kills livestock and devastates rural livelihoods, looming large. The Prime Minister emphasised that energy and resources should be directed toward supporting communities at risk, rather than getting caught up in political disputes.

Mayor Nyambaatar calls on enterprises to comply with Mongolia’s water law

In Ulaanbaatar, Mayor Nyambaatar has called on public and private enterprises to fulfil their obligations under the Law on Water of Mongolia, warning that non-compliance will no longer be tolerated. His statement highlights growing environmental concerns over unsustainable water use, especially as urban expansion continues to strain resources. The mayor pointed out that many industries, particularly in construction and manufacturing, have failed to implement water conservation and recycling systems. This negligence, he noted, directly affects the city’s ability to maintain clean and accessible water for residents. Nyambaatar’s administration plans to conduct audits and impose penalties on enterprises that ignore their environmental responsibilities.

Judicial council elects new judges in third session

Mongolia’s Judicial General Council held its third session, during which several new judges were elected, a move aimed at strengthening the independence and efficiency of the nation’s legal system. The appointments are part of an ongoing effort to modernise the judiciary and restore public trust following concerns over corruption and political interference in the courts. The new judges are expected to bring renewed focus on transparency and procedural fairness. Legal experts have welcomed the move, noting that fresh appointments can help balance workloads and enhance case management, particularly in regional courts.

President Khurelsukh to pay a state visit to India

In a significant diplomatic step, President U. Khurelsukh is set to embark on a state visit to the Republic of India, further strengthening bilateral relations between the two Asian democracies. The visit aims to deepen cooperation in trade, renewable energy, mining, and regional security. Mongolia and India have long shared strong cultural and historical ties, rooted in Buddhism and mutual respect. Recent years have seen growing collaboration under the “Strategic Partnership” framework, with India supporting Mongolia in key areas such as digital infrastructure, energy transition, and education.

Prime Minister of Mongolia, Zandanshatar Gombojav, met with World Bank Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific, Manuela V. Ferro, on September 2, 2025. The Prime Minister thanked the Bank for its long-standing contribution since 1991 and outlined policy priorities, including human development, green transition, digital transformation, and tax reform. He stressed the need to diversify the economy beyond mining, expand exports, and improve affordable housing access to reduce air pollution in Ulaanbaatar. Ferro praised Mongolia’s recovery after COVID-19 and highlighted agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism as key diversification sectors. The World Bank reaffirmed its readiness to support Mongolia’s development agenda.

Prime Minister emphasises agriculture as backbone of economy

During a visit to Darkhan-Uul aimag, Prime Minister Zandanshatar underlined agriculture’s central role in Mongolia’s economic growth, pointing to the Eurasian market as an opportunity for agricultural exports. Officials from the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry reported progress under the “Food Revolution” and “White Gold” movements, including concessional loans, increased crop and livestock production, and strengthened cashmere and leather processing. More than 2,500 new jobs have been created and 25 new food processing plants commissioned. Agriculture contributed significantly to Mongolia’s 5.6% economic growth in the first half of 2025.

Fitch reaffirms Mongolia’s credit rating

Fitch Ratings has maintained Mongolia’s sovereign credit rating at “B+, Stable,” citing stable growth and prudent fiscal management. The agency forecasts GDP growth of 5.7% in 2025 and 5.3%t in 2026–2027, supported by copper exports and recovery in agriculture. Fitch projects government debt will fall below 40% of GDP in the medium term, while external debt refinancing has eased repayment risks for 2026–2027. However, risks remain due to reliance on raw material exports and inflation, projected at 8.5%t in 2025–2026.

China and Mongolia deepen strategic partnership

On September 2, President of China Xi Jinping met President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa in Beijing. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a comprehensive strategic partnership, emphasising stronger mutual trust, infrastructure connectivity, and joint modernisation goals. Discussions focused on cross-border railways, renewable energy, agriculture, and environmental protection. Agreements were signed on honey exports, customs, quarantine cooperation, metrology, and media collaboration. Xi Jinping praised progress on joint projects such as the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod railway and Erdeneburen Hydropower Plant, while both sides pledged to boost bilateral trade toward $20 billion.

Mongolia projects self-sufficiency in flour production

The Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry announced that this year’s wheat harvest will largely meet domestic flour demand, with 255.8 thousand tons expected . While a shortfall of about 100 thousand tons will require imports, the Government has prioritised strengthening agriculture through the “Atar-4” campaign, “White Gold” movement, and “Food Revolution” program. Agriculture contributed 3.6% to GDP in the first half of 2025, creating 58,000 new jobs. Plans include expanding concessional loans for private businesses, boosting meat exports, and easing pressure on overburdened pastureland by directing livestock into economic circulation.

The World Health Organisation describes measles as one of the most contagious viruses in the world. It can spread easily through coughing, sneezing, or even breathing in the same space as an infected person.

Although measles is preventable with two doses of vaccine, it continues to pose a serious threat in many parts of the world.

In 2023, the disease killed over 100,000 people globally, most of them children under five.

Health officials in Mongolia are now urging parents to make sure their children receive all recommended vaccine doses.

Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene resigned on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, after losing a parliamentary no-confidence vote amid weeks of public protests over an alleged corruption case in Ulaanbaatar. A parliamentary statement confirmed his resignation following the secret ballot. Oyun-Erdene acknowledged the challenges of his tenure, including the pandemic, regional conflict, and economic difficulties. He will serve as interim prime minister until a successor is appointed within 30 days, the Indonesia Times reports.

Mongolia reports over 5,000 measles cases

Mongolia’s measles outbreak has surpassed 5,000 cases, primarily affecting school-age children who received only one vaccine dose, according to Newkerala . The National Centre for Communicable Diseases emphasised the need for two doses to ensure full protection. Health authorities are urging parents to complete their children's vaccination schedules to prevent further spread.

COP17 in Mongolia will unite 197 Parties to address desertification, degradation and drought

Delegates from all 197 Parties—alongside heads of state, ministers, international organisations, scientists, civil society, and the private sector—will gather in Mongolia for COP17 of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) to craft solutions to desertification, land degradation, and drought . The conference will coincide with the United Nations International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026, spotlighting sustainable rangeland management and the livelihoods of over one billion people who depend on these ecosystems.

Mongolia and Turkmenistan strengthen bilateral ties

Mongolia and Turkmenistan signed multiple cooperation documents during the state visit of Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov to Ulaanbaatar, according to the Mongolian presidential office. The agreements include a joint statement on advancing bilateral relations and several memoranda of understanding in health, education, science, media, culture, and light industry, reflecting both countries’ commitment to deepen sectoral cooperation.

Mining and services to drive economic growth in 2025

Mongolia’s economy grew by 4.9% in 2024, supported by mining and services, though at a slower pace than in 2023. Growth is expected to accelerate to 6.6% in 2025 and moderate to 5.9% in 2026, according to the Asian Development Bank’s Asian Development Outlook report published in April 2025. The expansion will be led by increased copper concentrate production at the Oyu Tolgoi mine and a gradual recovery in agriculture following severe livestock losses in previous years.

The amendments were made as part of changes to the Law on Permits and several related laws, including the Criminal Code, the Law on Advertising, and tax regulations.

Under this new directive, anyone found running an illegal gambling or betting operation or helping to do so by sharing personal accounts, mobile numbers, or digital wallets can now be prosecuted under criminal law.

Authorities say the ban is meant to close legal loopholes and stop the rapid growth of unregulated online gambling platforms, which have raised concerns about addiction, fraud, and their impact on vulnerable groups, especially the youth.

Advertising paid lotteries and betting games is now also illegal.

The revised laws hold both individuals and companies accountable if they promote gambling or encourage children to take part in it.

This includes digital promotions or influencer-led campaigns targeting young audiences on social media .

The new rules come as Mongolia also approved its financial planning documents for the next three years, including a government debt strategy and budget forecasts.

Officials said tighter regulation of online gambling is part of wider efforts to ensure financial stability and reduce risky economic behaviour.

The government had previously faced criticism for lacking strong controls over digital betting, which has become more accessible due to the rise of mobile apps and digital payments.

According to lawmakers, these changes mark a firm step toward protecting public welfare and promoting responsible use of technology .

The decision was made on January 29, 2025, during a government meeting.

According to the new directive , local governors, police, and child protection agencies are responsible for making sure the rule is followed.

Under the directive, no one under 18 is allowed to ride in races, horse jumping events, or any related activities during these seasons.

Officials say the ban is necessary because winter and spring races happen in extreme weather and factors like wind speed, temperature, and environmental conditions can make racing risky, especially for young riders.

“Local authorities are required to oversee and ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and standards to guarantee safety in organizing horse races,” a statement signed by the Prime and Deputy Prime Ministers L. Oyun-Erdene and S. Amarsaikhan said.

The General Police Department and the National Human Rights Commission will oversee the enforcement of this rule.

Also, the country’s Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan has been assigned to supervise its implementation while other government officials, including Minister of Justice O. Altangerel, have also been tasked with ensuring full compliance.

Palaeontologists have uncovered a monumental 92 cm (35 inches) dinosaur footprint in Mongolia, hinting at the existence of an imposing hadrosaurid dinosaur, likely a substantial Saurolophus, which could surpass 15 meters in length. The investigation, conducted by Okayama University of Science and the Mongolian Academy of Sciences, has yielded a trackway comprising 13 fossilised footprints, each measuring 85 cm wide and stretching 24 meters long. Situated within the western Gobi Desert, these discoveries may pave the way for the identification of complete dinosaur skeletons, offering vital insights into their anatomy and behavioural patterns. This region, renowned for its large hadrosaurid footprints, invigorates the enthusiasm of palaeontologists for prospective research undertakings.

Recognition for wildlife protection

The Wild Sheep Foundation acknowledged the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia and the Mongolian Zoological Association during an exhibition in Reno, USA, on January 16, recognising their endeavours in argali conservation and international collaboration. Notable representatives, including Uranchimeg Tserendorj and Samyaa Ravdan, received the esteemed Statesman Awards, Akipress reports. Wild Sheep Foundation President Gray Thornton commended Mongolia's inclusive conservation strategies, underscoring its adherence to global standards in wildlife protection. Established in 1977, the Wild Sheep Foundation remains dedicated to the conservation and responsible utilisation of wild sheep populations.

Growing super-elite potato seeds

In a significant agricultural advancement, Mongolia has inaugurated a laboratory for propagating virus-free potato microtubes, aiming to cultivate super-elite potato seeds. According to Akipress , this facility is designed to guarantee a dependable supply of high-quality seeds for local seed-breeding businesses. This year, the Research and Development Centre anticipates producing 10,000 virus-free potato micro tubers alongside 2,000 mother plants, intending to fulfil 20% of the nation’s demands. This initiative forms part of the broader "Food Revolution" National Movement focused on improving local plant genetic resources and seed production capabilities.

Renewable energy

Mongolia has entered a partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to promote the advancement of renewable energy. Channel News Asia reports that an agreement was formalised during the World Economic Forum for the development of solar, wind, and energy storage ventures, targeting an ambitious capacity of up to 300 MW for solar and 200 MW for wind power by 2028. The EBRD is also set to play a crucial role in formulating renewable energy strategies and identifying low-carbon pathways. Deputy Prime Minister Dorjkhand Togmid reasserted the government's commitment to fostering a sustainable energy sector. In 2024, the EBRD’s investment in an array of projects in Mongolia surpassed 260 million euros, primarily aimed at financing the green transition.

Mongolia, Kuwait air relations

On January 19, Mongolia and Kuwait formalised an agreement on air relations, establishing the framework necessary for direct flights between the two nations. This agreement aspires to foster enhanced economic connections by facilitating direct flights, which are expected to invigorate tourism, trade, and logistics, particularly benefitting meat exports from Mongolia. Both parties highlighted the significance of the transport sector as a critical avenue for broader cooperation, according to Akipress . The President of Kuwait's DGCA reiterated the commitment to joint efforts with airlines and the exploration of potential visa exemption agreements. Consequently, this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and Kuwait.

In a notable development for international travel, Sanya Phoenix International Airport is set to enhance connectivity with Ulan Bator, Mongolia, by introducing four weekly flights commencing December 11. According to ECNS , these flights, operated by Juneyao Air, will facilitate easier access to and from Sanya, departing every Tuesday at 9:55 p.m. and returning from Ulan Bator at 4:00 a.m. the following day. This expansion adds to the airport’s existing international network of 27 routes across 20 cities in 2024, with further plans to include destinations such as Tashkent, and Uzbekistan.

  Healthcare

Meanwhile, a significant healthcare initiative has emerged from the partnership between Germany and Mongolia, introducing a debt-for-health swap agreement. Akipress reports that this strategic move enables Mongolia to reallocate funds that would have been used for debt servicing to strengthen its health infrastructure and services, thereby enhancing overall healthcare accessibility for its citizens.

  Tourism promotion and projects

In cultural diplomacy, the Philippine Embassy in Beijing has launched a promotional campaign in Mongolia aimed at showcasing the country’s rich tourism prospects. A photo booth, titled “Explore and Love the Philippines”, was unveiled in Ulaanbaatar, featuring stunning images of Philippine beaches and diving spots. Ambassador Jaime FlorCruz has encouraged Mongolians to consider the Philippines as a winter getaway destination, particularly highlighting locations such as Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu. This initiative will run until December 14, 2024, reinforcing the importance of promoting underwater attractions to the landlocked nation, Philippine News Agency reports.

  Philippines-Mongolia cultural collaborations

Complementing this initiative, a photo exhibition, also under the theme “Explore and Love the Philippines: Philippine Archipelagic Culture and Identity”, was inaugurated on December 9, 2024. Co-hosted by the Philippine Embassy and its Honorary Consulate in Mongolia, this exhibition showcases the Philippines' diverse culture and nature, set to captivate visitors at the Shangri-La Mall in Ulaanbaatar until December 14, 2024. Akipress reports that this initiative serves not only as a cultural display but also as a resource for travel information about the Philippines.

  World Memory Championships

In a display of intellectual prowess, Mongolia's national team shone at the 33rd World Memory Championships held in Turkey, securing an impressive total of 80 medals, categorised as 27 gold, 27 silver, and 26 bronze. This competitive achievement from December 4-8 positions Mongolia at the forefront of memory competitions, with China and India following in second and third place respectively. Noteworthy is the qualification of nine Mongolian athletes for the title of International Grandmaster of Memory, contributing to a cumulative total of 69 Grandmasters within the country over the past 14 years. The performance of two young talents, Uuriintsolmon Enkhjargal and Naranzul Otgon-Ulaan, who established new world records by memorising 6,465 digits and 1,968 cards respectively, exemplifies the high calibre of talent emerging from Mongolia, Akipress reports.

The day's activities featured a variety of engaging elements aimed at raising awareness. A photography exhibition showcased images of the snow leopards, while a quiz tested participants' knowledge about the species. There was also a competition where participants imitated snow leopards, and public sessions provided information on the vital role these animals play in maintaining ecological balance and the legal penalties for poaching.

WWF-Mongolia noted that the East African nation is home to the world's second-largest population of snow leopards, with around 1,000 adult leopards residing in the country. These animals inhabit a vast area of approximately 328,900 square kilometres, spanning the Altai, Sayan, and Khangai mountain ranges.

However, the snow leopard population in Mongolia faces significant threats, including poaching for their bones and conflicts with local herders. Retaliatory killings often occur when snow leopards attack livestock, exacerbating the species' decline, Xinhua reports.

Batsukh, a Master of Sports of the East Asian nation, has over 30 years of mountaineering experience and has scaled all of his country's major peaks. In addition to his athletic achievements, he has worked for nearly three decades as a prepress specialist for Mongolia’s National News Agency, MONTSAME .

Mount Kilimanjaro, a dormant volcano located in northeastern Tanzania, stands at 19,341 feet and is not only the highest mountain on the African continent but also the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. It rises over 16,000 feet above the surrounding plateau and is one of the most prominent peaks globally, following Everest, Aconcagua, and Denali.

Batsukh’s successful summit came on the same day that fellow Asian 18-year-old Nima Rinji Sherpa from Nepal made history by becoming the youngest person to climb all 14 of the world’s highest peaks.

China and Mongolia celebrated the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties with a reception in Beijing on October 18, 2024. Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the National People's Congress, and Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene addressed the event, highlighting the significant progress in bilateral relations. Both leaders expressed a commitment to enhancing cooperation and building a shared future. The event was co-organised by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the Mongolian Embassy in China.

Mongolian summits Mount Kilimanjaro

Batsukh Nyamdash, a Master of Sports of Mongolia successfully summited Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, from October 6 to October 9, 2024. This accomplishment follows his previous ascent of Mount Elbrus, Europe's highest peak. Nyamdash trained extensively on various mountains in Mongolia before his expedition, which included a five-member team, Mongolia’s National News Agenc y reports. With over 30 years of mountaineering experience, he has climbed all major peaks in Mongolia. Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,895 metres, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse ecosystems and accessibility.

41.5 million trees planted in Mongolia

As part of Mongolia's "One Billion Trees" initiative led by President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, a nationwide tree-planting campaign is ongoing from September 24 to October 26, 2024. Since the campaign's inception, 41.5 million trees have been planted, with Selenge province, north of Mongolia contributing 4.7 million. Citizens are encouraged to plant trees in their own spaces, while organisations should dedicate 20% of their properties to green spaces. The goal is to plant one billion trees by 2030, aiming to increase forest coverage to 9%, combat desertification, enhance greenhouse gas absorption, and promote climate resilience, state agency Montsame reports.

Snow leopard protection

Mongolia hosted activities on October 20 to raise awareness about snow leopard protection ahead of International Snow Leopard Day on October 23. Organised by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Mongolia in Ulan Bator, the capital of the East Asian nation, events included a photography exhibition, quizzes, and information sessions about the species' ecological importance and poaching penalties. Mongolia is home to the world's second-largest snow leopard population, with approximately 1,000 adults inhabiting the Altai, Sayan, and Khangai mountain ranges. Major threats include poaching and conflicts with local herders. The initiative aims to promote effective conservation measures for these endangered animals.

Strategic partnership with India

During a meeting in Pakistan, Mongolian Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar discussed enhancing cooperation between their countries. The Mongolian Prime Minister thanked India for its COVID-19 vaccine donation and highlighted progress on the critical Oil Refinery project. Both leaders agreed to leverage their Strategic Partnership to expand relations across all sectors and planned to celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2025, Montsame reports.

This follows Putin’s arrival in the Mongolian capital on September 2 on his first visit to an International Criminal Court (ICC) member since it issued a warrant for his arrest last year.

An arrest warrant was issued by the Hague-based ICC for the alleged illegal deportation of Ukrainian children since Russian troops invaded the country in 2022.

Putin’s visit to Mongolia therefore has been termed as a defiance of the court’s order.

The West and some rights groups have since called for his arrest but some Mongolians see this as uneccessary.

Reacting to this, Mongolian Economist, Altanbayar Altankhuyag who spoke to AFP said, “ICC is an international organisation. It is true that we are a member country, but it doesn’t mean we have to follow every order and arresting Putin during this visit is immoral and improper. China and Russia both are very important to us as neighbours.

, with a handful of demonstrators holding a sign demanding "get war criminal Putin out of here". Putin landed in Ulaanbaatar on Monday night at the start of a high-profile trip seen as a show of defiance against the court, Kyiv, the West and rights groups that have all called for him to be detained.

Tsevegdorj Luvsandorj, Military Veteran also said, “We Mongolians do not support the arrest of Putin, I don't support it because it's a bad move”.

The findings were first reported by Turkiye Today .

Saban Dogan, the project’s lead archaeologist from Izmir Katip Calabi University in Turkey, said the discovery is significant because it sheds light on the early urban and residential life of the Uyghurs.

"This discovery fills a historical gap," Dogan was quoted in an interview with Radio Free Asia .

The city is believed to have been constructed between 630 and 680 CE, making it one of the earliest Uyghur cities. The Uyghur Khaganate, which existed from 740 to 840 CE, was a major empire in Central and Eastern Asia, extending from Lake Baikal in the north to the Great Wall of China in the south.

The discovery comes amidst contentions over Uyghur history by Chinese historians who say the Uyghur used to be a "Chinese nation rather than Turkic. They argue that Uyghurs migrated to what is now Xinjiang in the 9th century CE.

Alimjan Inayet, a professor of Uyghur folklore at Ege University in Turkey, disputed these claims, stating that Uyghurs have lived in the region known as East Turkistan for centuries. "Uyghurs didn’t come to East Turkistan in the 840s CE like current Chinese historians allege, but are the most ancient tribes that lived on this vast land," Inayet was quoted.

The discovery of Togu Balik, he added, proves that the Uyghurs were among the first Turkic tribes to establish cities and settle in them, moving away from their nomadic lifestyles.

The exact location of Togu Balik had been unclear until now, despite being mentioned in historical records. Artefacts found at the site have confirmed the identification of the city, according to Dogan.

Togu Balik is historically recognised as a key city of the Uyghur Khaganate and was inhabited by the Toquz Oghuz, a confederation of Turkic tribes known as the "nine clans." The city is also mentioned in the inscriptions of the Second Turkic Khaganate and the historical documents of China’s Tang Dynasty.

Mongolian palaeontologist Barsbold Rinchen said that this group has posed many questions for scientists who are still conducting investigations.

"The composition of the group was uncertain, the connections are completely unclear. The first finds, very incomplete, were studied in Mongolia from the Upper Cretaceous deposits. Their feet were most often preserved," he was quoted .

The birds were predators with a second toe on their toes and enlarged claw phalanx, similar to that of velociraptors, small feathered dinosaurs also found in Mongolia by scientists.

According to researchers, the claw could have been used for attack and defence. Not much is known about the remaining features of the bird.

Troodontids lack the distinct pelvis and tail features seen in dromaeosaurids. However, scientists believe the two groups might be related.

This idea could be confirmed with future discoveries of more complete skeletons.

Four sets of uniforms were launched, with a traditional Mongolian style, the female athletes’ uniform, the male athletes’ uniform, the female flag bearer’s uniform, and the male flag bearer’s uniform.

They are expected to be worn at the opening and closing ceremonies in Paris.

What the uniforms look like?

The uniforms are calf-length with a high collar and long sleeves. They are decorated with the country’s national colours – blue, red, and white and have symbolic Mongolian symbols and motifs. The Soyombo symbol, a special symbol invented by Zanabazar (17 th- century leader and father of Mongolian art) is also found in the uniform. The Eiffel Tower and the Olympic Flame are also highlighted.

Who designed the uniforms?

The uniforms were designed by Mongolian sisters Michel and Amazonka Chiogalaa. The two are known for their previous designs of the Mongolian team’s official outfits for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics as well as the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics.

Their designs are usually a blend of tradition and modernity, usually adorned with national symbols and colours.

According to them, there at two main models for the athletes. Each set was made within an average of 20 hours in 6 steps, according to the sisters.

Here are photos of the designs shared by the Chiogalaa sisters

Why social media is buzzing

The Mongolian Olympic uniforms have attracted a lot of eyes on social media platforms including X, Tik Tok and Facebook with many fashion and sports commentators expressing admiration for the designs.

Style writer Ryan Yip shared a video viewed over 2 million times, stating "They just won the Olympics before it even started."

Others including design brands have shared photos of the uniform and commended the country’s designs.

Direct flights from South Korea to Inner Mongolia have been launched, bringing in over 800 travelers this week. China United Airlines now operates four round trips weekly to the region, bringing in an estimated 12,000 passengers per week. China Daily reports that inner Mongolia is attracting an increasing number of foreign tourists, with plans for more direct flights from other Asian countries in the future.

  Presidential visit

Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh is set to visit Uzbekistan from June 23-26 at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and discuss cooperation in various sectors including trade, mining, agriculture, and healthcare. According to Montsame , the two leaders will also sign several agreements and meet with business representatives. The visit will also include a trip to the city of Khiva.

Partnerships with Uzbekistan

Mongolia and Uzbekistan are partnering to develop digital governance and information technology. The two countries discussed opportunities for cooperation and agreed to collaborate on supporting IT startups and developing the e-economy in the future, Akipress reports.

Sustainable Development

Mongolia's initiative to proclaim 2025 as International Year of Cooperatives was approved by the UN General Assembly. The initiative aims to support the global cooperative movement and contribute to the Cooperatives' 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. Various activities will be implemented under the theme "Cooperatives for a Better World." The resolution aligns with Mongolia's "New Cooperative - Wealthy Herder" Program, Kazinform International News Agency reports.

Tax refund for tourists

Mongolia has joined 63 other countries in implementing a tax refund system for tourists, allowing them to reclaim taxes on purchases made in the country. The new system includes a branch at the international airport to provide banking services and cash refunds for VAT. Akipress reports that the move is part of efforts to prioritize tourism and diversify the economy, which is currently reliant on mining and mineral exports. In 2023, Mongolia welcomed 650,000 foreign tourists and generated $1.2 billion in tourism revenue.

Mongolia has the highest record of Hepatitis D patients, with current figures standing at 36.5 percent, the highest in the world.

According to the Mongolian National News Agency , over five percent of hepatitis B patients develop hepatitis D, a 'satellite' virus that is usually associated with hepatitis B.

The European Union and the Russian Federation have manufactured Bulevirtide, an antiviral medication used globally to stop the entry of the Hepatitis D virus into liver cells.

72 percent of these deaths are premature and occur among persons under 70 years.

Tobacco-attributable economic losses are about 22 times larger than the collected government revenue.  

In 2020, tobacco use in Mongolia caused economic loss equivalent to 2.1 percent of Mongolia’s gross domestic product (GDP). These losses occurred in direct health-care expenditures to treat tobacco-related illness, tobacco-attributable mortality valued at MNT 496 billion (146,923,632), and MNT 219 billion (64,871,523 ) in reduced workplace productivity from absenteeism and presenteeism.

According to the World Health Organisation, investing in  tobacco control measures will prevent more than 19,200 deaths and avert MNT 2.4 trillion in economic losses by 2037.

Ahead of this year’s World No Tobacco Day happening on May 31, the World Health Organization has called on the governments of member countries to tighten tobacco control and take measures to protect future generations from the deception of tobacco and tobacco manufacturers,  according to the National Center for Public Health. 

Homeland Security Investigations (HIS) returned a collection of dinosaur fossils to Mongolia at a ceremony at the Library of Congress. The fossils were recovered through investigations in Arizona, New York, and Wyoming. The collection includes rare Mongolian fossils such as a tyrannosaurus bataar skull and an alioramus skull. The repatriation demonstrates the strong partnership between Mongolia and the United States in preserving cultural heritage. HSI has also overseen repatriations of cultural property to other countries and institutions. According to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement , since 2007, HSI investigations have led to the repatriation of over 20,000 objects to more than 40 countries.

Mongolia moves to curb desertification

Inner Mongolia is employing a new approach to combat desertification by combining sand control with wind and solar power projects. The Manila Times reports that the region aims to treat nearly 800,000 hectares of desert using this method by 2030. It is also working on integrating sand control and green energy production, with the goal of treating 1 million hectares of desert this year and 6.46 million hectares by 2030. This innovative approach aims to achieve multiple benefits, including increasing greenery, energy, and income. Additionally, Inner Mongolia has created millions of hectares of forests and grassland since 2012 and has treated nearly 10 million hectares of desert.

Work on coal railway

Progress Rail has delivered the first four of 16 SD70ACe/LW locomotives for the Tavan Tolgoi coal railway in Mongolia. The diesel-electric locos have a 3 355 kW engine, maximum speed of 120 km/h, and are equipped with remote monitoring and diagnostic systems. The railway connects the coal deposits in the Gobi desert to an inland port near the Chinese border, the Railway Gazette reports.

Climbers go missing during expedition

Two climbers from Mongolia, Usukhjargal Tsedendamba and Purevsuren Lkhagvajav, have gone missing during an Everest expedition. They were last seen ascending to the peak from the fourth camp on May 13. A search operation is underway with the help of rescue management agencies. The expedition was arranged by Eight K Expeditions Pvt Ltd, according to The Annapurna Express .

Mongolia-Japan cooperation

Mongolia and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are planning to cooperate on food safety. The Chairman of the Mongolian Parliament Zandanshatar Gombojav met with a delegation from JICA to discuss sharing best practices and information on Japan's agricultural development. Akipress reports that Mongolia is eager to continue cooperation in the future and organise a discussion based on JICA's study.

As of May 2024, the human population in Australia is approximately 26.7 million. In terms of sheep, Australia has a substantial sheep population, estimated to be around 63.5 million. This means that for every person in Australia, there are about 2.8 sheep, highlighting the country's significant sheep farming industry. From the vast grazing lands of the interior to the green pastures of the coastal regions, sheep farming plays a pivotal role in sustaining rural communities and driving economic activity.

In Mauritania, the sheep-human ratio stands at 1.8 sheep per person, with a human population of around 5 million and a sheep population of 13.7 million . Iceland follows closely with a human population of 376,500 and 527,700 sheep.

Mongolia stands out with an astonishing 4.5 sheep per person, given its human population of 3.47 million and a sheep count of about 30.9 million. New Zealand, a country with a human population of 5.25 million is also well-known for its sheep farming, with ratios of 7.7 sheep per person and a sheep count of 30 million.

With a human population of 3.4 million, Uruguay boasts a sheep population of about 7.5 million.

In February 2024, Mongolia issued 1,897 e-visas to foreigners, marking a significant increase from previous years. The Immigration Agency of Mongolia processed 8,607 requests and assisted 5,772 citizens, showcasing the effectiveness of digitalization in service delivery. Additionally, the agency granted residence permits to 23,555 foreign citizens and initiated the issuance of residence cards for foreign citizens independently, demonstrating Mongolia's commitment to enhancing accessibility for foreigners. The digital service system processed a total of 115,211 requests in 2023, indicating a streamlined and efficient process, VisaGuide reported.

Belarusian agricultural exchange plans

The Belarusian Universal Commodity Exchange is poised to expand its exports of dairy products and sugar to Mongolia, as evidenced by its first successful transaction of selling 1,400 tonnes of sugar to a Mongolian resident for $771,000. Efforts to attract buyers for milk powder and butter further highlight the growing trade relations between Belarus and Mongolia. Non-resident companies purchased substantial quantities of sugar and butter at exchange auctions in January-February 2024, underlining the increasing trade activity between the two nations, according to BelTA .

Cuba-Mongolia legal assistance agreement

Cuba and Mongolia are set to form a legal assistance agreement to enhance citizens' legal security and foster stronger bilateral relations during an upcoming visit by a Mongolian delegation to Havana. Prensa Latina reports that both parties have expressed keen interest in deepening cooperation, with the Mongolian Minister of Justice affirming the commitment to developing collaboration and the Cuban Embassy reiterating its willingness to strengthen bilateral ties.

Foreign exchange reserves

Mongolia's foreign exchange reserves reached $5.016 billion as of March 15. This growth can be attributed to improved foreign exchange inflows and successful management of foreign trade balance. The Central Bank of Mongolia's significant increase in the purchase of precious metals and successful refinancing of foreign bonds have contributed to reducing the country's external payment burden, positioning Mongolia favourably in the global economic landscape, AKIpress reported.

Forecasted mass deaths of livestock

The Mongolian government has forecasted a severe impact on the economy, with a prediction of 16 million livestock deaths due to harsh winter conditions. This prediction has significant implications for nomadic pastoralism, a crucial sector of Mongolia's economy, which currently supports 64.7 million livestock. According to AKIpress , nearly 4 million animals have perished due to dzud as of March 15, underscoring the severity of the situation and the need for strategic interventions to mitigate the economic impact.

This motivated her to pursue education, and with hard work, she gained admission to one of the world’s most prestigious universities, Oxford University.

After realizing gaps in her country’s leadership, she joined the government as the first and youngest female to occupy the position of Vice Minister of the Ministry of Communications and Digital Development.

In her position, she spearheaded the creation and roll-out of the country’s e-government system, e-Mongolia, which digitised over 1,000 services for citizens and made public services available online.

In 2021, she started the Girls Code Programme to teach young women from rural areas how to code and to provide them with equal learning opportunities in technology.

“I really wanted to give girls and even boys, especially in the countryside who are not connected to the internet, who do not have that advantage, the money or the good school or good facilities. When you see it from their perspective, it’s quite unfair that they have to compete with their peers who are from well-off families or who are well-educated in the job market. So I really wanted to give them equal opportunity and the results have really been incredible so we wanted to expand the program not only to Mongolia but different developing and emerging countries and the ultimate goal is to give equal education opportunities to those who do not have internet,” she told GSW’s Wonder Hagan.

Her dreams did not come without challenges. According to the former Mongolian Minister, funding which is a critical part of the programme has been a major challenge because it operates as a Non-governmental Organisation (NGO).

“Because it’s an NGO and we target girls from disadvantaged communities, the first challenge is mostly funding because it’s very hard to cover all the costs. We buy them laptops, food, and accommodation, everything is paid for by the program. The second one would be organizing the boot camp because most of the girls are in their teenage years, they are starting to date, and fall in love, so these girls, for us to keep them focused and working hard, it’s a challenge but a reward as well. They keep it up very well but mostly really go further than we expect,” she noted.

Today, the Girls Code Programme has produced 90 graduates with about 10 girls studying at respective prestigious universities. The program which is going to be launched in March this year will recruit more girls for training and tech career prospects.

“We have 10 girls studying abroad at NYU, Harvard, and other prestigious universities. We have a winner of the International Coding Competition from the girls, and now we are launching the program on the 8 th of March on International Women's Day for this cohort.  This year we are hoping to have about 50 girls but in addition to that, in 2023, we introduced a coding International Mentorship program. It's not only for girls but both boys and girls who are starting their careers so we have well-known international experts,” Bolor told GSW.

Bolor is currently an Oxford University fellow studying misinformation and cyberbullying targeting women and digital infrastructure.

Her legacy of a digitised country remains known widely around the world, with bigger visions of making Mongolia a technology hub on the Asian continent.

With these numbers, there have been concerns about the spread of fabrications and fake news particularly in the face of emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Deepfakes, which involve the wrongful use of digital media to manipulate information and content will be on the rise and cannot be avoided Battsengel said, but they can be regulated if big Tech companies like Meta which owns Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, Google, and X Corp among others use their influence to regulate the information disseminated on their respective platforms.

“This year, we have about 70 elections around the world which is a huge number and obviously, you have Deep Fake, AI, and a lot of technologies that can spread, fake news that can lead to chaos and create a detrimental impact in society. To be honest, I think it will be very challenging to avoid Deep Fake for example but there are things that we can do and the most important thing is that it has to come from Tech companies, to be able to detect the use of Deep Fake on Facebook for example and ban the content. It will take quite a lot of hard work from the tech companies, so they can analyse the content and instantly delete the offensive content, that is leading to misinformation,” she said while speaking to GSW’s Wonder Hagan.

Battsengel further recommended that giant global tech companies must cooperate with respective governments whose countries will be holding elections to find strategic ways to curb and control the dissemination of fake news during elections.

She also highlighted the role of international organisations in the promotion of digital literacy in many developing Global South countries and generally countries across the world.

“They obviously have to cooperate with the governments. But international organisations like the International Trade Organisation (ITO), the UN, and the World Bank, also have very important roles in this to be able to help especially develop the countries with for example digital literacy,” she added.

Meanwhile, 20 of the world's largest tech companies, including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, have agreed to tackle what they are calling deceptive artificial intelligence (AI) in elections. The BBC reported that the firms signed the ‘Tech Accord to Combat Deceptive Use of AI in 2024 Elections’ committing them to fighting voter-deceiving content.

Under this pact, they agree to adopt technology to detect and counter deceptive AI material.

The Tech Accord was announced at the Munich Security Conference on February 16.

The hardest-hit regions in central Mongolia received snowfall up to 34 cm (13.4 inches) deep, as reported by Mongolia's National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring.

Blizzard conditions are expected to persist in various parts of Mongolia in the upcoming week, including the capital city Ulaanbaatar. Local herders, construction workers, and drivers have been advised to exercise extra caution to prevent potential disasters.