A preliminary discussion under the theme ‘Mongolia - Green Development’ for the 26th United Nations Climate Change conference kicked off at the State House today on October 21. 

The discussion aims to accelerate works being carried out in the sectors of forestry and energy as well as pasture management, and boost the government’s active participation in the framework of the fight against climate change.

In his opening remarks, President of Mongolia U.Khurelsukh noted that Mongolia is fully supporting the works being carried out by international organizations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), and is currently putting in all its efforts to fulfill the commitments and obligations under the Paris Agreement. He also highlighted how the country aims to urgently increase renewable energy sources as a country that only produces energy from coal. 

Mongolia aims to reduce GHG, a core factor for climate change, by 22.7 percent by 2030. By introducing new technology and innovation, and creating a sustainable system for green financing, it is planned to further increase the reduction of GHG, reaching 27.2 percent.

No less than one percent of the GDP is currently planned to be utilized for the fight against climate change and desertification. Private entities, domestic and foreign investors, and especially the practices, direct and indirect financial support provided by donor countries and international organizations also have a significant role in the works.

The discussion is being attended by representatives of the government, heads of missions at Diplomatic Representative’s Offices in Mongolia as well as representatives of organizations such as the United Nations, Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the World Bank.

ADB Vice President for East Asia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific Ahmed Saeed:

Mongolia would face many challenges and difficulties in the fight against climate change, without a doubt. However, many new opportunities are also being created. The Asian Development Bank fully supports your country’s decisive step. Areas involving energy and pasture management would especially receive support. As a country that has a large amount of resources for renewable energy, it is possible for Mongolia to meet domestic demands as well as to export energy to other countries.

Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Usha Rao-Monari:

I express my gratitude for how Mongolia is focusing on climate change. The ‘One Billion Trees’ national campaign is a great step. In its framework, all citizens, and especially women and youth, should be involved. Countries of the world must join forces in order to reach results in the fight against climate change.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Philip Malone:

Desertification, dust storms, and natural disasters - climate change is causing a lot of damage. Attention should be paid to building capacity for overcoming disasters and enhancing resilience, and increasing financing. It is important that countries of the world discuss the matter and reach certain results during the 26th United Nations Climate Change conference.

As for Minister of Environment and Tourism N.Urtnasan, she noted the necessity to implement projects on renewable energy, create a management system to keep the number of livestock animals at a suitable ratio, and increase financing for construction of waste plants and buildings that are heat and energy-efficient.

Discussions will take place under the themes, ‘The participation of the forestry sector in Mongolia’s vision for green development’, ‘Expanding green energy solutions’, and ‘Sustainable pasture management and green economy diversification’.

The preliminary discussions are being organized by the Office of the President of Mongolia, Asian Development Bank, and the United Nations.