ADB to continue supporting sustainable tourism in eastern Mongolia under New Country Partnership Strategy

Khentii province—the birthplace of Chinggis Khan—is getting ready to welcome more tourists, with the support of an ADB-financed project, participants heard.

“ADB’s consultation event in eastern provinces coincides with the launch of the new country partnership strategy on 6 September, under which ADB will support social development and a climate-friendly, diverse economy,” said ADB Deputy Country Director for Mongolia Declan Magee. “One of the areas supported under the new strategy is developing the tourism industry to create more jobs and revenue for local economies, which was highlighted at today’s discussion by all governors.”

The event started with presentations by the provincial governors’ offices on the impact of and lessons from ADB-financed programs and projects. High-level representatives of parliament, project executing agencies, and governors of the three provinces discussed development objectives and the resources, including much-needed human resources.

The eastern region of Mongolia is known for its endless steppes, extinct volcanoes, and large herds of white-tail gazelles. It is also the least densely populated region of the country with 0.8 persons per square kilometer of land. Operation of major public and private infrastructure and tourism projects planned in the region will increase the demand for a highly trained and skilled labor force. Education, training, and retention of a skilled labor force is a critical issue for all sectors. The participants of today’s consultation emphasized that ADB’s support to human and social development is indispensable./.