Ulaanbaatar, September 24, 2025 /MONTSAME/. Mongolia aims to attract USD 1–1.5 billion in investment through the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), which will be held in Ulaanbaatar from August 17 to 28, 2026.

To this end, targeted initiatives are being developed under the “Land–Water–Tree” formula. Hosting the conference will enable Mongolia to present long-term policy initiatives, mobilize financing, and launch high-quality, long-term projects in the environmental sector. For example, India has launched a project to restore 26 million hectares and mobilised USD 1.5 billion; Côte d’Ivoire implemented in 2022 a regional initiative to green Africa and combat desertification, "Great Green Wall," attracting USD 2.5 billion; and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia initiated the global “Riyadh Global Drought Resilience Partnership” last year, securing pledges totalling USD 12.15 billion.

By organizing COP17, Mongolia’s foreign policy leadership and profile will be enhanced, drawing international attention. Within this framework, it will be possible to conclude bilateral and multilateral cooperation agreements, support national and local initiatives, and launch project partnerships. In addition to raising public awareness of environmental and sustainable development issues, the event is expected to have both direct and indirect impacts on Mongolia’s economy.

More than 10,000 delegates from over 190 countries will gather in Mongolia to discuss desertification, land degradation, drought, pastureland, and related environmental challenges and solutions, with participants covering their own costs. The conference will be treated as business tourism, channeling spending into Ulaanbaatar’s hotels, food services, transport, and other service sectors, thereby supporting Mongolian enterprises.

As Mongolia will preside over the Convention from August 2026 to the end of 2028, it will have the opportunity to develop, implement, and lead policies, investments, and partnerships. The Government, hosting a Conference of the Parties, together with interested stakeholders, may propose and secure approval for ideas and initiatives. Given that efforts focused solely on investment and financing for Mongolia carry high risks and may fall short of expectations due to global economic conditions, capital flows, and international developments, benefits can be realized by formulating initiatives at regional and international scales.

Accordingly, taking into account national circumstances, Mongolia has developed initiatives grounded in an international, long-term strategy titled the “STEPPE ACTION AGENDA.” These prioritize rangeland management, integrated water and land management, and nature-based infrastructure solutions that are capable of attracting financing and ensuring effective implementation.