The grassland fire in eastern Mongolia became a massive disaster, burning approximately 530,000 hectares. Amid claims that a Japanese company was responsible, a post by the Foreign Ministry's official X account has drawn criticism.
Amid reports that a Japanese company was responsible for the Mongolian grassland fire, a post by the Foreign Ministry's X account has caused a stir, prompting critical reactions from many people.
The massive fire that broke out on the 8th of this month in the Numrug Nature Reserve spread due to dry conditions and strong winds, ultimately burning approximately 530,000 hectares. About 80% of the nature reserve was lost, causing extensive damage to habitats for rare wildlife.
Vehicles belonging to Mobicom, a consolidated subsidiary of Japan's major telecommunications company KDDI, have been cited as the point of origin. There have been claims that multiple vehicles entered the core area of the reserve. KDDI announced an apology on the 20th and said it was conducting an on-site investigation.
The Mongolian government has indicated that it regards the situation as serious and intends to pursue the criminal liability of those involved and seek substantial damages. Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministry posted a call for designs for a Japan-Mongolia friendship logo, and its reposting of a soft-toned post drew criticism.