The second National "Blue Gold" Forum, held on March 21 brought together 1,200 representatives from government agencies, international organizations, and civil society working in the water sector. The forum, organized under the auspices of President of Mongolia U.Khurelsukh centered around the theme “Let’s Protect Our Glaciers and Ice Formations.”
During the event, President U.Khurelsukh highlighted the importance of safeguarding Mongolia’s water resources, underscoring that the country is currently pursuing several national initiatives, including the “Billions of Trees,” “Healthy Mongol,” “Food Revolution,” and “White Gold” programs. These programs aim to ensure a healthy and safe environment for Mongolian citizens. The president stated, “It is now time to implement the ‘Blue Gold’ Program in the water sector. Every project or initiative we undertake to protect Mongolia’s environment and water resources contributes meaningfully to global efforts to protect water resources.”
The president also emphasized that the success of Mongolia's projects and programs in the water sector would depend on active cooperation and mutual understanding among government bodies, the private sector, and international organizations. He called on both the government and the public to unite in the protection of the environment, preservation of ecological balance, and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. By doing so, Mongolia can strengthen national security, avoid water shortages, and effectively adapt to climate change.
Minister of Environment and Climate S.Odontuya remarked that the year 2025 has been designated as the "International Year for Glacier Preservation" by the United Nations. She highlighted key government projects in the water sector, such as the Eg River Hydropower Plant and the Orkhon–Ongi and Kherlen-Toonot Projects, as major historical undertakings. These projects are set to improve water supply reliability for the Gobi region and support the “Billions of Trees” initiative by supplying water to arid areas where tree planting is a challenge. To ensure effective implementation, a dedicated Water Project Unit will be created to enhance legal and regulatory frameworks, improve coordination across sectors, and foster partnerships with the private sector.
Z.Batbayar, Director of the Water Department of Mongolia, discussed the critical importance of water not just for health, but for the social and economic development of the country. He pointed out that Mongolia’s glaciers are shrinking annually due to climate change, with the amount of ice already melted exceeding the country's underground water reserves by four times. He emphasized the necessity of water storage to mitigate this issue, urging households to collect snowmelt and rainwater to help preserve water resources.
As a result of the forum, an integrated recommendation was established. The recommendation focuses on improving water-related legislation and governance, preventing the depletion and pollution of water resources, collecting surface water and precipitation, and creating favorable ecosystem conditions. The forum also called for nationwide implementation of initiatives such as "One-Lake," "One Soum-333 Lakes," and "Every Drop." The proposal includes defining financing mechanisms, expanding human resources, and promoting public collaboration and partnerships in the private sector.
March 22 is recognized as World Water Day in accordance with a 1992 UN General Assembly resolution. This year’s celebration focused on “Glacier Preservation” as part of global efforts to raise awareness of the importance of protecting water resources.
