Mongolia News Summary for August 03, 2024

The following news articles are the opinions of their authors and publications. They are presented here as translations for informational purposes and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Mongolia Strategy Center or its members.

Today's Stories

Economy

• Notable achievements of Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC in the first half of 2024
• Bishrel Group Announces 100 Open Job Positions

Diplomacy

• 6th Northeast Asian Mayors' Forum Begins
• Speaker of the State Great Khural D.Amarbayasgalan Pays Courtesy Call on Swiss Confederation President Viola Amherd
• Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene Pays Courtesy Call on Swiss Confederation President Viola Amherd
• Viola Amherd: Switzerland and Mongolia are geographically distant, but democratic values bring us closer
• President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh and President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd Hold Official Meeting
• President of the Swiss Confederation Arrives in Mongolia

Infrastructure

• Part of Darkhan-Erdenet Highway Damaged Due to Flooding
• Kh.Nyambaatar: Ulaanbaatar city will solve its infrastructure challenges through public-private partnerships
• Bridge collapses on the road from Arvaikheer to Khujirt in Uvurkhangai province
• Road damage reported on Ulaanbaatar-Choir-Sainshand route with cracks in driving lanes and erosion of embankments
• Road from Household Services Intersection to Urgoo Cinema Intersection to be closed from 3rd to 6th of this month
• 14 Public Transport Routes to be Temporarily Changed Due to Road Repairs

Society

• Ts.Battsengel: Mongolians abroad want to come back and work in their homeland, but...
• 49,736 requests received for kindergarten registration in the capital within 24 hours

Environment

• Study: Citizens of China and Mongolia Inhale Over 2.8 Million Microplastics Monthly

Health

• Case of Measles Detected in Citizen Arriving from Abroad
• B.Bat-Erdene: We have released an early detection package focusing on diseases common among Mongolians
• NURA ZAYSAN CENTER for early detection and diagnosis, serving 40,000 people annually, opens
• Model Integrated Hospital in Khan-Uul District to be Operational by 2026
• Nura Zaisan Center to Perform Early Detection and Diagnosis for 30-40 Thousand People Annually

Sports

• Will Mongolian long-distance shooters win their first Olympic medal?

Arts

• President of the Swiss Confederation Visits Chinggis Khaan National Museum
• Exhibition on Mongolian History to be Displayed at Rietberg Museum in Zurich in 2025

Economy

Notable achievements of Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC in the first half of 2024

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

For Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC, the first half of 2024 was a period when major projects were put into operation, and the company's core indicators increased, surpassing previous achievements. While 11.9 million tons of coal were mined and 12.3 million tons of coal were sold in the first half of the previous year, this year's first half saw 17.1 million tons of coal mined and 16.8 million tons of coal sold, exceeding the same period last year by 30-40 percent.

The company operated with a profit of 3.5 trillion tugriks last year and paid 2.8 trillion tugriks in taxes, while in the first half of this year, it contributed 2.0 trillion tugriks in taxes to the state budget.

Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC organized 27 open electronic coal auctions through the Mongolian Stock Exchange in the first half of 2024, selling 10.8 million tons of coal worth 1.2 billion US dollars through the exchange. Within the framework of the policy pursued by the State Great Khural and the Government of Mongolia to sell coal at border conditions and increase foreign currency inflows, since the start of exchange trading in February 2023, Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC has successfully organized a total of 95 auctions, trading 20.9 million tons of coal worth 2.5 billion US dollars through the exchange on a price-increasing principle.

Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC is implementing 10 major strategic projects and programs. On June 20, 2024, the opening ceremony was held to start the testing and adjustment work for the production of the first product of the coal enrichment plant, which is one of these projects and the first phase of the project started in 2022 with an annual capacity to enrich 10 million tons of coal. When the coal enrichment plant is fully operational, Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC plans to produce and sell an average of about 24 million tons of products annually, generating sales revenue of 1.9 billion US dollars, and contributing a total of 185.8 million US dollars to the state and local budgets in the form of taxes and fees. Moreover, the implementation of the project will support the socio-economic growth of the country and the region by creating 472-928 new direct jobs, reducing negative environmental impacts, and increasing the production of value-added products.

For the first time in Mongolia, the "Tavan Tolgoi Coal Loading Logistics Center" with fully automated engineering facilities was constructed and put into operation on May 27, 2024. This center has an annual capacity to transship 20 million tons of raw coal. The Tavan Tolgoi Coal Loading Logistics Center is a complex construction with 7 technological stages that receives raw coal mined from the West and East Tsankhi mines of the Tavan Tolgoi deposit, crushes and transports it, classifies and mixes it to supply the "Coal Enrichment" plant of Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC with raw coal, as well as prepares it for rail transport and loads it into wagons. With the commissioning of the Tavan Tolgoi Coal Loading Logistics Center, which has a fully automated system with complex engineering solutions, it will be possible to average coal that meets quality requirements, and it is a project that will extend the life of the Tavan Tolgoi deposit and mine, and bring low-quality coal into economic circulation.

The construction work of the 110/35/10kV 2x25MW substation, implemented and constructed by Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC to solve the power supply for the Tavan Tolgoi Production and Technology Park, the Coal Enrichment Plant being implemented within its framework, the Zag Water Pipeline water supply system, and future projects, has been 100% completed and was accepted for use by the State Commission's conclusion on May 07, 2024.

The construction work of the project to lay a pipeline from the "Zag Water Pipeline" deep water deposit with an approved reserve of 63.65 liters/second to the Tavan Tolgoi deposit, aimed at providing water to the Coal Enrichment Plant, has been 100% completed.

Bishrel Group Announces 100 Open Job Positions

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Bishrel Group, established in 1994 in the trade and services sector, has expanded its operations over the past 30 years to become one of Mongolia's largest groups, with 11 subsidiaries and over 700 employees. Bishrel Group employees enjoy incentive-based salaries, opportunities for learning and development, flexible schedules, and the ability to receive their earned salary at any time without waiting for payday, allowing employees to focus on their work.

In connection with the expansion of its operations, Bishrel Group is announcing 100 open job positions in its retail, hospitality, warehouse and distribution, luxury brand stores, and supermarket chain departments.

The open job fair will be held on August 5, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Bishrel Hotel, located east of the Tengis Cinema.

By attending this job fair, you will have the opportunity to learn about job openings in your area of interest and potentially be hired on the spot after an interview. If your close friends or acquaintances are looking for jobs, they can register through the following link: https://forms.gle/E3Bv7kRygBeDiuzbA

Contact phone numbers: 88129224, 80050422

Diplomacy

6th Northeast Asian Mayors' Forum Begins

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The 6th Northeast Asian Mayors' Forum commenced today. The forum is being held under the theme "Promoting and Implementing Sustainable Development and Public-Private Partnerships in Northeast Asian Cities."

This forum has been traditionally organized every two years since 2014 with the aim of addressing common issues facing Northeast Asian cities, promoting good practices, fostering joint development, and expanding regional cooperation.

Opening the forum, Kh. Nyambaatar, Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, said in his speech, "The next four years for the capital city of Ulaanbaatar will be years of great construction, rapid development, and prosperity. Ulaanbaatar is preparing for a brand new breakthrough, and in the short time since I became the mayor, I have initiated and developed more than 60 draft laws, which have been approved by the State Great Khural of Mongolia."

Speaker of the State Great Khural D.Amarbayasgalan Pays Courtesy Call on Swiss Confederation President Viola Amherd

Published: Sat, 03 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Speaker of the State Great Khural D.Amarbayasgalan paid a courtesy call today on Swiss Confederation President Viola Amherd, who is on a state visit to Mongolia at the invitation of Mongolian President U.Khurelsukh.

This visit is notable as it takes place within the framework of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Swiss Confederation.

President Viola Amherd congratulated Mongolia on the successful completion of the 9th regular parliamentary elections and wished success in further strengthening democracy, the rule of law, and the parliamentary system.

Speaker D.Amarbayasgalan expressed his pleasure that the common values such as democracy, human rights, freedom, and the rule of law are bringing our two countries closer together and strengthening cooperation in all areas, as reported by the Press and Public Relations Department of the State Great Khural.

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene Pays Courtesy Call on Swiss Confederation President Viola Amherd

Published: Sat, 03 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene paid a courtesy call on Viola Amherd, President of the Swiss Confederation, who is on a state visit to Mongolia, on August 2, 2024.

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene recalled his meeting with President Viola Amherd during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland last January, and emphasized the importance of this state visit in the history of bilateral relations.

During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on expanding and deepening relations and cooperation between Mongolia and Switzerland. In particular, they discussed aligning the long-term development policy goals of the two countries and implementing specific projects in trade, economy, investment, culture, heritage tourism, agriculture, sports, and humanitarian sectors.

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene highlighted that the Swiss Confederation is one of Mongolia's major foreign trade partners and expressed interest in expanding cooperation between mineral resource processing and banking and financial institutions.

Viola Amherd: Switzerland and Mongolia are geographically distant, but democratic values bring us closer

Published: Sat, 03 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh and President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd held an official meeting and briefed on the results.

President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd said in her briefing, "I am extremely happy to be visiting Mongolia today. It's hard to believe but true that this is the first visit at the level of Swiss President, despite our two countries having worked closely together for many years. I am very pleased and deeply honored that this visit marks an important event in the history of Swiss-Mongolian relations. With this visit, we are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations between our two countries and 20 years of work by the Development Cooperation Agency in Mongolia. At the same time, we are looking to the future and attaching great importance to defining the future relations between our two countries.

To this end, we have signed a Joint Declaration on Cooperation between the two countries and a Memorandum of Understanding on Democratic Governance. Countering the "decline of democracy worldwide" as warned by the UN is of utmost importance to Switzerland.

In addition to developing active political and legal relations, we are successfully implementing many projects and programs in the fields of health, trade and humanitarian affairs. We have also agreed to deepen bilateral and multilateral cooperation in other areas, which we have included in our Joint Declaration today. Switzerland and Mongolia have similar positions on many issues on the global stage. For example, both our countries are in favor of abolishing the death penalty worldwide. Ensuring peace and security is one of the pillars of Switzerland's multilateral foreign policy.

In this regard, I highly appreciate Mongolia's efforts for peace and stability, especially its contribution to UN peacekeeping operations. We also discussed the global security system. Although Switzerland and Mongolia are geographically distant, democratic values, the rule of law, and joint efforts on the international stage bring us closer. We have reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen this friendship and realize future opportunities."

President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh and President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd Hold Official Meeting

Published: Sat, 03 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh and President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd held an official meeting.

During the meeting, the Presidents expressed their satisfaction with the friendly relations between Mongolia and Switzerland, which are based on democratic values such as human rights, freedom, and the rule of law, expanding in the areas of politics, trade, economy, investment, culture, education, and humanitarian affairs.

President U. Khurelsukh noted that the Swiss side has consistently supported Mongolia's transition to democracy and market economy, and that projects and programs implemented in many areas of cooperation, including strengthening democratic governance, have made a significant contribution to the social and economic development of our country. The parties affirmed their commitment to consolidate the achievements of 60 years of cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic relations and to actively work in all areas of mutual interest in the future.

During the meeting, they discussed joint implementation of proposals and initiatives put forward by both sides at the international and regional levels, and contributing to the efforts of the international community to address global challenges such as climate change, desertification, and environmental degradation.

President of the Swiss Confederation Arrives in Mongolia

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd has arrived in Mongolia for a state visit at the invitation of Mongolian President U. Khurelsukh.

This visit marks the first state visit at the presidential level from the Swiss Confederation and is particularly significant as it takes place within the framework of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Mongolia and the Swiss Confederation established diplomatic relations on May 22, 1964, and have maintained friendly relations and cooperation since then.

The official welcoming ceremony for the President of the Swiss Confederation, Viola Amherd, will be held at Sukhbaatar Square at 13:00.

Infrastructure

Part of Darkhan-Erdenet Highway Damaged Due to Flooding

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Due to continuous rain over the past two days, roads and bridges have been damaged and washed away by floods, creating dangerous conditions.

On the A1001 paved highway from Darkhan to Erdenet, at kilometers 60-63, prolonged rain has caused flooding that has washed away the side slopes and backfill of two reinforced concrete pipes, as well as eroding side ditches and slopes.

The Road Transport Development Center reported that the organization responsible for that section is conducting inspections to determine the type of damage.

Therefore, citizens are warned to adjust their speed and drive carefully on local roads.

Kh.Nyambaatar: Ulaanbaatar city will solve its infrastructure challenges through public-private partnerships

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The 6th Northeast Asian Mayors' Forum is continuing in Ulaanbaatar. This year's forum is discussing the topic "Promoting and implementing sustainable development and public-private partnerships in Northeast Asian cities."

The first presentation of the forum was given by Kh.Nyambaatar, Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, on the topic "Sustainable Development and Public-Private Partnerships." In his presentation, he said, "I am working as the governor of the world's coldest capital, where the ground temperature reaches -40 degrees. I would like to emphasize that you have arrived in Ulaanbaatar at the most pleasant time. There is evidence that urbanization is continuously progressing in Northeast Asia, with many cities the size of New York City in the United States, with populations of 5-8 million, emerging. A city is a living organism, so it has developed in many colors and styles such as happiness, frustration, leisure, and busyness. Cities have existed through any stage of development and many challenges. For example, air pollution is a big issue. Issues such as urban planning, infrastructure, housing, and public transportation that follow it exist in cities founded 200 years ago and in cities that laid their foundations 20 years ago. The issues facing cities are being discussed, and further, the resilience of cities to disasters and challenges is being raised sharply. Climate change is the biggest challenge facing the world. 2023 was the warmest year. While extreme climate warming is causing fires on the American continent, Asia and Africa were facing droughts and flood hazards. Disaster-related losses have been steadily increasing since 2016, reaching $500 billion annually. The government alone cannot overcome this big challenge. Going forward, Ulaanbaatar city has issued a call to solve all this through public-private partnerships and has invited you all. The State Great Khural of Mongolia has given Ulaanbaatar city the right to implement public-private partnerships. Therefore, we want to hear more about the experiences of cities that have achieved success through public-private partnerships at this forum. The Government of Mongolia has declared 2024 as the 'Year of Supporting Regional Development' to implement the 'Vision 2050' long-term development policy and the 'New Revival Policy's' Urban and Rural Revival goals, and to ensure urban-rural balance. Within the framework of regional development, it is not possible to solve the investment required to create public infrastructure necessary for basic social needs, ensuring inter-sectoral coordination, solely from budget sources. There is a real need to attract private sector investment. Therefore, by making relevant legal changes, we plan to overcome the pressing infrastructure issues of the capital city and regions of Mongolia based on public-private partnerships. We will work to fully carry the trust of citizens, businesses, domestic and foreign investors by taking public-private partnerships to a new level to optimally identify the limiting factors of urban development and pressing issues through evidence-based research and analysis, and to solve the causes of problems."

St. Petersburg and Seoul cities shared their experiences of success through public-private partnerships

Continuing, Enokaev Valentin Kemilevich, Chairman of the Transport Committee of St. Petersburg, Russia, shared his city's successful experience in attracting private investment on the topic "Supporting and effectively utilizing public-private partnerships in the field of infrastructure and transport development." In his presentation, he highlighted that there are real examples of implementing projects through public-private partnerships in St. Petersburg. He emphasized that their city is implementing major projects such as the agreement to create, renovate, and use facilities belonging to Pulkovo Airport within the framework of public-private partnerships, the concession agreement to build a tram line from Balkan Square through Shushary village to Slavyanka micro-district, the concession agreement to create, renovate, and use the tram network in the Krasnogvardeysky district of St. Petersburg, and the Western High-Speed Diameter.

Lee Jin-gu, Director of the Transportation Department of Seoul City Administration, South Korea, introduced the exemplary projects being implemented in the city's transport sector through public-private partnerships on the topic "Developing sustainable transport in Seoul through public-private partnerships." The capital city of South Korea, Seoul, started public transport reform in 2004. In this context, they have successfully introduced public bus services, smart transport cards or smart payment systems, innovation-based unlimited transfer "Climate Cards" and urban rail networks, especially light rail transit (LRT).

L. Khosbayar: Private sector participation plays a crucial role in solving urban waste

Then, L. Khosbayar, Deputy Governor of the Capital City for Social Sector, Green Development and Air, Environmental Pollution Issues, gave a presentation on "Ulaanbaatar City's Waste Management."

In his presentation, he said, "One of the biggest issues of urbanization is waste. This is also one of the pressing issues for Ulaanbaatar city. Our city's centralized waste points receive 1.5 million tons of waste per year, of which most, or over 80 percent, is buried in landfills. Waste has increased by 18.3 percent in the last five years, which is a sensitive topic of urbanization. We only recycle 11.4 percent of this waste. Increasing the proportion of recycled waste is the main goal. In this context, we are working towards the goal of burying a maximum of eight percent of our total waste in landfills by 2040. Our country has relatively well reflected in its legal documents about recycling waste rather than burying it. The 'Vision 2050', 'New Revival Policy', Government Action Plan for 2024, and the Capital City Governor's Action Plan specifically mention recycling waste and producing energy from waste to reduce greenhouse gases. Following the good practices of countries around the world, Mongolia and Ulaanbaatar city are working on the principle of moving from burying waste to recycling. Projects to generate energy from waste and recycle will be implemented through public-private partnerships. The Law on Public-Private Partnerships, which came into effect on January 1 this year, specifically mentions this. In short, we will work by combining state control and private sector skills to support innovation. By exchanging views on innovative solutions, best practices, and lessons from Northeast Asian cities, we will have the opportunity to work together to create a more livable, greenhouse gas-reducing, environmentally friendly city. I would like to propose the following suggestions at the end of my presentation.

1. There is a legal need to amend laws such as the Waste Law and the Condominium Law to reflect waste management more clearly and optimally.
2. There is a need to support waste processing plants through state policy.
3. It is necessary to support citizens, businesses, and organizations that have introduced zero-waste technology through state policy.
4. There is a need to establish factories with advanced technology.
5. Along with implementing state policies to increase our current 11.4 percent annual recycling rate, we need to improve the management of the existing system.

I urge the guests participating in the meeting to intensify cooperation between cities and work together. In this context, I am confident that we will work together on Ulaanbaatar city's waste issues by improving public-private and international cooperation."

This forum has been traditionally organized every two years since 2014 to promote common issues facing Northeast Asian cities, showcase good practices of cities, develop together in the future, and expand regional cooperation. The forum continues.

Bridge collapses on the road from Arvaikheer to Khujirt in Uvurkhangai province

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

A bridge has collapsed on the road from Arvaikheer to Khujirt in Uvurkhangai province due to heavy rain, according to the Emergency Management Agency of the province.

Therefore, citizens, passengers, and travelers are advised to ensure the complete safety of their vehicles, calculate their crossing ability, and carry towing ropes and cables.

They also warned against traveling in this direction unless absolutely necessary.

Road damage reported on Ulaanbaatar-Choir-Sainshand route with cracks in driving lanes and erosion of embankments

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Due to heavy rain yesterday, cracks have appeared in the driving lanes at the 225 km mark of the A0101 and A0102 Ulaanbaatar-Choir-Sainshand highway.

Additionally, erosion damage has occurred to the embankments and side slopes at the 233 km mark.

Therefore, the Road and Transport Development Center advises drivers and transporters to adjust their speed and exercise caution when traveling on this route.

https://fb.watch/tI4FiX_H_H/

Warning

Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social and Web pages) must always cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in whole or in part in any form!

Road from Household Services Intersection to Urgoo Cinema Intersection to be closed from 3rd to 6th of this month

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Mayor's Office of Ulaanbaatar City has announced that the road from the Household Services intersection to the Urgoo Cinema intersection in Bayangol district will be closed for renovation from 23:00 on August 3rd to 06:00 on August 6th.

The road will be paved with asphalt concrete, and the work will include adjusting manhole covers to the paving level, replacing barriers, and installing signs and markings.

Warning

Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social and Web pages) must always cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, in whole or in part!

14 Public Transport Routes to be Temporarily Changed Due to Road Repairs

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Public Transport Policy Department (PTPD) has announced that 14 public transport routes will be temporarily changed due to road repair work.

Specifically: * Bayangol district, 8th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 32nd khoroos * Enkh-Taivan Avenue * Partial repair and renovation of Ard Ayush Avenue

The road will be closed from 23:00 tomorrow until 06:00 on August 6th.

Therefore, 14 public transport routes that use this road will be temporarily changed. During the road closure period, public transport vehicles will serve citizens according to the following diagrams.

Public transport routes to be temporarily changed:

1. Route 73 "Zunjin Shopping Center - Thermal Power Plant 4"
2. Route 69b "Viva City Complex-Mungun Zavyaa-Bumbuger-Trauma Hospital"
3. Route 39 "Sansar – 3,4th Microdistrict"
4. Route 38 "HMK – Sapporo – 3,4th Microdistrict – Khailaast"
5. Route 24b "Thermal Power Plant 4 - 3,4th Microdistrict - Gandan"
6. Route 24a "Zurkh Uul (Chingeltei) - 3,4th Microdistrict (terminus)"
7. M:4 "Tsambaragav-Trauma Hospital-Big Circle-Sharkhad"
8. Route 4 "5 Shar - 3,4th Microdistrict - Sansar Circle"
9. Route 81 "3,4th Microdistrict-Yarmag 1st Stop"
10. Route 2 "Ch2 Sharkhad-MUBIS-3,4th Microdistrict"
11. Route 58 "3,4th Microdistrict – Thermal Power Plant-3"
12. Route 54 "Yarmag – 10th Microdistrict – 3,4th Microdistrict – Zuragt - Bayanhoshuu"
13. Route 20a Bayanhoshuu – 3,4th Microdistrict – Unor Complex (back) - Geological Central Laboratory
14. Route 21b "Bulgi 19th Street – 3,4th Microdistrict – Railway Station

Source: Public Transport Policy Department

Society

Ts.Battsengel: Mongolians abroad want to come back and work in their homeland, but...

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The "United Meeting of Overseas Mongolians" is being held today at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The meeting is organized jointly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the "Council of Overseas Mongolians" NGO to discuss pressing issues and solutions.

During this time, Ts.Battsengel, a citizen residing in Germany, clarified: "For my part, I established a Cultural School in Düsseldorf, Germany, teaching Mongolian language and writing lessons to Mongolian children.

Our school has been operating for 11 years. Children who go abroad have limited opportunities to learn their mother tongue and culture. That's why this type of activity is considered crucial.

Mongolians are adaptable and have great potential wherever they go. Mongolians abroad want to come back and work in their homeland. However, there are issues that, although small, affect the quality of human life.

Traffic, wages, and so on. At the very least, is the salary received sufficient for living? There are also issues such as education and health care."

S.Tserendemberel, a member of the Board of Directors of the Overseas Mongolians Council, clarified: "The number of Mongolians working and living abroad, and heading to foreign countries, is increasing year by year.

When the "Council of Overseas Mongolians" NGO was established 10 years ago, there was an estimate that fewer than 100,000 Mongolians were abroad. This numerical data has changed, and today more than 240,000 Mongolians are living abroad.

In other words, 6-7 percent of Mongolia's total population is living in other countries. They face issues such as:

• Children's language and culture
• Residence documents
• Settling in their homeland

There are many Mongolians interested in returning to live and settle in Mongolia.

Young people who have received education in foreign countries are eager to use what they have learned for the development of their homeland. However, there is a lack of environment and conditions to receive them, and policies to support and assist them."

He also said, "Mongolians are scattered and settled in more than 70 countries around the world. Education is a common issue for Mongolians living abroad.

One of the directions of our activities is the education committee. Currently, we are conducting activities aimed at Mongolian children in 39 schools in 16 countries.

The government has taken measures to improve teachers' teaching methods and provide e-textbooks to children. This year, an important step was taken when the Education Law was amended to include a provision to support cultural centers and educational centers abroad."

49,736 requests received for kindergarten registration in the capital within 24 hours

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The registration for kindergartens in the capital city began on August 1st at 09:00.

As of 09:00 today, which is within 24 hours, official sources report that 49,736 requests have been received for kindergarten registration in the capital.

Specifically:

• 10,977 two-year-olds
• 12,268 three-year-olds
• 13,089 four-year-olds
• 13,398 five-year-olds have applied for registration.

Requests for kindergarten registration will be accepted through the E-Mongolia platform until August 18th.

Environment

Study: Citizens of China and Mongolia Inhale Over 2.8 Million Microplastics Monthly

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

A recent study published in the journal "Environmental Science & Technology" by scientists from Cornell University analyzed data from around the world to determine the countries most exposed to microplastics.

Exposure to microplastics depends on various factors, according to study co-author Fengqi Yu, who spoke to "Newsweek" magazine. Direct factors include microplastics contained in food. Citizens of Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines consume the most microplastics. The study shows that Indonesians consume 15 grams of microplastics per month, more than other countries, with most coming from water-based sources such as seafood.

Mongolia and China were named as the countries where people inhale the most microplastics. Citizens of these two countries inhale over 2.8 million microplastics per month. Ireland ranks second, inhaling 791,500 particles per month, with Great Britain ranking third.

Researchers warn that while microplastic levels in the US are lower compared to other major plastic consumers in Asia, this could increase as plastic consumption grows. To reduce microplastic contamination from food products, it's necessary to use reusable non-plastic materials, especially glass and metal containers, during food processing, storage, and consumption.

Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than five millimeters. They can be found in industrial waste, beauty products, or can be created when larger plastic waste breaks down. These plastic particles contain chemicals that can disrupt our body's natural hormone secretion, increasing the risk of reproductive disorders and certain cancers. Microplastics are present in our surroundings, food, water, and even air. In fact, some estimates suggest we swallow the equivalent of one credit card of plastic every week. The amount of microplastics we consume also varies greatly depending on our location.

Health

Case of Measles Detected in Citizen Arriving from Abroad

Published: Sat, 03 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

A case of measles has been detected in a citizen who arrived from abroad.

A citizen suspected of having measles was quarantined at the National Center for Communicable Diseases on July 30. As the case has been confirmed, the Ministry of Health held a press conference.

The quarantined citizen is a 47-year-old man who traveled to the USA and Kazakhstan before arriving in Ulaanbaatar from Almaty. His test results confirmed measles. A risk assessment determined it to be medium risk, moving to the first level of activation, officials said.

As a result, 52 close contacts have been identified, and their contacts, numbering over 100 people, have been identified and are starting to be vaccinated as a precaution against infection. Dr. J. Baigalmaa, Director of the NCCD, noted that measles vaccination is required within 72 hours of contact.

As of 2023, over 330,000 confirmed cases of measles were reported in 173 countries, while in the first seven months of 2024, over 200,000 of 341,000 suspected cases have been confirmed in 178 countries. Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Yemen, Iraq, Romania, Equatorial Guinea, and Armenia are among the countries with the highest measles activity. Therefore, medical professionals advise people traveling to these countries to get vaccinated against measles.

Since measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease, officials advise people to maintain good personal hygiene and wear masks in public places. The measles vaccine schedule includes shots at 9 months and 2 years of age. If not vaccinated, experts recommend getting vaccinated at the nearest health facility or family health center. Due to the increase in global outbreaks of the disease last year, the Ministry of Health provided additional immunization to over 300,000 children.

B.Bat-Erdene: We have released an early detection package focusing on diseases common among Mongolians

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The "MEDSCAN" early detection center, which provides two types of health care services consisting of package tests and diagnostic tests in one place, opened today.

Regarding the equipment, it was emphasized that they are all brand new, state-of-the-art technologies based on artificial intelligence, including magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, X-ray, ultrasound, electrocardiogram, eye endoscopy and other laboratory tests.

They have also managed to solve all the steps of how patients make appointments and get examined in a very understandable way. They have created the opportunity for patients to receive all types of services within 90 minutes.

B.Bat-Erdene, Executive Director of the "MEDSCAN" Early Detection Center, said "We have four types of diagnostic packages: basic, cardiovascular, brain and spine, and cancer.

The basic package includes tests to examine the general condition of the body. We have separate packages for cardiovascular, brain, spine and cancer as these are diseases commonly occurring among Mongolians.

Mongolians say 'Disease comes unexpectedly, not by announcing itself'. By the time symptoms appear, the disease is often advanced. Therefore, it is important to get regular check-ups to prevent disease. People regularly take their cars for diagnostics but don't check their own bodies until one day the disease has worsened. By getting regular check-ups, you can prevent serious illnesses."

PACKAGE TESTS

BASIC PACKAGE /550,000₮/ - Laboratory test: Detailed test with 26 indicators

Instrumental tests: - Electrocardiogram - Bone density determination - Preventive eye examination - Ultrasound examination /ECHO/ - X-ray examination /Chest, back/

General doctor's conclusion and advice

CARDIOVASCULAR PACKAGE /650,000₮/ - Laboratory test: Detailed test with 26 indicators

Instrumental tests: - Electrocardiogram - Bone density determination - Preventive eye examination - Color Doppler echocardiography /ECHO/ - Computed tomography /Cardiac/

General doctor's conclusion and advice

BRAIN AND SPINE PACKAGE /750,000₮/ - Laboratory test: Detailed test with 29 indicators

Instrumental tests: - Electrocardiogram - Bone density determination - Preventive eye examination - Ultrasound examination /ECHO/ - X-ray examination /Chest/ - Magnetic resonance imaging /Head, spine/

General doctor's conclusion and advice

CANCER PACKAGE /850,000₮/ - Laboratory test: Detailed test with 31 indicators and five cancer markers

Instrumental tests: - Electrocardiogram - Bone density determination - Preventive eye examination - Ultrasound examination /ECHO/ - Computed tomography /Chest, abdomen/

General doctor's conclusion and advice

Digital address: MedScan medscan.mn Phone: 7777 2221 Address: Medscan Center, Manlaibatar Damdinsuren Street, 43rd khoroo, Bayanzurkh district, Ulaanbaatar city, Mongolia

NURA ZAYSAN CENTER for early detection and diagnosis, serving 40,000 people annually, opens

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Tavan Bogd Group, in collaboration with FUJIFILM Corporation, a world leader in medical equipment manufacturing, opened its second health early detection and diagnostic center, the Nura Zaysan branch, on August 1.

The Nura Zaysan branch is unique in its ability to serve many people simultaneously, with high capacity, fully equipped with the latest equipment, and capable of serving 40,000 people annually.

During the opening, Tavan Bogd Group President Ts. Baatarsaikhan said, "Since the opening of the Nura Mongolia Center in September 2023, more than 15,000 people have been screened for health. We consider this result as our contribution to changing the public perception of early detection by eliminating the stereotypical notion that 'it's useless to go to the hospital unless seriously ill or that it takes many days to get an examination at the hospital'. Today, we are pleased to open our NURA ZAYSAN center, which is twice as large as our first center and has the capacity to examine 40,000 people annually.

I am pleased to announce that over 300 medical staff are currently working at the two branches of the Nura Mongolia Center. On this occasion, I would like to sincerely thank all the government and non-governmental organizations that have supported and collaborated with us, the partner and contractor organizations that have worked hand in hand in a short time to open the Nura Zaysan center, and all our business partners who work with us for the health of their employees."

Goto Teichi, President of FUJIFILM Holdings, who was invited from Japan, shared his impressions: "Due to the large number of clients served by the Nura Center and the 100% continuity of operations, we decided to open our second center. Last year, during the opening of the first center, I discussed with Ts. Baatarsaikhan about achieving such success today, and I'm very happy that we have achieved this goal today. I'm also proud of our partner, Tavan Bogd Group."

The first branch of the Nura Center in Mongolia is located in the Gerlig Vista complex in Khan-Uul district, and regardless of which branch you use, on average in less than 3 hours, it selectively takes and diagnoses with 99.7% probability using artificial intelligence a package of 32 indicator tests for early detection and diagnosis of the most common cancers and chronic diseases caused by lifestyle in Mongolia. Clients evaluate that this has changed the issue of spending many days and a lot of money to get examined.

For more detailed information, please call 7588-7588 or visit www.nura.mn.

Branch #1 UB city, Khan-Uul district, 18th khoroo, Gerlig Vista complex, NURA GERLIG BRANCH

Branch #2 UB city, Khan-Uul district, 22nd khoroo, Ar Zaysan Street, NURA ZAYSAN BRANCH

Model Integrated Hospital in Khan-Uul District to be Operational by 2026

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Government of Mongolia and the Asian Development Bank have been jointly implementing a project to deliver accessible health care services since 2019.

As part of this project, model integrated hospitals will be built in Khan-Uul and Chingeltei districts with a concessional loan from the Asian Development Bank. The "China Railway Group I" company from the People's Republic of China has been selected as the contractor for the new integrated hospital to be built in Khan-Uul district, and construction work began last May.

The Deputy Mayor of the Capital City, L. Khosbayar, and relevant officials worked at the site yesterday. During this time, they resolved issues that were pressing in the progress of construction.

The model hospital being built in Khan-Uul district will have 300 beds. A total of 600 doctors and medical staff will work at this hospital, providing comprehensive health services. This hospital is scheduled to be operational by 2026.

Nura Zaisan Center to Perform Early Detection and Diagnosis for 30-40 Thousand People Annually

Published: Sat, 03 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Tavan Bogd Group and FUJIFILM Corporation, a world leader in medical equipment manufacturing, opened the Nura Zaisan Center today, featuring early detection and diagnostic technology based on artificial intelligence.

The center has the capacity to serve 30-40 thousand people annually and is uniquely equipped with the latest high-capacity equipment.

The Nura international project operates in 6 branches across Mongolia, Japan, India, and Vietnam.

Since its opening last September, the Nura Center has received 15,000 clients in less than a year, detecting over 500 suspected cancer cases and referring them to the next level of medical care. In terms of gender, 42 percent were male and 58 percent female, with ages ranging from 18 to 102 years old. The majority were between 30-64 years old, indicating that young people are actively participating in early detection. On average, it takes 120 minutes to sample and diagnose the most common cancers and lifestyle-related chronic diseases in Mongolia, using a package of 32 early detection and diagnostic indicators. The artificial intelligence, which has revolutionized the healthcare sector, provides diagnoses with 99.7 percent accuracy.

Sports

Will Mongolian long-distance shooters win their first Olympic medal?

Published: Fri, 02 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Three of the 32 Mongolian athletes participating in the Paris Olympics will finish their competition today. It's the last individual match for Mongolian judokas. Also, O. Yesugen will make a crucial shot today that will determine whether Mongolians will win their first Olympic medal in long-distance shooting in history.

Let's introduce the athletes' schedule.

Shooting:

-In the women's 50-meter three-position air rifle event, 32 athletes competed yesterday, and our athlete O. Yesugen qualified for the finals in 4th place with 589 points. The competition will start today at 15:30 Ulaanbaatar time.

O. Yesugen is 25 years old this year, and Paris 2024 is her second Olympics. She placed 25th in the 10-meter air rifle event at Tokyo 2020. She won a bronze medal in the 10-meter air rifle event at the Hangzhou Asian Games.

Judo:

-In the men's +100 kg category, International Master O. Tsetsentsengel will enter the tatami. He is in Group "C", and his first opponent is Eric Abramov from Germany. If he wins, he will face Tajikistan's top wrestler Timur Rakhimov. In the women's +78 kg category, International Master A. Adiyaasuren will compete. She is in Group "D" and is paired to fight first with Kamila Berlikash from Kazakhstan. If she wins, she will face the top wrestler of her group, Kayra Ozdemir from Turkey. The group matches will start at 16:00 Ulaanbaatar time.

Arts

President of the Swiss Confederation Visits Chinggis Khaan National Museum

Published: Sat, 03 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The President of the Swiss Confederation, Her Excellency Viola Amherd, is paying a state visit to Mongolia at the invitation of the President of Mongolia on the occasion of the historic 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Swiss Confederation.

As part of the visit, Her Excellency Viola Amherd and the official delegation were greeted by S. Chuluun, Director of the Chinggis Khaan National Museum and Academician, in the outdoor area in front of the museum. He then guided them through the museum halls and provided explanations.

The honored guest toured the museum halls, familiarized herself with the exhibits, and left a message of appreciation in the Chinggis Khaan National Museum's "Guest Book," signing her name to be preserved for history.

Exhibition on Mongolian History to be Displayed at Rietberg Museum in Zurich in 2025

Published: Sat, 03 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh and President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd gave a press briefing.

During this time, President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh said, "Dear President. I extend greetings to the media representatives gathered here today. I am sincerely pleased that the President of the Swiss Confederation, Viola Amherd, is making a state visit at the invitation of the President of Mongolia on the historic 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Swiss Confederation. Your Excellency, this visit is the first historic visit by a head of state of the Swiss Confederation to our country. Together, we are opening a new page in the history of friendly relations and cooperation between the Swiss and Mongolian peoples. Although geographically distant, we consider the Swiss Confederation as our third neighbor and a trusted partner in Europe.

During this state visit, we exchanged views on consolidating the achievements of 60 years of cooperation between Mongolia and Switzerland, further expanding and developing it, and implementing mutually beneficial projects and programs.

As a result of our talks and negotiations, we signed a joint declaration between Mongolia and Switzerland and a memorandum of understanding on democratic governance issues. I am confident that these documents will define the future direction of cooperation between our two countries and make an important contribution to strengthening democratic governance. We will implement joint projects to strengthen the values of democracy, the rule of law, and good governance, and to support cooperation between legislative and civil society organizations, intensifying cooperation in the judiciary and legal fields.

Switzerland is a major foreign trade partner of our country, and we discussed enriching bilateral relations with economic content and exploring and implementing mutually beneficial joint projects and programs that could become symbols of relations between the two countries. We also agreed to align our common goals reflected in the sustainable development policies of the two countries and to develop effective and mutually beneficial cooperation in the fields of social and economic development, tourism, education, culture, agriculture, and health.

We exchanged views on implementing joint projects aimed at improving sustainable farming, livestock management, ensuring food safety, increasing the production of bio-organic products, increasing exports of agricultural products, and supporting local development within the framework of the national movements "Food Supply and Security" and "White Gold". We discussed expanding cooperation in the fields of education and science, training students and young people, and introducing Swiss standards and technologies, and I introduced the "Message 2100" scholarship program initiated by the President of Mongolia.

We emphasize that overcoming and solving challenges facing the world, such as climate change, desertification, soil degradation, and food security, is our common major goal, and I would like to inform you that we have agreed to work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions within the framework of the "Billion Trees" national movement and the Paris Agreement."

President U. Khurelsukh emphasized that over the past 20 years, the Swiss government has provided over 460 billion tugriks in support for Mongolia's social and economic development, successfully implementing many effective projects and programs.

In addition, he highlighted that Switzerland has made a valuable contribution to humanitarian efforts and human health protection during times of pandemic, natural disasters, floods, and harsh winters, with a clear example being the "Heart Won't Forget" project. They have agreed to deepen cooperation in promoting national culture and supporting sports, and an exhibition on Mongolian history will be made available to the public at the Rietberg Museum in Zurich, Switzerland in 2025.