Aug 22, 2024 74 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for August 22, 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.

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Politics

The Decisions Made from the Government Meeting

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

The regular government meeting discussed and resolved several issues.

The draft amendments to the Energy Law and related legislation will be discussed at the Government's meeting. T. Dorjkhund, Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia and Chairman of the Subcommittee responsible for investments, pricing reform, and mega projects in the energy sector, introduced the changes and reforms in the energy sector to the government members.

Ministers related to the sector have been instructed to develop a draft amendment to the Energy Law and related legislation. The aim is to create a favorable investment environment in the energy sector, implement mega projects of primary sources, improve the governance and transparency of state-owned companies to turn them into publicly traded companies, and present them for discussion at the government's meeting.

The government's priority includes reformative measures such as supporting the investment environment in the energy sector, implementing major mega projects in the energy sector, gradually increasing prices and tariffs to cover costs fully, continuing indexing, and transforming state-owned companies into publicly traded companies. A subcommittee has been established with the involvement of members of parliament, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector to take charge of these tasks.

A dashboard to support decision making based on big data was presented by N. Uchral, the Minister and Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat of the Government of Mongolia, to the government members. Countries around the world are utilizing big data repositories for policy development and decision-making to save time, resources, and workforce, optimizing allocation to improve economic efficiency.

In Mongolia, 69% of the databases created for common purposes such as electronic services, control, reporting, and research by government institutions use statistical data, 72% are for processing and analysis, and 39% are used for decision-making or policy-level use.

A unified dashboard has been developed by the Financial Information Technology Center and E-Mongolia to present timely information from specialized databases. A plan is in place to consolidate 24 groups and 254 indicators of numerical information, with eight types of 59 data sets now ready to display in the e-Cabinet system. This includes data on consumer goods prices, tax payments, welfare types, citizen purchasing power, export volume, healthcare services, and government e-services, making it possible to consolidate and analyze this data at the aimag, soum, and bag levels by year, season, month, and day for decision making.

In the future, by consolidating and utilizing 17 groups with 105 indicators in 2024 and 8 groups with 89 indicators in 2025 on the integrated dashboard to support decision-making based on big data, government members will receive enhanced support in decision-making based on data information. Additionally, it will create conditions for transitioning to a system of assessing and evaluating government performance and results in a digital format based on numerical indicators.

It was instructed to introduce technological solutions to process and send timely information from other specialized databases, making it impossible to identify the owner of information related to individuals or legal entities, and to connect the dashboard to the "e-Cabinet" electronic system for the government members to familiarize themselves with, and to regularly supply information from specialized databases organized within the scope of their duties as prescribed by law.

During the government's meeting, it was also instructed to ensure all children who have applied are admitted to kindergartens, reduce the burden on general education schools, and implement the government's resolution on not having three shifts in preparation for launching activities of the education sector for the 2024-2025 academic year. The Minister of Education P. Naranbayar was tasked to ensure full preparations for the new academic year and inform the public and citizens.

This academic year, in the capital city, there are a total of 142,150 children aged two to five set to attend kindergarten. The first phase of registration began at the start of the month, utilizing the address and location information database of the General Authority for State Registration and recording through the E-Mongolia system. Assignments have been made using the education sector's information system (ESIS) according to the determined attending area by the capital's education authority. Of these, 103,999 children sent applications for kindergarten attendance, and responses were sent to parents and guardians via message. The second phase of online registration will begin on the 5th of next month.

To accommodate every child who has applied for kindergarten, information was compiled for high-load districts and subdistricts, and 368 groups in 94 places will be rented for educational purposes to educate 11,768 children this academic year. Furthermore, it is planned to include 15,000 children in 274 private kindergartens that have set specific attendance areas.

Information from the capital's education department shows that 36 general education schools will teach 23,188 children in 560 groups with three shifts. To solve the issue, 29 additional general education schools will lease premises for educational purposes. As of today, rental agreements for 22 schools have been assessed and resolved.

First-grade admissions for general education schools are registered through the E-Mongolia system similar to kindergartens, with the registration continuing from the 12th to the 25th of the month.

“The Ministry of Education is taking measures such as short-term training to give teaching rights to graduates from universities with non-teaching specialties and employing them under a labor agreement to address vacant teacher positions promptly. They will have the opportunity to obtain the teaching profession through conversion training and work as full-time teachers. Also, during the first quarter of the academic year, measures are being taken to employ trainee teachers with salaries, continue working for teachers established with pensions, provide jobs for new graduates, allocate training hours for school managers,” stated Minister of Education P. Naranbayar.

Additionally, it is planned to organize the school year opening flexibly and openly, avoiding difficulties and inconvenience for teachers, learners, parents, and guardians.

N. Uchral: Government Members Have Started Using the Dashboard

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

The regular meeting of the government was held today, and some decisions were made.

Decisions made at the meeting are being presented.

Head of the Cabinet Secretariat N. Uchral explained, "The government has started implementing a presentation using big data for decision-making. Currently, the state has a database of 15 billion recordings and 185 terabytes of information, of which only 39% is used for decision-making. To avoid demanding information from citizens that is already available to the government, we have decided to use big data or a Dashboard system.

The Dashboard is being installed for government members. With this, the prices of consumables can be seen in real-time. The number of people who have received healthcare services and information about diseases will also be available.

From the Dashboard, it is possible to see which province is receiving more welfare services and allocate the budget accordingly.

Data such as the number of taxpayers, export volume, and the average salary will be visible on the Dashboard. This will allow for accurate calculation of the living standards in each province and district.

By collecting big data, it will also be possible to see to what extent citizens are receiving state services. Decisions will be smart, and budget spending will be specific.

The decision to make data out of 54 indicators of eight types was agreed upon by agency leaders and governors of provinces and districts for accurate decision-making.

Based on big data, decisions will be made on where to spend the budget more during the cold season, and what to focus on for next year's budget.

In the future, ongoing projects and programs across the country will be turned into data, and we will measure where it is stuck and the level of progress. Within two weeks, international indices will be installed. For example, progress will be measured for improvement in the human development and competitiveness indices. Efforts will be made to compare with other countries based on the number of indices.

By integrating big data, opportunities will open up for using artificial intelligence. Based on data, solutions will be provided for traffic jams, and whether a machine will stop if a person crosses in front of it can be measured, ensuring we do not fall behind on the new trends of development," it was introduced.

Introducing the Decisions of the Government Meeting

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

The regular government meeting is ongoing. Today's meeting will cover:

Reform and changes in the energy sector
Preparatory work for winterization in the capital city
Construction of the transboundary railway "Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod"
Preparatory works for the new academic year

In addition to these, over 10 other issues are planned to be discussed and reviewed.

D. Gankhuyag: Discussing changes to freely bring in gun-selling places with price control and prepare citizens to be ready to use weapons

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

During today's meeting of the Standing Committee on Security and Foreign Policy, the government's 2024-2028 action program was discussed. During this time, Member of Parliament O. Amgalanbaatar raised issues related to the defense sector.

Member of Parliament O. Amgalanbaatar: The defense system is stuck in the socialist era. Local protection is only on paper in name only. Therefore, if this issue is not changed in the action program, the defense sector will not be reformed at all.

State Secretary of the Ministry of Defense D. Gankhuyag: With the approval of the local protection law, it has been operating under the leadership of governors, with the support of the Ministry of Defense, in more than 10 provinces to date. This work is very effective. Citizens bring their own firearms and transport to receive military training.

In connection with local protection, a Local Protection Office was newly established at the Ministry of Defense. Structural changes are being initiated.

Last year, the armament and technical policy of the armed forces was legislated. The budget and expenses related to arms and technical upgrades are presented to the National Security Council in a confidential manner. In recent years, funds have not been allocated for weapons and technical upgrades in this sector. However, through external loans, aids, and donations, we have made upgrades worth about one trillion MNT with our own capabilities.

Member of Parliament O. Amgalanbaatar: It seems you are discussing including in the government's action program the issue of arming all citizens, establishing many shooting centers, and preparing citizens for potential dangers, which you will elaborate on further. Is it necessary to do this at this time?

State Secretary of the Ministry of Defense D. Gankhuyag: When any issue arises, a policy is inevitably needed at the forefront of local protection. In doing so, the constitutional mandate of "every citizen protects their country" will be fulfilled.

Moving forward, we are discussing making changes to freely bring in gun-selling places with price control, allowing citizens to legally own their weapons and be ready to use them in any event.

The People's Party is not entirely responsible for government procurement, citizens are misinformed

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

First Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the People's Party, T. Dorjkhanda, provided the following information today:

I would like to clarify that the People's Party is not entirely responsible for government procurement. Citizens are misinformed. The majority of government procurement is still handled by the Ministry of Finance. Government procurement should be transparent, open, and electronic. I will focus on this area. I was the first to blow the whistle on the green bus and the 40 trillion coal scandal. Amendments will be made to the law on procurement of goods and services by state and local government property.

The Unified State Procurement Agency, which operates under the jurisdiction of the Deputy Prime Minister, is an implementing agency that conducts 29% of all procurement, excluding concession contracts.

According to the Law on Public-Private Partnership, a separate organization is responsible for concession issues.

The People's Party does not handle all procurements. Procurement operations should adhere to international principles and be transparent and open.

For example, there is the issue of the green buses that are supposed to be kept secret. As someone who blew the whistle and organized open hearings on the 40 trillion coal theft, I can say that one state-owned company secretly made an offtake agreement worth 18 trillion MNT. This situation is being changed, and amendments are being made to the law so that the procurement of state-owned companies will be managed by a unified agency.

FACT: The Tender for the Building Sneakily Included by Ch. J. Chinburun and Others in the State Budget Has Been Re-Announced with Changed Specifications

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

Seventeen members of the State Great Khural formed a working group and sneakily included 212 projects in the state budget, planning to purchase a six-story building intended for service use and convert it into a "hospital" at a cost of 40 billion tögrög. We previously reported on this crucial fact. There was also evidence that a company had approached the Authority for Fair Trade and Consumer Protection about a tender that might have been tailored for that hospital building. This information was highlighted in our "ONE TOPIC" column.

Now, the procurement agency of Bayanzurkh district has revised the specifications for purchasing a hospital building in the 32nd subdistrict and sent them to the State Procurement Agency. Consequently, the agency re-announced the hospital building tender on the 20th of this month.

The revised requirements for the building in special conditions state that the hospital building should not be more than 100-200 meters from the main road, to ensure ease of access for clients, and the ceiling height should be 4-4.5 meters, designed as a hall suitable for hospital use. However, the revised specification states the floor-to-ceiling height should be no less than 2.6 meters and up to 5 meters, adhering to hospital use standards.

Moreover, the hospital must be a single location with no more than six stories and at least 3,360 square meters, with parking outside, which has been changed to require a single location of no less than 8,000 square meters. It also changed from a never-before-used, glossy glass facade to a new facade.

Additionally, it is required that, if necessary, the building's area can be increased to 8,400-9,000 square meters. The requirement for a contiguous building has been removed, prohibiting buildings located separately at a distance. And it now mandates that public toilets, including at least one facility for disabled individuals, based on standard planning norms, must be available for use by staff, clients, and patients alike.

In brief, the revised specification clearly shows that the previous one did not meet the criteria and was likely tailored for the building intended to be purchased by Ch. J. Chinburun and others. Following the inspection by the Authority for Fair Trade and Consumer Protection, the procurement department of Bayanzurkh district revised the tender requirements for purchasing a building for hospital use in the 32nd subdistrict and re-announced the tender.

Economy

The Long-term Budget Policy of the New Government Will Have a Crucial Impact on Mongolia's Credit Rating

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

"Fitch Ratings" has projected that the budget deficit will equal one percent of GDP in 2024, though the deficit in non-mining sectors, which serves as a general benchmark for fiscal policy, is expected to remain elevated.

In 2023, the budget surplus equaled 1.4 percent of the GDP, and during the first seven months of 2024, the budget balance showed a surplus of over 1.6 trillion tugriks, fueled by favorable conditions in raw material exports. However, the newly formed Joint Government continues the tradition of increasing the approved budget through amendments annually and has decided to expand its historically large budget by three trillion tugriks.

Both major rating agencies, “Moody’s” and “Fitch Ratings,” have highlighted that the new government's long-term budget policy will have a crucial impact on Mongolia's credit rating. Additionally, data indicates that investors are actively selling bonds of developing countries that maintain loose fiscal policies.

Returning to a Deficit

The budget surplus in 2023 significantly contributed to the decrease in Mongolia's external debt, particularly the government debt to GDP ratio. Nonetheless, "Moody’s" and "Fitch Ratings" have noted in their recent observations on Mongolia's economic outlook that the budget, which showed a surplus, is expected to return to a deficit by the end of 2024.

Announced significant social welfare spending ahead of the election, along with increases in salaries and pensions, will raise budget expenses, leading to a deficit in 2024, with the deficit expected to widen further in 2025, according to "Moody’s." However, the share of government debt to GDP is likely to remain around 43 percent in the next two years, provided the nominal GDP growth is sustained and the currency exchange rate remains stable.

On the other hand, “Fitch Ratings” forecasts the budget deficit to equal one percent of GDP in 2024, though the deficit in non-mining sectors, which serves as a general benchmark for fiscal policy, is expected to remain elevated.

Moody’s: Although there hasn't been an overall change in the effectiveness of macroeconomic policies, transitioning towards a fiscally cyclical policy tied to commodity prices leaves Mongolia's economy and government finances vulnerable to the risks associated with commodity price cycles.

Fitch Ratings: Despite the government's debt level declining, an increase in currency reserves providing a buffer against external shocks, and the strengthening of the fiscal policy framework alongside a more optimal management of external debt, the expected fiscal expansion this year indicates that the risks stemming from commodity cycles remain of high significance to Mongolia.

For the improvement of Mongolia’s credit rating, economic growth, accumulation of foreign currency reserves, management of external debt, the ratio of government debt to GDP, and fiscal discipline will be influential factors as clearly reflected in the assessments by “Moody’s” and “Fitch Ratings.”

Fiscal Reform → Investment Return

Bond investors demonstrate that fiscal policy has a greater effect on the ability to attract investment in developing countries than monetary policy. Since April of this year, investors have been actively selling the bonds of countries whose governments have loosened fiscal policy. Conversely, countries with prudent fiscal policies continue to attract interest from investors, even when the returns are low or negative, as indicated by Bloomberg's data.

Analyzing bond investment returns in the second quarter, countries undertaking fiscal reforms, such as Argentina, Turkey, and Brazil, lead in returns. Meanwhile, countries like Mexico and Brazil, facing increasing deficits, are trailing behind.

T.Dorjhand: A State-Owned Company Secretly Signed an 18 Trillion Tugrik Coal Offtake Agreement

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

Deputy Prime Minister T.Dorjhand expressed his position on state procurement activities.

He stated, "The Deputy Prime Minister Dorjhand or the HUN Party is incorrectly perceived by the public and members of the State Great Khural (Parliament) as being responsible for state procurement activities as a whole. The policy and oversight of procurement activities are managed by the Ministry of Finance.

Within the scope of the Deputy Prime Minister's responsibilities, there is a unified state procurement agency. This agency is an implementing organization and handles 29% of total procurement, excluding concession agreements.

According to the law on public-private partnerships, a separate entity is supposed to handle concession issues.

The HUN Party does not oversee all procurement activities. Procurement should be conducted openly and transparently in accordance with international principles.

For example, there is the issue of secret bus agreements. As someone who has previously blown the whistle on and organized public hearings on the issue of 40 trillion coal theft, I can say that a state-owned company secretly signed an 18 trillion tugrik offtake agreement. The situation is being addressed by amending the law so that the unified agency handles the procurement of state-owned companies.

Changes are being made to the law to carry out major development projects. These changes will be discussed during the spring session. There is nothing concerning, as some lawyers suspect.

Procurement should remain electronic, fair, open, and transparent, regardless of individuals," he said.

T.Dorjhand: One trillion MNT from the three trillion MNT budget revision will be spent on the energy sector

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

Deputy Prime Minister T. Dorjhand announced today that starting from November 1st, the price of energy will be increased to make the sector non-deficit. During a press conference, he answered journalists' questions regarding the real situation of the energy sector and the policies to be implemented in this sector.

To address the energy shortage, focus is being placed on supply. For example, the first block of the Boroortuul thermal power station is about to be operational.
Programs supporting housing and usage without energy and heat loss will be introduced. There will be short-term energy limitations.
It is known that our country's technology is outdated and supply is lagging. Energy consumption increases by 7-8% every year. The growth in energy consumption cannot be addressed solely through state budget funds.
There is a pressing need to create a legal environment and market that attract private investment in the energy sector.
Compared to Russia and China, our country's energy tariff is very low and constantly subsidized. Due to low tariffs, there is no investment. The plan is to increase supply next year and achieve 100% energy self-sufficiency by 2026. This year, however, the reality of the energy sector is indeed challenging.
Of the three trillion MNT to be spent on five major projects through the budget revision, one trillion will be allocated to the energy sector. Of this, about 500 billion MNT may be resolved by issuing bonds in Ulaanbaatar, and discussions on this issue are ongoing. It is expected that the budget revision will be approved this week.
The liberalization of energy prices will be aligned with market principles.
Currently, due to the deficit station, mining and coal transport are also running at a deficit. Due to energy being supplied below market prices, a tariff policy will be implemented from November 1st to make it non-deficit.
Ten years ago, renewable energy such as solar power was expensive, with one kilowatt costing 15-16 cents; now, it has decreased. For instance, the price of solar energy has reached a historical low, providing an opportunity for cheap energy sources.
Assembling battery stations, solar panels, building wind energy, and hydroelectric power plants are advantageous due to our country's large territory. The main limitation was the tariff issue.
Aiming to attract renewable energy, green financing, and increase private sector investment to address the energy deficit and introduce export policies at the government level.

T.Dorjhand: Measures to Adjust Energy Prices to Break-even Will Begin from November 1

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

T. Dorjhand, the Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, stated today that Mongolia has the full potential to become independent in the energy sector and eventually an exporting country in this field. He emphasized the importance of efforts in this direction.

He introduced the decisions from the government meeting, stating, "Today's meeting discussed a critical issue, namely the reform of the energy sector.

In the scope of aligning with the ministries' activities and new revitalization policies, a Sub-committee has been established. This Sub-committee will be responsible for undertaking energy reform, driving mega projects, and changing tariffs and will include representatives not only from government members but also from political parties, professional organizations, private entities, and civil society organizations.

We have a long-term plan for our policy. Mongolia's economy is primarily funded by the mining sector, contributing 70-80% to the national economy. The next sector will be energy. Mongolia has abundant energy resources, a vast territory with underground energy reserves, and renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Mongolia can be an energy-exporting country. We are looking at aligning our policy in this direction over the long term.

We will boldly implement reforms in the medium term. Structural changes will be made in state-owned companies in this sector to improve efficiency, make them publicly traded entities, and attract investments.

To attract investments, we will reform tariffs. Initially, we aim to achieve a break-even level based on today's actual costs. Later, by introducing market principles, increased supply will lead to price reduction.

In 2023, our country produced 10.9 billion kWh of electrical energy, distributing 9.9 billion kWh. Of this, 77.7% was supplied domestically, while 22.3% was imported. Of the imported energy, 60% came from China and 40% from Russia."

When asked by journalists about the timing of the tariff changes, he replied, "We will adapt prices to market principles. Currently, we supply at prices significantly lower than market levels. This will be adjusted to a break-even point through tariff policy, expected to be implemented from November 1."

Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social, and Web platforms) must credit the source (ikon.mn) when using our information wholly or partially.

MSE: 5.6 Million Bonds Worth ₮565 Billion Traded in January-July

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

On the Mongolian Stock Exchange, a total of 5.67 million bonds were traded on the primary and secondary markets for ₮565.03 billion in the first seven months of the year. This is a 15-fold increase compared to the same period last year.

The "Ulaanbaatar Bond" drew ₮500 billion from the primary market, which was the main contributor. As a result, bond trading accounted for more than 66% of the total trading of securities on the exchange in the first half of the year, as reported by the Financial Regulatory Commission.

This year, the "Simple III" bond of "Ashid Capital BBSB" JSC was issued, raising ₮20 billion through its primary trading, while "Ard Credit" began accepting preliminary orders to issue its open bond on the Ulaanbaatar Securities Exchange.

Meanwhile, 33 new bonds worth a total of ₮536.7 billion were registered on the non-banking financial institution’s market in the second quarter of this year (issued in tugriks). By sector, non-bank financial institution bonds accounted for 41%, and real estate company bonds accounted for 22%.

The average interest rate of bonds registered in tugriks is 19.5%. In terms of maturity, 12-month bonds constitute the majority, or 49%.

Currently, efforts are underway to finalize reforms to simplify the process of issuing securities, such as reducing the conditions, requirements, and time for companies within the "Top-100" to issue bonds, and not requiring collateral or guarantees for open and closed bond issuance, as highlighted by the Financial Regulatory Commission.

Oyu Tolgoi Company Spends MNT 26.3 Billion on Local Development Projects Last Quarter

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

Oyu Tolgoi LLC spent MNT 26.3 billion on local sustainable development projects and programs through the "Gobi Development Support Fund" and the "Khanbogd Soum Development Accelerator" fund in the past second quarter.

Eighty percent of this was spent on local infrastructure, while 20 percent was directed towards supporting the education and health of local children and residents.

"Half of the households in Khanbogd soum are now fully connected to the clean and wastewater networks."

For instance:

Constructed and connected 20 km of clean water and 18 km of wastewater networks in the ger district of Khanbogd soum, linking over 1,000 households and more than 60 businesses. Half of the total households in the soum are now fully connected to the clean and wastewater networks.
Built and completed the wastewater line to connect the industrial zone of Umnugovi aimag to the treatment plant.
Currently building a waste recycling plant in the aimag's central industrial zone.
Completed and handed over a new kindergarten with a capacity for 200 children, the sixth facility constructed with financing from Oyu Tolgoi LLC.
Finished developing the Khanbogd soum’s educational development policy document for 2030, highlighted by the company's regional economic development expert.

Oyu Tolgoi Company highlighted the following efforts in the realm of education and training:

Conducted various training sessions totaling 345,000 hours this quarter to refresh employees' knowledge and skills in safety, leadership, and communication as part of preparing internationally competitive Mongolian employees.
Recruited 29 new graduates in 2024, who will work in 19 different fields at Oyu Tolgoi LLC.
Successfully concluded a geotechnical program with 16 students, implemented in collaboration with MUST, with some already employed at Oyu Tolgoi LLC.
Awarded international scholarships to three students in the fields of geotechnics and underground mining.
Collaborated with the Mongolian-German University of Technology to successfully implement a STEAM program for local high school students.

Additionally, a working group has been established to implement average salaries, and since August 1, joint negotiations have been initiated with two trade unions.

Government: Energy Tariffs to be Gradually Increased to Reach Actual Cost and Mitigate Losses

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

The energy sector is expected to operate at a loss of 274 billion MNT in 2024, according to the Energy Regulatory Commission.

To implement the energy reforms planned by the Joint Government, a tariff revision is being carried out, with the government planning to first reach the current actual cost to avoid losses, Deputy Prime Minister T. Dorjhand reported.

The head of the Energy Regulatory Commission highlighted in an interview with the press that electricity and heat tariffs are not meeting the actual cost, leading the energy sector to face a projected loss of 274 billion MNT in 2024.

In the medium term, the government will make structural changes to state-owned companies and transform them into public open companies. As Mongolia has abundant renewable energy resources, Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the need to align long-term policy towards becoming an energy-exporting country in the future. He also highlighted that energy reform serves as the foundation for implementing more than ten mega projects included in the Joint Government's program for the next four years.

Additionally, a subcommittee has been established to coordinate the New Recovery Policy and the activities of ministries. This subcommittee will oversee tasks such as energy reform, advancing mega projects, and adjusting tariffs.

In 2023, Mongolia's energy consumption was 11 billion kilowatt-hours, of which 77.7% was produced domestically, and 22.3% was imported, according to the Energy Regulatory Commission.

Oyu Tolgoi LLC: Copper Production Increased by 23% in the Second Quarter Compared to the Previous Quarter

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

Oyu Tolgoi LLC reported producing 52,531 tons of copper in concentrate and 46,884 ounces of gold in concentrate for the second quarter of 2024. The company indicated that their copper production in Q2 of this year increased by 23% compared to the previous quarter. During the reporting period, the company extracted 1.5 million tons of ore with an average copper grade of 2.02% from the underground mine, and 9.3 million tons of ore with an average copper grade of 0.37% from the open pit mine.

The company's CEO, Deirdre Lingenfelder, highlighted that copper production is expected to increase by over 30% this year. Oyu Tolgoi aims to achieve an annual copper production target of 500,000 tons between 2028 and 2036.

In this context, the construction of the underground mine is 97% complete, with the front and rear ventilation shafts successfully connected to the underground mine. The company emphasized that these two shafts increase ventilation, allowing the mine to operate at full capacity.

Additionally, during the second quarter of this year, the company invested 26.3 billion MNT in local sustainability projects and programs. Of the total investment, 80.8% was allocated to infrastructure development, while 10.1% was dedicated to health and social well-being. The value of procurement from domestic companies reached 1.3 trillion MNT during the reporting period.

Furthermore, the joint company Entrée/Oyu Tolgoi's development of "Panel 1" is planned to start in the first half of 2024, with production set to commence in the first half of 2027, as reported by Oyu Tolgoi last year. Discussions among the shareholders of the companies are ongoing. The development of "Panel 1" has not yet commenced, with various challenges requiring resolution, according to the CEO of Oyu Tolgoi LLC. The "Hugo North Extension" deposit is also included in "Panel 1."

Oyu Tolgoi LLC: Despite Arbitration Resuming, Parties Can Resolve Dispute through Negotiation

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

The company "Oyu Tolgoi" presented key performance indicators for the second quarter of 2024 and the progress of its underground mine project today.

Highlights include a 23% increase in copper production from the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine in the second quarter of 2024. Specifically, the underground mine extracted 1.5 million tons of ore with an average copper content of 2.02%, and the open pit mine extracted 9.3 million tons of ore with an average copper content of 0.37%. The plan is to increase the annual copper production from the underground mine to 500,000 tons between 2028 and 2036.

Oyu Tolgoi's production report:

Prioritizing safety, the company achieved an injury frequency rate of 0.12, meeting its goal to keep it below 0.20 per 200,000 man-hours.
It is one of the copper mines that use less than 0.55 cubic meters of water per ton of ore processed globally, using 0.33 meters of water in the second quarter of 2024.
97.2% of the total workforce are Mongolians, with women making up 23.3% of Oyu Tolgoi LLC's total workforce.
Since 2010, a total of 44 trillion MNT or 17.9 billion USD has been paid in taxes and fees.
In the second quarter, the company worked with 889 suppliers, 588 of whom are domestic suppliers, spending 90.7% of its operational procurement on these national suppliers.

We clarified the company's position on the tax and salary disputes.

Has your company's tax dispute with the government been resolved?
The Government of Mongolia and the investor Rio Tinto have worked together over the past two years to resolve tax-related issues concerning "Oyu Tolgoi" LLC. During the negotiation period, the arbitration process in the International Arbitration of London related to this tax dispute was suspended three times. As parties were unable to resolve the dispute during the suspension, they mutually agreed to resume the arbitration from January 1, 2024. Thus, the arbitration concerning "Oyu Tolgoi" LLC's tax dispute is ongoing. However, the parties are still fully capable of resolving the dispute through negotiations.

The 80 million USD allegedly imposed on "Oyu Tolgoi" LLC relates to tax audits from 2019-2020. Since 2010, we have contributed over 11.3 trillion MNT in taxes and other payments to the state budget. Moving forward, we will continue to meet all tax obligations promptly and responsibly within the stable tax environment set by the 2009 Investment Agreement with the Government of Mongolia.

Did the issue regarding employee salary demands get resolved after they expressed their discontent?
The past protest was in response to changes in salary calculation made according to the "Supplementary Regulations for Determining Average Wages" approved by the Minister of Labor and Social Protection, which came into effect on April 1, 2022. Our company started negotiations with the trade union committees, and the second meeting is scheduled for August 23.

"Oyu Tolgoi" LLC Made Purchases Worth ₮1.3 Trillion from Domestic Suppliers This Quarter

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

Dorj, a tax accountant from the Finance and Business Department of "Oyu Tolgoi" LLC, delivered information regarding the financial expenditure for the second quarter of 2024 within the scope of the company's investments and partnerships in Mongolia.

"Oyu Tolgoi" LLC has spent a total of ₮1.6 trillion in Mongolia in the second quarter of this year. Monthly total cash expenditures mainly consist of direct costs such as supplies, transportation, fuel, and tools necessary to maintain day-to-day operations paid to collaborating businesses and other organizations. It also includes taxes, fees, and salaries.

A total expenditure of approximately $480 million has reportedly made a positive contribution to the stability of Mongolia's exchange rate during the past quarter.

Domestic Purchases:

This quarter, purchases worth ₮1.3 trillion have been made from domestic supplier companies and enterprises, accounting for 91% of the total purchases.

In particular, purchases amounting to ₮227 billion have been made from companies in Umnugovi province.

Taxes and Fees:

Taxes and fees paid to state and local budgets account for 19% of the total cash expenditures of the second quarter. A total of ₮306 billion in taxes was paid, marking a 60% increase compared to the same period of the previous year.

Warning

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Xanadu Mines: Copper Resources in the "Kharmagtai" Project Increase by 14%, Gold Resources by 9%

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

Xanadu Mines is intensifying its drilling efforts. The Australia Stock Exchange-listed company, Xanadu Mines, has updated the resource size of its copper-gold "Kharmagtai" project. According to the new estimates, potential copper resources have increased by 14%, or 463 thousand tons.

For gold, the potential resource size has increased by nine percent, or 764 thousand ounces. Thus, it has been determined that the total resources of the "Kharmagtai" project amount to 3.8 million tons of copper and 9.3 million ounces of gold.

Xanadu Mines' intensified drilling work and updated resource reporting criteria have contributed to these positive results.

Furthermore, during exploratory drilling at the "Ulaan Uul" project, high mineralization of copper and gold was detected in all boreholes, as reported by the company in June. Xanadu Mines performed approximately 4880 meters of diamond drilling in four boreholes, discovering high-level mineralization relatively close to the surface in all.

The company reported that it completed 71.9 thousand meters of drilling work on its main project, the "Kharmagtai" copper-gold project in 2023. Metallurgical studies showed excellent results, with copper ore metal recovery at 94% and gold metal recovery at 92% according to previous information.

Diplomacy

Newsweek: Putin-Xi Pipeline Plan Has Reached a Deadlock

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

The government of Mongolia, a landlocked country in East Asia, has not included the project of building a natural gas pipeline from Russia to China in its operational program for 2024-2028. About one-third of the proposed "Power of Siberia-2" pipeline project by Moscow, aimed at connecting gas fields in Russia's Altai region to northeastern China, would pass through Mongolia, which borders both China and Russia.

Due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, Russia's natural gas sales have decreased, and President Vladimir Putin is seeking to increase his market share in China. Data from January shows that while natural gas sales from Russia to China have grown for the third consecutive year, the trade deficit has not been compensated.

Russia has been negotiating for years to build the "Power of Siberia 2" pipeline to supply 50 billion cubic meters of gas annually from northern Russia to China through Mongolia. However, according to the “South China Morning Post” reported on Monday, the ambitious project was not included in Mongolia's operational program for 2024-2028.

Munkhnaran Bayarlkhagva, who has worked for Mongolia's National Security Council, stated, "Moscow's confidence in getting a favorable deal from Beijing is waning, leading to a prolonged pause. The project might be halted until better times emerge."

The pipeline, a joint project between China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) and Gazprom, is expected to last at least five years and aims to deliver 50 billion cubic meters (1.8 trillion cubic feet) of gas to China annually.

Anna Kireeva, an associate professor at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, mentioned that CNPC wanted to purchase gas at prices similar to those on the Russian domestic market. This demand is unprofitable for Gazprom, as financial resources are needed to construct the pipeline. Even though the project is in the interests of both Russia and China, the issues can be resolved, but both parties must be willing to compromise. "It's difficult to predict the future course of the negotiations," she added.

Li Lifang, a Russian and Central Asian expert at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, commented, "Mongolia hopes to receive investments from China and Russia, but Russia lacks the money, and China is not in a hurry to build the pipeline. After the war in Ukraine and the severed economic relations between Moscow and Western countries, China has become Russia's only buyer."

Russia supplied 75.4 million tons of natural gas to China in the first seven months of this year.

The "Power of Siberia 2" project is mutually beneficial for the three countries. Alexey Chigadayev, a former guest lecturer at the Moscow Higher School of Economics, described the decision by the Mongolian government as "wise" and viewed 2028 as a possible start and reference point for the project.

Infrastructure

T.Dorjchand: By 2026, We Will Supply 100% of Our Energy Domestically and Become an Exporting Country

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

The decision from the recent government meeting was presented.

Deputy Prime Minister T.Dorjchand stated: Today, during the government meeting, we discussed the reform of the energy sector. There are high expectations from the public. We agreed to start our reform from the energy sector. There is a National Committee that coordinates the activities of ministries within the framework of the new revival policy. Now, we have established our first sub-committee.

The sub-committee was established to pursue energy reform, promote major mega projects, and implement tariff changes. The sub-committee is composed of members of the government, representatives of various parties of the Parliament, professional organizations, private sector, and civil society representatives.

The sub-committee essentially plans to reform policy in the long run. Mongolia is dependent on mining. The next sector will be energy. This is because Mongolia has huge energy resources. In addition to having a large territory and abundant underground energy sources, there is an ample supply of natural green sources like solar and wind energy.

What this means is that Mongolia can be an energy-exporting country. We are looking at aligning policies toward this in the long term. We will boldly reform this sector in the mid-term. Structural changes will be made to state-owned companies. This sector has not been able to transition from state monopoly to the market. We will marketize it and improve its efficiency. Companies operating in this sector will become open, public companies. Investment in the sector will be increased.

We will also transition pricing tariffs. Initially, we will move towards a pricing model without losses based on today's actual costs. Then, we will transition it according to market principles.

Compared to Russia and China, energy tariffs are very low today. This is because they constantly operate with subsidies. Due to these low tariffs, investments are not being made. State investment cannot enter. If we rectify this, supply can increase from next year, and we can fully supply ourselves by 2026.

We will incorporate prices into market principles in both the mid-term and long-term. In reality, supply is being provided at much lower price levels than the market. We will regulate it with tariff policies to at least have no loss level. This will be implemented starting November 1.

R. Erdenebüren: To Expand Ulaanbaatar Towards Khöshig Valley, We Will Tunnel Through The Bogd Mountain And Build Highways And Bridges

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

The extraordinary session of the State Great Khural is discussing the joint government's program and the amendments to the 2024 budget. A 3 trillion budget amendment has been made, which plans to implement over 10 major projects, some of which belong to the "20-Minute City" National Committee. For example, in order to free Ulaanbaatar from pollution and congestion and to expand towards Khöshig Valley, it is planned to start the design work and feasibility study of tunneling through the Bogd Mountain to build tunnels, highways, and bridges. The government minister and head of the "20-Minute City" national committee, R. Erdenebüren, mentioned that this work might be carried out by inviting a foreign experienced company. He clarified when these works will start and finish, which company might execute the works, and what policies for expanding Ulaanbaatar will be implemented in the future.

The extraordinary session is discussing the joint government's program and budget amendments. What budget amendments have been made for your "20-Minute City" National Committee and what works are planned?

Our National Committee includes six ministers and the city mayor. I am leading this committee. The chairman of the national committee is responsible for ensuring coordination among other ministries and Ulaanbaatar city. The concept of "20-Minute City" is not new to our country. It is a concept implemented internationally. In some countries, it is implemented as "15 Minutes." The purpose is to have the city planned and modified in a way that a citizen can walk and spend 20 minutes to bring their child to school, receive medical and public services, and participate in cultural and physical activities. It's about changing the city for the comfortable living of citizens. Our country has made a political decision to plan and develop Ulaanbaatar and other major cities following this concept.

Regarding this idea, legal and policy documents are being drawn up. Plans will be developed in alignment with this idea. A master plan titled "Ulaanbaatar 20/40" is about to be approved. Many works will be done thereafter. Due to the current situation, there is no other choice but to dismantle and develop Ulaanbaatar. The city was originally planned for 500,000 people. However, today it has a population of 1.6 million. The entire investment has been made in this small 700-hectare area. Thus, the infrastructure has become overburdened. Implementing the "20-Minute City" concept faces challenges. How do we dismantle Ulaanbaatar? There is a need to create satellite cities around Bogd Mountain. The nearest locations are Khöshig Valley and Zuun mod. Citizens should be able to reach these locations in a short time. Therefore, tunneling through Bogd Mountain and building a tunnel is inevitable. A six-lane highway will be necessary. This has been discussed since the 1970s. If we can accomplish this and relocate schools and public offices, it is possible to establish a new city with 150-200 thousand households south of Bogd Mountain.

Is this the main work?

The construction of a bridge should follow the tunnel. Also, a centralized location for state services should be built in Khöshig Valley. Mongolians have not done projects like tunneling through mountains and building large bridges before. Due to the lack of experience in this area, we will seek advice from world-class experts and have the design, budget, and feasibility study done. Hence, only these tasks have been included in the budget. The highway along the Tuul River's bank is in the design stage. There's also a plan for a ring road. To stress a point, it is impossible to accomplish all these with the state budget alone. Foreign investments or other types of funding will be essential. When discussing financing and investment, we need precise designs and feasibility studies. To attract investment, we will involve professional individuals and international consulting firms for advice. Initially, funds for consultation, design, and feasibility studies will be budgeted. Tunnel construction, bridges, ring roads, highways, and a one-stop governmental service center will be developed in a centralized system with comprehensive management advice. These tasks cannot be fragmented; they must be done comprehensively.

Apologies. Many people view the "20-Minute City" project as fiction and are skeptical about completing the tasks you mentioned. When will the designs and feasibility studies be completed? Can you promise which tasks will be completed by the end of this government's term?

If we sit idly believing nothing will succeed, we will remain idle. We have sat idly for 20-30 years saying things won't work. It is clear nothing will get better by merely saying everything will be great. We are setting goals. We are urgently incorporating the budget for contracts and designs this winter to start in spring. We are conceptualizing finishing these tasks by 2028. Projects in our country seldom complete on time. Naturally, there will be issues. However, those discussing implementation must not sit idly doubting.

Some members criticize that private sectors won’t be involved and the state shall implement everything. More state involvement might lead to increased corruption and bureaucracy, along with uncontrolled funds. Also, they criticize the idea of executing numerous projects without tenders?

These tasks will be done by private sectors. Mainly, the projects like big bridge and tunnel constructions, which we haven’t attempted before, will be done with advice from abroad. There are no global giants seeking to compete and complete such projects per our tender laws. Invitations and discussions will be held. Discussion is underway to bring big projects to parliament after government meetings. For instance, there’s an exclusive company globally specializing in tunnel construction. For such high-tech, know-how work, sending invitations is inevitable.

Are there any political obstacles? Do you have an understanding with Chairman Kh. Nyambaatar?

Indeed, we have signed to reach an understanding. If it were possible to decide and execute alone, it could have been done in the past eight years. It couldn’t be done. Hence, collaboration on large projects is underway.

Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi LLC to Organize the Tender for the Project to Transfer Surface Water to the Gobi

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

Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi LLC presented its operational report for the second quarter of 2024.

During the presentation, the company's General Advisor for Sustainable Development Projects, Mr. Uuganbayar, highlighted the environmental efforts made by "Oyu Tolgoi" LLC in the past quarter:

In the last quarter, Oyu Tolgoi LLC's water recycling rate was 88.6%, and they contributed 8.6 billion MNT to the local budget from their total water consumption.
Over the past 10 years, the company has improved its waste recycling and reuse rate from 11% to 69% through various enhancement measures.
Oyu Tolgoi LLC provided aid in the form of grass for wildlife in the Gobi Gurvansaikhan Special Protected Area.
As part of its efforts to educate children about the environment, the company organized a bird-watching event with children from Khanbogd soum.
In the past quarter, a tree nursery with the capacity to grow 250,000 seedlings annually was established in Manlai and Bayan-Ovoo soums of the Umnugovi aimag. Last year, two nurseries were established in Tsogt-Ovoo and Khanbogd soums, with a tender for another nursery in Sevrei soum currently underway.
To facilitate the work of these tree nurseries, the company handed over six sets of equipment worth 1.5 billion MNT to the Forest Agency in the last quarter. In total, 80 sets of equipment are to be provided.
This year, 91.6 hectares of the 187 hectares planned for rehabilitation in the Shaarn Gol and Khongor soums of the Darkhan-Uul aimag have been restored and handed over to the local community.
In the Turgani Am area of the Bogd Mountain, afforestation was completed on 32 hectares with a total of 175,000 trees planted this year.
Oyu Tolgoi LLC distributed 35,000 seedlings to its employees for free this spring.

Additionally, the company is financing the revision and enhancement of the technical and economic feasibility study for the project aimed at transferring surface water to the Gobi. "Erdenes Oyu Tolgoi" LLC is responsible for overseeing the organization of the tender for this project.

The project to improve the pedestrian paths in 27,800 sq m in the capital is 90% complete this year

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

This year, the Ulaanbaatar city administration planned to improve pedestrian paths over an area of 27,800 square meters. As of today, this work is 90% complete.

The aim is to create a city-friendly environment by newly constructing pedestrian paths around general education schools and kindergartens. Specifically, pedestrian paths are being constructed to create a safe environment for children at the premises of kindergartens No. 107 and 110, schools No. 81 and 86 in the Sukhbaatar District, school No. 44, and the Amgalan Complex School in the Bayanzurkh District. The work is planned to be fully completed before the start of the new school year.

Furthermore, with the decree of the city governor, preparations are underway to build stone pedestrian paths in six major central roads.

A company has been selected to implement one package of four initial work packages, while procurement processes are being re-announced for the remaining three packages, said G. Bilguun, Head of the Cycling and Pedestrian Paths and Improvements Department of the UB City Management Authority.

The Yaarmag Bridge Will Be Opened in September

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

The Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, H. Nyambaatar, provided information on current issues.

Due to the abundant rain this year, the guiding embankment of the Tuul River was breached. As a result, water entered the front part of the Yaarmag Bridge. The connection works of the bridge are delayed due to the high floodwaters. We are inspecting the progress of the work every day. Last week, we finished removing the crushed earth foundation. This completed the embankment strengthening work.

In any case, we are working to open the Yaarmag Bridge in September.

The road work for the First Neighborhood's Ard Ayush road is underway. This year, we carried out pipeline network renewal work that had not been done in recent years. The full renovation of the G and D lines from the First Neighborhood and Sapporo to the city center is completed. With World Bank financing, the full renewal of the 2 A and B lines in the city center is underway. Additionally, work on expanding the pipelines of apartments not meeting operational requirements has started. In the framework of the redevelopment of ger districts, tenders for the laying of several pipelines have been announced. Despite the heavy rains, the pipeline network work is being done relatively on time.

Vehicles to Be Temporarily Routed on the Ulaanbaatar-Zamiin-Uud Route

Published: Thu, 22 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

With funding from the 2024 state budget, upgrades are planned for several projects, including the horizontal axis road in the Choir-Mandal-Gobi-Arvaikheer direction, the 3.04 km road extending to the rear of Mount Khiyagt Ovu, and a two-level junction connecting with the A0102 road in the Choir-Sainshand direction.

This work affects the national standard road on the Ulaanbaatar-Zamiin-Uud route, specifically between kilometers 231.1 and 232.2 from the Ulaanbaatar side, which overlaps by 1.1 km. Due to construction necessitated by the project, vehicles will be temporarily rerouted on this section.

The development work is being executed by Khuslent Buteemj LLC, with completion planned for September 2025.

The Installation Work to Supply 76 Households in the Ger District with Solar Energy Has Begun

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

Within the framework of the project "Increasing Livelihoods by Supporting the Transition to Renewable Energy in the Ger District," this year, 70-100 families will be transitioned to solar energy sources. Alongside this, training and promotional activities are being organized to increase public awareness and understanding of the use of renewable energy and its importance.

As part of this project, preparations, including research to supply 76 households with solar energy, have been completed, and the installation work has commenced. In connection with this, Deputy Governor of Ulaanbaatar for Social Sector, Green Development and Air and Environmental Pollution, L. Khosbayar, met with Lin Cao, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Program Regional Office, to discuss the project implementation and future work.

Project implementers emphasized that increasing the use of renewable energy for household heating and electricity sources in Ulaanbaatar's ger district could reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Vice Governor L. Khosbayar stated, “Residents of the ger district, not connected to centralized heating, burn pressed fuel 24 hours a day during winter. About 200,000 households in the ger district rely on coal-based fuel for heating, which is the main cause of air pollution in Ulaanbaatar and poses a significant health risk to residents, particularly to members of vulnerable households led by women."

The statistical data confirms that air pollution causes health damage, which has become the basis for transitioning to a new model of renewable energy in Mongolia.

In the future, this project will be further expanded, and cooperation with the United Nations Development Program in the renewable energy sector will continue.

(Note: Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) are reminded that when using our information in any form, in whole or in part, the source (ikon.mn) must be cited.)

The road from the Auto Market intersection to the western provinces and the road from the "Enkhjin" center to the "Nomin" warehouse are being renovated

Published: Thu, 22 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Work on renovating the road in the direction of the 22nd checkpoint is continuing.

As of today, according to the Road Traffic Management Center, part of the road in Songino-Khairkhan district, covering districts 20 and 32, from the Auto Market intersection to the roundabout leading to the western provinces, and from the "Enkhjin" trading center to the "Nomin" warehouse is being closed for renovation until 06:00 on August 25.

Therefore, citizens and drivers are advised to choose other routes for traffic participation.

Previously, the road from the "Nomin" shopping center intersection to the Takhilt intersection was renovated.

In 70 Locations in the City, 2,500 Land Units will be Freed for the Construction of Roads, Green Spaces, Schools, and Kindergartens

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

In accordance with the 2024 land planning plan of the capital and the approved budget, a total of 2,500 land units in 70 locations will be freed through state and city budget investments to execute the construction of roads, green spaces, schools, and kindergartens.

As of today, 190 billion tugriks have been given as compensation to the 1,500 citizens and legal entities who have freed their lands.

Additionally, within the framework of the project to transform the ger district into apartments based on the Selbe sub-center, 1,300 citizens and legal entities have already freed their land, out of the 2,206 land units planned to be freed, according to information from the capital's Land Management Department.

Source: Press and Public Relations Department of the Capital City Governor’s Office.

The Belt Conveyor Work for Transporting Ore from the Underground Mine to the Surface is 97% Complete

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

The construction work for the expansion of the beneficiation plant is proceeding according to plan. It is expected to be completed in phases from the second quarter of this year until the second quarter of 2025.

“Oyu Tolgoi” company presented the key indicators of its operations for the second quarter of 2024 and the progress of its underground mine project.

To increase underground mining production, we conducted 14 ore chute blasts this quarter. Consequently, the total number of ore chutes at the Panel 0 production level has reached 114.
The belt conveyor work for transporting ore from the underground mine to the surface is ongoing, and by the end of the second quarter, it is 97% complete.
The construction work of the beneficiation plant’s expansion is proceeding according to the plan. It is expected to be completed in stages from the second quarter of this year until the second quarter of 2025.
The construction work for Primary Crusher 2 is ongoing and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Several major advancements have been made in the construction of the underground mine. The shaft team successfully connected the ventilation shafts, north and south, with the underground mine. The infrastructure for these two shafts has been successfully installed, and currently, the connection work for the north ventilation shaft’s fan and the south shaft’s air heater is underway. These two shafts will increase the ventilation of the underground mine, enabling full operational capacity in the coming years.

In the second half of this year, negotiations will be held to renew the Collective Agreement. The term of the currently valid agreement with our trade union is set to expire in April 2025.

Orkhon Province Completes 1.6 Billion Tugrik Park Renovation in the City Decoration Department

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

Orkhon Province completed a park renovation in the city decoration department today, funded by a 1.6 billion Tugrik investment from the local budget this year.

Specifically, with a 1.2 billion Tugrik investment from the local budget, multi-function vehicles and special-purpose equipment such as auto graders, four-ton rollers, special-purpose vehicles, and auto loaders were purchased. Additionally, with a 399 million Tugrik investment from the local budget, three vehicles equipped for road cleaning services have been delivered.

As a result, improvements have been noted in the operation, cleaning, and maintenance of approximately 300 kilometers of improved roads in the suburban area and over 130 kilometers of asphalt roads within the city. With the increase in machinery, working conditions for employees have improved, offering advantages such as time saving.

In the past three years, Orkhon Province has invested a total of 4.5 billion Tugriks from state and local budgets in park renovations within the city decoration department.

Coal for Tosontsengel's Thermal Power Plant to be Supplied from Mogoin Gol Mine

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

In Tosontsengel sum, Zavkhan province, an agreement has been signed to supply energy to the Altai-Uliastai and Central Regional Integrated Networks from the 30 MW thermal power plant being constructed there. The "Energy Purchase Agreement" was signed by the Executive Director of the "National Dispatch Center" SOE, G. Baljinyam, and the Executive Director of "Toson Energy" LLC, M. Tuvshinbat.

The Executive Director of the "National Dispatch Center," G. Baljinyam, stated, "We establish numerous energy sale and purchase agreements. However, relatively few have managed to commence operations of their stations. I am confident that the Tosontsengel power plant will be operational by its scheduled time and will supply energy to the network."

The coal source for the Tosontsengel Thermal Power Plant will be provided by the Mogoin Gol coal mine. The project to establish the plant began in 2022. As of October of this year, 80% of the work for a 22 MW capacity power plant and the Tosontsengel-Telmen 110 kV 61 km long electric transmission line is underway. The project, implemented by "Toson Energy" LLC, owned by Gem Group, involves an investment of 130 billion MNT, and will also oversee future operations.

Once operational, the Tosontsengel Thermal Power Plant will initially provide a power source for Zavkhan, Gobi-Altai aimag, and some sums in Khuvsgul aimag. Additionally, it will not only be a thermal source for Tosontsengel sum’s center but also lay the foundations for industrial growth in the surrounding region.

It is calculated that more than 100 jobs will be created in conjunction with the plant's operations. Over 300 people from both domestic and foreign backgrounds are involved in the construction and assembly of the thermal power plant.

Society

1500 Citizens and Legal Entities Received ₮190 Billion in Compensation for Land Clearance

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

According to the 2024 land management plan of the capital city and the approved budget, a total of 2,500 plots in 70 locations will be cleared with state and municipal budget investments for the construction of roads, green spaces, schools, and kindergartens.

As of today, 1,500 citizens and legal entities who have cleared their land have been provided with compensation amounting to 190 billion tögrög. Additionally, within the framework of the project aimed at turning ger districts into apartment housing in collaboration with the Selbe sub-center, 1,300 plots of land have been cleared from the targeted 2,206 plots as informed by the city's Land Management Department.

Z.Tuya: The Procedure for Addressing Mayor Kh.Nyambaatar's Issues Violates Human Rights

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

We spoke with Z.Tuya, Director of "New Urbanism" LLC and city planner, about urban planning.

How do you view the current urban planning approach taken by the leaders of Ulaanbaatar? Urban planning is developed with a maximum vision of 20 years. When thinking about a city, people often think it should be planned differently. The main focus is on how to solve common problems because we are together. Being in a group means strength, issues, and risks. Every aspect must be planned. Planning acts as a compass.

Every time a new mayor comes into office, they claim the plan has flaws and introduce new policies. Is this the right approach? Planning is a big dream of what will become in 20 years. If you sit idle, you won't reach the dream. Even if the plan is good, if the implementation is incorrect, it won't help. They talk about planning errors but not implementation errors. Generally, is the plan truly everyone's plan?

Every time a new mayor comes in, they talk about something new and deny the previous one, which is related to the lack of principle. We have resources, strength, and a financial base concentrated in that. But if work that will yield long-term results is initiated and then abandoned, it means a loss of time and resources. It's wasteful use of human and financial resources. Ending up with nothing. Even if something was wrong, completing it would be a victory. But it's not much of a victory, and that's the regretful part. Ultimately, the city's residents suffer as a whole. Mistakes are expensive lessons. A lesson means knowledge gained over time. Yet they ignore that and try to create a completely new environment.

What is your view on the policy and regulations regarding Mayor Kh.Nyambaatar's approach to the city's issues? It's right to address immediate issues. However, there are procedural errors. It directly affects many. The process of encroaching on people's assets is ongoing. This isn't just one person's issue; many face similar problems. While they claim to be addressing it with firefighting measures suitable to the situation, there should be a process ensuring the city respects human rights. I'm questioning whether the legal framework is maturing. There is a significant gap between chosen methods and followed principles. Such a gap can provide a lesson. But how well do we learn?

Recently, redevelopment of ger districts has been actively pursued. How do you view this process? In the 1990s, citizens had no assets. Because of a government with no funds, policies supported asset-rich individuals. Now, there are those buying existing property, demolishing it, and building new buildings. We've become a city of heavy investment. But it created a city with high density. This resulted in congestion and transformed the city into an unproductive one. Ger districts are a field to rectify this congestion error. It's the option with the least density and might be said the most correct. Yet, human rights violations persist. For example, property rights are violated. It’s not visible how landowners are involved. Landowners are seen as incapable, yet there's talk of increasing land value. This is the governance quality at this time.

There's been exhaustion from inefficient outcomes over the past decade or so. Planning, implementation, communication strategies are needed. Different tools, strategies should be used but aren't. Such planners are scarce. Consequently, there's a lack of strategy among administrators, designers, and those engaging with citizens. People want to live comfortably in any part of the city. But we focus on leading projects at the forefront of the city. All our time is spent on them, while there's no oversight elsewhere. The future generation will have much to fix on unmonitored grounds. The reason is there's movement without control. It's divided into overly controlled and completely uncontrolled sections. People need to discuss how to address their issues.

They talk about solving all within four years. However, the issues to be resolved go beyond a four-year timeframe.

With controlled and uncontrolled areas, are we ready for a metro system? They're saying all problems like tangled hair will be solved with a metro. One must realize how long the line is running, how long it takes to reach Peace Avenue. From the furthest part of the ger district, time passes. Does this not concern them? They're talking about how to reduce congestion on Peace Avenue. It should be addressed from the farthest end. Recently, there's talk of a 20-minute city. It seems like smaller segments are not discussed. Implementing measures in parallel can ease the load slightly. Consider where to start neutralization.

Ulaanbaatar, due to land scarcity, is erasing spaces for historic landmarks. How should this be addressed? There were many historic buildings in the outskirts. For example, Dambadarjaa Monastery was in low-density ger districts but is now being planned for high-rise districts. Redeveloping ger districts doesn't only mean seeing those without infrastructure or housing. For almost over a decade, it's been about apartment provision. The aim was to create jobs there. Economic factors can be cultural heritage themselves.

Economic sections based on cultural heritage can create the need for people to move within the city. Not just toward one center but spreading out. For leisure, instead of visiting fixed few places, valuing cultural heritage as an economic factor encourages diverse movement. The main base for ger district development is supporting bases rooted in cultural heritage. People will build their businesses and communication there. For example, in research I've done in Bayankhoshuu, many sewed shoes and souvenirs. Whereas, in Selbe, many sewed traditional garments. Gandan itself is cultural heritage. A dynamic city with themed areas would make people feel like Ulaanbaatar has such a history, that Mongolia's history unfolded here, thus preserving cultural heritage. They completely lack understanding of its value. It’s about bringing the city into a format that keeps it moving and dynamic. Instead of viewing cultural heritage as old Socialist buildings, determine what to preserve. Ulaanbaatar had mouths with several vertical axes. In Uliastai Gorge, land was recently allocated, although it might have been a place to film near city infrastructure. If we wish not to centralize, is such density needed? Policy is needed. If we share the basis, people will understand. But it’s not communicated.

What do you believe is causing increased city density? If we don't start regulating private investments with state policy, it's not going to work. There was no other way but to support those aspiring to have assets initially. Public assets existed in municipal governance. If granting rights to develop these, private sectors need an understanding of city requirements. Investment must be directed, managed. There's a problem with this currently.

There's discussion about creating satellite cities. What is your position on this? The general plan for Ulaanbaatar until 2030 includes creating sub-centers and developing satellite cities. This plan involved simultaneous project development. Establishing sub-centers and starting to dismantle Ulaanbaatar suggests a long-term investment is needed. However, if satellite cities were established first, they would've gradually scattered. Unfortunately, we chose the path of not creating satellite cities but spoke of sub-centers first. As a result, investment continues with increased job concentration.

On the contrary, if we had strengthened and invested in Shuvuu, Nalaikh, Biogi at that time, resolving infrastructure and transportation issues, it would've been different. Now, since we couldn't do that, discussions on the next step of satellite cities have started. Satellite city development will result in a gradual population shift, not forced. Large figures aren't being discussed regarding movement to provinces because no such figures exist. Although financial levers exist, they aren’t working.

People living here are those being relocated. Initially, there are costs. If supported, there's potential for strength. Why can't people creating your wealth today live well? Why not make policies aiming at them? If people are unwilling to move to Nalaikh, Bayanor, even with infrastructure, why believe they'll move to Kharkhorin or a new place?

This work requires a 50-60 year trajectory. Over time, a person is born and passes away.

Besides discussing major policies and issues, you must create conditions for people today to be productive and realize major projects. Although we claim not to focus purely on mining. If we say we want to create another Mongolia, the work is in people’s hands. Yet leaving current people in a pile of issues and asking them to participate in creating something beautiful is problematic. The problem is not planning, but implementing the plan.

A "Law on the Legal Status of Towns and Villages" was recently approved to take effect on January 1, 2026. As a city planner, how do you view this law? Many laws affecting the industry have been amended, some affecting administrative operations, imposing budget burdens, creating a new environment with unclear accountability structures. Yet there's no discussion on how to prepare for this. The "Law on the Legal Status of Towns and Villages" contains unclear, principled major issues. It prescribes that "Ulaanbaatar city will have 14 cities within it." However, the role of districts remains unclear. This is due to the law on administrative units. It states that the smallest administrative unit is a khoroo (subdistrict) within a district. Therefore, with 14 cities, they may have khoroos as units. A city is not an administrative unit by itself. It's unresolved legally. With 14 cities, it seems the name Ulaanbaatar city might disappear. Although it mentions establishing a council, Ulaanbaatar has its City Council, and districts have theirs. These councils seem to be transferring their authority to the councils without a law for their election. Although it says according to relevant laws, the process seems included in the law draft. A "messed up" law. I'm unclear on how it will be implemented. There remains a profound uncertainty. A question arises: What are they considering a city to be? A city itself is derived from taxes. How will city, provincial, and district budgets be divided? It’s vague. All mention collecting from taxes equally. Lawmakers talk about delivering common services. Yet, amidst this unclear position and unexplained budget formulation, they defined tax rates according to related laws. Should tax formation occur, urban areas with apartment blocks will yield substantially more, while areas designated as ger city will contribute minimally. This is because there's nothing but an eight-item store. Those stores also operate on private land despite registered business activity.

It's as if creating poor neighborhoods, cities and rich neighborhoods akin to the American “The Hunger Games.” Dividing people and creating ambiguity. Geographically, although there are borders, interdependencies exist.

Is defining the status of a city like this a suitable decision? It doesn't seem suitable. They've granted status based on intended rather than actual measurement. Thus, I’m asking what they understand a city to be. A city grows naturally as resources are utilized, leading to enlargement. This enlargement leads to issues requiring funding. It comes from the collective contribution of its residents. However, we appear to be mechanistically creating New Zun Mod and Kharkhorin. The law states cities with a planned population of over 100,000 people would automatically become cities of national importance, regardless of their current presence.

What's the best solution for addressing the issues Ulaanbaatar faces? First, we need an understanding of the foundation and infrastructure of fast-developing cities. What is it about cities that allows them to manage their finances, rights, roles, and space effectively? It's legally required for cities to have rules, but who will draft and approve those isn't defined. Thus, I think they haven’t truly understood what a city is, nor are they sincerely intent on making substantial changes. Proper spatial organization results in efficiency. If wrongly organized, it becomes a deficit. Until we find a method for organizing and managing space, no amount of work will improve our living environment. Cities are vibrant through interaction, but establishing communication isn't possible without space. It results in waste, congestion, deficit, and more. There's a pressing need to improve the materialistic environment, develop legal frameworks, principles, culture, and incorporate new technologies, concepts alongside the global pace. Human resources also pose a challenge. We must efficiently organize otherwise it'll collapse into one area. If we fail to integrate a comprehensive understanding to foster involvement across all people, why wrong a group and breach rights sparking inaction from the rest? What can a handful of people accomplish? They're people too, sleeping and working like us. Many places with infrastructural potential are underutilized. The metro seems more apt for connecting with satellite cities rather than alleviating internal city congestion. This involves task hierarchy.

Are city plans typically kept closed? Ideally, plans should be open. If the project's progress is explained, it would help. Disgruntled leaders with disgruntled people “fighting.” Communication is essential. The investment plan appears unattainable. Our planning retains socialist characteristics. That's a substantial issue. If plan drafting methods aren't improved, problems persist. Moreover, there's a significant gap between city land management and development planning. The current lack of mechanisms means no analyst can determine which areas to focus on or assess future possibilities. We should provide guidance and implement instead of changing the general plan.

What's next? When discussing urban planning, it’s really about establishment. By examining faults in establishment, planning appears sound. Compliance with mutually understood rules can create a real city. Until then, it's a developing city. We must think beyond planning for a metro on what needs to be done for city development. We experience issues firsthand and are trying to take corrective measures. We haven't acted on air purity despite widespread pollution. Although time is wasted in congestion, no action is taken. We've yet to implement major projects and plans. We're stuck on initial steps and reverting after failures instead of advancing. Learning through it all.

Thank you for the discussion.

190 Billion Tögrög Granted to 1500 Citizens and Legal Entities for Land Clearance

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

According to the 2024 land management plan and the approved budget of the capital city, a total of 2500 land units in 70 locations will be cleared using state and city budget investments to facilitate the construction of roads, green areas, schools, and kindergartens. To date, 1500 citizens and legal entities who have cleared their land have received a compensation of 190 billion tögrög.

Additionally, the Land Management Office of the capital city reported that as part of the apartment development project aimed at transforming the ger areas at the Selbe sub-center, land clearance has been completed for 1300 citizens and legal entities out of 2206 land units targeted.

Kindergarten Phase II Registration to Be Conducted Online from 5th to 15th of Next Month

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

During a press briefing on the preparations for the 2024-2025 academic year, Minister of Education P. Naranbayar announced that "the concept of lottery-based kindergartens is no longer applicable."

This academic year, 142,150 children aged 2-5 are expected to enroll in kindergartens. The registration results have been recorded in the E-Mongolia system, as reported by the Minister. The first phase of registration saw submissions for 103,999 children, and responses were sent to their guardians on August 20-21. The second phase of registration will be conducted online from September 5th to 15th.

For this year, every child who submits a request will be accommodated in a kindergarten. In cases where there is a shortage of instructional space, the solution will be to rent space or enroll students in some private kindergartens, stated Minister P. Naranbayar.

P. Naranbayar: 23,188 Children from 36 Schools in the Capital Risk Attending in Three Shifts. Will Be Solved by Rental Spaces

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

Minister of Education P. Naranbayar presented the preparations for the 2024-2025 academic year today.

In the coming school year, 142,150 children aged 2-5 will attend kindergarten.

During the first phase of kindergarten registration in the capital, 103,999 children registered online, and responses are being sent to their parents and guardians' phones from August 19-21.

The second phase of online registration will continue from September 5-15.

Minister of Education P. Naranbayar stated, "Every child who applied will be enrolled in kindergarten. This year, a decision has been made to rent 94 facilities as educational spaces, accommodating 11,768 children in 368 groups.

The government will cover the variable costs for 15,000 children enrolled in 274 private kindergartens defined by educational districts.

There is a risk that 23,188 children in 560 classes from 36 general education schools in the capital will have to attend in three shifts. Therefore, discussions are ongoing to rent additional educational spaces for 29 schools. Spaces have been secured for 22 of these schools, allowing 15,955 children to attend."

The minister also reminded that the registration for first-grade students in general education schools will continue from August 12-25, 2024.

Published: Thu, 22 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

As of today, over 4,400 Mongolian citizens are working and living in South Korea under labor contracts, while approximately 1,800 South Koreans reside officially in Mongolia.

However, studies estimate that around 52,000 to 55,000 Mongolian citizens are working and living unofficially in South Korea.

From 2004 to 2023, a total of 37,323 Mongolian workers have been sent to South Korea.

During a meeting with the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Mongolia, Choi Jin Won, the Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection L. Enkh-Amgalan discussed the necessity of addressing social protection issues for citizens of both countries participating in mutual labor exchange.

In connection with the expiration of the memorandum of understanding on the "Labor Permit System" established in 2004, they expressed a desire to renew it, certify and ensure the skills of Mongolian workers, and engage them in short-term training programs.

Ambassador Choi Jin Won also emphasized the importance of ensuring the social security of citizens as they partake in mutual labor activities between the two countries.

They discussed fully utilizing Mongolia's labor quota, improving social protection for citizens, and cooperating to ensure social security for those working unofficially.

4,217 Vacancies for Teachers in General Education Schools and 508 Groups in Kindergartens

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

The Minister of the Sector presented today how to address the shortage of teaching staff.

According to official data:

Nationwide, there are 4,217 vacancies for teachers in general education schools,
508 vacancies for teachers in kindergarten groups have arisen.

In the last five years, 2,700-3,900 teacher vacancies arise annually, and 80% of them are resolved in the first quarter.

Minister of Education P. Naranbayar said, "In 2024, 2,508 people graduated through the teacher program. 1,077 teaching staff have set their pension. There are 4,000 students studying in the 3rd and 4th year at teacher training universities.

The Ministry of Education is addressing the vacancies, aiming to fill them in the short term by:

granting teaching rights with short-term training to graduates of non-teaching specialties and employing them on a contractual basis,
hiring trainee teachers with salaries in the first academic quarter,
continuing to employ teachers who have set their pension,
providing job opportunities to new graduates,
planning comprehensive measures such as providing training hours for management staff.

Furthermore, there are 97 groups with 45-60 children in the 1st and 2nd grades. The possibility of employing assistant teachers is being studied," he said.

Classes Will Not Start on September 1, Schools and Kindergartens Can Organize Open Days

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

According to the calendar, the first day of the 2024-2025 school year falls on a Sunday.

On September 1, classes will not start, and schools and kindergartens can organize open days, allowing parents and guardians to familiarize themselves with the environment.

According to the Ministry of Education, classes and educational activities will begin directly on September 2.

In other words, schools and kindergartens can organize open days on September 1 instead of holding the opening of the new school year.

Working Hours for XacBank Employees Reduced to 7 Hours

Published: Thu, 22 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

XacBank, a leader in organizational culture, has decided to reduce the working hours of its employees to 7 hours per day for the entire month of September, coinciding with the start of the new academic year. This initiative aims to balance work and life while providing a comfortable work environment.

September, being a busy month following summer vacations, presents challenges such as traffic congestion, taking children to kindergartens and schools, and managing household affairs for everyone. To ease this burden, XacBank has gifted its employees with flexible working hours by shortening the working day. Remarkably, employees will receive their full 8-hour salary even when only working 7 hours, which is an exceptional feature of this gesture.

XacBank employees have had the opportunity to choose working hours that suit them, allowing them to plan and adjust their other tasks. This flexibility has led to increased productivity and satisfaction, in addition to enhancing organizational culture, pride in work, job stability, and impacting the quality of employees' lives. These aspects continue to grow and are worth highlighting.

XacBank - The Right Bank

Environment

Increasing the Use of Renewable Energy and Reducing Greenhouse Gases

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

The Mayor's Office of Ulaanbaatar City and the United Nations Development Programme are jointly implementing a project entitled "Supporting the Transition to Renewable Energy in Ger Districts to Improve Livelihoods."

As part of the project, this year 70-100 households are being transitioned to solar energy sources. Additionally, training and promotion activities to enhance public knowledge and understanding of the use and importance of renewable energy are being organized. In connection with this, L. Khosbayar, the Deputy Mayor in charge of the Social Sector, Green Development, and Air and Environmental Pollution, met with Lin Cao, the UNDP Resident Representative for the region, to discuss the project’s implementation and future activities.

Preparations, including research on providing solar energy to 76 households, have begun, and installation is underway. The project implementers emphasize that it is possible to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by increasing the use of renewable energy for heating and electricity in households in Ulaanbaatar’s ger districts.

Deputy Mayor L. Khosbayar stated, "Residents of the ger districts, which are not connected to central heating, burn compacted fuel throughout the winter. Around 200,000 households in these districts use coal-based fuel for heating, which is a major factor in air pollution. This poses a health hazard to residents, particularly single-mother families and other vulnerable groups. This project underlines the necessity for Mongolia to transition to a new model of renewable energy. We will continue to expand the project and cooperate with UNDP in the renewable energy sector," according to a report from the Mayor's Office Public Relations Department.

Support of One Billion MNT Provided to 3,333 Households Who Lost Over 70% of Their Livestock Due to Severe Weather

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

The company "Oyu Tolgoi" presented its second quarter report for 2024.

Highlights of 2024 achievements:

We successfully organized a total of eight "OT on the Go!" events at universities in Ulaanbaatar, Erdenet, and Darkhan cities. Through these events, students were provided with guidelines from experts and information on educational programs implemented by the "Oyu Tolgoi" company.
Completed technical restoration of 91.6 hectares of land in Kurgadyn and Sharin Gol districts of Darkhan-Uul province, damaged by irresponsible mining operations.
"Oyu Tolgoi" joined the "We Are Together" campaign implemented by the Mongolian National Mining Association, providing one billion MNT in support to 3,333 herder households who lost 70% or more of their livestock due to severe weather conditions.
Donated equipment worth 1.5 billion MNT to the Forest Agency, a government implementing agency, to enhance the capacity of nurseries and support rehabilitation efforts.
In collaboration with the National University of Science and Technology and Rio Tinto Group, "Oyu Tolgoi" has started training geotechnical engineers domestically for the first time in Mongolia, with the first graduates receiving their bachelor's degrees. This program provides youth with the opportunity to acquire world-class education locally.
Successfully completed the "Sharing Best Environmental Practices Program" initiated in partnership with Unread media company in February. Out of 150 registered participants, 20 who met the requirements participated, learning best practices and expanding their professional networks.
The foundation stone was laid for the 12.6 km road construction from the northern gate of the Oyu Tolgoi mine to the Tavan Tolgoi coal transport route.
Completed the clean and wastewater pipeline project in the ger district of Khanbogd soum. Funded by the Oyu Tolgoi Foundation and lasting over two years, this project laid 20.1 km of clean water and 17.6 km of wastewater pipelines. Over 1,000 families and more than 60 organizations are now connected to this system, connecting half of all households in Khanbogd to clean and wastewater systems.

"In Reality, We Use Our Water for Free, It's Time to Regulate Uncontrolled Well Drilling"

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

City Deputy Governor in charge of social sectors, green development, and air and environmental pollution issues, L. Khosbayar, discussed current issues with us.

- Today, two of the working groups you are leading held meetings. Can you provide information regarding the common mineral resources and well working groups?

- The official names of the working groups are quite lengthy. One is the working group responsible for improving the legal regulation of the Law on Commonly Spread Mineral Resources in Ulaanbaatar. We are not talking about banning the commonly spread mineral deposits during this period of development. Rather, the emphasis is on proper use and increasing the requirements for rehabilitation. The working group will reconvene this week to consolidate its recommendations.

- What about the other working group?

- The plan includes creating new clean and sewage water network lines in Ulaanbaatar City's special and general protection zones for water-bearing areas, the hygienic restricted zones of water supply sources, and forest-covered areas with forest resources. There is also a suggestion to prohibit well drilling in areas with approved engineering infrastructure and centralized network lines.

We simplify this as the "Well" task. The working group is working with a broad composition. Our main goal is to keep drinking water clean and protected. We aim to organize the random drilling of wells by anyone anywhere. According to information provided by professional organizations, Mongolia has 78,000 wells, one-third of which are in Ulaanbaatar.

Around each well are numerous pit latrines. In such conditions, it is impossible for the water from those wells to be clean. According to health organizations, Ulaanbaatar has 350,000 pit latrines. However, the head of the Water Authority, Z. Batbayar, estimates there are 680,000 pit latrines. The significance of this discussion lies in the distance and how they affect each other. Studies show that depending on soil conditions, intestinal bacteria can spread within a radius of 6-250 meters. Therefore, these tens of thousands of latrines contaminate the wells and become a source of infection for people.

When discussing soil pollution and drinking water, the issue of pit latrines inevitably comes up. Let's count the wells and get the exact numbers, and do the same for pit latrines. On one side, there will be efforts to reduce pit latrines and solve the problem with eco-friendly technologies. On the other, it's time to regulate uncontrolled well drilling to keep drinking water clean.

"The first step to protecting groundwater is requiring water meters for residents and businesses using groundwater wells"

- How will the number of wells be determined, and can we understand that well drilling permits will be banned in the future?

- The first step in monitoring usage and protecting groundwater is the requirement for water meters for citizens and businesses using groundwater wells. The inclusion of a provision that groundwater should only be used for household needs and drinking purposes would clarify this. If everyone using it has a meter, then the number of wells and usage can be monitored. Within the workgroup, there are numerous well-reasoned suggestions from experts regarding prohibiting the drilling of new wells.

"Gradual tariff increases have been recommended to bring us closer to international standards"

- Has the issue of water fees been discussed? Our country is one of those that have set a very low tariff for water usage.

- Our country has four types of water fees. Firstly, the water usage fee is regulated under the Law on Fees for the Use of Natural Resources. Secondly, the water pollution fee is governed by the Law on Water Pollution Fees. Thirdly, the water scarcity fee, which unfortunately has not been implemented despite being included in the water law since 2012. Lastly, there is the water service fee, which we commonly refer to as the payment for consumer water usage. In reality, we use water for free. The payment we make only covers the expenses incurred by the Water Supply Authority. An international project funded by the Millennium Challenge Corporation recommends slowly increasing tariffs to bring them closer to international standards.

- While we're conducting this interview, the city is working on removing violations related to improper drainage of groundwater. There seem to be major issues like draining and siphoning off groundwater without permits?

- According to information from the Water Authority, there are 18 businesses authorized to drain groundwater. Here's a fact: The Water and Sewer Authority supplies 50 million cubic meters of water annually, while these 18 authorized businesses remove 11 million cubic meters of groundwater. We're not blaming the businesses obtaining the permits. But consider this, these 18 companies are extracting an amount equivalent to one-fifth of the water supplied annually by the Water Supply Authority.

Eco Toilets Turned Out to be Wooden Latrines

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

A complaint was filed by a citizen with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.

In response to the complaint, 49 businesses and 152 eco yurts engaged in recreation and tourism activities around Ögii Lake in Arkhangai Province, Avarga Toson Lake in Khentii Province, and Khyargas Lake in Uvs Province were subjected to inspection.

The wooden latrines used by citizens operating eco yurts around these lakes were dismantled last year.

Subsequently, citizens operating eco yurts rebuilt wooden latrines with concrete rings under the guise of suction toilets. However, when these latrines become full, there are not enough vacuum trucks available, rendering them unusable during peak tourist times. Additionally, many unauthorized yurts and huts have been constructed, leading to overcapacity around the lake shores, which contributes to soil and lake pollution.

Therefore, the Provincial Environmental Office conducting the inspections issued official demands with deadlines and imposed fines on the individuals and businesses operating around the lakes.

Also, 45 pit latrines located in public access areas that did not meet standards were removed, and around 80 tons of waste were cleaned up, with the implementation being monitored.

If the Approval for Falcon Catching is Given to Arabs, the Money Coming from Them Should Be Transparent and Clear

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

A consultation meeting aimed at amending the regulations governing the capture, transportation, care, and export of falcons from the territory of Mongolia was held today at the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs (MJHA).

The meeting was attended by the Minister of Justice, O.Altangerel, representatives of civil society organizations, citizens, and specialists from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC), who expressed their positions.

During the meeting, officials introduced and explained the regulations and laws concerning falcon hunting.

Rights and Responsibilities of Falcon Catching Entities:

Capture within the permitted quotas in authorized areas
Avoid environmental pollution
Prohibit harmful methods such as damaging or digging nests
Familiarize oneself with laws, regulations, and agreements prior to catching falcons
Carry the necessary permits at all times.

Additionally, there are other specific regulations besides the aforementioned duties.

Vehicles belonging to entities with camping or falcon catching approval must have special decals issued by the MECC and the Governor, which must be affixed to the vehicle.

Each falcon caught must be fitted with a tag. The MECC will provide these tags, and the number of granted hunting permits must match the number of tags.

A camping permission agreement will be established. Primarily, there is an obligation not to purchase falcons from individuals.

"The demands raised by citizens concerning falcon catching activities are justified."

Minister of Justice O.Altangerel stated, "There is no lack of regulations concerning falcon catching in our country. The main issue is whether foreign citizens, such as Arabs, and their translators and interpreters accompanying them, are acquainted with our laws and regulations.

Where is the decal mark located? Who knows the translator, interpreter, or camp location?

The demands made by citizens and civil society organizations concerning falcon catching activities are well-founded.

Though regulated by Mongolian laws, there is weak control over these interactions. The presentation showed that this activity may not be conducted lawfully. There is a possibility of foreigners engaging in illegal actions.

Let’s stop the cycle of ignoring issues and then forgetting them. In the coming years, we must pay attention to prevent divisive discussions about our nationally cherished falcon."

"If the approval for falcon catching is granted, funds should enter the country."

Regarding this issue, representatives of the citizens expressed their viewpoints: "There is even talk that these birds live better in Arab countries than you do.

The main point is, if the approval for falcon catching has been granted, then money should flow into the country. Then where is this money? This information should be transparent and clear, and it should be shown what it is spent on."

Innovation

N. Uchral: The Government Will Base Future Decisions on Big Data

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

N. Uchral, the Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat of the Government, presented the decisions made from a government meeting. He mentioned:

"The government meeting discussed the issue of decision-making based on big data. In the future, the government will use big data to make decisions. Currently, we have data consisting of 15 billion records, but only 39% is utilized. The national budget planning does not hit the mark, which is related to the lack of utilization of big data.

For example, we aim to develop a system where one can immediately recognize and view the price of flour in local areas. The National Statistics Office reports consumer goods prices with delays.

Digitalization in the health sector has been ongoing. However, knowing which diseases are prevalent in each province will guide decisions on whether to increase that province's health budget. We must eliminate decision-making based on estimates. The standard of living cannot simply be measured by statistical numbers."

High Demand but Inaccessible Online Lessons

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

The Minister of Education approved a revised structure for the academic year with their first directive. For the 2024-2025 academic year, students will have a schedule that includes independent work, online learning, and breaks. This new structure is characterized by the introduction of independent tasks and online learning. However, only senior students, grades 10-12, will have a week of online classes. The online schooling will be organized during the 18th week of the school year, at the end of December, followed by the break for the first semester. Officials highlighted that incorporating online learning into the curriculum is part of the process of implementing the General Law on Education and related rules and regulations. According to the law, education should be organized in classroom settings, outside classrooms, or in blended formats. Outside classroom education includes distance learning, online, and practical training. The ministry is focusing on preparing teachers and students, providing schools with necessary equipment for this non-classroom education.

In the current era of transitioning from paper to digital globally, it is essential to integrate advanced technologies in all levels of educational services. Particularly, the education sector must not lag behind the times, to prepare future generations. Ensuring continuity of educational activities during natural disasters and pandemics is crucial. One example is the online education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although Mongolia was caught off guard by the pandemic that struck the world with fear, it managed to continue educational activities via online methods without a complete halt. Conducting education in a non-classroom format for such an extended period for the first time seems to have provided lasting lessons to sector specialists.

Not every child had internet or a computer at home, and not every student had a smartphone. Therefore, online lessons did not benefit one out of every two children. It was no secret that teachers, who did not know how to teach under the online label or lacked laptops, were at a loss. Students were also uninterested in online lessons, especially younger children, who didn't understand them. Lessons were short and unengaging. Children accustomed to asking questions and interacting directly with teachers found it challenging to communicate with a teacher "hidden" behind a screen. In some cases, students even refused to watch the lessons, stating, "That's not our teacher." The current sixth graders who enrolled during the pandemic, experienced the most challenges. Just as they were starting first grade, COVID-19 struck, and public school students learned their alphabet before going into home quarantine. Therefore, many children emerged unable to spell or calculate numbers. Researchers highlight that the harm of this will gradually become apparent in those who entered first grade in 2019, making catching up very difficult.

During the pandemic, around 4800 hours of lessons across 32 subjects from kindergartens, schools, and lifelong education institutions were broadcasted on 18 TV channels. For example, many children in households with only one television set missed lessons because of scheduling overlaps. Studies indicate that children in care institutions also missed online lessons due to shared limited television access. Similarly, online education was unsuitable for nomadic households, target groups, and children with disabilities. There is no guarantee that such pandemics or natural disasters won't happen again. Therefore, to avoid repeating the "mess" of the COVID-19 pandemic period, the ministry and relevant departments must remain prepared and fill the gaps.

The Director of General Education Policy Leadership and Coordination at the Ministry of Education, G. Munkhbilguun, was asked for details regarding online education for the upcoming school year. He said, “Minister of Education's Decree A/01, issued on July 19, 2024, approved the new academic year structure. General education school students will have classes for a total of 34-37 weeks. In this, grades 10-12 will partake in online learning. During this period, students will complete all their lessons online. Related guidelines will be sent to schools from the General Department of Education. During the pandemic, Mongolia transitioned to distance learning for the first time for such an extended period. Many challenges like scarce experience and equipment arose then. Moving forward, we plan to conduct blended learning combining classroom and non-classroom formats, initially involving only senior students in online learning.” Additionally, independent work will be organized in fall and spring, at the end of March and October, involving grades 1-12. Independent work weeks will count towards instructional time. Activities like museum visits, theater outings, and health diagnostics such as eye, dental, cardiac, and disaster training for six-year-olds will be organized during these periods. The Minister of Education’s decree mentions organizing programs for personal development, creative thinking, and soft skills through both classroom and non-classroom methods. However, how productively this time is used depends on the leadership, enthusiasm, efforts, and initiatives of school administration and teachers. B. Lkhagvabayar, Director of Curriculum Implementation and Evaluation Development at the General Department of Education, mentioned, “We plan to conduct health checks for six-year-olds starting October 18 and again in spring. Distance learning can occur during independent study periods. Recommendations and information have been sent to all general education schools in the capital and regions. Recommendations tied to online learning will be sent starting November.”

Public schools cannot transition to online learning due to budget constraints, leaving teachers unprepared for equitable non-classroom instruction. Conversely, students in private schools have already transitioned to distance learning, and learning online is nothing new to them. In this age of rapid technological advancement, anyone can access and study desired information online from anywhere globally. Many people learned foreign languages from the internet without a teacher. For example, A. Suvdaa from the first school of Sainshand soum, Dornogovi Province, scored 800 points in two subjects in this year’s entrance exam and mentioned learning English from YouTube channels. She studied by watching educational content and memorizing song lyrics in English.

Teachers acknowledged that while it may not be entirely timely for everyone to learn online, gradual implementation of distance learning is necessary to stay abreast of global developments. Mind you, the effectiveness of distance learning partly hinges on students' learning styles, ability to use information technology, and the opportunities to access electronic devices. For instance, the topic of implementing online learning is relatively manageable in our school as we are situated in an urban area and are addressing issues concerning technology and internet availability. However, students in rural, remote soums (districts) and baghs (small administrative divisions) understandably face challenges. Besides, mobile network signals are an issue,” stated D. Munkhbaatar, a teacher at the general education school in Mandal soum, Selenge Province. Additionally, the results of this year’s entrance exams, particularly in mathematics and chemistry, with an average score of 23 among all examinees, were said by some teachers and experts to be linked to the distance learning conducted during the pandemic. Given that online education’s inefficacy has been proven, some feel there’s no need to continue it. However, as the global shift towards advanced technological methods continues and traditional methods fade, there arises a need for attention on conducting quality, effective online lessons. Even kindergarten toddlers learn songs, poems, dances, and foreign languages from the 'teacher' called the internet. Thus, students and university students must change their study methods to keep pace with modern times. Hence, some colleges and universities are attempting to conduct education in a hybrid format. There are many instances where fundamental course lectures are delivered online. Online classes are conducted in mixed, inverted, and blended formats.

Implementing classroom and blended learning formats in our country remains innovative. However, developments in information technology and the needs and interests of students increasingly incline in this direction. In 2022, our country initiated the "Medle" online school project for the first time, offering teachers and students nationwide the opportunity to work and study. Initially established to provide online elective courses for senior high school students, "Medle" has since expanded its operations. By accessing Medle.mn, lessons for preschool and grades 1-12 are available. Its capability to allow revisiting lessons anytime, anywhere is the key advantage of an online school. Thus, saving on teacher shortages and time. To prevent further access disparities, we must focus on increasing availability, reducing the number of schools lacking computers and equipment, and ensuring children from low-income households fully exercise their right to education. Despite the integration of advanced technology in schools, if the benefits remain inaccessible, it is akin to dangling candy behind glass. Some teachers often keep new computers, tablets, and smartboards like exhibits, fearing financial liability if damaged. Without training teachers and staff in modern technology and methods of online teaching, students will continue to suffer from distance learning. The former Minister of Education emphasized that the primary way to bridge the educational gap between urban and rural areas is through digital transition, providing equitable and accessible education. This attempt included implementing e-learning platforms, supplying teachers with laptops, increasing the number of digital classrooms, enhancing internet speed and capacity, and connecting isolated soum and village schools to the network. Hopefully, the current minister will continue this work, focusing on making online education effective.

Health

O. Dashpagma: The HPV Vaccine Will Be Administered Starting from October

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

The main risk factor for cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), which accounts for 99.7% of the causes of cervical cancer. In Mongolia, over 400 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually. Most cases are diagnosed at a late stage, leading to the unfortunate statistic that one in two people diagnosed within the year dies.

Efforts to control cervical cancer and introduce the HPV vaccine were undertaken in Mongolia in 2011-2012, with over 10,000 people participating. The vaccine was administered in 1-3 doses based on age, gender, and health risks of the individual, with intervals of 6-12 months between doses, as recommended by the WHO. However, due to a lack of understanding and some opposition groups spreading false and unverified information among the public, the vaccination campaign was halted.

This time, the vaccine against cervical cancer will be introduced nationwide from October this year as part of the scheduled immunization program. Specifically, the World Health Organization has agreed to collaborate in preventing cervical cancer and facilitating early detection and treatment. The Global Vaccine Alliance (Gavi) has decided to provide $2.6 million in financial support to introduce the vaccine in our country.

We spoke with O. Dashpagma, head of the Immunization Department at the National Center for Communicable Diseases, about the vaccine that will be rolled out nationwide.

The vaccine against the human papillomavirus, which causes cervical cancer common among women, will be introduced nationwide in the scheduled immunization program starting in October this year. What vaccines will be administered and in what stages?
The Mongolian Parliament amended the Immunization Law to include the HPV vaccine in the mandatory preventive vaccination program. It was approved on October 27, 2023. The national immunization schedule was updated with the government’s Resolution No. 472 on December 27, 2023. Preparation work is underway to implement the new national immunization schedule and to vaccinate 11-year-old girls and boys against HPV. We have received the WHO-certified quadrivalent HPV vaccine from the Merck company in Belgium and England.
Are there any contraindications for the people receiving this vaccine?
There are guidelines to consider when administering vaccines. If a child is suffering from an infectious disease, has an exacerbation of a chronic condition, or has a fever, the vaccine should be postponed. If there was a severe reaction to a previous vaccine, it would also be contraindicated. The contraindications in the accompanying instructions should be followed. General reactions after vaccination can include symptoms such as swelling or fever at the injection site, which may also occur in people receiving this vaccine.
Can men receive the HPV vaccine?
The virus infects both males and females. HPV can cause cervical cancer in women. Although the incidence is lower in men compared to cervical cancer, it can cause other types of cancers. Therefore, our country amended the Immunization Law in 2023 to include the HPV vaccine in the mandatory immunization schedule. Article 10.1 of the law states, "Mandatory immunizations include vaccines against tuberculosis, polio, hepatitis B, pneumococcal infection, human papillomavirus infection, mumps, and rubella." Starting in 2024, 11-year-old girls and boys will be vaccinated against HPV free of charge according to the schedule.
How involved are Mongolian women in early detection and immunization?
Following the government's 2020-2024 action program, the "Anti-Cancer" plan was approved as per clause 2.1.1.4. The decision to gradually introduce the HPV vaccine into the immunization program based on research and evidence led to the initiation of voluntary vaccination from 2023. This means that citizens have the option to pay for the vaccine. Many are actively participating in the vaccination process. For those not included in the main schedule, vaccines are being administered voluntarily based on age categories, without requiring any tests, with 2-3 doses as per the manufacturer’s instructions. For those over the age of 18, it is advised to get tested for HPV. Individuals not infected can participate in voluntary immunization. The vaccine is generally recommended for those up to 26 years of age.

11-year-old Girls and Boys to be Vaccinated Against Human Papillomavirus

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

According to the Government of Mongolia's resolution number 472 dated December 27, 2023, the national vaccination schedule has been revised. Under this schedule, it is planned for 11-year-old girls and boys to receive the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

The World Health Organization recommends that the most effective way to prevent cervical cancer is to vaccinate girls against HPV before they become sexually active. As of the end of 2023, Mongolia reported 425 new cases of cervical cancer, accounting for 5.9% of all diagnosed cancers, according to the National Center for Public Health.

Arts

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

A joint exhibition has opened at the Chinggis Khaan National Museum, showcasing new documents and tangible exhibits preserved in the state archives and museum collections of Mongolia and the Russian Federation. The exhibition is open to the public until September 16.

The joint exhibition is divided into four sections and aims to educate the public and the younger generation about the conditions, events, lessons, and outcomes of the war at Khalkhin Gol. It seeks to clarify historical truths based on invaluable documents from both domestic and foreign archives and museum collections. Another objective is to foster patriotism.

The Prelude to the War /1934.07.26-1939.05.27/
The Course and Events of the War /1939.05.28-1939.09.16/
The End of the War /1939.09.16-1941.10.15/
Lessons from the War

The archival documents and exhibits include participation from the Russian side by the Federal Archival Agency of the Russian Federation, Central Military Archives of Russia, and Russian Central Archives for Films and Photographs. From the Mongolian side, collaborating institutions include the General Agency for Archives, National Central Archives, Foreign Affairs Central Archives, Defense Central Archives, Mongolian Military Museum, and the "Victory" Museum in Khalkhgol district, Dornod Province. They have displayed rare documents and historical exhibits related to the Khalkhin Gol war—a significant victory in defending and liberating the homeland 85 years ago.

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Arts

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Environment

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Innovation

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Health

O. Dashpagma: The HPV Vaccine Will Be Administered Starting from October

11-year-old Girls and Boys to be Vaccinated Against Human Papillomavirus

Arts

PHOTO: Newly Released Documents and Exhibits from Mongolian and Russian Archives Related to the History of the Khalkhin Gol War

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