The Government of Mongolia, led by the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications, in partnership with UNDP, hosted the country’s first conference on National Strategy for Big Data and Artificial Intelligence at the State Palace. The event brought together government officials, industry leaders, and global experts to shape Mongolia’s AI development and digital transformation.

Mongolia is advancing AI and big data integration into its economy, governance, and public services. The country ranks 46th in the E-Government Development Index and 98th in the Government AI Readiness Index, reflecting steady progress. The government’s Vision-2050 development plan identifies AI as a key driver of economic modernization and improved governance. However, challenges remain, including the need for a comprehensive national AI strategy, stronger digital infrastructure, and skilled professionals.

His Excellency Amarsaikhan Sainbuyan, the Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, stated “It is crucial for Mongolia to develop a strategy on effectively utilizing technological advancements, generating big data across all sectors, and aligning digital transformation with economic growth, social development, and sustainable development policies. Therefore, the Government of Mongolia aims to introduce and leverage technological innovations and new development opportunities across sectors, consistently support an equitable and sustainable digital transition, and ensure cross-sectoral coordination.”

Discussions at the conference centered on the responsible use of AI, ethical considerations, and regulatory frameworks to promote inclusive and transparent development. The outcomes will inform the development of Mongolia’s National AI Strategy, which aims to position the country as a regional leader in digital innovation by 2030 and was presented during the conference.

His Excellency Baatarkhuu Tsend, the Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications, stated, " Today, we are pleased to introduce the first draft of Mongolia’s National Big Data & AI Long-Term Vision/Strategy to a broader group of stakeholders for public discussion. AI is no longer a technology of the future—it is shaping our world today. Mongolia is committed to harnessing AI responsibly, ensuring that it is inclusive, ethical, and aligned with our national development goals. With the right policies, investments, and partnerships, we can build an AI-driven digital economy that benefits every Mongolian, from businesses and researchers to students and public servants."

UNDP is supporting Mongolia’s AI ambitions by leveraging global expertise and best practices through its partnership with the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications. As part of this collaboration, UNDP is conducting an AI Landscape Assessment to evaluate Mongolia’s AI readiness and provide strategic recommendations, with support from UNDP’s Chief Digital Office and Inclusive Growth Team in the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific. Additionally, UNDP is carrying out an AI Futures and Foresight Analysis to help Mongolia anticipate future challenges and opportunities while ensuring AI policies align with long-term national goals.

Ms. Matilda Dimovska, UNDP Resident Representative in Mongolia, stated "AI presents a unique opportunity for Mongolia to accelerate progress toward its Vision-2050 and SDGs. However, realizing its full potential requires a responsible, inclusive, and forward-looking approach. UNDP is proud to support Mongolia’s National Big Data & AI Long-Term Vision and Strategy by bringing global expertise, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that AI development is ethical and leaves no one behind. Together, we can build an AI-powered future that works for all."

SouthGobi Resources Ltd. (TSX-V:SGQ)(HK:1878) ("SouthGobi" or the "Company") Reference is made to the announcements of the Company dated July 31, 2023, August 18, 2023, February 26, 2024, May 22, 2024, June 12, 2024 and January 20, 2025 (the "Announcements") in relation to the Mongolia tax audit. Unless otherwise specified, capitalised terms used herein shall have the same meanings as those defined in the Announcements.

As disclosed in the announcement of the Company dated January 20, 2025, the Company's wholly owned subsidiary in Mongolia, Southgobi Sands LLC ("SGS"), received a resolution ("Resolution") from the Tax Dispute Resolution Council ("TDRC") on January 10, 2025 in relation to the Tax Audit. As set forth in this Resolution, the TDRC has determined to reduce the re-assessed amount of the tax penalty against SGS from approximately US$80.0 million to US$26.5 million (the "Revised Re-assessment Result"). According to the applicable Mongolian laws, SGS is entitled to file an appeal to the Administrative Court regarding the Revised Re-assessment Result within a 30-day period from the date of receiving the Resolution (the "Appeal Period").

After careful consideration and consultation with the Company's independent tax consultant in Mongolia, the Company has determined not to pursue a further appeal of the Revised Re-assessment Result with the Administrative Court within the Appeal Period. As a result, the Revised Re-assessment Result will impact the Company's financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024.

Shareholders and potential investors of the Company are advised to exercise caution when dealing in the shares of the Company.

About SouthGobi

SouthGobi, listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and the TSX Venture Exchange, owns and operates its flagship Ovoot Tolgoi coal mine in Mongolia. It also holds the mining licences of its other metallurgical and thermal coal deposits in South Gobi region of Mongolia. SouthGobi produces and sells coal to customers in China.

Under the Law on Pets, the killing of stray dogs and cats through shooting is strictly prohibited. The law emphasizes the use of humane methods, prioritizing sterilization and discouraging cruel treatment. It also mandates that euthanasia should not be carried out in public spaces, roads, streets, or residential areas. However, the practice of kiling strays by shooting has resurfaced under the guise of a “stray dog and cat population reduction campaign” in the Bayanzurkh District.

This controversial measure was initiated last Monday and is expected to continue until February 20. As part of the campaign, residents have been instructed to keep their dogs and cats inside their properties to avoid them being targeted. One individual involved in the culling stated, “We were given funds of gasoline money and bullets from the district. With this, how could we not do it? We’re going street by street, starting from the front of the district and working our way back.”

The district has taken similar actions in previous years as well. In response to these events, officials from Bayanzurkh’s Department of Landscaping and Public Services clarified that they were following the guidelines set out in the law and its accompanying regulations. They explained that under Section 12.4 of the law, the ban on shooting strays will only be enforced five years after the law’s implementation. “Currently, the number of stray dogs and cats is too high, so shooting is being used as a measure. In the future, we will adhere to humane practices. Citizens should also act responsibly. You can contact the municipal veterinary office to have your pets sterilized,” an official explained.

This development raises significant concerns about the interpretation and enforcement of the law, as it seems to conflict with the intended humane treatment of animals. While the reduction of stray animal populations is a pressing issue, the public is divided on the methods being used to address it.

Troy Minerals Inc. ("Troy" or the "Company") (CSE:TROY) (OTCQB:TROYF) (FSE:VJ3) is pleased to announce the submission via its subsidiary company Grand Samsara Consulting LLC ("Grand Samsara") of its mining license application to the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources of Mongolia for the Tsagaan Zalaa Silica Project ("Tsagaan Zalaa" or the "Project"). This key milestone underscores the Company's commitment to advancing the project towards production and transforming Troy into a cash-flowing entity.

Located in southern Mongolia, 200 kilometres from the Mongolia-China border, the Tsagaan Zalaa Silica Project is strategically positioned to serve the growing regional and global demand for high-purity quartz silica ("HPQ"). The submission of the mining license application represents a critical step in unlocking the project's potential and advancing Troy's broader strategy of establishing itself as a key player in the HPQ market.

Yannis Tsitos, President of Troy Minerals, commented, "Submitting the mining license application for Tsagaan Zalaa to the Mongolian authorities is a significant achievement for Troy and its subsidiaries. This milestone reflects our relentless focus on progressing our two main silica projects, Tsagaan Zalaa in Mongolia and Table Mountain in British Columbia, and sets the stage for the Company's main objective: to transform itself into a potential producer with cash flow generation serving both Central-East Asia and North America. We are confident that Tsagaan Zalaa will deliver long-term value for our shareholders and position Troy as an important new entrant in this critical mineral sector."

Strategic Importance of Tsagaan Zalaa:

Favorable Location: Proximity to some of the most established and "hungry" silica markets and off-takers, in addition, established road and rail infrastructure provide a strategic advantage (see Figure 1). The 1,670-hectare (4,127-acre) Project is located near a Japanese high-purity quartz quarry and refiner producing and directly exporting HPQ to Japan. (1)

High-Quality Resource: Previous bulk sample analysis (a 10-tonne bulk sample was sold to a Chinese off-taker in 2023) demonstrated silica purity of up to 99.98% after beneficiation, underscoring the project's viability for industrial and technological applications. Massive high-purity quartz veins upto 5 metres in width hosted by Upper-Middle Devonian sediments are exposed on surface over the Project (see Figure 2). (1)

Simplicity in Production & Sustainable Growth: Selling raw high-purity silica is the initial target of the company; simplicity in the surficial quarrying/mining process and no need for a processing plant at this first phase, make the "Blast-Scoop-Load" motto Troy's flag at Tsagaan Zalaa. The project's development aligns with Troy's commitment to sustainable mining practices, support of the local communities in Southern Mongolia and ultimately delivering growth value to Troy's shareholders.

Next Steps

With the mining license application submitted, Troy will focus on finalizing a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) study, securing financing, and advancing discussions with offtake partners. Subject to the approval of the Company's Mining License Application in coming months by the Mongolian authorities, Troy remains on track to target initiation of production at Tsagaan Zalaa in 2025, and cash flow generation from HPQ sales.

Any production decision in advance of obtaining a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability of the project is associated with increased uncertainty and risk of failure.

Qualified Person

Technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Case Lewis, P.Geo., a "Qualified Person" as defined under NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

References

TROY News Release Dated June 10, 2024: "Troy Minerals Enters Into Binding Letter of Intent to Acquire CBGB Ventures Corp." https://finance.yahoo.com/.../troy-minerals-enters...

About Troy Minerals

Troy Minerals is a Canadian based publicly listed mining company focused on building shareholder value through acquisition, exploration, and development of strategically located "critical" mineral assets. Troy is aggressively advancing its projects within the silica (silicon), vanadium, and rare earths industries within regions that exhibit high and growing demand for such commodities, in both North America and Central-East Asia. The Company's primary objective is the near-term prospect of production with a vision of becoming a cash-flowing mining company to ultimately deliver tangible monetary value to shareholders, state, and local communities.

On February 6-7, 2025, the first Meeting of the Mongolia-Uzbekistan Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economy, Science, and Technology Cooperation was held in Tashkent, the capital city of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

During the meeting, the two sides agreed to continue working closely to increase exports and supply of agricultural products, including leather, hides, wool, and cashmere goods, from Mongolia to the Uzbek market and decided to organize a "Made in Uzbekistan" Trade Fair in Ulaanbaatar this year.

Emphasizing the importance of developing cooperation in transportion, the two sides agreed to launch regular flights on the Ulaanbaatar-Tashkent route in the second half of this year as part of the implementation of the "Agreement on Aviation Relations" signed during the State Visit by President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa to Uzbekistan in 2024.

Also, the first session of the Mongolia-Uzbekistan Joint Committee on Transport was held. The two sides agreed to establish a new road corridor and routes connecting the two countries and to initiate pilot transport of goods. The two sides agreed to expand cooperation in the energy and mining sectors, particularly in geological surveys, exploration, extraction, processing, and mineral beneficiation.

Additionally, the two sides agreed to deepen cooperation in education, culture, science, and technology by fostering collaboration among relevant institutions, research centers, and universities of the two countries. They also decided to enhance academic exchanges and organize joint symposiums, scientific conferences, concerts, and cultural days.

The two parties agreed to align Mongolia’s “Billion Trees” National Movement, initiated by the President of Mongolia, with Uzbekistan’s “Green Space” project. As part of this cooperation, the two countries will work on introducing Uzbek fruit tree saplings to Mongolia, establishing a model horticultural farm in the Gobi region of Mongolia, developing new sapling greenhouse farms, and exploring the possibility of creating a “Mongolia-Uzbekistan Friendship Park.”

During its regular session on February 12, 2025, the Cabinet of Mongolia authorized the State Property Policy and Regulation Department, Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC, Mongolian Railway state-owned JSC, and Tavan Tolgoi Railway LLC to finance the Bagakhangai-Khushig Valley Railway Project with the net profit of “Mongolian Railway” JSC and “Tavan Tolgoi Railway” LLC in 2024, investments in 2025, and leveraging domestic resources.

“Mongolian Railway” Company will be responsible for the construction and operation of the Bagakhangai-Khushig Valley Railway in compliance with relevant laws, international standards, and quality requirements.

The Bagakhangai-Kushig Valley Railway will branch from the Bagakhangai station of the "Ulaanbaatar Railway" JV and pass through Selenge soum of Tuv aimag to Khushig Valley and reach Shuvuun Fabric, for a total of 102.8 km. The railway is planned to have three stations and four junctions. The project will be implemented in two phases.

The relevant officials have been instructed to promptly issue the technical conditions and relevant permits required for the construction of the railway infrastructure, and its components, including engineering facilities, energy, water supply, stations, crossings, and other buildings, according to the appropriate regulations.

Secretary General of the Mongolian Red Cross Society, Bolormaa Nordov, has voiced Mongolia’s readiness to expand cooperation with the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS).

Lauding the capabilities of IRCS in addressing hazards, Nordov said, “Mongolia is one of the most disaster-prone areas in the world, with harsh winter. We are interested in benefiting from the experiences, and capacities of the Iranian Red Crescent Society, particularly in providing relief services,” Mehr news agency reported.

The official made the remarks on Tuesday in an online meeting with the head of the IRCS, Pirhossein Kolivand.

“The Mongolian Red Cross Society is responsible for people’s health and well-being. We are willing to utilize the Iranian Red Crescent Society's knowledge in medical and pharmaceutical sectors, as well,” Nordov further noted.

Highlighting the significance of boosting synergy among international societies, Kolivand, for his part, proposed running a joint university to train participants on the critical actions required to respond to emergencies, disasters, and accidents.

Establishing joint medical centers, pharmaceutical and textile companies, as well as launching health tourism comprehensive centers were among other suggested issues for the expansion of collaborations.

The official went on to say that the IRCS quick response teams are ready to provide assistance to other societies in any part of the world, highlighting that one of the main objectives of the IRCS is to educate and empower other societies.

Signing a memorandum of understanding will facilitate and lay the basis for furthering cooperation, Kolivand added.

IRCS is a top organization

In September 2024, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) project manager, Faisal Mahboob, lauded the capabilities of the IRCS as outstanding.

The official said he was really impressed by the capacity and the wide range of activities carried out by the IRCS.

“The International Federation will support the activities of the Iranian Red Crescent Society to commence a new phase of collaboration with the society,” Mahboob added, the IRCS website reported.

In May 2024, Pir-hossein Kolivand, head of the IRCS, said the IRCS is recognized as one of the five prominent societies worldwide thanks to its wide range of activities and great achievements both nationally and internationally.

Referring to health, treatment, and rehabilitation as one of the parts of the IRCS activities, Kolivand said the IRCS hospitals, pharmacies, and clinics meet the medical and therapeutic needs of thousands of citizens every day.

The IRCS medical centers abroad are reputable worldwide. As a humanitarian organization, the IRCS is trying to alleviate the suffering of the people involved in accidents, emergencies, and conflicts.

“Today, collaborations with knowledge-based firms have resulted in advancements in manufacturing orthoses, prostheses, artificial organs, and new medications, with plans to extend cooperation to rescue and relief efforts as well,” the official noted.

IRCS signs MOUs with 19 societies over three years

The IRCS has signed memorandums of understanding with red crescent societies of 19 countries over the past three years to expand and enhance cooperation in humanitarian as well as rescue and relief operations.

The IRCS looks forward to boosting cooperation with other societies to promote awareness, resilience, and capabilities of the societies in confrontation with disasters and the provision of relief services.

Mongolia's inflation rate, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose to 9.6 percent in January, up from 9.0 percent in December 2024, local media reported on Thursday, citing official data by the country's National Statistics Office (NSO).

This represents a 2.0 percentage-point rise compared to the same period last year, the NSO noted. The increase in inflation was primarily driven by higher prices for imported goods, particularly food products, according to the statistical agency.

Mongolia's consumer goods and services basket comprises 410 items, with over half of them being imported, the NSO said.

Despite the recent inflationary pressures, the government remains optimistic about the country's economic outlook and has forecast an inflation rate of around 7.2 percent for 2025.

The Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting was held in the Philippines on February 5-7, Montsame reported.

During the meeting, Head of the Office of the General Election Commission (GEC) of Mongolia D. Bat-Erdene, and Foreign Relations and Cooperation Officer B. Uyanga, participated in ministerial level discussions, interviews, and meetings, where the officials introduced electoral legal reforms and shared experiences of Mongolia.

The General Election Commission of Mongolia has become the first in Asia to join the Open Government Partnership's newly launched Online Platform for Publishing Political Finance Data, which has been in effect since 2024. The OGP's oversight committee reviewed the GEC’s initiative and officially certified Mongolia's participation during the conference.

More than 800 representatives from governments, civil societies, and international organizations across the Asia-Pacific region participated in the Open Government Partnership Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting Philippines 2025. Discussions focused on strengthening democracy, enhancing transparency and accountability in governance, and addressing challenges in implementing open and transparent government initiatives in the region, according to the GEC.

UNDP’s “Climate Promise-2” project, funded by the Government of Germany, organized the “Advancing Gender Integration in Climate Action: Insights from the Gender Target Gap Assessment” workshop to raise awareness of ongoing efforts in developing Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) 3.0, with a particular focus on integrating gender considerations into climate policies and actions.

The workshop brought together diverse stakeholders from sectoral ministries, development partners, civil society organizations, and experts to present key findings from the Gender Target Gap Assessment. Participants also discussed gaps, challenges, and opportunities for mainstreaming gender in climate policies and emphasized the need for stronger gender-responsive indicators in Mongolia’s NDCs and explored ways to enhance collaboration for more inclusive and equitable climate action.

Mongolia's effort and commitment to developing NDC 3.0 and adopting the Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS), a national strategy for economy-wide transformation toward low-emission, climate-resilient development, reflects its dedication to global climate goals.

Under the Climate Promise 2025 Initiative, the UN, including UNDP, is supporting countries in aligning NDC 3.0 with the 1.5°C global target and the Sustainable Development Goals, while strengthening their quality, investment potential, and implementation. Through the "Climate Promise–2" project, UNDP has been supporting Mongolia in developing more gender-sensitive and inclusive climate commitments, ensuring alignment with the country’s long-term development priorities under Vision 2050.

Ms. Lakshmi Boojoo, Advisor on Gender Issues to the Minister for Environment and Climate Change, stated “Gender-responsive climate policies are key to ensuring that no one is left behind in Mongolia’s transition to a low-emission and climate-resilient future. Today’s workshop presents a platform to address gaps, enhance commitments, and advance inclusive climate action.”

UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Mongolia Ms. Lin Cao stated “This year marks the 10th Anniversary of the Paris Agreement, and it is critical to demonstrate that its promises are not only viable but transformative. Achieving this will require not just ambition but also tangible financial investments and stronger partnerships—both public and private—to show a clear pathway forward on climate action and SDG achievement. Every country has a role to play, and Mongolia’s contribution is vital.”

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About UNDP

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.

For further inquiries:

Erdenesukh Otgonbayar | Communications Analyst | UNDP in Mongolia | erdenesukh.otgonbayar@undp.org