Ragchaa, the deputy commander of the Mongolian army headquarters, said the team includes builders and medical workers, the Xinhua news agency reported from the Mongolian capital Ulan Bator.

He told a press conference that the soldiers all volunteered but had to meet strict criteria, such as having served in the army for more than three years and being younger than 40.

Xinhua quoted him as saying they were prepared to work under tough conditions, but the Mongolian government reserved the right to withdraw its troops at any time.

According to Ragchaa, the Mongolians will stay in Iraq for six months and be engaged in protecting humanitarian aid, construction work and check-point duties.

No details were given on when they would leave.

WAR.WIRE