ULAN BATOR, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia has observed World Water Day, aiming to raise public awareness about the importance of water, the country's Ministry of Environment and Climate Change said on Sunday.
The ministry urged the public to recognize the value of water, promote its responsible use, and actively participate in protecting water resources.
Meetings and conferences were also held on this day to focus on the rational accumulation, equitable distribution, and efficient use of water resources, as well as strengthening intersectoral coordination, the ministry added.
In addition, Mongolian Prime Minister Gombojav Zandanshatar has instructed the Water Agency of Mongolia to collect water pollution fees from all companies that pollute water, according to the ministry.
Zandanshatar emphasized the need to consistently enforce the international principle that "the provider protects and the polluter pays."
World Water Day, observed annually on March 22 since 1993, is a United Nations observance that highlights the importance of freshwater. The theme for 2026 is "Water and Gender." ■