The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) of Mongolia, in collaboration with the United States Indo-Pacific Command, is preparing to host the “Gobi Wolf-2026” international disaster response exercise in Uvs Province. In connection with this event, a working group meeting to develop the exercise’s policy and program framework was held at NEMA from January 21 to 23.
Participants focused on designing the exercise program based on regional and local disaster types, risk factors, environmental and geographical conditions, and the needs for humanitarian assistance. The goal is to ensure that the exercise reflects real-world challenges and prepares all participating organizations for effective coordination in emergencies.
The exercise comes at a time when the frequency and severity of natural disasters in Mongolia and the region are increasing. Experts emphasize that international cooperation is crucial for strengthening disaster preparedness, emergency response coordination, and humanitarian aid delivery. The “Gobi Wolf” exercise is part of the broader “Pacific Resilience Exercise and Exchange Program”, which aims to enhance cooperation among national agencies, improve efficiency in delivering humanitarian assistance, and provide hands-on training for practical disaster response.
Uvs Province, located in western Mongolia, is characterized by its mountainous terrain, extensive river systems, lakes, and diverse ecosystems, including plains, river basins, and mountainous areas. While these features make it an ideal location for realistic training, they also increase the risk of hazards such as floods, blizzards, and severe weather events.
According to NEMA, the “Gobi Wolf-2026” exercise will allow participating agencies to test coordination under realistic disaster conditions, exchange experience and knowledge, and strengthen the capacity to respond to new challenges. The exercise is expected to foster long-term partnerships and further international collaboration in disaster management and humanitarian assistance.
