The seventeenth session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification officially commenced on August 17th in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. This two-week gathering operates under the theme "Restoring Land, Rekindling Hope," with discussions focused on rehabilitating degraded land, sustainable land management practices, building resilience against drought, and protecting and restoring grassland ecosystems.
UNCCD Executive Secretary Ibrahim Thiaw emphasized that land degradation and drought have evolved into immediate environmental concerns rather than distant issues. He noted that healthy land serves as the bedrock for robust food systems, resilient economies, and stable societies, underscoring why this conference must prioritize concrete implementation. At a time when multilateralism faces significant tests, this COP17 represents an opportunity to demonstrate that nations can collaborate effectively to deliver practical solutions that enhance people's lives.
Mongolia's Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Tseden Sandag-Ochir, highlighted that desertification, land degradation, and climate change constitute interconnected global challenges with far-reaching consequences extending beyond environmental impacts to encompass food security, economic stability, and human welfare. Consequently, COP17 provides a vital platform for strengthening international cooperation and advancing tangible solutions. As the host nation, Mongolia is committed to fostering constructive, consensus-based dialogue while ensuring inclusive participation from all parties and stakeholders.
This conference brings together representatives from all 197 parties to the Convention, alongside participants from United Nations agencies, international organizations, civil society groups, research institutions, and the private sector. Throughout the session, attendees will engage in plenary meetings, sessions of the Committee on Science and Technology, reviews by the Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Convention, and high-level segments.
The high-level segment will feature ministerial dialogues concentrating on innovative financing mechanisms, drought resilience, grassland restoration, and pastoralist livelihoods. Additionally, interactive forums will address critical topics including water resources, land and people, food systems, and soil health, exploring solutions driven by scientific advancement, policy frameworks, and technological innovation.
The Chinese government delegation will participate in high-level dialogues covering financing, drought resilience, and grassland issues. China plans to propose establishing an International Grassland Day as a key outcome for the long-term legacy of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. This initiative aims to sustain global momentum in deepening cooperation for grassland protection and restoration, contributing meaningfully to the implementation of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
During the opening ceremony, Mongolia's Prime Minister delivered remarks, while the China Pavilion opened its exhibits at the conference venue. Cultural performances by Mongolian artists added a vibrant dimension to the proceedings, celebrating the host nation's heritage as delegates began their intensive work toward advancing land restoration goals worldwide.