Aug 21, 2024 52 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for August 21, 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

N. Narantsetseg: Voters can find out the address of their polling station in addition to their information from the voters' list

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

We spoke with N. Narantsetseg, a senior specialist at the General Registry Office, about the 2024 regular elections of the Citizens' Representatives Council of provinces, the capital city, districts, and soums, and about citizen registration and migration.

Are the voter lists for the 2024 regular elections of the Citizens' Representatives Councils of the provinces, the capital city, districts, and soums different from the voter information of the 2024 regular parliamentary elections?

In accordance with the law on the election of the Citizens' Representatives Council of provinces, the capital city, districts, and soums, the voter lists have been placed on the organization's website since July 13, 2024.

According to the laws on the presidential and parliamentary elections of Mongolia and the elections of the Citizens' Representatives Councils, voter identification information is the same. In other words, voters are required by law to check whether their father's/mother's name, own name, age, gender, registration number, and permanent residence address information is incorrectly registered or not.

However, due to the amendments to the parliamentary election laws, voters are now able to access their information as well as the information of all registered voters at their permanent address on the website.

Since this provision is not included in the law on the election of the Citizens' Representatives Councils, voters can only access their own related information from the voter lists available on the website. If the information is incorrect, they can contact the state registration department at their place of residence.

How many voters checked their information for the parliamentary elections? There are often reports of unknown people registered at addresses, or discrepancies in information. Were there many complaints during the 2024 regular parliamentary elections? How were they resolved?

As of June 29, 2024, 136,063 citizens have reviewed their related information in the voter lists for the 2024 regular parliamentary elections. Of these, 128,548 confirmed their information as correct, 7,517 identified discrepancies, and 1,286 have been resolved.

82% of the total complaints, i.e., 6,179, were about discrepancies in the number of residents registered at their address, or unknown people registered at their address. Upon investigation, it was found that often the previous owners of the property were still registered. Hence, citizens who sold their immovable property, such as apartments or house plots, did not process their migration registration and were still remaining on their old address.

Article 19.4 of the Civil Registration Law states that “If the ownership rights of immovable property or land at the citizen's place of residence have expired but there have been no changes to the registration in the civil registry, the address registration of the citizen's residence can be suspended based on the conclusion of the registering officer at the request of the relevant citizen.” Therefore, property owners can request resolution from the registering officer at their unit.

Resolving such discrepancies requires implementing the Administrative General Law, which necessitates a certain period.

Also, on another note, property owners sometimes apply for registration for their relatives or especially for enrolling children in school, kindergartens, and then forget about it, which causes issues. It is important to ensure accurate checking of information and filing complaints when necessary.

What are the common registration address-related discrepancies?

The most common complaints are about other individuals registered at their residential address. People seem unaware of the migration registration rules and guidelines, resulting in neglected registrations. According to the Civil Registration Law, upon moving, a citizen must present the required supporting documents and register in person with the state registrar of their place of residence within 10 days. Citizens can undertake migration registration both in person with the state registrar and via the integrated government service system/e-mongolia.

Given a certain number of complaints were resolved during the parliamentary election, can it be understood that address-related discrepancies have decreased in local elections?

Yes, we can understand discrepancies have decreased to an extent. However, applications and complaints that require verification or clarification take time, as previously mentioned.

How long would it take to correct information discrepancies filed online?

Complaints and applications from citizens will be resolved in line with the Regulations on Resolving Applications and Complaints from Citizens to State Authorities and Officials.

If the voter complaint can be resolved based on archival supporting documents, a resolution will immediately be provided and the citizen will be informed. Otherwise, if a detailed check and determination is required, it will take a certain period.

How long will the voters' list remain on your website, and until when can citizens check their information and file complaints if discrepancies are found?

Voters can review the voter list available on the website and see the address of their polling station until election day. However, complaints must be filed at least 14 days before election day as stipulated by law.

Importantly, even though the 14-day deadline is stipulated by law, that does not mean complaints cannot be resolved after that. Post-election, citizens can still approach the relevant state registration department to resolve issues.

Can citizens who are unable to verify their information online get information at their local precinct? When will the voter information be available at the local precincts?

According to Article 20.9 of the law on the election of the Citizens' Representatives Councils, “The state administrative body in charge of registration issues ... will deliver a paper-based voter list to local registration office branches through local offices and sections at least 25 days before election day.”

Therefore, the voter lists will be printed and delivered to local election precincts by September 16, 2024. From that point, voters who cannot verify their information online can visit the election precincts to review the voter lists.

Political parties and coalitions involved in the election receive the voters' list. There has been information on social media about parties contacting voters and inquiring whom to vote for, or giving advice. Do the voters' list include personal information about the citizen? What information is provided to parties and coalitions?

For presidential elections, it is legally regulated to provide voter lists electronically once at the request of the authorized representative of the party or coalition. In parliamentary elections, it is regulated to provide it twice electronically to parties and coalitions registered to participate.

However, in the law on the election of the Citizens' Representatives Councils, there is no provision to give voter lists to parties and coalitions.

Are the citizen and voter migrations halted for local elections in the same manner as for parliamentary elections?

Yes, it is the same. Processing of citizen migration registrations is halted 60 days before election day and will resume after the election. Migration registration has been halted from August 12, 2024.

Political parties and coalitions often provide information related to “grasshopper migration” and “address discrepancies” associated with migration and registration. During the regular parliamentary election, you held numerous meetings and briefings with political parties. Were the misunderstandings clarified?

This is indeed an issue that must be discussed. Political parties often have misunderstandings regarding this matter. The registration of citizen migration is one type of civil registration and is based on certain supporting documents. The state registration authority does not randomly register an excessive number of citizens at any address without permission but bases registration on documented address proof provided by authorized bodies.

The internal inspection and control unit of the state registration authority regularly conducts inspections and removes detected discrepancies from records as they occur. Similarly, strict checks are also conducted on migration registrations.

During the parliamentary elections period, we ensured the law was adhered to and organized five meetings with political parties and coalitions.

In these meetings, the information regarding voters' lists, including deceased citizens, newly registered individuals in the updated civil registry, changes in surnames, father's/mother's names, personal names, registry number changes by authorized decision, acquiring, losing, or renewing Mongolian citizenship, migration registrations, and inclusion in the civil registry electronic database, were shown in detail. We also demonstrated and explained that the voter registration database and civil registry database are the same entity.

Additionally, when issues such as registering strange citizens at given addresses and false registration of voters were reported by parties and NGOs, immediate investigation based on the electronic database and original documents was conducted, and results communicated to them.

Moreover, prior to the election, in the presence of party and coalition representatives, the database of the voter list given to parties and coalitions was sealed for safety, and on July 5, 2024, immediately after election day, the sealed database was compared with the main database to verify the unique voter presence and ensure no duplication, verifying all was correct.

Similar work, like demonstrating how voter registration information is input in voter registration software and its transmission to the central server, was shared with political parties' representatives, resulting in fruitful cooperation and resolving misunderstandings.

How many voters will participate in the local elections?

As of July 31, 2024, a total of 2,246,511 voters are registered for local elections.

It should be understood this number will likely change until election day. Citizens who passed away will be deducted, those enrolled in the civil registration updated registry will be added, and other changes will occur based on authoritative information.

Source: General Elections Commission

Ch.Lodoisambuu: Newly Elected Members Have Become Tools to Destroy Their Governance Principles

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Today, seven standing committees of the State Great Khural are meeting to discuss the 2024 budget draft and the accompanying legislative proposals. The law on tenders, which was introduced with the budget, has caused considerable controversy. Member of Parliament Ch.Lodoisambuu expressed the following position during the standing committee meeting.

Member of Parliament Ch.Lodoisambuu: Generally speaking, who provides the money first is a secondary issue. Whoever does it will ultimately recover the costs from the budget. The real issue is the lack of a selection process for deciding who will carry out the work, leading to disputes and risks. This is what I am repeatedly suggesting should be improved. I understand the need for urgent work.

This government, the newly formed parliament, and the newly elected members must pay attention to a certain issue. We have become tools to destroy the principles of our governance. That's what the newly elected members are contributing to. All the urgent activities being brought in by the government are about shining with new developments.

Is the Secretariat of the State Great Khural Treating Member M. Narantuya Unfairly?

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

We published an article titled "Does Member of Parliament M. Narantuya's Facebook Advertisement Comply with the Law?" which discussed the legality of the live broadcasts promoting goods and products on social media by the member and whether a member of parliament can engage in such business activities.

On the same day, the Secretary-General of the Secretariat of the State Great Khural, B. Baasandorj, sent an official letter TG-01/1293 to the Chairman of the Ethics and Disciplinary Standing Committee, B. Bayarbaatar, requesting measures concerning Member M. Narantuya's mentioned actions and other issues.

The swift action taken by the Secretariat of the State Great Khural to address public criticism and submit requests and demands to the relevant standing committee is commendable. However, the Secretariat must implement measures without highlighting or discriminating against anyone.

For instance, during the recent parliamentary election campaign, two candidates who faced considerable public criticism related to their positions and duties were S. Erdenebat, President of the Mongolian Trade Union Confederation, and D. Enkhtuvshin, President (Chair) of the Mongolian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Since they, like M. Narantuya, became members from the party list of the MPP, the restrictions related to having double positions, conducting business, and engaging in further work apply to them as well.

However, as of today, according to the information visible in the open registry of legal entities, both S. Erdenebat and D. Enkhtuvshin remain in these controversial positions during the election campaign.

Specifically, S. Erdenebat is still registered as the President of the Mongolian Trade Union Confederation with registration number 1067273.

D. Enkhtuvshin remains registered as the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry NGO with registration number 1000381.

Both organizations have critical duties: one protects the labor rights of the members of the industrial union before state and administrative bodies and employers, while the other represents the interests of businesspersons before the state.

In other words, these organizations take on protecting the rights of employees and businesspersons before the state, yet their leaders have become "state" themselves.

Initially, on June 11, 2024, Member D. Enkhtuvshin tweeted on his Twitter, X account: "I have decided to continue the election campaign by making an ethical decision and resigning from the position of MCCI President."

The President of the MTUC, S. Erdenebat, also stated in an interview on ubn.mn on July 30, 2024, "... I have submitted a resignation request to the MTUC ...".

However, as mentioned above, according to the open information of the legal entities' state registration, these two individuals remain registered with their respective organizations in presidential positions.

The newly formed members of the State Great Khural began their tenure by taking an oath on July 2, 2024, and from this day, they must strictly and firmly adhere to the "Prohibited Actions for Members" outlined in Article 44 of the Law on the State Great Khural.

In other words, there was sufficient time for them to be released from these positions and register it with the state registry after taking the oath.

However, their failure to resign from these positions violates the prohibition stipulated in Article 44.1.10 of the Law on the State Great Khural, which prohibits conducting business, joining business organizations, or being elected to the Board of Directors and Supervisory Board of business entities during their term of office.

Furthermore, it seems to violate the restriction in the first part of Article Twenty-nine of the Constitution, which states, "... A member of the State Great Khural, except for the Prime Minister and members of the Government, may not concurrently hold any position unrelated to their duties prescribed by law."

Therefore, the Secretariat of the State Great Khural and its Secretary-General must implement the measures required in the formal letter TG-01/1293 sent to the Ethics and Disciplinary Standing Committee of the State Great Khural impartially, without discrimination based on the political party, gender, or positions and occupations of either member.

D.Tsogtbaatar and B.Tuvshin "Rejected," D.Batbayar Selected

Published: Wed, 21 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

During today's meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Budget, several rounds of voting were held to elect the chairman of the Budget Expenditure Oversight Subcommittee. Initially, D.Tsogtbaatar and B.Tuvshin, nominated by the Democratic Party, failed to gather majority support from the members of the Standing Committee and were thus "rejected." Subsequently, the Democratic Party nominated D.Batbayar again.

According to the law, the chairman of the Budget Expenditure Oversight Subcommittee must be nominated and elected from the opposition. Although D.Tsogtbaatar was nominated by the Democratic Party in the Parliament, he was not supported by the committee members. B.Tuvshin was nominated thereafter but also did not receive majority support. Members criticized that the opposition, due to participating in the coalition government with the AN and KHUN parties, could not effectively perform the role of the opposition and oversee the majority. However, adhering to the legal requirement to appoint from the opposition, the Democratic Party nominated MP D.Batbayar, who was elected with majority support from the committee members.

The discussion for appointing just one subcommittee chairman dragged on during the Budget Standing Committee meeting. The Democratic Party's group had two candidates rejected, after which they carefully selected and nominated the next candidate, leading to the appointment of D.Batbayar as the chairman of the Budget Expenditure Oversight Subcommittee. Members of the Standing Committee voiced that since the AN and KHUN are part of the coalition government, the subcommittee chairman should be selected from the National Coalition or Green Party instead.

Economy

G.Zolboo: A Special Provision on How to Repay the Principal of Debt Included in the Law on Fiscal Stability

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

In connection with the proposed amendments to the special requirements specified in the Law on Fiscal Stability being discussed at the extraordinary session of the State Great Khural, we spoke with G.Zolboo, Director of the Financial and Budget Research Department of the Ministry of Finance.

A budget amendment is being discussed at the extraordinary session. Members have been talking about what the special budget requirements, or fiscal rules, are. Can you provide information on this? How do countries implement them?

This is a legal provision that is very commonly used internationally. As of 2021, 106 countries are following fiscal rules or special requirements. These rules are generally divided into four main categories: budget revenues, expenditures, balance, and debt rules. The most commonly used ones among countries are the budget balance and debt rules. Among the five countries worldwide that use all of these fiscal rules, Mongolia is considered as one. Countries use fiscal rules within the common goal of supporting economic growth with limited resources, ensuring fiscal stability in the medium and long term, and preventing debt pressure. Each country defines and implements fiscal rules based on their own characteristics, sources of income, and economic conditions. Additionally, it is possible to see from international experience that countries commonly improve their fiscal rules depending on their stage of development and economic needs and demands.

You mentioned that among the five countries, one is our country. When did Mongolia first start implementing fiscal rules, and for what purpose? Do you think it is time to amend this rule?

Mongolia first passed the Law on Fiscal Stability in 2010 and started fully implementing the special budget requirements specified in the law from 2013. At that time, our country's economy was in a period of rapid growth in the mining sector. The Law on Fiscal Stability was passed to protect against fluctuations in the mining industry, maintain budget stability, ensure discipline, and support the economy.

Additionally, we aimed to save a certain portion of the income from the mining sector and protect the economy and budget from cyclical fluctuations. Comparing that time's economic conditions with the present, the country's GDP and balanced budget revenues have increased about four times, and the total volume of foreign trade turnover has increased by 2.3 times, showing that the economic capacity has expanded by 2-3 times.

So, does this mean that the need and demand for it still exist?

We have managed to accumulate 3.4 trillion MNT in the Future Heritage Fund with the goal of distributing the non-renewable mining wealth to the present and future generations in a balanced way, and 1.3 trillion MNT in the Stabilization Fund to protect against fluctuations in mining prices and stabilize the budget. Consequently, the special requirements implemented over the past decade have fulfilled their historical mission by ensuring budget stability, supporting economic growth, and achieving the initially set goals. Recently, these special requirements have been renewed.

What is distinctive and advantageous about the newly revised special requirements compared to the previous ones?

The previous special requirements achieved the goal of ensuring economic and fiscal stability initially put forward. However, over the last decade, while the economy has expanded and the population has grown, the amount of social expenditure has also increased significantly. Thus, as the share of current expenditure as a percentage of total expenditure, or the costs of providing basic services to citizens, wages, pensions, and child money increase, the space for investment has been shrinking. On the other hand, the need to expand the economic base and undertake major infrastructure developments such as energy, roads, and transport to reach the next stage of rapid development has arisen. In this sense, the main goal of the revised special requirements we introduced is to enable the realization of major infrastructure developments necessary to achieve Mongolia's long- and medium-term development goals and to reach economic boom while preserving fiscal stability and avoiding debt pressure.

How is this fiscal rule incorporated into this budget amendment?

First, the special budget requirement has been refined to ensure that current expenditures do not exceed 30 percent of GDP. This will limit the government's involvement in the economy and create budget space for investing in critically needed development projects. Second, current expenditures financed by domestic economic potential, along with the basic balance based on government investment, are projected to yield a profit of 2 percent of GDP or more, and it is stipulated that this profit will only be used to repay the debt principal. Third, instead of using the present value to calculate government debt, it will be calculated at nominal value, making it easier for the public to understand and monitor. International experience shows that most countries with government debt rules calculate by nominal value. Mongolia is also moving towards this method, aligning with international standards.

By calculating investments financed by foreign loans and bond financing separately from special budget requirements, is there a risk of future debt pressure?

The revised fiscal requirement keeps the ratio of government debt to GDP within a limit not exceeding 60 percent, which has not been altered at all. Currently, the ratio of government debt to GDP is 39 percent at present value. Calculated at nominal value, it would be around 44 percent. Although the remaining balance of government debt will increase to a certain extent due to an increase in foreign loan usage, it is legally stipulated that the debt principal will be repaid annually from the base balance profit. Therefore, with the base balance profit, which is about 2 percent of GDP or approximately $400-500 million, the principal payment of the government debt is made annually to prevent debt pressure. Previously, the Law on Fiscal Stability did not contain a special provision on how to repay the debt principal, but this time it has been specifically included in the law. Therefore, the government has submitted to the State Great Khural the refinement of special fiscal requirements in conformity with Mongolia's new development model and international standards, aiming to ensure long-term fiscal stability and prevent debt pressure.

L. Gantomor: The State's Involvement Will Be Limited Without Competing with the Private Sector

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The meeting of the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs is ongoing. During this time, members of the standing committee asked questions and received answers.

Member of Parliament D. Enkhtuvshin: In the past, the structure of exports has been such that buyers come to the start of the value chain, pay in advance, purchase directly, and participate in meat preparation. In other words, we have not been a part of creating value or wealth, but have become part of foreign buyers. I see no substantial policy regarding this in the government's action program. What is being included in the one-window export policy?

Also, there is a question related to state property. It is said that the management of state-owned companies will be conducted by professional teams, but there is no clear provision related to privatization, the state not competing with the private sector, or the privatization of state companies. There is no provision to prohibit the establishment of new companies to compete with the private sector. New state companies are continuously being established. They conduct research and create state companies with large investment projects. Parliament was discussing with the government to create a policy on what the state should or should not enter into, but nothing concrete is visible in the action program.

Deputy Prime Minister Lu. Gantomor: It has been stated that the state's involvement will be limited without competing with the private sector. We need to determine where the state and the private sector are clashing in a short time. The definition is not fully clear. MP D. Enkhtuvshin, you and others need to help clarify where exactly the private sector is being suppressed. We have ordered research from two or three places. However, during discussions, different aspects are talked about. Laws show something else. Are the laws not being implemented, or are there issues related to personal relationships? Or is it an issue of ethics in public service?

Now, you need to contribute your suggestions. For example, conducting tax audits once every five years. Tax audits should not occur at will. Like the prohibition on freezing accounts unless resolved by a court, let's eliminate pressures coming from the state side on the private sector. The Parliament and the government need to work together on this. MPs should not just criticize from the outside.

"Suu" JSC to Allocate ₮3.6 Billion from the Net Profit of the First Half-Year to Dividends

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: bloombergtv.mn

"Suu" JSC decided to allocate 30 percent of the net profit for the first half of 2024, amounting to ₮3.6 billion, to dividends.

A dividend of 10.6 tugriks per share will be distributed. The company reported that its net profit during the reporting period increased by 37 percent compared to the same period last year, reaching ₮12.2 billion.

The date for compiling the list of shareholders eligible to receive dividends is set for September 6, and the distribution is to be conducted through "ҮЦТХТ" LLC by December 31.

The share price of "Suu" company has increased by 23.5 percent since the beginning of the year, with the market valuation based on share price estimated at approximately ₮146.5 billion.

The Government's Debt Will Be Calculated at Nominal Value Instead of Present Value to Make It Understandable to the Public

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

A special requirements amendment to the Law on Budget Stability is being discussed in an extraordinary session of the State Great Khural (Parliament) of Mongolia. We talked to G. Zolboo, Director of the Financial and Budget Research Department of the Ministry of Finance, regarding this matter.

This is a common legal requirement used internationally. As of 2021, 106 countries are adhering to budget rules or special requirements. These rules are mainly divided into four sections: budget revenue, expenditure, balance, and debt rules.

Commonly used among countries are budget balance and debt rules. Mongolia is one of five countries that apply all budget rules. Other countries use budget rules with the common goal of supporting economic growth with limited resources, ensuring budget stability in the medium and long term, and preventing debt burden.

Accumulated 3.4 trillion Mongolian tugriks in the Future Heritage Fund and 1.3 trillion tugriks in the Stabilization Fund, which aims to protect the budget from fluctuations in mining prices.

Countries define and implement their budget rules based on their unique characteristics, sources of income, and economic conditions. It is common practice, based on international experience, to improve budget rules according to the stages of development and economic needs.

Our country first passed the Law on Budget Stability in 2010, and since 2013, we have fully implemented the special budget requirements prescribed by that law. At that time, there was a period of rapid growth in the mining sector. The law was enacted to protect against fluctuations in the mining sector, maintain budget stability, enforce discipline, and support the economy.

We aimed to save a certain portion of the income from the mining sector to protect the economy and budget from cyclical fluctuations. Comparing the economic conditions of that time with today, the gross domestic product, balanced budget revenue have increased approximately fourfold, and total foreign trade turnover has increased 2.3 times, with economic capacity expanding 2-3 times.

We have managed to accumulate 3.4 trillion tugriks in the Future Heritage Fund and 1.3 trillion tugriks in the Stabilization Fund to protect against mining price fluctuations and maintain budget stability, ensuring a balanced distribution of income from the nonrenewable mining wealth between present and future generations.

The special requirements implemented over the last ten years have fulfilled their historical role by ensuring budget stability and supporting economic growth, fulfilling the initial goals, and therefore were updated.

In the future, the current expenditure will not exceed 30% of the gross domestic product.

In the last ten years, the economy has expanded, the population has grown, and social expenditures have increased significantly. As the proportion of current expenses in total expenditure, including basic services provided to citizens, wages, pensions, and children's money, increases, the space for investment shrinks.

On the other hand, the need has arisen for us to expand the economic foundation and carry out major infrastructure developments like energy, road, and transport, to enter the next phase of rapid development.

Therefore, the main objective of the revised special requirements we introduced is to fulfill Mongolia's long and medium-term development goals and provide opportunities for important infrastructure developments required for economic breakthrough growth. It also aims to maintain budget stability and prevent debt pressure.

Firstly, the special requirements have been refined to ensure that current expenditure does not exceed 30% of the gross domestic product. This aims to limit government intervention in the economy and create budget space for essential development projects.

Secondly, it is required by law that the fundamental balance, which depends on operating expenses financed by domestic economic resources and state budget investments, is at least 2% of the gross domestic product, and the profit is used exclusively to pay off the principal debt.

Thirdly, the government's debt calculation has been shifted from the present value to the nominal value, making it more understandable and easier to supervise for the public. According to international experience, the majority of countries with government debt rules use nominal value calculation. Mongolia is also shifting to this approach, aligning with international standards.

The revised budget special requirements have maintained the limit on the government's debt-to-gross domestic product ratio not exceeding 60%. Currently, the government's debt-to-gross domestic product ratio is 39% in present value terms. When calculated at nominal value, it is about 44%.

Although the outstanding government debt is expected to increase due to the growth in foreign loan utilization, it is legislated that the principal debt is paid every year using the surplus balance. The surplus balance, approximately 2% of the gross domestic product or about $400-500 million, will be used annually to repay the government's principal debt, preventing debt burden.

Previously, the law did not contain specific provisions on how to repay the principal debt, but this time it has been specially included. Therefore, the government has refined the special budget requirements to align with Mongolia's new development model and international standards, with the aim of ensuring budget stability and preventing debt pressure in the medium and long term, and has submitted it to the State Great Khural.

Thank you for the information.

T. Davaadalai: Young People Need Jobs, Companies Need Projects, the Country Needs Development

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Between 2021 and 2024, Mongolia initiated its first coal loading mobile mechanism project, the "Tavantolgoi Coal Loading Logistics Center." This time, we briefly talked with the project manager and engineer T. Davaadalai about the mega projects included in the government's 2024-2028 action plan.

Hello, how are you today?
Hello, hello! A good day to you and all our readers.

The 2024-2028 government action plan has been released. It mentions the implementation of major projects that have not been undertaken in previous years. From an engineer's perspective, do you think these projects are feasible?

With the 2024 parliamentary election, a coalition government has been formed, and Mongolia is set to implement the most mega projects in its history. Firstly, this is a very bold step. No major projects have been proposed in Ulaanbaatar since the 1990s. The fact that they haven't been done in the past doesn't mean they're impossible. If you ask if these projects can be implemented, they are entirely possible. However, the question is how to do it. It's not something that can be solved just by emotion or a single resolution.

You mentioned that it's not something that can be solved just by a decision. So what are the solutions?

In the past, many resolutions have been issued but not implemented. We need to learn from all those mistakes. The first mistake is that the legal environment is not designed for implementing major projects. It's typically regulated in a way that slows down the process. If you try to work efficiently to implement the project on time, you end up violating laws, and if you work according to the laws, a project meant to be completed in 3 years stretches to 10 years.

So, if we want to implement projects like the Ulaanbaatar metro, the suspension bridge, the Bogd Khan Mountain tunnel, and the substation, we need to amend our legal framework for development.

Moreover, the government needs to provide strong support for these projects. By support, I don't mean involving itself in every task.

The government's departments need to speed up the decision-making process at every level. Why am I talking about this? Because time is crucial while a project is being implemented. Yet, sending a simple official letter from one agency to another can take 14 days just to enter the director's office. Meanwhile, an entire development project is on hold waiting for a single signature. Therefore, speeding up decision-making at every level and improving the legal framework is the biggest lever for implementing these projects.

What is your personal opinion on having major projects in Mongolia executed by international companies with experience?

My stance is that mega projects should be carried out by national companies and Mongolian engineers. Why? When foreign contractors come into domestic projects, Mongolians are left doing jobs like translating, driving, and assisting rather than engaging in value-creating work. There are not many open opportunities to evolve by doing the actual work. Therefore, it's right for the government to support national companies in carrying out the work. This way, national companies grow, employees and engineers have jobs, and gain experience, following global standards.

When implementing any project, experience is vital; however, if we demand experience from local companies in a country without metros, we won't get anything done. We'll never gain experience. There's a significant difference between Mongolian youth implementing projects to develop and foreigners coming to Mongolia to work for a salary. Right now, young Mongolians need jobs, companies need projects, and the country needs development.

Let's Reconsider the Law That Allows Companies Failing to Win Tenders to Blackmail the Winner and Recover Their Losses

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The revised version of the Law on Procurement of Goods, Works, and Services with State and Local Government Funds was approved in June 2023 and came into force on January 1, 2024. Lawmakers recently highlighted the advantages of involving foreign entities in the tender selection process and fully digitalizing procurement activities. Unfortunately, since the law's implementation, it has become a headache for government agencies organizing procurement activities, which is not far from the truth.

For instance, the previous law allowed for direct contract awards if no business entity submitted a bid. In contrast, the revised version mandates extending the deadline and re-announcing the tender until a business entity submits a bid. This has resulted in delays in government agencies' procurement activities and postponement of construction work. On the other hand, the conditions have been adjusted to lower criteria, making it possible for anyone to be eligible, just to select an organization.

The evaluation committee is supposed to select the organization that submitted the lowest bid price. Unfortunately, following the price, the quality has deteriorated, which is evident in construction projects. Should we continue to have amateur volunteers do the work under the pretext of the minimum price method?

If a client considers that their duties under the tender-related law have been violated, it is indicated that participants can file a complaint in writing to the Ministry of Finance within five business days. Companies participating in tenders, assuming they must be selected, have started to frequent the Ministry of Finance due to their grievances. It's like a company that didn’t win the tender now remedies its wounds by blackmailing the winning company under the guise of a complaint.

The Coalition Government plans to undertake major infrastructure projects such as building a metro, cable cars, central stadiums, and stations. These major projects will be executed by international organizations. However, under the current law, foreign entities referred to as foreign parties in the legal term, cannot participate in tenders.

With budget revisions, amendments to the law on procurement of goods, works, and services with state and local government funds are being discussed in the Parliament session. Oligarchic companies with a monopoly in tenders have begun criticizing any additional amendments with "NO" responses. Yet, let us remind you that we can only proceed with construction projects if changes are made to the blackmail law.

Published: Wed, 21 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

The Standing Committee on Budget of the State Great Khural held discussions on the bill to make adjustments to Mongolia's 2024 budget. The session continued to deliberate whether to proceed with the discussion. Finance Minister B. Javkhlan presented the introduction at the session, while Member of Parliament J. Batjargal presented the standing committee's conclusions. After that, the members of Parliament asked questions and clarifications, followed by a vote.

The majority of members participating in the session supported discussing the amendments and modifications to the Budget Law of Mongolia for 2024 and other related bills submitted simultaneously. These were moved to the standing committee for preparation for the first discussion. Additionally, today's session concluded by making changes to the Law on Parliament’s Rules and the composition of some standing committees.

The session is temporarily adjourned and will continue.

Speaker of Parliament D. AMARBAYASGALAN:

The standing committees will convene regarding the bills submitted alongside the proposed amendments to the Budget Law of Mongolia for 2024. After the Budget Standing Committee meets, the session will resume.

76 Members Participating in the Vote

Speaker of Parliament D. AMARBAYASGALAN:

Today's session of the State Great Khural will discuss five issues. At the August 16th session, members asked questions concerning the budget proposal and related topics from the Prime Minister, the chief auditor, the Council on Fiscal Stability, and budget administrators, with responses concluded. Now, according to the Law on Procedures, the discussion will proceed concerning the budget proposal, statutory standards, special requirements in the medium-term budget statement, and consistency with the annual national development plan. The bills for amendments to the Budget Law of Mongolia for 2024, including the 2024 National Wealth Fund's Budget Bill, will be voted on for compliance with medium-term statutory standards and annual national development plan.

Out of 76 members, 49 members supported, and the proposal was approved.

Thus, the bills related to the 2024 Budget Law of Mongolia have been transferred to the Budget Standing Committee and other standing committees for preparation for the second discussion.

12 SITES FOR SALE BY AUCTION

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

A re-auction of land rights is announced for the following 12 locations with architectural planning tasks. Participants in the auction can register and verify their request through the WWW.MLE.MN electronic system from 09:00 on August 29, 2024, until 15:00 on September 4, 2024.

For potato and vegetable irrigation farming purposes:

In the 5th khoroo of Nalaikh district, around Gandam-Uul, a single plot of land measuring 1.0 hectares, site /#2024-15668/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21724.

For agricultural production purposes:

In the 32nd khoroo of Songino Khairkhan district, around Emeelt, a single site of 3.5 hectares, site /#2024-15521/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21720.
In the 11th khoroo of Bayanzurkh district, near Khonkhor, a single site of 5.0 hectares, site /#2024-15645/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21717.
In the 21st khoroo of Songino Khairkhan district, around Gurvan-Jaran Yos, a single site of 1.0 hectares, site /#2024-15666/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21723.
In the 5th khoroo of Baganuur district, in the area of Nariin Nuur, a single site of 1.0 hectares, site /#2024-15696/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21726.
In the 20th khoroo of Bayanzurkh district, near Artsatyn Am, a single site of 1.0 hectares, site /#2024-15689/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21718.

For commercial and public service premises purposes:

In the 1st khoroo of Bagakhangai district, around Undur Tolgoy, a single site of 0.06 hectares, site /#2024-15669/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21728.

For industrial buildings and facilities purposes:

In the 1st khoroo of Bagakhangai district, on the southeast side of the Industrial Zone, a single site of 2.0 hectares, site /#2024-15705/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21727.

For residential housing purposes:

In the 21st khoroo of Songino Khairkhan district, around Gurvan-Jaran Yos, a single site of 2.0 hectares, site /#2024-15655/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21721.
In the 35th khoroo of Bayanzurkh district, near Uliastai Am, a single site of 0.5 hectares, site /#2024-15692/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21719.

For greenhouse purposes:

In the 5th khoroo of Baganuur district, around Nariin Nuur, a single site of 0.5 hectares, site /#2024-15695/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21725.

For tree nursery purposes:

In the 21st khoroo of Songino Khairkhan district, around Boroojii Am, a single site of 3.5 hectares, site /#2024-15657/ https://mle.mn/#/auction/detail/21722.

Source: City Land Management Department

No Choice But for the State to Handle Services and Works that Are Unviable and Less Profitable for Private Enterprises

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Budget Standing Committee is convening to discuss the following legislative proposals:

The 2024 State Unified Budget Framework Statement,
The draft law to amend the law regarding the 2025-2026 budget projections and other jointly submitted legal drafts,
The draft law to amend the law on the 2024 budget,
Draft laws on the 2024 budget of the National Wealth Fund and other jointly submitted laws and decrees.

Every year by July 25, all ministers must submit their budget proposals for the following year. However, since a new government has formed this year, the half-year budget performance of the ministries could not be completed in time. It is also mandatory to conduct public discussions before approving the budget. Therefore, an effort is being made to develop the budget without errors during the planning stage, and the Ministry of Finance has proposed delaying the legal deadline.

Last week, the initial discussion of the above legal drafts took place. During this discussion, Member of Parliament B.Naida raised a question regarding the draft law to amend and supplement the law on public and local government procurement of goods, works, and services: "If a tender is announced using the same method at least twice and no bids are received, the goods, works, or services in question may be procured by a state-owned or local government-owned or involved legal entity."

Does this mean that a state-owned company will proceed with the work even if it is unprofitable in the absence of private sector bids? We aim to improve the governance of state-owned companies, striving for profitability and management reform. Doesn't this provision contradict that goal?

To this, the Minister of Finance responded, "The amendment to the law on the procurement of goods, works, and services with public and local government-owned assets is not intended as a harmful provision for the private sector. Due to the pandemic, there were significant losses in development investment. It is inevitable for the state to participate in unviable and less profitable works and services that cannot be executed by the private sector."

"Therefore, this provision was introduced to cover the risks associated with investment execution. By the end of this year, it is feasible to accumulate 3.4 trillion MNT in the Future Heritage Fund. This fund will be placed in the Central Bank, isolated, and managed by international organizations, ensuring its secure conservation," he stated.

Additionally, Member of Parliament B.Enkhbayar expressed concerns about the amendment to the Tender Law, which included a provision that the government can decide not to adhere to the Tender Law when selecting consultants and entities with special expertise and reputation for developing and implementing development policies or new programs.

In other words, the government is discussing the discretionary application or non-application of the Tender Law. This action is perceived as encroaching on the powers of the State Great Khural. Further clarification on this matter was requested. Deputy Prime Minister L.Gantomor clarified that this does not involve introducing an entirely new policy by the government. Rather, it is based on experiences and lessons learned, supporting discussions and proposals being brought forward.

For example, enterprises selected through concessions were supposed to undertake development projects under the "New Revival" policy. However, until today, the work has not commenced. Therefore, the proposal is being made with a focus on the final outcomes.

Diplomacy

They Are Talking About Us: Mongolia Seeks Ways to Align with the West Without Straining Relations with China and Russia

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Analysts believe that landlocked Mongolia, situated between China and Russia, is seeking ways to balance its relations with Western democratic countries without alarming its northern and southern neighbors.

Mongolia regards China and Russia as its primary foreign and economic priorities, with most of its trade passing through these two countries. However, it also strives to deepen and develop relations with the United States, Japan, the European Union, and other democratic countries.

Sean King, senior advisor at Park Strategies, a political consultancy based in New York, told the Voice of America, "They are wisely deepening their relationship with us as a counterbalance to Moscow and Beijing."

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded his latest Asian tour in Mongolia at the beginning of this month, highlighting that Mongolia is a "key partner" of the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific region, and that the relations between the two countries are reaching new levels every day.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida was scheduled to visit Mongolia earlier this August, but the visit was canceled due to an earthquake in Japan. However, on August 13, the two sides had a phone conversation. Democratic leaders who visited Mongolia in recent months include German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, and Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo. French President Emmanuel Macron visited the country for the first time last year.

Charles Krusekopf, founder of the American Center for Mongolian Studies, mentioned in an interview with the Voice of America, "I think it's important for the U.S. to have a certain level of involvement and have a friend in the region by maintaining close relations with Mongolia."

The U.S. Department of Defense's "Indo-Pacific Strategy Report" from June 2019 grouped Mongolia with New Zealand, Taiwan, and Singapore among the Indo-Pacific democratic countries, describing it as a reliable and capable partner. Despite being geographically limited by diplomatic maneuvering, Mongolia has managed to maintain close relationships with all parties, including the U.S., China, and Russia to North and South Korea, thus holding a unique position in this complex geopolitical environment.

During last month's "Ulaanbaatar Dialogue," representatives and strategic experts from eight countries, including the UK, China, Japan, Russia, South Korea, and the U.S., gathered in Ulaanbaatar to discuss Asia's most pressing strategic issues, including tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

Krusekopf commented, "Mongolia is one of the rare places where people from all countries in the region gather, and it is considered a neutral ground." In 2022 and 2023, Mongolia abstained from voting on a UN resolution condemning Russia's annexation of Ukraine's territory and calling for the withdrawal of Russian troops. Last year, Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh and Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene had separate meetings with Chinese leaders Xi Jinping and State Council Premier Li Qiang.

Additionally, just a month before Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene's state visit to the U.S., he visited China, and the two countries issued a joint statement on the Third Neighbor Partnership. Before Blinken's visit, Mongolia conducted its annual military exercise named "Khan Exploration," which included participation from troops of the U.S., Japan, and also China. Krusekopf noted, "Although the majority of Mongolia's foreign trade passes through China, the country considers itself friends with all people in the region, and it can be considered a broker in this region."

South China Morning Post: Mongolia Rejects "Power of Siberia 2" Gas Pipeline Construction

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

According to the South China Morning Post, Mongolia has removed the construction of the "Power of Siberia 2" gas pipeline from its national program.

It has been noted in the article that this development project has not been included in Mongolia's government program until 2028, due to geopolitical factors as well as disagreements between Moscow and Beijing over pricing issues.

Additionally, it is clear that concerns about secondary sanctions from Western countries have influenced this decision, as reported by the media.

President of the Republic of Slovenia Arrives for a State Visit

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

At the invitation of the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaa Khurelsukh, the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar, along with her husband Dr. Aleš Musar, has arrived for a state visit.

Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Slovenia to Mongolia, Alenka Suhadolnik, welcomed President Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar, her husband Dr. Aleš Musar, and their accompanying delegation at Chinggis Khaan International Airport.

During the visit, President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh of Mongolia and President Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar of Slovenia will hold official talks and inform representatives of media organizations about the outcomes of the discussions. They will also attend a ceremony to sign documents on bilateral relations and cooperation.

As part of her state visit, President Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar is scheduled to participate in the "Forestry Sustainability and Women" program, a business forum, and the World Women's Summit to be held in Ulaanbaatar.

Travelers to Korea to Scan Q Code Before Crossing the Border

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

MIAT Corporation has announced that starting from the 1st of next month, travelers entering South Korea will be required to fill out a questionnaire with a Q code. Currently, travelers fill out a quarantine information form manually at border checkpoints, but this will no longer be necessary about 10 days from now.

The "Q-Code" system for pre-entry quarantine information is a platform introduced by South Korea's Quarantine Department to shorten the inspection time for travelers crossing the border and to ensure their comfort. It is also significant for providing information about risk prevention measures and guidelines, assisting clients accordingly.

Travelers can begin filling out this online form three days before entering South Korea and must complete it and prepare to scan their Q code before boarding the plane.

Guidelines for Using Q-Code When Entering South Korea

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

From September 1, Mongolian citizens traveling to the Republic of South Korea will be required to fill out a Q-Code upon entry.

This means there is no longer a need to fill out a yellow form. The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Mongolia has provided information explaining what Q-Code is and how to use it.

Q-Code is a method to establish quarantine measures using a QR code generated after entering your health status via your mobile phone. If you have entered from a major quarantine zone, it is necessary to report your health condition. Failure to do so may result in a fine of up to 10 million won.

Warning

Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in whole or in parts.

Infrastructure

P.Sainzorig: If Construction Companies Are Not Held Accountable, Citizens Will Suffer Lifetime Mortgage Penalties

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The meeting of the Standing Committee on Law is ongoing. During this session, members asked questions and received answers.

Parliament member P.Sainzorig: We need to focus on protecting citizens' property rights. Particularly, attention should be given to agreements between consumers and businesses regarding real estate acquisitions, intermediary health services, and educational contracts. The issue of citizens suffering due to consumer contracts should be specifically included in the government's action program. Real estate properties are promised with playgrounds, parks, and parking spaces, but after selling their apartments, companies collude with government agencies to build one or two more blocks on those spaces. This is fraudulent selling. Our companies are all committing fraud. We need to address this issue.

Secondly, it is necessary to thoroughly entrust the drawings of buildings to the authors and link it to an insurance system. There is no one held accountable for introducing poorly constructed buildings into usage. Without focusing on making construction companies accountable, citizens are ending up harmed by mortgage loans they are paying off for life.

I remember clearly. Member B.Enkhbayar once refrained from registering unfinished constructions and issuing certificates to avoid them as tools for raising further capital, despite claims from building companies that their operations would suffer and they wouldn't manage to attract investment. Yet, on the other hand, due to these issues, in practice, an apartment is sold to two or three parties, with small construction companies treating citizens unfairly by telling them to "go to court." It might be possible to limit the sale of residential properties in certain proportions or to run them on a principle of being utilized for services, commerce, or business transactions. Behind this, many financially incapable construction companies are extracting money from citizens, leading to endless disputes that are currently being settled in courts. We cannot ignore this as a matter of contractual relations. The Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs needs to inevitably pay attention to this," he said.

Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs O.Altangerel: I am in agreement with what Member P.Sainzorig said regarding the broader issue of consumer contracts relating to the protection of consumer rights. I fully agree with Member P.Sainzorig. If we don't refine our private law in practice, criminal law doesn't cover or acknowledge it. It's regarded as a civil dispute. However, in reality, much more damage is inflicted on citizens than is regulated by criminal legislation. There are many cases that span years and are unresolved. Identifying and holding a culpable subject accountable is relatively easy for the court to decide on, but in practice, the protection of consumer rights is often insufficient. I understand this in line with Member P.Sainzorig's message. We will continue to work together based on this understanding.

ORHON: The Provincial Council Discusses Winter Preparedness

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Provincial Council is discussing the readiness for winter, the implementation of the glass account, and the preparations for the new school year.

The winter readiness is planned in two directions: urban and agricultural. Urban winter readiness includes the procurement and storage of coal for the heat power station, ensuring technical integrity, upgrading city roads, and accumulating reserves of road gravel, aggregate, and salt.

The agricultural winter readiness concerns the preparation of hay and fodder by herders, harvest results, and grain reserves.

The city administration, HBBZA, and the Head of Urban Improvement are preparing reports on these issues to present to the Council members.

Information related to the new school year will be presented by O. Ariungerel, the head of the Education and Science Department. The council will convene and present a unified report in the afternoon.

The Construction of the New Building at National University of Mongolia Will Be Completed in the Fourth Quarter of 2025

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The chair and members of the Standing Committee on Education, Culture, Science, and Sports of the State Great Khural (Parliament) familiarized themselves with the progress of the construction of the new building at the National University of Mongolia yesterday.

The new building will consist of two blocks. Groundwork for block A has started, while block B has been completed up to the sixth floor. The construction work is expected to be completed, and the building put into use in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to information from the Ministry of Education.

The total budget for the new building is 26 billion MNT.

Society

NSO: Mongolia's Population Will Reach 4 Million in 2033

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The "32nd International Population Census Conference" is being held in Ulaanbaatar from the 20th to the 22nd of this month. This year's conference is themed "New Technologies and Data Sources for Censuses."

Head of the National Statistics Office (NSO) and Vice President of ANCSDAAP, B. Batdavaa, mentioned that Mongolia is not only sharing its own experiences at this conference but also presenting research based on previous census data conducted by teachers at NUM.

According to the recommendations of the United Nations, countries worldwide conduct population censuses every 10 years. In Mongolia, the last census was conducted in 2020 using administrative data, utilizing the state information databases.

The upcoming regular census in 2025 is termed an interim census in technical terms. In other words, it aims to study changes in the population situation and demographics during the 5 years between two decades.

As of November last year, the population of Mongolia reached 3.5 million. According to NSO projections, Mongolia's population is expected to reach 4 million in 2033 and 5 million in 2047-2048.

Director of the U.S. Census Bureau, Robert Santos, stated that this conference is a significant event for international statistical organizations to enhance their methodologies.

In the context of a globalizing world, having similar statistical methodologies enables cross-comparisons and also rapidly adopting new approaches is the main goal of the conference.

Using new technologies and data sources in population censuses makes the results more accurate and simplifies the census process. Since statistical information highly impacts our daily lives, new technologies are advantageous in disseminating information accurately and quickly.

Director of the Research Management Bureau of KOSTAT, Jinwoo Park, noted that the association of directors of national statistical organizations from the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific regions organizes this event.

The conference aims for countries' statistical organizations to share experiences, introduce innovative methods, and provide advice and support to each other. Discussions at this year's conference include how new technological opportunities are being utilized and what innovative solutions can be developed.

The "32nd International Population Census Conference" has participants from the statistical organizations of countries like the USA, China, South Korea, Vietnam, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, and Japan, as well as professors and researchers from the University of Minnesota, USA, and NUM.

More Than 600 Devotees from 15 Foreign Countries Arrive to Participate in Düinkhor Empowerment Ritual

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The empowerment ritual of Düinkhor, also known as the Great Wheel of Time empowerment, is being held at the Gandan Tegchenling Monastery of the Mongolian Buddhists Center between August 9 and 22.

The Düinkhor teaching is the highest among the teachings of tantric Buddhism. Ordinations are given first in the spread of this teaching to the masses. The Dalai Lama has bestowed the Düinkhor empowerment 34 times. His 22nd Great Düinkhor empowerment took place at the Gandan Tegchenling Monastery in 1995. This time, the Düinkhor empowerment for global peace is significant because it is happening in Mongolia for the first time in 30 years.

Foreign guests and numerous devotees have come to our country for this event. The Düinkhor empowerment is being translated into six languages, including Russian, English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Mongolian, and more than 600 devotees from 15 foreign countries are participating, listening to the teachings.

Ch. Byambajargal, head of public relations at the Gandan Tegchenling Monastery, stated, "Between August 9 and 22, the Gandan Tegchenling Monastery of the Mongolian Buddhists Center is holding a ceremony for bestowing the empowerment of the Great Wheel of Time. After the visit of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama to Mongolia and Gandan Tegchenling Monastery in 1995, he had not delivered this empowerment until now. This year, about 1,600 lamas are participating. The Great Blessing of 2024 for the Wheel of Time for global peace is being imparted by His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama's Namgyal Monastery, and the Jhado Rinpoche, a native master of Mongolians."

From August 9 to 11, domestic rituals such as land-taking and mandala-making ceremonies were held. From August 12 to 16, the preliminary teachings "The Three Sacred Paths" and "The 37 Practices of a Bodhisattva" were imparted. Delivering these teachings serves to prepare the minds of monks, disciples, and devotees.

The Düinkhor empowerment is considered a significant teaching in Buddhism. It is the highest of the tantric teachings in Buddhism. To disseminate this teaching to the public, empowerment is bestowed first. To hear and receive the secret tantric empowerment, one must have foundational precepts, sacrificial precepts, and the Bodhisattva precept as preliminaries. The preparatory teachings purify the mind of the person receiving the Düinkhor empowerment, making it a means to instill the teachings in one's thoughts and actions.

Starting on August 17, the empowerment has begun. Empowerment, especially in the context of the Great Vehicle and tantric practices, is profound, and Düinkhor empowerment is the highest form of empowerment. Listening to it grants people the right to explore and study Düinkhor teachings. Learning and practicing Düinkhor teachings enable personal accomplishments and meditation on Düinkhor deities, leading to benefits such as being reborn in the Shambhala realm. Düinkhor teachings explain the interconnectedness of the universe and impart teachings on peace and happiness," he said.

Traditionally, Düinkhor empowerment has been offered to many people to promote unity and peace. His Holiness the Dalai Lama first bestowed the empowerment in Lhasa, Tibet, in 1954, and since then, approximately two million people worldwide have participated in his Düinkhor empowerments.

On August 21, a mandala worship ceremony will be held.
On the morning of August 22, Jhado Rinpoche will deliver a longevity empowerment to many disciples. Following this, the Gandan Tegchenling Monastery will offer thanks to the teacher who bestowed the Düinkhor empowerment.

Can Countries with Nomadic Culture Cooperate in Culture, Language, and Tradition within the Framework of a Fourth Neighbor?

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The second biennial Cambridge Mongolian Forum was held under the theme “Global Issues, Nomadic Solutions,” discussing how the traditions of nomads can offer innovative solutions to contemporary global issues.

Participants in the forum recognized the significance of Chinggis Khan and the nomadic civilization, not only for Mongolia but also in finding solutions to current global challenges such as warfare and climate change, and discussed Mongolia's new vision.

Dr. J. Dolgorsuren, a professor of cultural studies, stated, “Over 20 scholars and researchers from more than 20 countries attended the conference. We held more than 20 discussions. Among the topics, we touched upon how the cultural tradition of humans being in harmony with nature is changing.

For example, as the entire Mongolian populace focuses on urban centers and the development of science and technology progresses, it brings about significant changes to our traditional lifestyle. As a result of these discussions, experts from various fields collaborate, discussing socio-cultural and political issues, proposing solutions useful for social development.

There was also a discussion on how Mongolia will pursue its geopolitics strategy internationally. The question of whether it is possible to collaborate with Central Asian countries or those with a similar nomadic culture in the framework of a fourth neighbor, through culture, language, and tradition, was raised.

The forum was organized in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Center for Mongolian and Inner Asian Studies at the University of Cambridge, under the auspices of UNESCO's International Institute for the Study of Nomadic Civilizations, the Institute of Mongolian Studies at the National University of Mongolia, the Chinggis Khan Heritage and Culture Center, the City University, and the Mongolian National Modern Art Gallery.

40% of Women Working in the Forestry Sector Earn a Salary of One Million Tugriks

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

A training on the modernization of Mongolia's forestry sector was held today.

The training is being organized under the "Modernization of Mongolia's Forestry Sector" project, implemented with the support of the Slovenian Embassy, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the establishment and development of the forestry sector in Mongolia.

The training aims to empower women and specialists in the forestry and wood sectors, strengthen cooperation, develop partnerships, and create opportunities for sharing knowledge and skills.

Additionally, the event addresses the current state of women's activity and participation in this sector, encourages greater involvement in the sector's operations and sustainability, seeks to increase income opportunities for women in the forestry sector by sharing international experiences and successes, and enhances partnerships through information exchange and joint efforts. This was organized in collaboration with the "Forestry, Sustainability, and Women" association, the Forestry Agency, and the union of Mongolia's forestry and wood professional associations.

B. Ganzorig, the head of the Forest Rehabilitation Section of the Forestry Agency, provided the following information to the training participants.

Since the implementation of the Billion Trees Program, 50 million trees have been planted in our country, with the majority planted in the Selenge and Tuv provinces. Two years ago, there were 306 tree nurseries, which has now increased to 420, along with a growth in seedling reserves. In the forestry sector, there are 880 companies with special licenses. Out of 3,400 workers in our sector, 52% are men.

Then, Dr. M. Khishigjargal, director of the "Forestry, Sustainability, and Women" association, delivered a presentation. She stated, "We live in a time of great drought and desertification—the world is on fire. Thus, collaboration among women in the forestry sector is very important. Although the gender ratio in the sector is now approximately equal, the majority of students are female. A survey of approximately 200 women in the sector revealed that the biggest issues are wages and social benefits. 40% of the survey participants earn a salary of up to one million tugriks per month, which is very low. In addition, 8,000-12,000 new job opportunities are expected to be created in our sector in the near future."

The "Forestry, Sustainability, and Women" association was established in 2023. It has collaborated over the last two years with the Slovenian Embassy, the Slovenian Organization for Cooperation, the Slovenian Forestry Agency, and the country's forestry institute. Therefore, today, Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar participated in the training and delivered a greeting.

Slovenia, a member country of the European Union, has 55% of its territory covered by forests and is an experienced nation in this field. Thus, our foresters collaborate and share experiences with them. B. Oyunsanaa, head of the Forestry Agency, said, "Slovenia is considered one of the countries with good forest management, has excellent practices in greening the environment, and its citizens are knowledgeable about forestry matters and work collaboratively with forestry specialists. Since forests are a renewable resource, it is right to communicate to the public that we need to cut trees in a regulated manner to expand the forests."

The modernization training for Mongolia's forestry sector will continue tomorrow.

Environment

"Tavan Bogd Toyota" LLC Used to Discharge Sewage Water into Road Stormwater Drains

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

"Tavan Bogd Toyota" LLC, a subsidiary of "Tavan Bogd" Group located on the west side of TCA, was found to have corrected its violation of discharging sewage water into road stormwater drains.

Specifically, on the 19th of this month at 20:30, a report was received by GUBBG that there was a foul smell emanating from the stormwater drainage system near the Selbe River. Upon investigation by the relevant authorities, it was found that the sewage well of "Tavan Bogd Toyota" LLC was full, causing them to pump sewage water into the road stormwater drains. Today, related specialists from the city's Inspection Department have worked on-site to correct the violation and disconnect the connection.

45 Non-Standard Pit Toilets in Public Areas Removed and Around 80 Tons of Waste Cleared

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Based on complaints and information from citizens, 49 businesses and 152 eco-ger camps operating in the areas around Lake Ugii in Arkhangai aimag, Lake Khövsgöl in Khuvsgul aimag, and Lake Khyargas in Uvs aimag were inspected.

The wooden toilets used by residents operating eco-gers around these lakes were dismantled last year. As a result, these residents have rebuilt wooden toilets with concrete rings, known as pumping toilets, for their eco-gers.

However, when these toilets become full, the lack of suction trucks, coupled with heavy tourist traffic, makes them unusable. Furthermore, the unauthorized construction of many additional gers and structures has overburdened the lake shores, contributing to soil and lake pollution.

For this reason, the Environmental Protection Department of the aimags conducted inspections and issued official warnings with deadlines and imposed fines on the residents and businesses operating around these lakes.

Additionally, 45 non-standard pit toilets placed on public roads and areas were dismantled, around 80 tons of waste were cleared, and strict control over the execution has been enforced.

Source: Ministry of Environment and Climate Change

"Moncon Group" LLC Violates Regulations by Pumping Construction Site Groundwater into National Garden

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

"Moncon Group" LLC has been found violating regulations by pumping construction site groundwater into the drainage system of the National Garden using a hose.

The Groundwater and Utilities Bureau stopped the violation by disconnecting the connection. However, on the night of August 19th to 20th, the company illegally drew a hose from the construction site to the National Garden and continued to pump groundwater.

Last night, the City Inspection Agency acted on the site to stop the violation, and today they will continue their investigation.

B.Oyunsanaa: This Year 35.9 Billion Tugriks Allocated for Forestry

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The training is organized as part of the "Mongolian Forestry Sector Reform" project implemented with the support of the Slovenian Embassy, dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the establishment and development of Mongolia's forestry sector. During this event, the head of the Forestry Agency, B.Oyunsanaa, presented the main activities carried out this year.

In the past 20 years, around 1.6 million hectares of our country's land have deteriorated due to harmful insects. Under the Billion Trees Program, the forestry sector has been paying particular attention to the deteriorated forests. Every year, 130-150 thousand hectares of land suffer some form of degradation, with only 8-10 thousand of it being restored.

The Forestry Agency, in collaboration with mining companies, has begun restoration efforts on abandoned and degraded lands. "Oyu Tolgoi" has completed biological and technical restoration in the Yalbag area of Mandal district, Selenge province. In Shaaryn Gol district of Darkhan-Uul province, approximately 200 hectares are also being restored. Restoring degraded forests requires substantial funding. The government has allocated a total of 35.9 billion tugriks to the forestry sector this year, covering restoration, pest control, wildfire prevention, forestry maintenance, and more. Of this, 13 billion tugriks are being spent on restoration.

For the coming year, it is necessary to maintain these amounts without reducing them below 36 billion tugriks, emphasized head B.Oyunsanaa. He noted, "The spread of harmful insects is a natural phenomenon, becoming dangerous only when their numbers exceed a certain point. In recent years, the number of pests has increased significantly due to climate change and the pandemic. Rising temperatures create favorable conditions for insects to multiply. During the pandemic years, this work halted.

This year, we used ground and aerial techniques to eradicate pests across 380 thousand hectares. We managed to suppress the main outbreaks. Properly managing the spread will make future pest control easier. We are currently conducting studies to determine whether the population of insects has reached its peak. In general, if pest control is not carried out in an organized manner, there will be many places we fail to reach."

Innovation

C. Baatarkhuu: Mongolia Will Become a Bridge Connecting Central-Northeast Asia with Science and Technology Parks

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The 27th Congress of the Asian Science and Technology Parks is being held in Ulaanbaatar from the 19th to the 21st of this month.

For the first time, the 27th Congress of the Asian Science Parks Association (ASPA-2024) is being held in Ulaanbaatar. Over 200 science and information technology park leaders from 11 countries have gathered at the meeting to present lectures and engage in discussions.

Opening the international conference, C. Baatarkhuu, Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications delivered a speech. He stated, "The Government of Mongolia is placing special emphasis on the development of innovation and its infrastructure. A major goal has been set for the next 4 years to make public information infrastructure accessible to everyone, including every student.

The government policy supports public-private partnerships and aims to increase the economic benefits of the sector, paying particular attention to making the information technology sector one of the pillars of the national economy. A virtual zone will be established to support the information technology industry, based on the national information technology park, offering various tax and non-tax incentives to companies registered in the virtual zone.

We aim to create conditions for regional and global information technology companies to operate in the virtual zone. Mongolia will become a bridge connecting scientific and technological parks across Asia," he emphasized.

The meeting, organized under the theme “The Role and Impact of Science and Technology Parks on Regional Development,” is expected to be a productive gathering where topics such as collaboration between science parks, how to secure funding from both public sectors, how to efficiently allocate them, and how to support startup companies will be discussed, along with the sharing of experience and future project initiatives.

U. Bibish, Head of the Media and Public Relations Department of the National Information Technology Park, which serves as the main organizer, highlighted the advantage of hosting the congress in Mongolia. "Through the 27th congress, specialized organizations in the fields of science, technology, and innovation in Mongolia will collaborate with similar Asian organizations and parks. There will be significant outcomes such as launching collaborations to introduce and support advanced technology startups internationally," he said.

Additionally, J. Zolzaya, Director of the National Information Technology Park, has officially become a member of the representative board of the Asian Science and Technology Parks Association and has signed cooperation agreements with seven parks to begin implementing project programs.

Harvard University Announced Its Regular Scholarship Program

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with UNICEF, is involving Mongolian doctors and specialists in the "Leadership in the Health Sector" program organized by Harvard Medical School. This program aims to prepare 100 young leaders in our country's health sector. Within this framework, the first 20 doctors and specialists have been enrolled in the 2023-2024 program.

Meanwhile, registration to select 20 specialists for the next program, which is for 2024-2025, started yesterday and will continue until the 26th of this month. This year's program will commence on November 7 and will last for one year. Doctors and specialists with one or more years of experience in the national health institutions can participate. Additionally, participants are required to have high-level skills in both spoken and written English.

The selection process for participants will take place in two stages. Specifically, initially, submitted documents will be reviewed. In the second stage, 20 people will be selected for the program after conducting interviews with the participants.

Health

A Suspected Case of Measles Reported in Bayan-Ulgii Province

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Rapid Response Team of the Incident Management System under the Ministry of Health convened yesterday.

In relation to the suspected case of measles reported in Bayan-Ulgii province, the National Center for Communicable Diseases' surveillance team is currently working in the area.

According to the Minister of Health's order No. A/344, plans are underway to urgently organize additional immunization against measles in Bayan-Ulgii, activate syndrome surveillance, and conduct clinical diagnosis and detection from the hospital's viewpoint.

Citizens, parents, and guardians are advised to take simple but effective measures to prevent measles, such as wearing masks, washing hands whenever they become dirty, including children who have not participated in the scheduled vaccination or have missed it, and ensuring these children undergo additional immunization. Additionally, they are advised to avoid taking children to crowded places, continuously ventilate and clean homes and premises.

In cases where symptoms such as a red rash beginning from the face, high fever, runny nose, conjunctivitis, red-bordered white spots in the oral mucosa, a spotty rash all over the body, and loss of appetite appear, please urgently consult the local Family, Sum, or District Health Center.

For information and advice on measles, please contact the 119 hotlines for free.

Source: Ministry of Health

SELENGE: Focused on Improving the Capacity of Veterinary Service Units

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Selenge aimag is focusing on enhancing the capacity of veterinary service units.

As part of this effort, the veterinary doctors of 49 veterinary service units in 17 soums of Selenge aimag have been provided with five types of equipment worth 80.0 million tugriks and diagnostic tools for veterinary laboratories.

The introduction of modern equipment, diagnostic tools, and consumables in veterinary services is a significant solution to many issues.

In particular, it not only saves time but also ensures the safety and efficiency of veterinarians, reduces livestock mortality, and quickly implements preventive measures.

It also plays a crucial role in improving the quality and safety of livestock and meat supplies and supports the policy and goal of exporting 100,000 head of livestock from the central region.

Sports

Should the Central Stadium be Renovated?

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Central Stadium is being considered for renovation to transform it into an arena that meets modern standards. Representatives from international organizations have been invited, and preliminary research work is being conducted, according to the City Administration's Office.

As part of this effort, representatives and experts from GMP, an international architecture and engineering company based in Germany, visited the stadium yesterday.

A Bicyclist Travels 1830 km to Reach Altai Tavan Bogd

Published: Tue, 20 Aug 2024 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

B. Daichinbaatar, a geography teacher at School No. 79 in the capital, traveled 1830 km by bicycle in 22 days to reach Altai Tavan Bogd. This was his fourth journey, which he had planned a year in advance and gathered the necessary funds for. He began his trip on June 30 from Ulaanbaatar, passing through the regions of Övörkhangai, Bayankhongor, Govi-Altai, Khovd, and Bayan-Ölgii. B. Daichinbaatar shared his feelings of pride and nationalism upon reaching the Malchin peak of the Altai Tavan Bogd mountain. Despite facing many challenges, he appreciated the connection to nature, stating, "Being warm in the heat and cool in the cold is a beautiful aspect of being close to nature."

The geographer started cycling in 2020, and in July 2021, he traveled to Binder district in Khentii province, spending three nights and four days on one side of the journey. Following this, in 2022, he cycled to Erdene district in Tuv province, and last year, to the Ikh Gazriin Chuluu in Dundgovi province, covering 840 kilometers in eleven nights and twelve days. He expresses a wish to tour Mongolia by bicycle and plans to travel to Central Asian countries such as Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan in the future.

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Sports

Politics

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Ch.Lodoisambuu: Newly Elected Members Have Become Tools to Destroy Their Governance Principles

Is the Secretariat of the State Great Khural Treating Member M. Narantuya Unfairly?

D.Tsogtbaatar and B.Tuvshin "Rejected," D.Batbayar Selected

Economy

G.Zolboo: A Special Provision on How to Repay the Principal of Debt Included in the Law on Fiscal Stability

L. Gantomor: The State's Involvement Will Be Limited Without Competing with the Private Sector

"Suu" JSC to Allocate ₮3.6 Billion from the Net Profit of the First Half-Year to Dividends

The Government's Debt Will Be Calculated at Nominal Value Instead of Present Value to Make It Understandable to the Public

T. Davaadalai: Young People Need Jobs, Companies Need Projects, the Country Needs Development

Let's Reconsider the Law That Allows Companies Failing to Win Tenders to Blackmail the Winner and Recover Their Losses

Session: Budget Adjustments and Related Laws Moved to Initial Discussion

12 SITES FOR SALE BY AUCTION

No Choice But for the State to Handle Services and Works that Are Unviable and Less Profitable for Private Enterprises

Diplomacy

They Are Talking About Us: Mongolia Seeks Ways to Align with the West Without Straining Relations with China and Russia

South China Morning Post: Mongolia Rejects "Power of Siberia 2" Gas Pipeline Construction

President of the Republic of Slovenia Arrives for a State Visit

Travelers to Korea to Scan Q Code Before Crossing the Border

Guidelines for Using Q-Code When Entering South Korea

Infrastructure

P.Sainzorig: If Construction Companies Are Not Held Accountable, Citizens Will Suffer Lifetime Mortgage Penalties

ORHON: The Provincial Council Discusses Winter Preparedness

The Construction of the New Building at National University of Mongolia Will Be Completed in the Fourth Quarter of 2025

Society

NSO: Mongolia's Population Will Reach 4 Million in 2033

More Than 600 Devotees from 15 Foreign Countries Arrive to Participate in Düinkhor Empowerment Ritual

Can Countries with Nomadic Culture Cooperate in Culture, Language, and Tradition within the Framework of a Fourth Neighbor?

40% of Women Working in the Forestry Sector Earn a Salary of One Million Tugriks

Environment

"Tavan Bogd Toyota" LLC Used to Discharge Sewage Water into Road Stormwater Drains

45 Non-Standard Pit Toilets in Public Areas Removed and Around 80 Tons of Waste Cleared

"Moncon Group" LLC Violates Regulations by Pumping Construction Site Groundwater into National Garden

B.Oyunsanaa: This Year 35.9 Billion Tugriks Allocated for Forestry

Innovation

C. Baatarkhuu: Mongolia Will Become a Bridge Connecting Central-Northeast Asia with Science and Technology Parks

Harvard University Announced Its Regular Scholarship Program

Health

A Suspected Case of Measles Reported in Bayan-Ulgii Province

SELENGE: Focused on Improving the Capacity of Veterinary Service Units

Sports

Should the Central Stadium be Renovated?

A Bicyclist Travels 1830 km to Reach Altai Tavan Bogd

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