A symbol of the Strategic Partnership between Mongolia and the United States, the newly constructed Advanced Water Purification Plant (AWPP) officially opened its doors today. The plant was built under the Second Compact Agreement between the Government of Mongolia and the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC).
The opening ceremony was attended by the President of Mongolia, H.E. Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, the U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia, Richard Buangan, MCC Acting Chief Executive Officer Dan Petrie, and other high-level officials from both nations, who formally inaugurated the plant’s operations.
Key Project Outcomes:
• Water Supply & Security: By increasing Ulaanbaatar’s total water supply by up to 80%, the project ensures a sustainable supply of high-quality drinking water for 2.4 million citizens over the next 30 years, effectively preventing a looming water shortage.
• Technological Advancement: This marks the first introduction of world-class advanced water purification and wastewater recycling technologies in Mongolia. The system is set to save 18 million cubic meters of fresh groundwater annually.
• Enhanced Accessibility: 180 water kiosks in the ger districts have been fully automated, providing residents with 24/7 seamless access to clean water.
• Economic & Human Capital: The construction phase created over 8,200 jobs, 92% of which were held by Mongolians. Furthermore, 187 local engineers and technical staff were specialized through professional capacity-building programs.
Financed with a total investment of $461.7 million ($350 million grant from the U.S. Government and $111.7 million from the Government of Mongolia), this mega-project stands as a historic milestone for the “Strategic Third Neighbor Partnership” and the enduring friendship between the two nations.