Aug 19, 2024 54 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for August 19, 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

Politics

FEATURED INTERVIEW: "YOU CAN'T MAKE THE GOVERNMENT BEAR ALL THE WEIGHT AND JUST SIT BACK" | News.MN

Published: Sat, 17 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

"You can't make the government bear all the weight and just sit back" — this is the highlight of last week's interview with a member of the parliament, H. Temuujin, regarding the political situation as major parties such as MPP, DP, and HUN are collaborating in the government. These parties established an agreement to cooperate in governance. Consequently, we obtained a briefing from Member of Parliament H. Temuujin about the ongoing political developments.

What issues were discussed in the Democratic Party’s faction meeting? How supportive are your party members regarding the agreement established among the parties collaborating with the government?
We discussed the Mongolian Government’s action plan for 2024-2028 and the bill to amend the 2024 state budget law. Since these issues pertain to the coalition government's action program, both MPP, DP, and HUN are trying to integrate elements from their respective platforms into it. The action program of the coalition government encompasses multiple components. The primary focus is on the purpose of collaboration and the objectives. We are aiming to move significant projects forward in response to public criticism that questioned the necessity of the coalition. For instance, we need to achieve energy independence.

To advance the nation's development, it is crucial to establish economically viable, sustainable leverage by leveraging mining to refine industry-oriented projects. Additionally, we need to direct water to the Gobi region, among other targeted objectives.

VIDEO: M. Narantuya-Nara and S. Zamira, Who Became Members of Parliament from the IZN Party List, Are Criticized by Citizens and Demands Are Made for Their Recall

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

In the 2024 parliamentary elections, four citizens—B. Batbaatar, M. Narantuya-Nara, R. Batbold, and S. Zamira—became MPs from the Civil Courage Green Party (IZN) list. However, M. Narantuya-Nara and S. Zamira, who became MPs from the IZN list, are being criticized by some citizens who are demanding their recall.

According to Article 29.1 of the Constitution, "Members of the State Great Khural shall receive salaries from the state budget during their mandate period. Members of the State Great Khural must not hold any other job or position except that of Prime Minister, Cabinet Member, and those duties defined by law." Despite this, M. Narantuya-Nara has been engaged in online trading and has used inappropriate language on social media, arguing with some citizens.

For instance, M. Narantuya-Nara has had arguments with citizens on Twitter, using inappropriate language such as: "Don't be conceited, you're just a fart. You should pay attention to what the person you voted for is doing, you scoundrel."

Moreover, during an extraordinary session of the State Great Khural on August 17, 2024, S. Zamira, another MP from the IZN list, stated, "Please stop teaching English from primary school," which has faced opposition from many citizens. English has been integrated as a primary foreign language in the General Law on Education and is taught from the third grade in secondary schools.

Some citizens explain that this is aimed at eliminating the lag in English language learning between students of private schools, who were able to study English and receive higher education abroad, and state school students, who were unable to reach the same level. However, S. Zamira’s statement against teaching English from early grades has caused a wave of dissatisfaction among many people.

If Led by T. Battsogt, the Democratic Party Will Fall in the Capital!

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

The local elections will be held with registration from 15 parties. This year's local elections might be quite competitive. The election in the capital, where more than half of Mongolia's citizens work and live, will significantly affect the lives and businesses of the residents of Ulaanbaatar.

In this election, the MPP (Mongolian People's Party) will be led by Kh. Nyambaatar for the capital. He started his campaign work early, practically preparing since he was appointed as the city's governor. Over the summer, he has worked visibly in front of the camera, possibly a tactic to become more recognizable to the city's people. Kh. Nyambaatar is Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene's main hope, and Ulaanbaatar city is an important strategic point for him. This is why all power has been given to Kh. Nyambaatar from D. Sumiyabazar.

Kh. Nyambaatar's main rivals are the Democratic Party (DP), the Human Rights National Party, and the National Coalition. The Capital's DP committee has been leaderless since the parliamentary elections. Although T. Battsogt was elected as the head of the capital's DP, he neglected his committee for a seat in parliament. It was reported that he requested, "Let me give up the head of the capital's party committee and run for parliament." As the head of the capital's DP, instead of supporting his party's candidates running in the city's districts during the parliamentary elections, he ran in Bayanzurkh District and lost.

Colleagues within the party express caution, suggesting that if the DP is led by a person with no popularity to win even in a single district, the party will undoubtedly fall in the capital and that T. Battsogt should be replaced.

Indeed, during the parliamentary elections, he showed party members and voters alike that he was not a candidate capable of leading the DP to victory or capable of competing with Kh. Nyambaatar. Moreover, capital DP members criticize him, and apart from the Bayanzurkh District's party committee, he has not been accepted by other committees.

Due to issues like these with T. Battsogt, there are concerns that the DP might even receive fewer votes than the Human Rights National Party in this election. For instance, a competitor from the same district, P. Naranbayar, won a parliamentary seat and became a minister in the joint government. What's more, considering that in the parliamentary elections, the DP secured only 4 seats in the capital, it becomes evident that replacing T. Battsogt before the elections is necessary if the DP is genuinely eager to win in the capital. Another competitor of the DP is N. Nymtuushbayar's National Coalition. D. Purevdavaa, a member of parliament from the National Coalition, knows well how to compete against T. Battsogt, given their past cooperation within the same party and district, which has now turned into a "sheep and wolf" scenario. Besides, the National Coalition has not joined the new government and has declared its opposition, which may add political credit. Conclusively, it appears that the DP has already conceded in the capital.

Will D. Amarbaysgalan's Move to "Revise the Law on Press Freedom" Stop Authorities from Punishing Whistleblowers and Retaliating against Reporters?

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

The first extraordinary session of the parliament with 126 members, established by the 2024 elections, began this week. The discussions started on matters such as the revision of the 2024 budget and the 2024-2028 government action program.

The new parliament with 126 members announced that their first legislative activity would be to build a legal system based on the philosophy of human-centric laws that uphold human rights. Specifically, Speaker of the Parliament D. Amarbaysgalan stated in his inaugural speech at the extraordinary session that the legislative agenda will prioritize aligning laws with citizens' rights and societal demands, with special attention on revising the Law on Press Freedom.

This is the first instance where a focused parliamentary effort has been announced towards revising the "Law on Press Freedom." Since its enactment in 1998, this declarative law has been regulating press freedom in Mongolia for more than 20 years. Some researchers criticize the law for being merely declarative with no detailed regulations.

Meanwhile, several provisions of the Criminal Code that restrict freedom of press and expression are being implemented. For example, the Criminal Code's Article 13.14.1 prohibits "the dissemination of knowingly false information that defames the honor and dignity of a person or the reputation of a legal entity." However, this provision is used to prosecute journalists under the pretext of harming the official's reputation and appearance, thus infringing on freedom of the press. In some foreign countries, regulations against spreading false information are not used to protect officials' reputations but rather to criminalize the dissemination of false information that incites disorder or affects national security.

Furthermore, under Article 21.9.1 of the Criminal Code, which punishes "disclosing investigation secrets," situations have arisen to accuse journalists. The concept of "Person" who discloses investigation secrets needs clarification by the Supreme Court to prevent the infringement of rights of many journalists.

Additionally, under Article 19.11.1 of the Criminal Code, "unlawfully obtaining state secrets" has been used to prosecute journalists. A recent example is the journalist N. Ünursetseg from Zariq.mn. The regulation should not allow the person responsible for maintaining and not disclosing state secrets to evade accountability. According to Articles 16.17 of the Mongolian Constitution, citizens have the right to seek and receive information on matters not classified as state secrets.

In the U.S., the names of individuals working in intelligence agencies are considered "State Secrets." A New York Times journalist, Judith Miller, published the name of a covert operative from the CIA. The U.S. prosecutor's office demanded she reveal her source, leading to her imprisonment for two months. Eventually, Judith Miller disclosed her source with permission, leading to the source's imprisonment and her release. This illustrates that, internationally, individuals responsible for safeguarding state secrets face criminal sanctions if they breach confidentiality.

The Constitution’s Article 16 outlines the definite rights and freedoms citizens of Mongolia are entitled to. For instance, Article 16.16 guarantees freedom of speech, expression of opinions, and the press, as well as the right to peaceful assembly. However, multiple provisions in the Criminal Code may infringe on the rights and freedoms granted by the Constitution.

In his speech, Speaker of Parliament D. Amarbaysgalan noted, "Upon reviewing the 318 currently effective laws, it was found that over 800 provisions violate human rights. Our parliament is committed to addressing and rectifying such legal violations."

He also mentioned that 880 laws passed by the State Great Khural are currently in effect; of these laws, 437 regulate and are regularly enforced in everyday social relations, while the remaining 443 are temporary. Furthermore, social relations are governed by 2768 administrative normative acts. About 32 percent of the legislation consists of laws, and 68 percent are administrative regulatory acts. This indicates a shift towards regulating matters that should be addressed by law with administrative regulations, which has led to serious consequences infringing on human rights.

Economy

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

In the State Palace

At 10:00 AM, an extraordinary session of the Parliament will be held.

In the office of the National Statistics Office (NSO)

At 11:00 AM, the social and economic indicators of Mongolia for the first seven months of 2024 will be presented.

At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

At 2:00 PM, in connection with the organization of the "First World Women's Summit" in Ulaanbaatar, the Office of the President, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the United Nations Representative will hold a press conference.

Note

Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must cite their source (ikon.mn) when fully or partially using our information in any form!

Reduce Poverty Through Proper Planning Based on Big Data

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

The Mongolian Government's 2024-2028 Action Plan was discussed at the session of the State Great Khural. Member of Parliament and Minister of Labor and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, expressed the following position regarding actions to reduce poverty and improve household livelihoods.

The graduation approach is the most effective measure in achieving the main outcome of getting out of poverty.

This project, which is being implemented in Ulaanbaatar with funding from the Asian Development Bank, has selected 1,250 households and provided them with equipment worth $500-600 for production over a three-year period. Previously, we had the misconception that poverty alleviation and employment promotion could be achieved just by providing loans. However, the current project takes at least 3 years to yield results in lifting people out of poverty.

Provide production equipment, involve in training, and offer psychological advice. The comprehensive social service method used worldwide to alleviate poverty is this graduation approach.

During the meeting with the management of the Asian Development Bank, a proposal was made to implement this project across all provinces and sums of Mongolia. According to statistics, 160 billion MNT has been spent from the Employment Promotion Fund over the past seven years, creating 47,000 jobs. There is no answer to whether stable jobs have been created. In the future, issues of poverty, unemployment, and the labor market will be addressed through proper planning based on big data.

Ts. Tuvaan: Investment Agreement for "Zuunbayan-Ovoo" Uranium Project to be Completed by October and Put into Operation

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At the extraordinary session of the State Great Khural (Parliament), discussions are being held on the "2024-2028 Action Plan of the Government of Mongolia."

During this session, Member of Parliament B. Purevdorj inquired with the relevant ministry's minister about the Zuunbayan-Ovoo uranium project with the French group Orano.

Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Ts. Tuvaan stated, "The negotiations with France's Orano group have spanned across two government administrations.

A new task force has recently been established, chaired by the Head of the Cabinet Secretariat Uchral, with myself serving as the deputy. During a meeting between the presidents of the two countries, related issues were discussed.

The Zuunbayan-Ovoo uranium project is included in the government's action plan. Therefore, we plan to complete the investment agreement and launch operations by October of this year," he said.

Please note that any usage of this information by media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) must indicate the source (ikon.mn).

The balance of non-performing loans decreased to 2 trillion MNT by the end of last month, down 12% from the same period in 2023

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The total loan balance at the end of July reached 33.5 trillion MNT, which is a 32% increase compared to the same period last year.

This growth is attributed to the increase in the loan balances of individuals by 5.8 trillion MNT and private organizations by 2.1 trillion MNT.

Of the total loan balance:

90.3% is classified as performing
3.9% is classified as under attention
5.9% is classified as non-performing loans

73% of the non-performing loans, or 1.4 trillion MNT, belong to private sector enterprises.

The balance of performing loans increased by 39% from the previous year, reaching 30.2 trillion MNT. Loans classified as under attention reached a balance of 1.3 trillion MNT, showing a 5.7% increase from the previous year, while non-performing loans decreased by 12% from the same period last year, reaching 2 trillion MNT, as reported by the National Statistics Office.

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

Member of Parliament D. Enkhtuvshin: When taking preventive measures under the Criminal Procedure Law, company accounts are being closed and their operations restricted. Directors are being detained until their cases are resolved. Will there be any changes regarding this? These provisions are quite vague, and I wanted to ask if they exist. The organizations implementing them seem to close accounts without understanding the business environment, thinking everything else seems fine. If there are no tangible changes, companies are on the verge of bankruptcy.

Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs O. Altangerel: The Prime Minister instructed the private sector to make specific steps and provide research on human rights issues. There are many things regulated by guidelines and laws. There was even a lot of talk about it during the session's opening by Chairman of the State Great Khural D. Amarbayasgalan. We are doing specific work on this. The dependence on regulations controlled by officials is causing difficulties for businesses connected with officials. Many rights are decided at the whim of those in power. Additionally, businesses are closing accounts, a significant complaint from the private sector. We don’t have good data on where and how many accounts have been closed. We are looking to collaborate extensively with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry on investment and business legal issues. There are over 10 legislative drafts related to private law in the Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs being developed. The representative of the business community can participate in each one to protect their interests. Account closures happen during criminal procedures, civil disputes, or due to tax issues. The time has come to see where these problems lie, where business rights are being violated.

Additionally, there are many negative stories related to foreign investors. The decisions taken by the Mongolian courts are not being enforced, leading to many complaints related to foreign investors under the name of the Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs.

Prime Minister L. Gantomor: We need to address this issue. The practice of closing accounts without court decisions should be stopped. Also, preventing people with debts from traveling should be changed; the bankruptcy law should be clarified. A person should not be punished for life for making mistakes in business or work. This must be resolved soon.

There have been 82 complaints from foreign-invested businesses. 18 have been resolved, 68 are pending. We cannot ignore the presence of complaints. We should aim to solve the problems of our investors transparently.

Member of Parliament E. Batshugar: The operations of the Coalition Government are creating significant expectations among the citizens, particularly the 14 mega projects which will strengthen the economic foundation and independence of Mongolia. The most important thing is how to make economic growth accessible to every citizen. This can open the possibility for Mongolia to become one of the wealthy states in the world in terms of GDP per capita in the future. The critical issue is financing, and foreign investment is needed to raise 120 billion; other countries’ mega projects have also followed this model. For example, the London Underground upgrade, South African railways, and Australia’s water purification facilities. Before COVID-19, foreign investment in Mongolia accounted for 15% of GDP, and 12% came from the mining sector, especially the Oyu Tolgoi project. In Asian countries in recent 40 years, it constitutes around 40-60%. So what steps will be done to increase this? There are 22 evaluation criteria for credit rating. Mongolia has improved its macroeconomic parameters, which can improve its credit rating. With Mongolia potentially becoming an energy exporter, is there a possibility to join the international energy network, NAPSI? This can directly connect Mongolia to the Northeast Asian energy super network. Will our state-owned companies issue securities on foreign markets? Could they trade 15, 20% and create a copper smelting plant and railway connection with the revenues? Is there a plan related to this?

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene: This depends on us. We need to acknowledge a few things. Firstly, there’s a lot of talk about the government structure being bulky. Yet, we are the ones discussing the same issue every year. So, the 2025 budget shouldn’t increase government structure and staffing. Secondly, to reduce government structure, we need to outsource consulting services as it's not possible to reduce number mechanically. The capital also needs to make principle-based decisions like this. It shouldn’t be the parliament members sitting here deciding where to build schools and kindergartens; it should be controlled by technology independent of people. In this sense, it is appropriate to have the likes of ETT and Erdenet Plant managed by external management. Or procurement should be separated. Hence, the government will make a political decision to form a management team and submit it to parliament. We will start with the biggest revenues to improve governance, and then securities trading will be launched. The government will professionally manage at an international level.

Member of Parliament S. Ganbaatar: We have been rushing around approving slogans for 30 years. I received information that half of the major industrial construction projects being submitted have no feasibility studies. Oyu Tolgoi was approved without considering its feasibility study. We have been feeling its impacts for more than 10 years. So when will the projects without feasibility studies be submitted? Is there an opportunity to discuss again after the conclusions of the engineering and technical workers? I fully support the copper smelting plant, but when I ask for clarification on the feasibility study, it seems like the project is stalled. In reality, it has no economic benefit. We should understand that the government's program is 50% a wish list. If politicians don’t focus on the feasibility, independent external experts and scholars and their evaluations won't be discussed, projects stall for 30 years because they intersect the interests of greedy groups.

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene: It is crucial for us to quickly advance stalled projects and programs. Therefore, it is vital to correctly outline the roadmap, including project plans, feasibility studies, environmental impacts, procedures, and financial sources. Hence, two things were reflected in this budget adjustment. First, projects to carry out feasibility studies for future major projects and programs. Some are outdated feasibility studies. In other words, this is the first budget adjustment where a large amount is planned for image planning financing. If we don't update the plans and projects within this year, we cannot raise funds. Secondly, we are left with no choice but to take consulting services from professionals. Mongolia should admit it hasn’t developed a city; hence, we allocated money in the adjustment to take forward-thinking consulting services.

Member of Parliament Ts. Iderbat: People have high expectations from the government. How do you see the future of the New Cooperative Program? This shouldn’t be a project that lasts only three months. Herdsmen and citizens evaluated it as a reform measure. Currently, commercial banks have stopped accepting requests for the Wealthy Herdsman, New Cooperative programs. This was reflected in the government program. The total project amount is 5 trillion MNT. Is there a clear source of funding for future implementation? What guarantees are there to continuously proceed with the process?

Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan: The New Cooperative-Wealthy Herdsman Program will continue. This is clearly reflected in the government program. Furthermore, 123 billion MNT is earmarked in the portfolio of the Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry within the budget adjustment submitted by the government. Additionally, a certain amount of financing will continue in the 2025 budget. Therefore, commercial banks should securely prepare for this project. Generally, issues concerning herders are pressing after snow and dzud in spring. Commercial banks have cooperated on this.

Member of Parliament N. Altankhuyag: Our country needs a policy document showing how we will live in the next four years. It should include correcting the mistakes of the past eight years. We can't talk about one thing to voters and something else in this chamber. Does the government have the courage to reduce and eradicate bribery and corruption? Why not address eliminating monetary elections? Money drives elections, and it has been for a long time. The practice of rewarding campaigners should be eliminated. The real money-distributing system is here. Why not change the law to hold elections on Wednesdays instead of Fridays? Faced with all kinds of desperate trickery. What is included regarding reducing business taxes? It's been like dangling candy behind a glass. Will it happen? Social insurance contributions have gone beyond limits. Taxes are excessive in Mongolia, while government officials squander it. Honest truth-tellers are ostracized and fired in Mongolia. When working in SKHD, many citizens said they are fired when they speak out the truth or criticism. What will be done about it?

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene: There is a desire to eliminate monetary elections. That's why we changed the constitution. In other words, now 40% is proportional. We will proceed with our major themes. I agree about reducing the number of campaign workers. The election rules have always been played by different rules each time before the elections. These issues should be resolved. Holding elections on Wednesdays could be feasible. The complete legislative authority lies with the parliament, so it could make changes to the law. There is one thing I disagree with you about. It's the notion that "during your time, it was possible, but during ours, it is not" that I disagree with. Principles should not be double-sided like needles. You formed a coalition government with S. Bayar and Batbold. Back then, people said it was unavoidable to form a coalition government. Times haven't changed dramatically since then. Joint governments will continue. Please change your attitude that "it was okay during my time; it’s not okay during Gantomor’s time." With the constitutional amendment, we have entered a system of permanent coalition governments.

The operational plan of the government has arrived, serving as the homework for the National Coalition to execute its opposition role in the Great Khural. It has been on my desk for two days. I have not fully reviewed it yet. However, there are a few principles, comments, and questions. The main socio-economic ideology of the government’s operational plan is crucial. Why am I asking this? Because many policies have entered the Great Khural before, but their real implementation didn’t match the initial paper policies. This time, the government is formed by a coalition of three different political ideologies. How did they align their political ideologies in such a short time, and based on what economic system has the operational plan been defined? My goal is not to set traps from the beginning, but rather to understand. Secondly, the figure of 120 trillion MNT, or approximately $35 billion, is not a significant amount. It does not qualify as a big plan by international standards; it’s the budget for a four-year business development plan of a company. Recently, in Uzbekistan, a country not very different in development compared to Mongolia, they talked about investments worth $800 billion. With the correct governance system, favorable legal environment, full support from the state for the private sector, effective protection of foreign investors' interests, non-extravagant budget flow, economic and legal foundations were well-established, making $800 billion seem insignificant. Therefore, despite knowing past policies like the 2050 program were flawed, the government program is being submitted. We should seek accountability on how much salaries and pensions, unemployment, and poverty rates will decrease, and how stable the currency will be, including foreign investment. We shouldn’t rush to approve the government program. If needed, let’s extend the extraordinary session.

First Deputy Prime Minister L. Gantomor: The government aims to solve the development issues that couldn’t be addressed in the past. Let’s eradicate poverty. Previously, we could not establish the investment environment needed to escape poverty. We intend to create and maintain an environment that protects and supports investors. Ensure the independence of judicial and legal systems, strengthen the parliamentary system, and address our pressing issues without hesitation, under the spirit of the Constitution. Secondly, political parties propose their electoral platforms, and citizens vote based on them. When joining the coalition government, it was fundamental not to ignore the directive given by the citizens. That’s why the proposals included in the program should be implemented as a political culture and fundamental political principle. Over 50% of the joint contributions from the Hun, AN, and MAN party programs have been planned for implementation. The announcement of 140 plus projects and programs isn't to increase government involvement. More than 30 of them involve social infrastructure issues. These will be resolved with budget financing. Additionally, 30% will be done by the private sector. A specific portion will be within the framework of public-private partnerships. In other words, it’s not about taking 120 trillion from the budget and working on it. Our strategy is to increase GDP per capita to $10,000. We promise this. The cabinet members and I will work for this. We will enrich our reserves. For example, we will leave $10 billion foreign reserves in 2028. Moreover, we will have gold reserves. For this, rather than the government, the private sector will be engaged. We will closely work with the private sector. The obstructing and oppressive attitudes will be abolished. Discrimination based on their beliefs or political party membership against individuals from the government will be eliminated. Only by eradicating the disdain for interests outside the country's best interest will we unite for the nation.

Member of Parliament J. Bat-Erdene: It was said that it aims to accelerate development. The important part is the internal objectives on how to implement it. Sounds good when talking here, but upon meeting ministers, the discourse veers off. You mentioned that members have started to see regional development correctly. But in reality, that's not the case. Soon the budget will come in. Everyone aims to allocate money to their own elected regions. So how do you intend to create a mechanism for this? Being human, one would think about allocating funds to their elected district. We talk about being a bad manager while promising to support the private sector. But in reality, everything is centralized from the government’s side.

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene: The parliamentary system with 76 members elected from constituencies is now history. That's the 30 years' past. But now, the first parliament elected with 126 members and using a mixed and regionalized system since 1992 is formed. It’s the first budget. Therefore, in the 2025 budget, the government will bring issues related to roads, energy, and infrastructure forward. We urge members to refrain from asking to solve funding problems for their districts in 2025 as in the traditional way. Divide financing into three parts for the coming three years. Improve the legal environment and other conditions to attract private sector and investment. We adopted a mixed political system for this bold step. We are cooperating for this. Let’s do this in the 2025 budget. Let’s talk as we actually intend to. Don't say something different behind the curtain. Let's be like we announce ourselves in the State Great Khural meeting room. I promise to adhere to this.

Member of Parliament G. Damdinyam: The operational plan of the government, which is the main document for the next four years, was introduced. The words Darkhan leather cluster are not part of this plan anymore. Over the past two parliaments, we entered promising to improve herders’ livelihoods, increase the price of livestock products, process raw leather, hides discarded in ditches, and reached parliament with these discussions. So why is this project not included? Will it be implemented or not? It's rare for a manager not to have visited or commenced an activity during this period, isn’t it?

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene: Due to many years of political entanglements, the Darkhan leather cluster does not necessarily need to be in Darkhan. It's necessary to make the Khangai region a specialized region for traditional animal husbandry. It's important to build a leather processing plant in each region. Therefore, this is a choice. If the locality does not support the project, there’s no need to insist. It is urgent to build it elsewhere. Eight years in political deadlock is a long time. Considerations like logistics, transport issues, and geographical factors always accompany it. I hope it won’t get politically entangled and stalled again. It’s appropriate to place it in either Darkhan, Khangai region, or regions.

The Prime Minister Asked Members to Support the Government Program

"Mongolia-Japan Business Forum 2024" to be held on August 19

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

The “Mongolia-Japan Business Forum 2024” will take place on August 19 from 09:00 to 18:00 at the Ulaanbaatar Hotel. Every year, this forum is traditionally held with around 150 guests and representatives from Japan and approximately 400 business people from Mongolia participating. This year, it will be organized under the theme "Diversification of Mongolia's Economy and Industrialization." The forum will feature presentations and panel discussions on enhancing exports between the two countries, current issues, and future development in the fields of communication, information technology, electronic development, agriculture, open innovation, and tourism.

During the "Mongolia-Japan Business Forum 2024," participants will have the opportunity to promote their businesses and establish connections with Japanese and Mongolian business partners.

Registration for the forum will continue until Friday, August 16, 2024, and participants can register through the following link: https://forms.gle/SPQPBrCzw41dGDMt6.

Diplomacy

"The Gas Pipeline Issue Has Been Removed from the Government's Action Program as It Is Beyond Our Control"

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The State Great Khural's session today is discussing whether to approve the government's action program.

During this session, members asked ministers about major projects planned for the next four years. Member of the Parliament B. Purevdorj noted that the government action program included the implementation of 14 major projects. However, the issue of the gas pipeline passing through Mongolia was missing. He sought clarification on this matter.

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene responded, "The main issue with the gas pipeline concerns price negotiations between China's CNPC and Russia's Gazprom groups. After the price negotiations are completed, Mongolia will express its position. Essentially, it is a situation beyond our control, and so it has been excluded from the 14 projects in the government's 2024-2028 action program."

Infrastructure

H. Nyambaatar: There Are Acts of Sabotage in Blocking Certain Pipelines

Published: Sat, 17 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

During the time when local elections are approaching, incidents of deliberately blocking drainage pipes are occurring, as highlighted by city mayor H. Nyambaatar while working in Khan-Uul district today.

Specifically, he mentioned, "In the vicinity of Bayangol, someone has stuffed a car tire into the drainage pipe, causing it to get blocked. During local elections, while fair and just competition should prevail, someone, whose identity is unknown, is stuffing tires and garbage into public water supply pipes to block them. Moreover, they add a lot of plastic bottles to congest certain networks, engaging in acts of sabotage. They should stop these activities."

People who stuffed tires into drainage pipes yesterday were identified through camera surveillance.

This information was broadcast live through the Mongolian Press Agency page.

Warning

When media organizations (television, radio, social media, and websites) use our information in any form, either fully or partially, it is mandatory to cite the source as (ikon.mn).

L. Oyun-Erdene: Adjusting the Budget to Effectively Implement Major Energy, Infrastructure, and Industrialization Projects

Published: Sun, 18 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Prime Minister of Mongolia L. Oyun-Erdene presented the draft laws on amendments to the Law on the State Budget of Mongolia for 2024, the draft budget of the National Wealth Fund for 2024, and the accompanying legal and decree drafts to the State Great Khural session.

The State Great Khural supported the joint Government's action program "Courage for Rapid Development". To create the technical and economic grounds, design estimates, international consulting services issues, and comprehensive legal environment as outlined in the program, the Government is making adjustments to the 2024 budget.

50% of Government Vehicles Registered in the Capital Will Not Participate in Traffic

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The Mayor of the Capital issued Order A/988 on August 12, 2024, to approve a short-term action plan aimed at reducing traffic congestion. As part of this effort, from August 19 to September 14, 2024, 50% of the vehicles registered with government agencies in Ulaanbaatar will be restricted from participating in traffic.

Across Mongolia, 14,717 vehicles are registered with 1,728 governmental and local state-owned organizations. Of these, the license plate background color of 8,000 vehicles has been changed to dark blue. In Ulaanbaatar alone, 2,199 passenger vehicles are registered.

With the start of the new school year, traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar significantly increases. Experts believe that by restricting 50% of the vehicles registered with government agencies in the capital from participating in traffic during this period, congestion will be reduced.

The "Resilient Asian Cities" Project to be Implemented in Ulaanbaatar

Published: Sun, 18 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Deputy Mayor of the Capital City's Social Sector, Green Development, and Air and Environmental Pollution Issues, L. Khosbayar, met with Sarah Taylor, the Resident Representative of the Asian Foundation in Mongolia. During the meeting, they introduced plans for a project aimed at improving the services provided to consumers by water supply and sewage service providers, as well as the "Resilient Asian Cities" project.

The City Mayor's Office and the Asian Foundation have agreed to implement the "Resilient Asian Cities" project in Ulaanbaatar over a three-year period.

The project will be implemented in two phases with the aim of improving the resilience of infrastructure and services to climate change, ensuring economic growth, and strengthening the capacity to address climate change and environmental issues.

In the first phase of the project, activities aimed at resisting climate change will be implemented, and the opinions of stakeholders will be included in the plan.

During the meeting, it was also discussed to establish a working group within the framework of the project to improve the services provided to consumers by water supply and sewage service providers. This will involve updating the integrated electronic system, establishing a centralized information database, developing the electronic system, and increasing the payment of utility bills.

During the meeting, Deputy Mayor L. Khosbayar stated, "There is a need to increase the public's knowledge and understanding of the actual costs related to the extraction, transmission, and distribution of clean water. I am pleased that efforts are being made within the project to enhance public knowledge and understanding. We will continue to develop an electronic platform for consumers to provide information on clean water usage and payment fees. We are proposing to establish a working group that would support this work and facilitate information exchange."

Operations of Construction Companies Damaging Stormwater Drainage Pipes and Draining Groundwater Will Be Halted

Published: Sat, 17 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

In relation to the issue of rainwater accumulating on the road near "Khunnu 2222" complex, inspections by the National Emergency Management Agency last year revealed that the "Alpha Zone" project implemented by "Teso" Group had drilled and drained groundwater from a 500-diameter concrete pipe designed for rainwater drainage of Suruga Mongolian roads.

This year, upon re-inspection with relevant authorities, it was found that the "Alpha Zone" project by "Teso" Group had not rectified its violations, and that "MCS Property" LLC during the expansion of Orchlon School had broken rainwater drainage pipes and excessively drained groundwater.

In response, the Mayor of Ulaanbaatar City and Governor of the Capital, Kh. Nyambaatar, visited the construction sites of "MCS Property" LLC to the east of Orchlon School in Khan-Uul District and "Teso Properties" LLC projects.

Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar stated, "Upon inspecting just two organizations, we have detected a continuous violation where construction companies break public stormwater drainage pipes to save costs and drain their groundwater. As a result, rainwater accumulates on the road near 'Khunnu 2222' complex, and public roads and areas are flooded with rainwater. Therefore, we will issue a decision through the National Inspector to halt the operations of these enterprises. Also, they will be fined for not completing the groundwater drainage process at their own expense.

On the coming Monday, a working group will be established with representatives from the National Emergency Management Agency, the Metropolitan Control and Inspection Department, and the Urban Planning and Urban Standards Department to organize inspections of how construction companies are draining and pumping groundwater and to eliminate violations."

70% of Ulaanbaatar City's Roads are Being Repaired

Published: Sun, 18 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

As part of the road repair initiative, it was planned to repair and renovate roads at 17 locations in the city this year. Additionally, projects are underway at 31 locations to reduce traffic congestion and expand the road network in the city.

N. Manduul, the First Deputy Governor of the city, stated, “Ulaanbaatar City has a total of 1,200 km of roads. We are repairing 70% of these roads. These roads had not been maintained for 10-20 years. We have never conducted such a significant repair project before. The road repair companies are starting to struggle with the workload. Recently, there have been fewer companies participating in tenders for road repairs. This has caused delays, but we are negotiating with private enterprises to accelerate the repairs as much as possible.”

During this road renovation project, efforts are being made to strengthen the pavement, align the engineering networks with the road level, repair potholes, seal cracks, and restore the markings on the roads.

The road repair work is expected to continue until the end of November.

50% of State Institution Vehicles Registered in Ulaanbaatar to Participate in Traffic

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Governor of the capital city issued Order A/988 approving a short-term action plan aimed at reducing traffic congestion and load. In this regard, from August 19 to September 14, 2024, 50% of the vehicles of state institutions registered in Ulaanbaatar will participate in traffic.

Out of the 14,717 vehicles registered under 1,728 state and locally owned organizations across Mongolia, the background color of plate numbers for 8,000 vehicles has been changed to dark blue. Among these, there are 2,199 passenger cars registered in the capital, Ulaanbaatar.

Traffic load in Ulaanbaatar significantly increases with the start of the new school year. Relevant experts indicate that allowing 50% of state institution vehicles registered in the capital to participate in traffic during the aforementioned period will reduce congestion.

Land clearance for Selbe sub-center housing project is 76% complete

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

The project to convert the ger district into housing at the Selbe sub-center is being implemented in Sukhbaatar District 14 and Chingeltei Districts 14 and 18. Within the framework of the project, 2,206 parcels, or 158 hectares of land, are to be cleared with compensation, and housing for 12,000 families is planned to be constructed. As of today, the land clearance work has reached 76% completion. The Capital City Housing Corporation is organizing a tender for selecting a contractor to build housing for 12,000 families and has announced six open tenders to construct housing on the first 13 hectares.

In connection with this, Ulaanbaatar City Mayor H.S. Nyambaatar visited the site today.

He stated, “By constructing housing within the Selbe sub-center, 4,000 chimneys from the northern part of Ulaanbaatar will no longer produce smoke. This will provide an opportunity to reduce air and environmental pollution. We are providing compensations averaging from 170 million MNT and up for citizens based on the land size and the object. There is information that families who have vacated their land have purchased housing in the city center. We plan to build 5-9 story housing on the vacated land. This will be the first housing complex in Mongolia equipped with copper tube plumbing and solar power for some electricity needs, making it an eco-friendly neighborhood with minimal heat loss. We plan to construct housing on 60% of the land and use the remaining 40% for roads, open areas, and green spaces. Thus, we aim for development close to government services like schools, kindergartens, and hospitals while maintaining the “20-minute city” concept. It is time for Ulaanbaatar City to develop as a “20-minute city” to reduce air pollution and congestion, and streamline planning. We urge citizens to support our work and actively participate in the land clearance work.”

A resident of Sukhbaatar District 14, L. Munkhkhue, stated, “I have been living in my neighborhood for 54 years. My property is included in the land clearance organized within the framework of the effort to convert the ger district into housing, and we sold our land. I am pleased to contribute to this work that ensures the healthy and safe living conditions for ger district residents.”

Traffic Police Warn of Predominant Accidents Due to Overtaking on Local Roads

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

According to the Traffic Police Department, accidents caused by overtaking on local roads are increasingly prominent. In our country, more than 500 people die annually due to road traffic accidents. Most of these accidents occur on local roads. The reasons for these accidents include speeding, overtaking during prohibited times, and not wearing seat belts, as reported by the Traffic Police Department.

Senior Coordinator of the Prevention Division of the Traffic Police Department, Captain N. Enkhbold, stated, "The main reason for the traffic accidents occurring on local roads is the maneuvering for overtaking. Our country has over 1.2 million vehicles, all with steering wheels on the right side. As a result, accidents occur when drivers attempt to overtake, believing that they will make it in time. Accidents arise from many factors, including exceeding speed limits and not using seat belts. Therefore, it's advisable not to drive over 80 kilometers per hour."

Public Transport is Operating Free of Charge

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

The "Nomadic" World Culture Festival is currently taking place in Nalaikh District. Consequently, public transportation is being provided free of charge for citizens traveling to this event, operating daily from 08:00 to 22:00.

The service begins from the bus stop in front of the D. Sukhbaatar Square, formerly known as the St. Petersburg Center stop, starting from August 16 until the conclusion of the festival.

The road in front of the "Dunjingarav" shopping center will be temporarily closed and renovated

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The road in front of the "Dunjingarav" shopping center, located in the 36th khoroo of Bayanzurkh district, will be partially closed for renovation from 4:00 AM on August 19 to 6:00 AM on August 20. Therefore, the relevant authorities have informed citizens and drivers to use alternative routes.

Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) are reminded to always cite the source (ikon.mn) when fully or partially using our information in any form.

Moncon Group LLC Stops Violation of Pumping Construction Site Groundwater into Road Drainage System

Published: Sat, 17 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

Moncon Group LLC was implementing a residential project north of the National Garden Park. The project applied to the Ulaanbaatar City Housing and Public Utilities Authority to pump ground water from the construction site into the road rainwater drainage system, and a contract was signed on the 23rd of last month.

However, as the road drainage system in that area could not handle the load, the Ulaanbaatar City Housing and Public Utilities Authority canceled the contract on the 15th of this month and informed Moncon Group LLC. Despite this, Moncon Group LLC continued pumping ground water into the road drainage pipe. As a result, during the continuous rain over the last two days, the Dunzhingarav road and the pedestrian path north of the Park were flooded. Today, the Ulaanbaatar City Housing and Public Utilities Authority disconnected the company's ground water pipe from the road drainage system.

Ambulances Delivered to Soums in Special Protection Areas

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Ministry of Environment and Tourism has reported that ambulances have been delivered to soums in special protection areas.

Specifically, Toyota Land Cruiser LC78 ambulances, equipped with special features and known for their high terrain capability, have been provided to health centers in 17 soums across 11 aimags, including Uvs, Khovd, Govi-Altai, Bayan-Ulgii, and Bayankhongor.

The road in the direction of Toll 22 will be temporarily closed from today at 23:00 and renovated

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

Road repair and renovation work is being carried out in stages in the capital city.

This time, the road from Nomin Shopping Center intersection to Takhilt intersection in Songinokhairkhan District, 20th and 32nd subdistricts, will be partially closed and renovated from 23:00 on August 17 to 06:00 on the 21st. Therefore, citizens and drivers are advised to choose alternative routes for their movement by the Capital City Road Development Agency.

Society

L.Oyun-Erdene: We must start leading change, as the new generation knocks on the door

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: eguur.mn

The Prime Minister of Mongolia, L. Oyun-Erdene, today presented the draft of the government's action plan for 2024-2028 to the State Great Khural.

Since Mongolians transitioned to a parliamentary democratic system, the ninth State Great Khural election was conducted using a mixed system based on the principle of not wasting voters' voices, with regional districts and proportional representation forming a parliament of 126 members for the first time.

For the first time, representatives from five parties have seats in the parliament, women's representation has reached 25%, exceeding regional averages. The inclusion of representatives from disabled individuals, scholars, experts, and citizens living abroad in the legislative body signifies the beginning of a new political culture over the next 30 years, creating new expectations in society for promptly resolving developmental issues, as shown by research findings.

Respecting these societal expectations, as Prime Minister, I proposed forming a government together with the Democratic and HUN parties, which jointly resolved the mixed electoral system, and aimed to reflect prominent clauses from other parties' platforms in the government action plan, treating every voter's voice with respect.

Rooted in the principle of "National interest first, Political party interest second, Personal interest third," a "COURAGE FOR RAPID DEVELOPMENT" agreement was formed by three parties and the government action plan for 2024-2028 is being submitted to the State Great Khural.

This program integrates aspects of the "Vision-2050" long-term policy of Mongolia, the New Revival Policy, and special clauses from party platforms, aimed at rapidly addressing pressing developmental issues and untangling long-stalled projects due to political strife.

The global economic growth is projected to remain around 3.2% in 2024 and 3.3% in 2025. In contrast, the regional economic growth rate was 5.1% in 2023, slowing to 4.8% in 2024. For Mongolia, achieving an average economic growth of 5-8% will enable us, through collective effort, to fully implement this program.

International researchers caution that risks may arise which could alter these projections due to geopolitical tensions, trade wars, financial sanctions, and natural disasters triggered by climate change, which should not be overlooked.

The government's program for the coming four years coincides with an era of rapid development of artificial intelligence, part of the unfolding fifth industrial revolution, transforming human lifestyles swiftly. Predicting how this will impact our region and nation's socio-economic life presents a major challenge and opportunity beyond our imaginations.

From the first industrial revolution of steam engines and mechanized technologies replacing manual work to the development of internal combustion engines, automobiles, airplanes, and mass production, it took over 100 years. Transitioning from the third industrial revolution with computers and digital technology to the fourth revolution with internet networks and smart technology took only 30 years.

We must be prepared as developments in science, technology, and AI-based growth progress at an exponentially faster pace, leading us into the fifth and eventually the sixth industrial revolutions.

Furthermore, with less than 10 years left until the exploitation time for our key export product, coal, expires, we must take bold steps towards economic diversification in time. Therefore, to lead rather than chase development, the government is introducing a four-year program consisting of four groups, four main directions, and four goals, totalling 577 bundled actions.

To implement this program, approximately 120 trillion MNT in investment sources will be necessary. The national budget can only finance 12.3% of this amount. Thus, this program is strategically developed to utilize the national budget as a multiplier, encouraging private sector involvement, and improving the investment legal environment to international standards.

By promptly forming a human resource capable of aligning science, technology, education, and the labor market while collaborating with international experts, applying data-driven policy, speed in decision-making, and transitioning to advanced green technologies in mining, energy, transport logistics, city development, and construction, we will have the opportunity to fully implement this program.

The government's action plan includes comprehensive regional development reform issues. Within the framework of regional development policy, the excessive concentration of governmental power on 700 hectares of Ulaanbaatar's central ring roads will be dismantled, alleviating the root congestion issues of the capital city.

In alignment with "Vision-2050," a long-term development policy for Mongolia, a master plan for the 'capital city until 2040 with new standards aimed at providing all social services within 20 minutes, will be developed and submitted to the State Great Khural within this year.

Bravery is needed to swiftly solve the long-standing problems of Ulaanbaatar. Also, it is essential to triple investment in Ulaanbaatar over the next three years compared to the past 30 years.

It must be possible to reach the new Khushig Valley airport within 20 minutes from the city centre. For this, the "Aspire Mongolia" or "Go Mongolia" cable bridge project connecting the city center to Khurkhereegii Am, followed by a direct dual flow tunnel to the airport, is included in the program. A project to link Ulaanbaatar's roads with a "New Circular Road" will be implemented.

The construction will commence with the Tuul expressway, circumventing Bogdkhan mountain to connect Terelj, Nalaikh, Maydar city, Zuun Mod city, Khushig Valley, Argalant-Emeelt city, Jargalant, and Rashaant city. The technical and economic feasibility study and design budget for the "New Great Circular" expressway or light rail project have been included in the budget amendment. The government will support and materialize the city's initiative to implement the 17.7 km "First Metro Line" project from Tolgoit to Amgalan.

Ulaanbaatar city will be expanded into the central region through Khushig Valley and efforts will be organized to restore Kharkhorum city, the ancient capital situated at the nation's central point.

National housing programs will be accelerated through regional development policy by leveraging the National Wealth Fund. In order to promote this significant new settlement development and invigorate the private sector, government institutions will be strategically relocated by region in stages.

The fundamental solution to the excessive concentration in Ulaanbaatar is understood to be regional development. The organization of the first regional district election for the State Great Khural is connected to this. During recent consultations on incorporating suggestions into this program with State Great Khural members, the scope of discussed issues has significantly expanded compared to previous years. As the Prime Minister, I greatly appreciate the shift in political culture towards equitable distribution of the national budget across local units, laying the groundwork for regions to independently develop with economic opportunities.

The government has included provisions in this program to ensure each region has specialized and secondary leading directions in terms of socio-economic development. You know that without diversification, investments become scattered, yielding no real results! Therefore, we must also be courageous for rapid development.

Khan Khentii region as the "Traditional Livestock Specialized, Urban Development Sub-Region,"
Western region as the "Energy Specialized, Natural Tourism Sub-Region,"
Northern region as the "Natural Tourism Specialized, Industrial Sub-Region,"
Gobi region as the "Industrial Specialized, Green Energy Sub-Region,"
Central region as the "Agricultural Specialized, Industrial Sub-Region,"
Eastern region as the "Historical Tourism Specialized, Intensified Agricultural Sub-Region."

To support the economic circulation of regions, extensive construction of roads connecting provincial centers with border checkpoints and each other is planned under the Regional Development's "FIVE RINGS" road network. Preparations for regional development construction, updating preliminary feasibility studies, design, and research financing are included in this amendment. We must work against the clock to complete planning in fall and winter, so we are ready to start construction work next spring.

The human development policy is, without question, the fundamental core of government operations. National development stems from human development. The government is merely one of the many stakeholders forming society. Therefore, programs based on citizen participation are known to succeed, as proven by the developmental history of countries.

This program was developed using internationally accepted human development index standards to ensure measurable, achievable, and risk-assessed methodologies.

A nation's future depends on how it prepares future citizens. Mongolians should value their language, history, culture, be healthy, nurturing, and responsible citizens and family members. This should be cultivated through preschool and general education.

"The future of the homeland rises on the hands of a good teacher," saying aligns with this belief. Therefore, this program emphasized fully supporting teachers' professions and implementing a national program capable of building coherent national core values which all schools, regardless of the investor's nationality, should adopt.

Regarding higher education:

Prepare national human resources capable of solving the country's future development issues.
Coordinate with future labor market needs.
Prepare globally competitive citizens.
Develop universities that enhance their global standing by training international students, which the government will fully support through this program.

Our past mistake was viewing education and health care sectors as separate. Development is a living organism like the human body. Addressing health services, early detection, drug quality, social issues of medical professionals, and improving public health literacy are crucial and emphasized in this program. Reducing the lifestyle diseases, mortality causes, unhealthy habits, alcohol, smoking, and promoting active lifestyle and healthy nutrition from an early age through the education system will be ensured.

Along with full adoption of international standards, an integrated inter-sectoral information system for medicine and medical tools will be established, and medicine imports will be fully digitized. The opportunity to receive health services independent of time and space will increase, and advanced technology in e-health and AI will be adopted for treatment, diagnostics, and monitoring. Physical development of population tracking and public sports environment accessibility will be improved.

Furthermore, in the human development policy framework to encourage private sector involvement:

Increase green areas and implement new waste management.
Enhance cultural services like museums, theatres, libraries for citizens' recreation.
Enhance sports facilities such as public sports fields, complexes, fitness clubs that support health.
Establish environments suitable for children’s leisure, summer camps, parks, playgrounds, elderly development centers, and facilities adjusted for disabled individuals, offering up to a 1% sales profit tax discount for enterprises that invest in these areas.

Strengthening the National Wealth Fund system and implementing health, education, housing, savings programs through the fund will result in opening savings accounts for every citizen on the E-Mongolia platform, thus establishing a reform for fair distribution of natural resource benefits to citizens.

In implementing these proposed social policy objectives, as mentioned earlier:

Sustain economic growth between 5-6% over the next four years.
Keep inflation to a single digit.
Maintain a positive balance of payments, increasing foreign exchange reserves.
Aggressively implement the economic plan to improve economic freedom standings and global innovation indicators, achieving GDP per capita of $8,000-10,000.

The past four years have doubled exports by unblocking export channels, raising GDP from 37 trillion to 68.9 trillion MNT. Similarly, in the next four years, revitalizing the stagnant energy sector and unlocking development blocks will be priorities. The government highlights 14 mega projects to expand the economy:

Establish cross-border connections for "Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod," "Khangi-Mandal," "Shiveekhuren-Sekhee" border checkpoints through railways and shifting terminals to increase export capacity to 40 million tons, doubling export revenue, tripling coal transport via rail, and doubling passenger and cargo throughput.
Once connected, foundational conditions will be established to commence major construction of the Eastern vertical railway line from Bichigt-Ereentsav and the Western vertical from Shiveekhuren-Artsuuri.
Construct Tavantalgoi’s 450 MW thermal power station. Following prolonged discussions, the Oyu Tolgoi agreement paves the way for this project. This will produce 3.2 billion kWh annually, covering power needs of Oyu Tolgoi, Tavantalgoi, and other strategic southern mining projects domestically.
Erdeneburen's 90 MW hydropower station will reliably and continuously supply the west's power demand with 366 million kWh annually, increasing domestic production. Preparations for this project are fully complete, forming the west's energy demand nucleus.
Implement the Eg River's 310 MW hydropower project, saving $25 million in import costs, cutting raw coal use by 439 thousand tons annually, reducing greenhouse gases by 709 thousand tons, acting as a regulating plant. A swift environmental impact assessment is needed, and if delayed, expansion of the third power station is necessary.
Policy advancements in renewable energy production will occur. It’s determined Mongolia has 2,600 GW of renewable potential. This not only fills domestic power shortfalls but creates economic diversification opportunities, reduces greenhouse gases, participates in carbon credit trading, and earns additional revenue. To implement these projects, energy liberalization policy should be pursued with boldness similar to successful air transportation liberalization.
Essential water transfer pipelines like Kherlen-Tseregtee and Orkhon-Ongi in the Gobi region will be constructed, including the Kherlen-Tseregtee water complex. This will restore the Ongi River and Ulaan Lake, stabilize water levels, ensure surface water supply for humans and livestock, revive local biodiversity, and combat desertification. Large economic projects cannot proceed in the Gobi without addressing water needs or battling dust storms.
Start a joint Mongolian-French uranium nuclear power project, exporting 2,500 tons of uranium annually, expected to contribute over a billion dollars in tax revenue and create over 1,000 jobs. Environmental assessments and plant agreements must be thoroughly executed, avoiding mistakes made in the Oyu Tolgoi agreement.
Establish Coal-Chemical, Coke-Chemical complexes. Leveraging mining resources in the Gobi for heavy industry and upgrading processing industries will enhance export revenues and reduce reliance on global commodity prices. We must develop solutions for hydrogen production and coal washing technologies in time.
Annually processing 560,000 tons of copper concentrate into 125,000 tons of cathode copper, 72 kg of gold, 38.2 tons of ingots of silver, and 182,000 tons of elemental sulfur, creating $1.1 billion in revenue. Analyze environmental impact evaluations and select among three proposed sites.
Establish a steel plant to fully meet domestic steel rebar and other steel product needs, producing 1 million tons of steel billets and products to supply building rebar, angle bars, wire, and fully satisfy domestic rebar requirements.
A fully operational oil refinery will produce 1.3 million tons of products from 1.5 million tons of raw oil, supplying about 55% of domestic oil needs.
The Oyu Tolgoi reliant gold refinery project will increase refined gold share, selling on international markets and increasing foreign currency revenue. The government will focus on intensifying geological exploration to discover a second Oyu Tolgoi and Tavantolgoi.
Establish a National Satellite Network to ensure that citizens, regardless of location, can connect to the internet, access information equally, and partake in public services directly.

A country's progress or decline relies on proper governance systems and public servants’ dedication, placing state interests above personal gain.

The history of Mongolia's parliamentary governance will be recorded as 1992-2024 and beyond. Therefore, it is our historic responsibility, as members of the first parliament with 126 representatives, to further solidify parliamentary governance, protect it as the assurance of Mongolia’s democracy, and raise its prestige.

The government's action plan includes comprehensive legal reforms to perfect classical parliamentary governance fully supporting it.

Comprehensive legal electronic reform is needed to ensure human rights and sensitivity within legal institutions, especially ending unjust actions like wrongful convictions, torture, harsh treatment of citizens, and leniency towards corruption, ensuring judicial transparency.

Dismantling bureaucratic relations regulated by rules exceeding legislation since 1990 must be boldly addressed and is envisioned to be resolved during a coalition government period.

Duplicative, outdated functions of state-owned enterprises will be eliminated, digitized, performance, control, evaluation will be improved, government efficiency will rise, with management by international teams organized.

By reaching 2.2 million E-Mongolia platform users and transitioning to AI-based technology without human intervention, eliminating duplication in state duties and eradicating the roots of corruption will significantly progress.

State employees with over five productive years will pursue overseas language and advanced training through a "1+2" objective.

Ensuring government transparency and nurturing participation-based feedback by understanding the future leaders, predominantly youth, and engaging them is crucial for our country. Lamenting that the government does not understand youths is ineffective and outdated. A new parliament is configured, a new 30 years has begun. A new-minded, new generation is knocking on the door, and change leadership should start with us, in this chamber. This new 30 years belong to them.

Please deliberate and decide on the State Great Khural resolution to approve the "Courage for Rapid Development" "Mongolia's Government Action Plan 2024-2028."

Proposed Ban on Riding Sur-Ron for Children Under 18

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

Deputy Mayor of the Capital City L. Khosbayar and Head of the Capital City Health Department P. Erkhembulgan have proposed a ban on children under 18 from riding Sur-Ron and participating in road traffic.

Deputy Mayor L. Khosbayar stated, "The time has come when it is necessary to address issues related to Sur-Ron. As the summer holiday season ends and the new school year begins, it is imperative to focus on road safety and the conditions for children to live in a healthy and safe environment. Since 2021, 'Sur-Ron Ulaanbaatar' has been introduced to our country. Since then, the use of this vehicle has been increasing annually. As the number of users grows, legal regulation is required. Due to the absence of such regulation, incidents of adolescents getting involved in road accidents, sustaining injuries, and fatalities while riding Sur-Ron have increased. Therefore, to improve this legal environment, we are submitting a letter to the Minister of Justice and Home Affairs and the Minister of Road Transport proposing legal amendments to prohibit minors from riding Sur-Ron."

The Head of the Capital City Health Department P. Erkhembulgan mentioned, "Since 2021, accidents and injuries have become one of the top five leading causes of illness and death in the capital city. Among them, road traffic accidents account for 10 percent.

According to the National Statistical Office, in the category of two-wheeled vehicles such as motorcycles, 1,181 people were involved in road accidents in 2021. Among them were 210 children aged 0-18, with 67 children driving themselves and 143 as passengers were harmed. Furthermore, these numbers increased in 2022 and 2023. As of July 31, 2024, 1,233 cases have been registered, including 281 minors, and 238 children were driving themselves. These statistics highlight the urgent need for regulation to prevent minors from riding this type of vehicle."

Kindergarten Registration Ends Today

Published: Sat, 17 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

The enrollment for the 2024-2025 academic year kindergarten students in the capital city is being accepted through the E-Mongolia system. The registration will end today.

Every child continuing their studies or newly enrolling must register through the E-Mongolia system. The result of the registration will be communicated via text message to the mobile phone numbers registered between August 19 and August 21, 2024. It can also be checked by logging into the E-Mongolia system. You can view the progress by accessing https://parent.edu.mn/.

Proposal to Prohibit Underage Children from Riding Sur Ron and Participating in Traffic

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Office of the Mayor of the Capital City and the Public Health Department announced today a proposal to prohibit underage children from riding Sur Ron and participating in traffic.

Specifically, the Mayor of the Capital City plans to submit a proposal for legislative amendments to the Minister of Justice and Home Affairs and the Minister of Transport to establish regulations that ban underage children from riding Sur Ron and participating in traffic.

Regarding injuries related to Sur Ron, the head of the City Health Department, P. Erkhembulgan, provided the following information:

In Ulaanbaatar, accidents, injuries, and other external causes of mortality are among the top five causes of death, accounting for 10% of deaths due to traffic accidents.

In 2021, there were 1,181 individuals affected by traffic accidents due to two-wheeled vehicles, of which 210 were children aged 0-18. The number of incidents involving children driving and getting into such accidents has been increasing in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

"As of July this year, there are 238 cases of children driving two-wheeled vehicles and getting into traffic accidents."

For instance:

In 2022, out of 1,452 individuals affected by this type of traffic accident, 232 were children under 18, and 110 were children driving and injured.
In 2023, out of 1,680 individuals affected by this type of traffic accident, 317 were children under 18, and 235 were children driving and injured.
As of July 31, 2024, there have been 1,233 cases of this type of traffic accident, with 281 children under 18 affected, and the number of children driving and getting into traffic accidents has increased to 238.

The consequences for children involved in accidents include permanent loss of ability to work, severe injuries, and even death. Amidst an annual trend of 1,600-2,000 registered accidents of this nature, it is deemed necessary to establish regulations concerning the operation of Sur Ron by underage children.

Kindergarten Registration Ends Today

Published: Sun, 18 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Registration for children for the 2024-2025 academic year in the city's kindergartens is being accepted through the E-Mongolia system. Registration ends today.

Every child who continues their studies or enrolls for the first time must register through the E-Mongolia system. The registration results will be sent via message to the mobile phone numbers registered from August 19 to 2024.08.21. It is also possible to check through the E-Mongolia system.

You can visit https://parent.edu.mn/ to view the progress information.

Restoration of Rights and Lifting of Travel Ban for 12 Citizens

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

In an effort to restore violated rights, the Bayanzurkh District Prosecutor's Office has conducted a study over the past 3 years on the basis for suspending the right of citizens who have committed crimes and faced criminal responsibility to cross the national border, and has taken appropriate measures.

Specifically, they discovered that the travel and migration rights of 12 citizens, whose sentences of non-custodial or probationary measures imposed by the court had been completed, were not reinstated. As a result, an official letter was sent to the General Authority for Border Protection, which led to the lifting of the travel ban on these citizens.

X Bogd Jebtsundamba Khutuktu Visits

Published: Sat, 17 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

For the peace in the world, the Dechok Wang or the Great Bliss Time Wheel empowerment instruction was graced by X Bogd Jebtsundamba Khutuktu.

Today, Jadho Rinpoche receives the preparatory empowerment instructions from his guru for the Dechok Wang. On the sixth day of empowerment, preparatory rituals, "The Three Principal Aspects of the Path" and the "Guide to Thirty-Seven Practices of a Bodhisattva" are being taught.

Environment

Ulz, Balj, Onon, Khara River Waters Rise 10-85 cm Above Dangerous Flood Levels

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

As of August 17, rivers like Selenge originating from Delgermörön Eg in the Khuvsgul mountains, Khurk on the eastern side of Khentii, Tergel on the western side of Barh, and Onon from the Khangai mountains, as well as other rivers such as Ongi and Baydrag, have seen their water levels rise by 10-55 cm compared to the previous day.

The Ulz (Dashbalbar, Ereentsav), Khara (Baganuur-Mungunmort-Choibalsan), Balj (Dadal) Kharkhiraa Rivers have surpassed flood levels by 5-25 cm, while rivers such as Khurk, Tuul (Lun), Orkhon (Orkhontuul), Onon, Khara (Undurkhaan) continue to experience dangerous flood levels rising by 10-85 cm.

In the coming days, due to heavy rainfall, especially in the eastern parts of the country, river levels are expected to rise sharply in a short period, and flash floods may occur in dry areas, ditches, and ravines. The National Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring Center has issued a warning for greater caution against flood hazards.

Warning: Cautionary Notice About the Danger of Flooding

Published: Sat, 17 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

On the 17th and 18th, heavy rain with lightning is expected in the eastern parts of the country, so be warned about possible hail, lightning, strong winds, flash floods, and the danger of flooding.

The western parts of the country will be partly cloudy, while other areas will be overcast. In the eastern parts of central and Gobi provinces, as well as some areas of the eastern provinces, there will be rain, thunderstorms, and heavy showers. Winds will come from the southwest in the western provinces, and from the northwest in other parts, reaching speeds of 5-10 meters per second, temporarily intensifying before the rain in some areas.

A person who hunted marmots on Bogd Mountain, hid from inspectors, and fled has been found

Published: Sat, 17 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

Nature protectors from the Eastern Delger and Ögöömr valleys conducted a patrol at Bogdkhan Mountain's protected area.

During this process, when a suspicious vehicle with the state license plate ...UAK was stopped, the driver refused to comply and fled. Subsequently, a search of the nearby area uncovered that the individual had shot a marmot and hidden it before fleeing. As a result, the nature protectors reported the incident to the Töv aimag police department. They cooperated to identify and detain the person who committed the poaching, and the investigation is ongoing.

It is prohibited to hunt in a special protected area, and according to Article 24.5 of the Criminal Code, criminal liability will be imposed if such an act is committed. Every citizen is urged to fulfill their civic duty as specified in the Constitution by reporting any illegal activities against the environment to the Protection Administration and to collaborate with them.

WARNING: The Level of River Water Has Rapidly Increased in a Short Time, Highlighting the Need for Caution

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

As of today, the water levels of several rivers, such as the Delgermörön from the Khuvsgul Mountains, the Eg River, Khurh on the eastern side of Khentii, Tarkhilj on the western side of Bargh, Selbe, and Onggi, which get their water from the Khangai Mountains, and Baidrag, have increased by 10-55 cm compared to the previous day.

The Ulz River (Dashbalbar, Ereentsav), Kherlen (Baganuur-Mungunmorit-Choibalsan), and Balj (Dadal/Kharkhiraa) rivers have exceeded flood levels by 5-25 cm. Rivers such as Khurh, Tuul (Lun), Orkhon (Orkhontuul), Onon, and Kherlen (Undurkhaan) are still experiencing dangerous flooding, with levels exceeding by 10-85 cm.

In the coming days, heavy rainfall is expected in the eastern parts of the country, and depending on the intensity and amount of this rainfall, river levels may rapidly increase in a short time, and flash floods may occur in dry ravines. Therefore, we are issuing a special warning to be cautious against the dangers of floods and water, according to the National Center for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring.

Sports

Appointing B. Bat-Erdene as the Olympic Minister and Allocating 255 Billion, Yet Mongolia Relapses by 20-28 Years with Only "One Medal" from Paris Like in the 1996 and 2004 Olympics

Published: Sat, 17 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

Mongolia concluded the "Paris 2024" Summer Olympics with just one silver medal, a disappointing development akin to reverting 20-28 years despite establishing an Olympic Minister.

Notably, Mongolia won 1 bronze medal in the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics, came home empty-handed from the 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics, and secured 1 bronze medal in the 2004 Athens Summer Olympics. However, at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Mongolia won 2 golds and 2 silvers, followed by 2 silvers and 3 bronzes at the 2012 London Summer Olympics, 1 silver and 1 bronze at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympics, and 1 silver and 3 bronzes at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics.

In summary, although Mongolia appointed an Olympic Minister in the past four years, the country repeated its history of earning only “one medal” from the 1996 and 2004 Summer Olympics, effectively setting back its achievements by 20-28 years at the "Paris 2024" Summer Olympics.

In 2022, the National Registry appointed Darhan Avarga and Member of the Parliament B. Bat-Erdene as the Minister of Mongolia and Chairman of the National Committee on Public Fitness and Sports. His appointment was justified on the grounds of contributing significantly to preparing Mongolian athletes for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Consequently, B. Bat-Erdene, as the Minister of Mongolia and Chairman of the National Committee on Public Fitness and Sports, was allocated 111 billion MNT in the 2023 national budget. For the 2024 budget, he was granted 144 billion MNT. Budget details can be viewed here. In summary, almost 255 billion MNT was spent, yet Mongolia only obtained one medal from the "Paris 2024" Summer Olympics. In this regard, Chairman of the National Committee on Public Fitness and Sports B. Bat-Erdene stated, “In 2024, 83-84 million MNT will be spent on each Olympic athlete, whereas in 2018, it was 31-32 million MNT, and 43-44 million MNT in 2023 on each participating athlete.”

There are concerns about the negligence of the Mongolian National Olympic Committee (MNOC) in this Olympic cycle, specifically regarding athletes O. Yesugen and N. Bayaraa, whose events in the 10-meter air rifle shooting category were canceled and were only able to compete in one category. However, MNOC President B. Battushig denied these claims.

O. Yesugen remarked, “The Mongolian National Olympic Committee submitted my application for the Olympics incomplete. In essence, my name is not on the list of athletes in the 10-meter air rifle category.” Following this, the MNOC reached out to the International Olympic Committee, allowing O. Yesugen and N. Bayaraa to compete in their designated 10-meter air rifle category for the "Paris 2024" Summer Olympics.

Some athletes reportedly participated in the "Paris 2024" Summer Olympics without a nutritionist and journalists, suggesting that officials traveling to France should have instead included the athletes' nutritionist and journalists. It remains uncertain which MNOC officials traveled to the "Paris 2024" Olympics at the state's expense.

Mongolian Chess Players to Participate in the World Chess Olympiad

Published: Fri, 16 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The world's top chess players are set to gather in Budapest, Hungary, on the 10th of next month. This will be the 45th World Chess Olympiad. With just 25 days left, renowned chess players such as Magnus Carlsen from Norway, Hou Yifan from China, Hikaru Nakamura from the USA, Humpy Koneru and Viswanathan Anand from India, and Anish Giri from the Netherlands are set to compete. Mongolia's team for this Olympiad has also been selected. Let's introduce them.

Men:

International Master G. Amartüvshin
FIDE Master Kh. Itgelt
FIDE Master S. Chinguun
International Master M. Amilal
FIDE Master E. Baasansüren

Women:

Grandmaster B. Munguntuul
Grandmaster D. Nomin-Erdene
Grandmaster T. Munkhzul
FIDE Master E. Khuslen
Candidate Master B. Mungunzul

These athletes qualified as the top five placers in the National Chess Championship. The team is led by International Master D. Yanjindulam and D. Törmönkh. The Mongolian men's team is ranked 63rd and the women's team 23rd globally. The 45th Chess Olympiad will start on the 10th of this month with an opening ceremony and team leaders' meeting, followed by the first round on the 11th. The final 11th round, closing ceremony, and award presentation will take place on the 22nd. In the tournament, 196 men's teams and 186 women's teams have registered to participate.

In the 2018 World Chess Olympiad, the Mongolian team was among the top five in Asia in the overall standings for both men and women. Additionally, Mongolia's women's team won gold in the “B” category in 2014, and the men’s team earned a silver medal in the “C” category in 2018.

Moreover, Mongolia has participated in the World Chess Olympiad 25 times, achieving noteworthy results: In 1960, L. Myagmarsüren won gold on board; T. Uytümen won silver in 1964 and 1970; Z. Byambaa won bronze in 2000, silver in 2002; and B. Khatanbaatar and T. Batsetseg won bronze in 2004.

Reflecting on history, Mongolia first took part in the 12th Olympiad held in Moscow, Russia in 1956, with the team led by S. Toivgoo, comprising of Ts. Jugder, B. Jamsran, S. Mömöö, P. Tömörbaatar, D. Tserendagva, and N. Namjil, securing 30th place out of 34 teams. Since then, Mongolia is set to participate for the 27th time in the World Chess Olympiad. The women's team first participated in 1963 in the Olympiad held in Split, Croatia, with a team led by international judge N. Namjil, including FIDE Master J. Khulganaa and International Master S. Khandsüren, securing 11th place out of 15 teams. This marks the 21st time the women's chess team is prepared to compete in the Olympiad.

Grandmaster B. Khatanbaatar and International Master L. Myagmarsüren have represented Mongolia the most times, each having participated in the World Chess Olympiad 10 times.

From the team participating in the 45th Olympiad, Grandmaster B. Munguntuul will participate for the 10th time, while D. Nomin-Erdene and T. Munkhzul will each participate for the third time, and Candidate Master B. Mungunzul and International Master G. Amartüvshin will compete for the second time. The remaining five chess players will compete for the first time in this Olympiad, a gathering of the world's elite, to showcase their intellectual prowess.

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Sports

Politics

FEATURED INTERVIEW: "YOU CAN'T MAKE THE GOVERNMENT BEAR ALL THE WEIGHT AND JUST SIT BACK" | News.MN

VIDEO: M. Narantuya-Nara and S. Zamira, Who Became Members of Parliament from the IZN Party List, Are Criticized by Citizens and Demands Are Made for Their Recall

If Led by T. Battsogt, the Democratic Party Will Fall in the Capital!

Will D. Amarbaysgalan's Move to "Revise the Law on Press Freedom" Stop Authorities from Punishing Whistleblowers and Retaliating against Reporters?

Economy

EVENT: Presentation of Social and Economic Indicators of Mongolia for the First Seven Months of 2024

Reduce Poverty Through Proper Planning Based on Big Data

Ts. Tuvaan: Investment Agreement for "Zuunbayan-Ovoo" Uranium Project to be Completed by October and Put into Operation

The balance of non-performing loans decreased to 2 trillion MNT by the end of last month, down 12% from the same period in 2023

Session: There Are Many Complaints Related to Foreign Investors

"Mongolia-Japan Business Forum 2024" to be held on August 19

Diplomacy

"The Gas Pipeline Issue Has Been Removed from the Government's Action Program as It Is Beyond Our Control"

Infrastructure

H. Nyambaatar: There Are Acts of Sabotage in Blocking Certain Pipelines

L. Oyun-Erdene: Adjusting the Budget to Effectively Implement Major Energy, Infrastructure, and Industrialization Projects

50% of Government Vehicles Registered in the Capital Will Not Participate in Traffic

The "Resilient Asian Cities" Project to be Implemented in Ulaanbaatar

Operations of Construction Companies Damaging Stormwater Drainage Pipes and Draining Groundwater Will Be Halted

70% of Ulaanbaatar City's Roads are Being Repaired

50% of State Institution Vehicles Registered in Ulaanbaatar to Participate in Traffic

Land clearance for Selbe sub-center housing project is 76% complete

Traffic Police Warn of Predominant Accidents Due to Overtaking on Local Roads

Public Transport is Operating Free of Charge

The road in front of the "Dunjingarav" shopping center will be temporarily closed and renovated

Moncon Group LLC Stops Violation of Pumping Construction Site Groundwater into Road Drainage System

Ambulances Delivered to Soums in Special Protection Areas

The road in the direction of Toll 22 will be temporarily closed from today at 23:00 and renovated

Society

L.Oyun-Erdene: We must start leading change, as the new generation knocks on the door

Proposed Ban on Riding Sur-Ron for Children Under 18

Kindergarten Registration Ends Today

Proposal to Prohibit Underage Children from Riding Sur Ron and Participating in Traffic

Kindergarten Registration Ends Today

Restoration of Rights and Lifting of Travel Ban for 12 Citizens

X Bogd Jebtsundamba Khutuktu Visits

Environment

Ulz, Balj, Onon, Khara River Waters Rise 10-85 cm Above Dangerous Flood Levels

Warning: Cautionary Notice About the Danger of Flooding

A person who hunted marmots on Bogd Mountain, hid from inspectors, and fled has been found

WARNING: The Level of River Water Has Rapidly Increased in a Short Time, Highlighting the Need for Caution

Sports

Appointing B. Bat-Erdene as the Olympic Minister and Allocating 255 Billion, Yet Mongolia Relapses by 20-28 Years with Only "One Medal" from Paris Like in the 1996 and 2004 Olympics

Mongolian Chess Players to Participate in the World Chess Olympiad

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