Aviation & Trade: China’s homegrown COMAC C919 has made its first scheduled international commercial passenger flight, landing in Ulaanbaatar and launching the Beijing–Ulaanbaatar route under Air China, a major step for Mongolia’s connectivity. Energy & Industry: Mongolia’s PM and senior officials visited an India-constructed oil refinery project site, praising Indian engineers and pushing for faster completion, with plans to advance the project’s industrial-park status. Climate & Safety: Mongolia’s fuel shortages remain in the spotlight as drivers queue for gasoline, while separate reports highlight wildfire and extreme-rain risks across the region. Diplomacy & Development: The Asian Development Bank named a new Country Director for Mongolia, and Mongolia’s environment officials met China’s envoy ahead of COP17, outlining desertification-focused initiatives. Sports: Mongolian-born Joshoyu marked his pro sumo debut with a goal of reaching the top ranks quickly, and the Ulaanbaatar Amazons are set as top seed for the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series in Singapore. Geopolitics & Minerals: China’s Bayan Obo rare-earth mine in Inner Mongolia is set for a major expansion, underscoring the growing race for critical minerals.