UNCCD COP17 in Mongolia: The 17th Conference of Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification opens in Ulaanbaatar Aug. 17-28 under “Restoring Land, Restoring Hope,” with Mongolia hosting amid land degradation affecting about 77% of territory; the agenda centers on drought, land degradation, rural livelihoods and financing, with pastoralist and Indigenous voices pushing for practical outcomes. Pastoralist Push: A Global Pastoralist Gathering in Ulaanbaatar adopted three declarations (world, women, youth herders) to be submitted to COP17, urging herders’ initiatives to shape decisions on land restoration, water and food systems. Mongolia-Belarus Ties: Mongolia’s foreign minister met Belarus’ ambassador, discussing expanded economic cooperation with agriculture, light industry, forestry, health, sports and education as priorities. SOE Reform Watch: Chinggis Khaan Wealth Fund Holding reviewed performance and priorities under Mongolia’s “Liberate” policy, highlighting new governance rules for state-owned enterprises and greater parliamentary oversight. Aviation Link: Air China began daily regular international C919 service to Ulaanbaatar (Beijing–Ulaanbaatar), enabled by bilateral airworthiness arrangements. Local Commerce & Culture: “Kharkhorum Bazaar” runs Aug. 11-20 near Naadam Stadium, bringing together 70+ businesses and creative enterprises with crafts, food and live entertainment. Rare Earth Supply Chain: China plans a 50% expansion of the Bayan Obo rare earth mine in Inner Mongolia with a $74m investment to boost ore processing capacity, reinforcing critical-minerals supply goals.