The Standing Committee on State Structure, chaired by MP J. Bat-Erdene, convened a working group to review a proposal submitted through the public petition system by citizen N. Ankhzaya. The petition requested the removal of the clause to reopen Naransevstei Border Port.

The working group, which met today, included MPs B. Batbaatar, B. Bayarbaatar, E. Bolormaa, and J. Zoljargal, as well as petitioner N. Ankhzaya, G. Galtaihuu (President of the Mongolian Environmental Citizens’ Council NGO), Executive Director Ch. Dulmaa, researcher Dr. B. Mijiddorj, lawyer G. Dambadarjaa, and representatives from local communities.

Dr. B. Mijiddorj presented the primary reasons for opposing the reopening of the Naransevstei Border Port. He explained that reopening the port would severely impact the integrity of the Great Gobi “A” Strictly Protected Area, the largest of the four desert reserves. The region is home to critically endangered species, including the Gobi bear (Mazaalai) and the wild Bactrian camel, whose populations could face significant decline or extinction. Additionally, decades of conservation efforts could be undone, leading to irreversible ecological damage.

He further discussed the potential unquantifiable consequences on the biodiversity of the protected area and cited negative outcomes from the port's operation in 1992 and 1993.

Petitioner N. Ankhzaya, a biologist by profession, stated that she submitted the request on behalf of younger generations to protect Mongolia's unique ecosystems, particularly areas being prepared for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List. She emphasized her firsthand experience in research conducted within the Great Gobi Strictly Protected Area as a motivating factor.

Lawyer G. Dashdemberel presented an analysis of how reopening Naransevstei Border Port could lead to violations of Mongolia’s Constitution and international agreements and conventions.

MPs engaged in discussions, asking questions and receiving clarifications regarding the presented information. The working group agreed to further review related documents and evidence before making a final decision.