COP17 Transport & Access: Mongolia will run special passenger transport rules for UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar (Aug 17–28), including free shuttle buses from Chinggis Khaan International Airport and hotel-to-venue routes, plus traffic restrictions and parking closures around major trade areas. Health Budget Austerity (With an Exception): The Cabinet has moved into austerity mode through Dec 31, 2026, but says the health sector is exempt—keeping funding for salaries, pensions, and essential health actions like student screening, vaccinations, and seasonal flu prevention. Pharma Procurement Reform: Mongolia approved a regulation for single-source procurement of essential pharmaceuticals, medical devices, biological products, and vaccines, aiming to cut costs (MNT 3.15 billion saved) and reduce risks of counterfeit or substandard medicines. Air-Quality Home Retrofit Results: The EU SWITCH-Asia II SOAP II project (2022–2026) reports thousands of ger-area households received insulation and energy-efficiency upgrades, improving comfort and winter air quality. World Bank Health-Linked Support: World Bank Group Mongolia Country Manager Victoria Delmon presented credentials, highlighting over 100 Mongolia projects and more than USD 1.2 billion in concessional loans and USD 170 million in grants, including health sector work. Public Health Workforce Pay Pressure: Budget documents note a major May allocation to reduce salary disparities for teachers and healthcare workers, alongside a projected deficit driven by earlier tax collection.