Aug 31, 2024 67 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for August 31, 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

Parliament: Fourth Discussion on the Budget Amendment

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Parliamentary special session concluded.

During the 35th special session, several important issues were discussed and approved, including amendments to the 2024 budget law of Mongolia, the approval of the government's 2024-2028 action program, and the execution of the consolidated budget for 2023.

This special session began on August 15, 2024, with a total of seven plenary sessions, 35 standing committee sessions, and three subcommittee sessions.

The Government Held an Extraordinary Meeting and Made the Following Decisions

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The Government's extraordinary meeting discussed and decided on several issues.

A Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation for the Protection of Lake Baikal will be established. The Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya, introduced the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation for the Protection of Lake Baikal. The activities to be implemented for the protection of Lake Baikal are directly connected to the Selenge River Basin, so initial proposals have been submitted to include issues such as the creation of freshwater storage and reserves in the Selenge River Basin and the prevention of natural disasters in the negotiation plan for the implementation of the memorandum. The fourth section of the draft memorandum gives special attention to the "Egiin Gol Hydroelectric Power Plant" project.

The draft of Mongolia’s 2025 Budget will be submitted to the Parliament. The laws concerning Mongolia's 2025 State Budget, the 2025 National Wealth Fund Budget, the 2025 Social Security Fund Budget, and the 2025 Health Insurance Fund Budget, along with other related legislative drafts, have been discussed to be submitted to the Parliament.

Mongolian Government's 2024-2028 Action Program mainly focuses on implementing four main policies: economic policy, regional development policy, human development policy, and governance. In this regard, the economic policy includes funding for oil refinery manufacturing, the national satellite project, and the Erdeneburen Hydro Power Plant projects. For the implementation of the regional development policy within the action program, 38 new construction and infrastructure projects have been consistently planned.

In 2025, a total of MNT 12.4 trillion of state budgetary investment will be allocated for the implementation of 640 projects and activities, with MNT 4.3 trillion earmarked for funding, making it the highest budget investment compared to previous years, equivalent to about 4.5% of GDP.

57.1% of the state budget investment will be implemented in the local regions, including Khangai, Central, Gobi, Northern, Western, and Eastern regions. Furthermore, 25.0% will be allocated for major development work in Ulaanbaatar city and the Khushig Valley.

Notably, the government will proceed in phases to implement mega projects like the "Khushig Valley Tunnel" and the "Rising Mongolia" cable-stayed bridge project, which aim to reduce the centralization of Ulaanbaatar city, provide basic social services within 20 minutes, and effectively ease traffic congestion through government-guaranteed financing.

Brief News

The draft law on the amendments to the statement of the 2025 state budget framework of Mongolia and the estimated budget for 2026-2027 has been discussed to be submitted to the Great State Khural.
Due to the transfer of Byambajav Ganbat to another position, Bayarsaikhan Solongo was appointed as the Chief Deputy Head of the Cabinet Secretariat.

PHOTO: The Extraordinary Session of the State Great Khural Concludes with an Increase of MNT 3.1 Trillion in the 2024 Budget Expenditure

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The plenary session of the extraordinary meeting of the State Great Khural, consisting of 126 members, which began on August 15, concluded today.

During this extraordinary session, the joint government's four-year operational program, titled "Courage for Rapid Development," and the 2024 budget amendment were discussed and approved.

Furthermore, amendments were made to the law concerning the national budget's framework for 2024 and the budget projection for 2025-2026.

Additionally, with the budget amendment, the total expenditure of the consolidated national budget for 2024, initially set at MNT 27.3 trillion, was increased to MNT 30.4 trillion, adding MNT 3.1 trillion.

Non-judge Member of the Judicial Council N. Otgonchimeg Released from Duty

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

During today's session of the parliamentary extraordinary meeting, the issue of releasing N. Otgonchimeg, a member of the Judicial General Council (JGC), from her position was discussed.

The Legal Standing Committee did not support N. Otgonchimeg's request to be released from her duties as a non-judge member of the JGC. Consequently, a vote was held on a proposition to not support the committee's unsupported request.

A total of 110 members participated in the voting, with 109 voting against the Legal Standing Committee's proposition. As a result, the parliament's draft resolution to release N. Otgonchimeg from her duties in the JGC has been adopted and will come into effect today.

Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) whenever using our information, either fully or partially.

Parliament's Special Session Meeting Concludes Today

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The meeting of the Parliament's special session begins today. A total of 8 issues will be discussed at the meeting.

Specifically, 14 legislative projects will be finalized for approval. Additionally, the fourth reading of the drafts related to amendments to the 2024 National Wealth Fund's budget law and the 2024 State Budget Law of Mongolia will be conducted.

Attendance is at 57 percent, with 83 members of the parliament participating in the meeting.

Who will allocate and spend how much from the 2024 national budget?

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The session of the State Great Khural is ongoing. In the draft law on amending the Law on the Budget of Mongolia for 2024, it is stipulated that the following budgets will be allocated to the budget general managers and their affiliated organizations for 2024:

Office of the President - 30 billion MNT
Speaker of the State Great Khural - 142 billion MNT
Prime Minister - 384 billion MNT
Chairman of the Constitutional Court - 4 billion MNT
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court - 29 billion MNT
Chairman of the General Judicial Council - 171 billion MNT
Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission - 5 billion MNT
Prosecutor General - 110 billion MNT
Secretary of the National Security Council - 18 billion MNT
General Auditor - 44 billion MNT
Director of the Anti-Corruption Agency - 48 billion MNT
Chairman of the Financial Regulatory Commission - 14 billion MNT
Chairman of the Civil Service Council - 7 billion MNT
Chairman of the National Statistics Office - 21 billion MNT
Chairman of the General Election Commission - 73 billion MNT
Chairman of the National Commission for Citizenship and Rehabilitation - 8 billion MNT
Chairman of the Judicial Disciplinary Committee - 4 billion MNT
First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development - 183 billion MNT
Deputy Prime Minister - 363 billion MNT
Deputy Prime Minister - 5 billion MNT
Head of the Cabinet Secretariat - 238 billion MNT
Chairman of the National Council for Control and Evaluation - 14 billion MNT
Chairman of the National Council for Port Development - 11 billion MNT
Chairman of the 20 Minute City National Council - 110 billion MNT
Minister of Foreign Affairs - 207 billion MNT
Minister of Finance - 5 trillion MNT
Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs - 1 trillion MNT
Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources - 61 billion MNT
Minister of Defense - 613 billion MNT
Minister of Environment and Climate Change - 240 billion MNT
Minister of Education - 4 trillion MNT
Minister of Family, Labor and Social Protection - 3 trillion MNT
Minister of Road and Transport - 817 billion MNT
Minister of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth - 575 billion MNT
Minister of Urban Development, Construction, and Housing - 485 billion MNT
Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry - 676 billion MNT
Minister of Digital Development and Communications - 87 billion MNT
Minister of Energy - 468 billion MNT
Minister of Health - 1 trillion MNT.

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The World Bank's poverty and social protection team has studied the impact of Mongolia's fiscal policy on poverty and inequality, particularly the effectiveness of social welfare programs.

Initial findings from the research indicate that while government cash transfers have an effect on reducing poverty, Mongolia's social welfare expenditure is high compared to countries with an average global income level. Therefore, it was recommended to reallocate spending to more efficient programs that focus on targeted rather than general poverty reduction.

Using data from the 2022 Household Socio-Economic Survey and administrative information by the National Statistics Office, calculations were carried out using an equality-promoting methodology implemented in over 80 countries worldwide. The initial findings and report were presented to relevant department leaders and staff of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection.

The assessment also considered the impact of social welfare and its programs on poverty and inequality, the efficiency of social welfare expenditure, ways to increase it, and the overlap of social assistance recipients.

The results and calculations from the above study were carried out with not only the ten equal living standards groups of the population in mind but also in comparison with other countries around the world, including those with above-average, below-average, and low incomes. The World Bank plans to finalize the report in November this year, and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection's leadership is expected to provide additional suggestions on welfare programs to be included in the calculations.

D.Zagdjav: Our Audit Report Does Not Conclude That the Decision Made by the Then Prime Minister and Current President Was Incorrect

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

During the meeting of the Budget Standing Committee of the State Great Khural, it was revealed that there was a discrepancy of 1.1 billion MNT in the project for building an enrichment plant by "Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC, which was serious enough to necessitate investigation by legal authorities. Could you provide detailed information on this?

Due to staffing constraints, the state audit organization cannot independently conduct audits on financial reports of public institutions nationwide; thus, the audits of "Erdenes-Tavantolgoi" JSC's financial reports have been contracted to private audit companies in previous years.

The National Audit Office conducted the audit of the 2023 financial statement of this company. The audit revealed that no repayments of the long-term funding provided on a repayable basis by "Erdenes-Tavantolgoi" JSC had been made, leading to accounts receivable amounting to a significant sum of 2.8 trillion MNT due to payment postponements.

38.4% of the accounts receivable stemmed from the long-term financing of 1.1 trillion MNT provided to "Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC between 2019-2023, aimed at reducing air pollution, improving the quality of enhanced coal briquettes, enhancing the economic efficiency of the company, and ensuring profitable operations.

"Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC entered into 15 long-term financing agreements with "Erdenes-Tavantolgoi" JSC, amounting to 1.2 trillion MNT to be repaid over up to 10 years for current expenditures and investment purposes, receiving financing of one trillion MNT yet did not operate profitably or make any repayments during that period.

The audit uncovered violations in these agreements crucial for reducing air pollution, enhancing the company’s operations, significant economic impact, and more as follows:

An agreement (ETT-2022/83) established in 2022, worth 113.1 billion MNT, concerning construction and development works of an enrichment and coke plant;
An agreement (ETT-2022/502) established in 2022 for 21.2 billion MNT for developing a coke plant, improving enhanced coal briquette quality, and ensuring profitable operation;
A commercial agreement (2022/518) established in 2022 with Hong Kong Hengde, amounting to 6.6 billion MNT, for providing kiln coke and powdered coke (400,000 tons of kiln coke and 100,000 tons of powdered coke to "Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC's Eastern Region Fuel Plant) was found violated with the possibility of public officials misconducting their authority to obtain benefit for themselves or others, as per Article 35 of the Law on State Audit.

Consequently, on April 3, 2024, we transferred three cases related to "Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC to the Prosecutor General's Office with evidence, in order to initiate a criminal investigation, as stipulated in the Law on State Audit.

Does this mean there were errors in the implementation of this contract?

Briefly, the violations found in these three agreements included:

An independent expert deemed inefficient the Coal Enrichment Plant FSR, developed by Main Data LLC in 2021 upon "Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC's request, approved by the 2021 Resolution T/21-13-09 of the Mineral Resources Professional Council, requiring an investment of 32,850.6 million MNT for 2.2 million tons of annual coal enrichment capacity;
For two agreements ETT-2022/83 and ETT-2022/502, agreements directly worth 115.5 billion MNT were established with 15 enterprises under 16 work packages, with the work not fully completed upon expiry of most agreements;
Without improving or adjusting the FSR developed by Main Data LLC in 2021, an additional FSR agreement worth 21.2 billion MNT (ETT-2022/502) was made in 2022;
The cost of work "design of coke plant, consulting services, facial laboratory establishment" was duplicated in both agreements with costs 19,095.0 million MNT in the first and 18,367.8 million MNT in the second agreements;
Before establishing a funding agreement with "Erdenes-Tavantolgoi" JSC in 2022 (ETT-2022/83), a list involved financial support for a project carried out in collaboration with "Sartu Urgoo" LLC and "Gobi Railway" LLC in 2020, and two separate contracts with identical numbers, duration, and price;
With finance for FSR preparation for a semi-coke plant from "Erdenes-Tavantolgoi" JSC according to ETT-2022/502, three contracts worth 4,252.5 million MNT were set up with "Tenger Ee" LLC and "Blue Arch" LLC for repairs of administrative and office buildings, despite project end not finalized, and 4,171.9 million MNT were inappropriately spent due to absence of a confirmed raw material site and unresolved ownership issues;
Fulfillment under an agreement with "Hong Kong Hengde" on the supply of 400,000 tons of kiln coke briquettes and 100,000 tons of powdered coke to "Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC’s Eastern Region Plant was undocumented, retaining 400 tons unrecorded in storage.

So, who is accountable for these issues? Is it the then Prime Minister, the Ministry of Finance, or the management of "Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC at that time?

These discrepancies arose in the process of project and program implementation, contractor selection, contract establishment, work performance monitoring, and reception related to the funding received by "Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC from "Erdenes-Tavantolgoi" JSC, hence not attributable to the then Prime Minister or Ministry of Finance.

Instead, due to significant receivables under long-term financing agreements by "Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC, uncertain repayment timelines, unsatisfactory execution of works within the financed framework, and misappropriation of part of the funding, it would be prudent to conduct a risk audit of "Tavan Tolgoi Fuel" LLC.

MP Ts.Davaasuren argued that it is not a violation since it is an inter-organizational transaction. Is this concern related to the then Prime Minister?

Our audit report does not judge as wrong the decisions, policies, or any shortcomings related to the then Prime Minister, currently the President of Mongolia.

Through the audit process, potential financial misconduct or lack of fiscal discipline at lower levels was identified, warranting investigation by legal authorities, leading to its referral to the relevant organization.

There is a societal perception that despite audits uncovering errors and violations, law enforcement agencies rarely act on these findings or hold people accountable.

The state audit aims to oversee the lawful planning, distribution, use, and expenditure of state finance and public assets, thereby enhancing public financial management. It holds the power to stop errors and violations during audits, obligate rectifications upon the audited entity, and establish payment acts for recovery of found payment with legal authority under the Law on State Audit.

Moreover, recommendations are provided to the audited entities and other related officials with the aim of enhancing the efficient and effective planning, distribution, use, and expenditure of public resources and improving public financial management.

If criminal indications arise during the audit, relevant information and documentation are transferred to the prosecutor's office for criminal investigation initiation, ensuring actions related to offenses, contraventions, and other laws are handled by competent authorities.

Therefore, actions to address errors and violations found during audits are taken within the scope of legal authority and passed on to authorized entities for settlement under criminal, contravention, and other judicial frameworks. How law enforcement resolves referred issues and any ensuing actions are governed by relevant legal provisions.

S.Önör: If a Healthy Foundation Isn't Established, Party Governance Will Continue to Dominate Instead of Citizen Governance

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The local elections, or as we commonly refer to them, Provincial and Municipal Elections, have been scheduled for October 11th.

Amidst budget adjustments, the Joint Government's action plan, and the extensive structure of the Parliament, this crucial election seems to be receiving little attention. We spoke with Sükhbaataryn Önör, a researcher at the Institute for Continuous Education Research and a master's graduate in public administration from Cornell University, USA, about the significance of this election, which is of utmost importance to citizens' lives.

There is no structured understanding among citizens in our country about what state institutions do. This understanding is insufficiently provided. Civic education is quite poor in both general education and higher education institutions. Without correcting this, creating a humane, civic democratic society as outlined in the Constitution will be a challenge for generations to come.

Why do local elections get overshadowed by Parliamentary elections? Particularly in the capital city, citizens do not know how to participate in local administration and lack confidence that their involvement will make a difference, leading to weak attention to local issues.

There is a lack of information about which entity does what and where to turn for help, and even when approached, bureaucratic hurdles make resolutions scarce. So, what do they do? Since nothing changes by complaining below, they are inclined to go to the highest officials to "show off." Thus, they start approaching their Parliamentary members, asking them to "build schools, kindergartens." The members, eager to get credit for doing something, happily get involved.

Meeting notes, attendance, and voting information from the Parliamentary sessions can be hard to find, making it almost impossible to access information about local administration. This creates a gap between citizens and the state, leading to a lack of transparency, participation, and oversight. It's safe to say there are hardly any citizens who are interested in local councils or meetings, or who pay attention to the issues discussed and decisions made. In this sense, the government apparatus becomes akin to the party apparatus, leading to a major reason for party governance instead of civic governance.

We cannot renew and make local administration efficient without addressing the fundamental issue of openness and transparency, which is to facilitate easy and open participation in administrative activities. The dual role of Parliament members as government ministers has been back and forth in the Constitution over the years.

The concept of dual roles has become a norm and culture in local administrations. This is a wrong practice. Governors should implement executive governance. Local councils should supervise. However, when council members start serving in executive administrative roles, it creates opportunities for governors to push through their agendas and avoid oversight.

The political and economic guarantees for council members to exert their rights are very weak. This flaw needs immediate correction.

As mentioned earlier, people have limited understanding of how local administrations work, and on the other hand, local administrations provide few opportunities for citizen participation, turning this election into a mere job hunt among party members. Looking at local election turnout, it’s quite embarrassing. Until this fault is corrected, highlighting any one party or person won't make a difference.

To speak plainly, voters should support candidates who promise to correct this flawed system and ensure citizen participation and transparency. Otherwise, things like building schools, kindergartens, roads, and bridges will continue as usual without significant change.

Once fundamental issues are resolved, citizens will naturally start participating when they know how to get involved, demand accountability, and ensure transparency. At that point, whether the election is on a Friday or a weekend won't be a major issue.

What matters is instilling confidence in people that by voting, they can bring about real change. With this confidence, the significance of election day and coinciding with Parliamentary election years will become less important.

The fundamental reason for poor turnout is clear. Elections have turned into contests where even the "bald white sheep" running for rigid membership parties get elected. They win with only 30-40% of the total votes cast. This has been the norm for a long time, and unfortunately, no change seems to be on the horizon. Researchers have referred to the two major ruling parties as "Soviet-style parties."

Emerging political parties are also behaving similarly to the established ones. In such a context, local elections become nothing more than tools for party apparatus reinforcement, not a representation of citizens. The way forward is to lay a solid foundation. There’s simply no other way.

The answer to this question should be clear from the responses to the previous questions. Local elections aren't becoming politicized on their own; the structure and organization of local administrations inherently curb citizen participation and understanding. Under such conditions, only politicized plants will grow in this soil. Without planting healthy seeds, the remnants of socialism, where party governance prevails over civic governance, will continue.

The recent large coalition formed after the Parliamentary elections may further reduce election participation. This might lead the two main parties, along with a supplementary party, to divide the seats among themselves, wanting to maintain this status. However, if a true third force party or young politicians seeking to introduce new culture in politics can target this flawed system and make voters understand, the rules of the game could change.

If parties wish to survive and gain public support, they must show leadership themselves.

As I understand it, since the local election law hasn't changed, the elections will be conducted according to the 2020 rules. At the very least, without being constrained by the 20% quota from the 2020 elections, parties should not lower it from 30%, aligning with global trends and the results shown in the recent Parliament, and should even exceed it to ensure equal participation based on local specifics. Political parties will gain the public’s trust only by showing leadership, not by being fixated on small interests but focusing on the bigger picture.

On the other hand, citizens participating in elections should express that they will give their support to political forces that paint a clear picture of development with confidence, or else they will evaluate them during the elections.

Discussing issues at a lower level without achieving results and trying to hold on to the top has not led to progress. Giving importance to this election, which solves our daily lives and issues, and not electing someone who secures a position at the provincial council only to use it as a government office stepping stone for the next four years, is essential. Citizens must be aware and express that they know this. Understanding and demanding state institutions’ roles is necessary.

J. Ganbat: I Did Not Request a Bonus Either Officially or Unofficially

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

A report was circulated in the media that the State Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, J. Ganbat, who was appointed as an empowered representative of the Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi Joint Stock Company, received a bonus of 1.2 billion MNT. Journalists asked J. Ganbat himself, who is currently serving as the State Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, for clarification on this matter.

- It has been criticized that you received a substantial bonus from ETT JSC. Could you explain this?
- After I handed over my duties, the company's half-year financial report was issued, showing that it operated with a profit of 3.3 trillion MNT.

The board of directors and major shareholders of the head company held a meeting to evaluate the work done during the special regime period. I did not participate in that meeting. I did not request a bonus either officially or unofficially. The board of directors reviews the entire year's work of every state-owned company and awards a certain amount of bonus in that framework. It was discussed and resolved within those guidelines. However, as the media reported, a bonus of 1.2 billion MNT was not given.

- How much bonus was given then?
- The work for a year and seven or eight months was evaluated, and a bonus was given. A bonus of around 400 million MNT was given. It was given according to the standards for leaders of other state-owned companies. However, if calculated according to the procedure provided, the result would have been a slightly different number.

Report to Parliament Within a Week on Steps Taken to Demolish the "Corruption" Housing Complex

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The meeting of the Parliament is ongoing. Member of Parliament G. Dambinyam stated, "When the new minister was appointed, I talked about the issues regarding the 'Corruption' housing complex. The Mayor of Ulaanbaatar and other officials issue administrative legal documents, yet nothing seems to work. I want the law to be enforced; what is preventing the operation of this building from being stopped? Minister of Justice and Interior O. Altangerel, please provide an answer."

Speaker of Parliament D. Amarbaysgalan said, "MP G. Dambinyam has been raising this issue for two years. When leaders and ministers visit, they promise to demolish it. Two years ago, the Prime Minister visited and announced that the riverbed had been altered, creating flood risks for the public. Since then, city officials need to report to Parliament within a week whether permission was given and what concrete actions have been taken. If necessary, a working group should be established to investigate."

Minister of Justice and Interior O. Altangerel stated, "Granting additional permits is an issue of official authority. The Anti-Corruption Agency should be involved in this. Under our ministry, the General Authority for Implementation of Court Decisions is active. This organization must enforce court decisions.

The issues related to this building have been stuck in the Administrative Court. According to the administrative process law, this matter should have already been resolved. Unfortunately, it remains unresolved. A court order suspending the enforcement of the decision has been issued, and we are unable to do anything about this order.

In recent years, many major projects, similar to the issues raised by MP G. Dambinyam, have been stalled in the Administrative Court. Citizens are complaining about where the law and justice are in Mongolia. We are working with policies to address why high-profile cases are delayed and stalled in the Administrative Court. As stated by the Speaker of Parliament, relevant judicial and law enforcement agencies should work with the Anti-Corruption Agency to form a working group and collaborate. It's time to resolve this issue."

The Issue of Transferring "Tavantolgoi Fuel" to the Property of the Capital Left to be Decided in the Autumn Session

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

In the extraordinary session of the State Great Khural (Parliament) of Mongolia, they discussed the planned issues and concluded the session. During the session, the budget amendment included the matter of transferring the "Tavantolgoi Fuel" company, previously under "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" JSC, to the ownership of the capital city. This proposal was supported by the majority of members after discussion in the standing committees and the Parliament.

However, some members opposed it. For instance, Member of Parliament G. Uyankhishig stated, "27% of the shares of Erdenes Tavantolgoi are owned by citizens and legal entities. The decision to transfer its subsidiary, 'Tavantolgoi Fuel,' from state ownership to local property without asking the shareholders' opinion is against the Company Law."

During the finalization of the legislative project, the Speaker of the State Great Khural reminded members to heed the above comment and listened to the positions of the Minister of Justice and the Head of the Legal Standing Committee.

The Speaker noted, "Does this matter conflict with the Company Law? If so, we should postpone considering the final draft until the autumn session and, in the meantime, hold a shareholder meeting of Erdenes Tavantolgoi to secure approval before finalizing the draft."

Minister of Justice O. Altangerel expressed that it would be appropriate to defer the issue and hold a shareholders meeting, while Head of the Legal Standing Committee D. Tsogtbaatar emphasized, "This is not merely about state property but involves corporate governance. While it might seem like a transfer between state entities, it's important to give shareholders the right to decide."

Finally, Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan affirmed, "The resolution has been passed by the Parliament. Therefore, the Cabinet Secretariat should organize a shareholders meeting and gather their opinions. Minister N. Uchral is advised to start transferring 'Tavantolgoi Fuel' from state to local ownership. Do not make excuses or blame the Parliament for air pollution increase due to unresolved issues. The Parliament is acting according to the law, and I urge the government to ensure no mistakes occur in the process. The final decision is postponed until the autumn session."

Appointing B. Solongo as the First Deputy Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

An extraordinary meeting of the government was held. During this extraordinary meeting, the 2025 budget proposal and some issues were discussed. Additionally, in today's meeting, B. Solongo was appointed as the First Deputy Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat.

B. Solongo previously worked as the Deputy Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat and was later appointed as the Deputy Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs. In the 2024 parliamentary election, she was on the list of the Mongolian People's Party (MPP) but was not elected.

Now, she has been appointed again to work in the Cabinet Secretariat as the First Deputy Chief.

B. Solongo was Appointed as the First Deputy Head of the Cabinet Secretariat

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

B. Solongo was appointed as the First Deputy Head of the Cabinet Secretariat, replacing Byambajav Ganbat, who has moved to another position.

B. Solongo was born in 1983 in Ulaanbaatar.

Education:

Graduated in 2007 from the Faculty of Law and Political Science at Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary
Graduated in 2010 from the University of Dundee in the United Kingdom
Graduated in 2015 from Harvard Law School in the United States. She is a lawyer.
Fluent in English and Hungarian.

Professional Experience:

Worked from 2011-2017 as a lawyer and senior international lawyer at the international law firm "Hogan Lovells"
Worked from 2017-2020 as executive director at the law firm "Avinex Partners"
Served from 2020-2021 as Deputy Head for Foreign Projects and Cooperation at the Cabinet Secretariat
Worked as Deputy Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs from 2021-2024.

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

Economy

EVENT: The 4th Mongolia and Inner Mongolia Trade and Investment Summit to Take Place

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At the State Palace

08:30 - A special cabinet meeting is ongoing.

10:00 - An extraordinary session of the State Great Khural (Parliament) will be held.

Due to the inadequate implementation of the resolution regarding measures to control and address the reasons for the rise in medicine prices, the current parliament will discuss and approve the resolution titled "Measures to Ensure the Implementation of the 38th Resolution of the State Great Khural for 2024." J. Chintogtokh, the former head of the Temporary Committee on Medicines and a member of the State Great Khural, will provide information.

At the Ministry of Education

11:30 - A meeting of a working group consisting of over 40 representatives from both public and private sectors will be held to improve the interoperability and information exchange between electronic systems in the education sector.

At "Blue Sky Tower"

12:00 - A press conference of GUYS band member A. Tugsbayar's first solo concert "Delicate Love" will take place.

At the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI)

14:00-18:00 - The 4th Mongolia and Inner Mongolia Trade and Investment Summit will be held.

At Sukhbaatar Square

The "Korean Cultural Days 2024" event, which involves 58 South Korean enterprises operating in the food and cosmetics industries, will be organized.

Notice

Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social media, and Websites) are advised to fully or partially use our information only by acknowledging the source (ikon.mn).

Investors from Inner Mongolia in Renewable Energy, Mining Visit to Explore Business Projects

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The fourth Mongolia-China Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Investment and Trade Cooperation Forum is being held today at the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI).

The forum is attended by representatives from 125 Chinese organizations, including 75 businesses interested in investing in Mongolia for the first time and 50 enterprises that have previously invested. Meanwhile, 120 representatives from Mongolian businesses have registered for participation.

The forum's three leading investment sectors have been identified as:

Energy,
Agriculture,
Minerals.

Business operators from southern neighbor countries in fields such as renewable energy, mining, food, and tourism have arrived in our country, according to the MNCCI's Foreign Relations and Cooperation Department. It also highlighted that representatives from nine Chinese state-owned companies have attended.

The main feature and significance of the forum lie in connecting entrepreneurs from the two countries and introducing and promoting domestic business, legal frameworks, and investment opportunities to Chinese companies interested in investing in Mongolia.

In this regard, a training session introducing Mongolia's investment and legal environment was organized for Chinese business practitioners yesterday.

During the opening ceremony of the forum, Enkhbaatar V., Head of the Mongolian Investment and Trade Agency, stated, "During last year's forum, approximately 20 cooperation agreements were signed, and discussions on over 20 billion yuan took place," expressing expectations for surpassing last year's achievements with this forum.

MNCCI's Executive Director T. Duuren remarked, "We are very pleased with the broad participation of leading companies and investors from Inner Mongolia, particularly in energy, new materials trade, agriculture, and transport logistics."

The Energy Council under the MNCCI was established in September 2023 with over 100 members and is actively supporting the implementation of joint renewable energy projects, increasing consumption, and eventually exporting renewable energy. Additionally, the council is focused on developing non-mining exports and supporting member organizations to increase production of export-oriented products based on agriculture.

Furthermore, he emphasized the need to enhance the enforcement of standards for import and export goods and mentioned the necessity for numerous new standards to be introduced in Mongolia.

Today's forum continues with an event where Mongolian entrepreneurs present their initiated projects and offer them to investors.

Enterprises Will Pay Tax at One Percent of Sales Revenue by Using "Simplified Regime"

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

By using the "Simplified Regime", enterprises can file a report once a year and pay tax at one percent of their sales revenue. Who is eligible to apply for this?

Annual sales revenue must not exceed 50 million MNT.
Must not be engaged in operations in the four prohibited sectors: minerals, oil, alcohol, and tobacco.
Must not be registered as a VAT payer.

"Enterprises wishing to use the Simplified Regime should contact their respective tax office to apply by September 30. You need to access the electronic tax system and select the option to apply for the Simplified Regime from the application menu. Once your application is verified by the tax office, you will be able to use the Simplified Regime from the next tax year," reported the General Department of Taxation.

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

In line with the 2024 budget amendment submitted by the government, a proposal has been made to introduce changes to the law on corporate income tax to the Parliament. This amendment aims to support enterprises engaged in human development investment and construction projects. Private sector enterprises spend specific amounts on investment and construction projects as part of their social responsibility. However, these expenses are not considered deductible as they are not directly related to the company's operations, meaning they do not benefit from tax incentives.

With the proposed amendment, a legal framework is being established to provide tax benefits for expenses incurred in social responsibility measures. Specifically, the law includes a provision to deduct one percent of the sales revenue from taxes for enterprises carrying out human development and construction projects. There will be no separate administrative procedure introduced by the relevant government organizations to apply this change, and it can be enacted once the law is approved and made public.

Tax deductions will not be applied to social responsibility expenses incurred prior to the approval of the law. However, expenses incurred after approval will benefit from a tax deduction of one percent of sales revenue.

International statistics indicate that private sector enterprises spend between 60-70 billion MNT annually on human development investment and construction projects. Legal proponents emphasize that if this legislative amendment is passed, it will enable companies operating in Mongolia to increase their spending on social responsibility initiatives.

Diplomacy

Will Putin's Visit Halt the Uranium Project?

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The parties are preparing for the visit of Russian President Putin scheduled for early next week. There is currently no clear information on the issues to be discussed during V.V. Putin's visit, which is taking place after five years. The main purpose of the visit, according to the Kremlin, is to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the victory in the Battle of Khalkhin Gol.

However, some observers believe that during this visit, several issues will be discussed, and Russia may exert pressure on certain matters. One concern is that the uranium project, discussed in collaboration with France, might be halted.

The Züvch-Ovoo deposit in the Dornogovi province's Ulaanbadrakh district, discovered in 2010, has not been economically utilized, partly due to both overt and covert opposition from our northern neighbor, Russia. Not only the uranium project but also electricity, fuel, and railways have kept our country dependent on Russia. This is part of Russia's geopolitical policy. Accordingly, as we were forming a working group with France to implement the uranium project, Russia limited fuel exports to our country. Last winter, the whole country queued for fuel, and citizens received only 30,000 MNT worth of fuel each. Although Russia claimed that the restriction was due to the war, many international analysts and politicians quietly noted that it was a veiled intimidation related to Mongolia's talks with France on the uranium project.

Despite having discovered the Züvch-Ovoo uranium deposit in 2010, it has not been utilized economically for over a decade. While this deposit may not significantly boost Mongolia's economy, it offers opportunities to diversify the economy, explore new sectors, and attract third-party investments and agreements. Significantly, it presents a major opportunity to reduce dependence on energy from Russia. Although the government periodically revisits the topic of bringing the uranium deposit into economic circulation, no substantial action has been taken due to external rather than internal factors.

In May last year, during a visit by French President Emmanuel Macron, the presidents of both countries agreed to implement the uranium project. Following this, a joint working group was established, and it was stated that an investment agreement would be submitted for parliamentary approval by December of that year. However, to date, the agreement has yet to be signed, and the negotiations remain dormant. Although officials proclaimed successful negotiations following Macron's visit, there has been silence since then.

Russia is not in favor of collaborating with France on the uranium project. Last December, during a visit by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Victoria Abramchenko, it was reported in both political and media circles that Russia would construct a small nuclear power plant if Mongolia abandoned the uranium project with France. This indicates that Russia does not support the project with France, explaining why the investment agreement, which was expected to be approved a year ago, has vanished.

As the world shifts from coal-based energy to prioritize clean energy, the demand for uranium is expected to rise, as it produces clean energy without causing air pollution like coal. One gram of ready-made nuclear fuel can generate as much power as burning two tons of coal. Therefore, if Mongolia, which currently relies on coal for its budget, begins implementing the uranium project now, it could prevent potential economic risks in the future. However, the question remains whether the long-discussed project, agreed upon at the presidential level and with a working group established, will proceed or be halted as a result of Putin's visit.

While Russia's minister proposed halting the uranium project, it remains to be seen what President Putin will state during his visit.

The issue of granting work and holiday visas to Mongolian citizens in Australia is under the jurisdiction of the relevant authorities of the country

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Mongolian citizens planning to apply for a "Work and Holiday" visa to Australia and who meet the relevant requirements must obtain a letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying for a visa.

It was announced from the Australian side that applications for the "Work and Holiday" visa category would be accepted from July 1, 2024. Therefore, citizens wishing to obtain a letter must prepare the relevant materials and send them, only in "pdf" format, to the email address dep10-13@mfa.gov.mn.

The response from the ministry will be sent to the registered email within 48-72 hours on working days, and the following materials are required.

A copy of a valid Mongolian national ordinary passport
A certificate regarding any criminal liability (Link here for more information) obtained from e-mongolia's integrated e-service portal within the last 45 days
A certificate showing no debt payments to others under court decision obtained from the e-mongolia portal within the last 45 days
A certificate of a diploma from a higher education institution obtained from the e-mongolia portal within the last 45 days, or if not graduated, a school certificate proving successful completion of at least two years of studies at a university or college

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates that the letter will only be issued to citizens who meet the relevant requirements and provide the necessary materials.

The letter is not a guarantee of obtaining a "Work and Holiday" visa to Australia but is merely one of the documents required to apply for a visa. Detailed information related to applying for a visa can be found at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/work-holiday-462/first-work-holiday-462.

Since the decision to grant the "Work and Holiday" visa to Mongolian citizens is under the jurisdiction of the relevant Australian authorities, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will not accept any complaints or suggestions related to visa issuance.

Infrastructure

Commissioning the Shivee Khuren-Sekhee Border Railway and Initiating Energy Sector Reforms

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

During the extraordinary session of the State Great Khural, amendments to the 2024 budget law of Mongolia and the draft law on the 2024 budget of the National Wealth Fund were approved.

These budget law amendments are based on the coalition agreement of the parties involved in the joint government and aim to address major projects as part of the 2024-2028 government action plan. In other words, the amendments are formulated based on the joint government's action plan for "Courage for Rapid Development."

The joint government, formed from the first expanded structure in the history of the Mongolian parliament, is working to accelerate development by establishing a working agreement named "Courage for Rapid Development" with the political parties within the cabinet.

Based on this agreement, the government's 4-year action plan includes bold solutions to eliminate the restrictive and state-dependent environment in the business sector caused by budget investments. Therefore, Mongolia stands on a path of development that necessitates increasing foreign investment rather than relying solely on tax revenue. The joint government has devised an accelerated development roadmap to condense thirty years of future national development into three years. Implementing this plan requires facing steps to restructure the combined budget expenditure, budget balance, and the structure of government debt's special requirements. Essentially, it's an aim to revolutionize the economic development system. Positive economic growth forecasts also seem likely to have a favorable impact. Specifically, at the beginning of 2024, Mongolia's economy is projected to grow by 7.8%, with the mining sector expected to continue its resurgence this year. Consequently, depending on the mining recovery, the economy is projected to grow by 5.6%. However, relying excessively on export-driven growth forecasts can be misleading. Hence, the government aims to implement a package of measures to increase economic capacity and accelerate development. A plan has been approved to put the 6.9 km Shivee Khuren-Sekhee border railway into operation this year to increase the volume of mining products transported by rail to 10 million tons, initiate reforms to liberalize the energy sector, and accelerate infrastructure projects included in the regional development and New Revival Policy.

Projects and programs to be implemented this year include:

• Erdeneburen Hydropower Plant

• Solongo 1 and 2 Housing Projects

• New central wastewater treatment plant

• Green housing in Ulaanbaatar

• Oil refinery plant

• Heating plants in ten provinces

• Ulaanbaatar city heating supply improvement project

If a vehicle with a provincial license plate stays in the city for more than 48 hours, a fee of 5000₮ per day will be charged

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Starting from September 1, if a vehicle with a provincial license plate stays in the capital for more than 48 hours, a fee of 5000 MNT will be charged per day.

In Ulaanbaatar, on average, 16,000 to 19,000 vehicles with provincial license plates take part in the traffic every day, which increases to 38,000 during celebrations. To reduce the number of vehicles traveling in Ulaanbaatar, the city's council issued a resolution on February 8, 2024, updating the fee for road usage.

Specifically, the resolution states that if a vehicle with a provincial license plate stays in the capital for 48 hours or two days, it will pay 1000 MNT. For periods longer than 48 hours, a fee of 5000 MNT will be charged daily, for every 24-hour period. This resolution will take effect from the first of next month.

The collected fees will be centralized in the city's road fund and will be used for road maintenance. Relevant officials have stated that by monitoring vehicles with provincial license plates and increasing the road usage fee, there is potential to reduce the number of vehicles participating in daily traffic by up to five percent.

Cameras Installed at 22's Checkpoint and Emeelt to Register Local Vehicles

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

From the 1st of the coming month, if a local vehicle travels to the capital for more than 48 hours, the driver will have to pay 5,000 tugriks per day.

In Ulaanbaatar, on average, 16,000 to 19,000 vehicles with local license plates participate in road traffic daily. During festive seasons, it reaches up to 38,000. Therefore, with the aim of reducing these vehicles, the fee for using roads was updated following the resolution of the Ulaanbaatar City Council on February 8, 2024.

Research indicates that over 19,000 vehicles from rural areas travel and participate in traffic in Ulaanbaatar between August 15 and September 15.

According to the mayor's order to reduce congestion, the fee structure for vehicles with local license plates entering Ulaanbaatar has been set as follows:

Within 48 hours, 1,000 tugriks,
More than 48 hours, 5,000 tugriks per day. This order will take effect from September 1.

Cameras have now been installed at checkpoints such as 22's checkpoint, 61st pass, and Emeelt. Through these cameras, information about local vehicles entering and exiting will be recorded, as reported by the Public Relations Office of the Capital City.

Ö. Törbat, a senior specialist at the Administration and Finance Department of the City Road Development Agency, said, “Starting from September 1, an invoice of 5,000 tugriks will be issued to local vehicles entering the capital, in order to ensure the implementation of the order. The accumulated funds will be used for road repair and renovation works.”

The mayor of Ulaanbaatar, Kh. Nyambaatar, stated, “Ulaanbaatar is the social and economic center of Mongolia, so there is a flow of rural movement towards the city. Therefore, issues related to tolls will not affect herders selling their livestock or business people transporting goods. However, there is a lot of entry from local areas for taxi services. Although this is open, the above order was issued to reduce the impact of congestion.”

Meet: The Citizens, Companies, Locations, and Capacities of 72 Approved Parking Lots in Ulaanbaatar

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Deputy Mayor of Ulaanbaatar in charge of economic and infrastructure issues, N. Manduul, stated that the unauthorized installation of parking lot barriers in public areas and making illegal income is causing discontent among citizens. He introduced information about the citizens, companies, locations, and capacities that manage 72 parking lots with a capacity of 1,870 cars under the city's management.

In terms of capacity, the parking lots on the east and west sides of the Bombogor Shopping Center are the largest with 75 cars and are owned by "BLJJ Mongolia" LLC, while the parking lot outside the Khangarid Palace has space for 68 cars and is owned by citizen B. Oyunbat. Additionally, there are parking lots with a capacity of only three cars.

The city accumulates revenue by charging 1,000 MNT per hour for these parking lots.

He mentioned, "Any parking lot established in public areas other than these is unauthorized. If citizens provide information, we will send notices and remove them. However, if the private sector proposes to establish specific parking lots in high-demand areas, we are open to investigate and collaborate."

The decision to bring parking lot revenues to market levels and make them more flexible will soon be presented to the Municipal Council.

Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must cite the source (ikon.mn) if they use our information in any form, in whole or in parts.

MIAT LLC to Operate Direct Flights to Ho Chi Minh City, a World-Famous Tourist Destination

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

MIAT LLC will commence direct flights to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam twice a week starting December 10.

Ho Chi Minh City is one of Vietnam's largest cities and one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. The city attracts tourists with its natural scenic spots, delicious cuisine, and shops and malls of world-renowned brands.

In response to Mongolians' desire to travel and relax in warm destinations during the winter season, MIAT LLC has planned these direct flights and has already started selling tickets for this route.

Additionally, it is possible to take flights through Ho Chi Minh City to other cities in Vietnam and countries in Europe.

Approximately 4,850 Containers Awaiting Departure to Mongolia at Tianjin Railway Station

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

According to the August 29 notice from the Mongolian Transport and Forwarding Union, a total of 36 trains departed from Tianjin Port to Ereen between August 1 and 26, 2024.

At the Tianjin Railway Station, approximately 9,700 TEU or around 4,850 containers are waiting for dispatch to Mongolia.

Containers arriving at Tianjin Port typically remain for an average of 95-120 days before departure.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Roads and Transportation reports that a total of 1,331 containers are present at the customs inspection area in Ulaanbaatar, with 780 loaded and 551 empty containers.

Instructed to Submit Information to Parliament on the Approval Issue for the Additional Construction of the "Aqua Garden" Complex Within a Week

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

During today's session of the Mongolian Parliament, members discussed the performance of the 2023 state budget. During this time, issues surrounding the "Aqua Garden" or corruption district constructed on the riverbed were raised by the members.

In this matter, the Speaker of the Parliament and the Minister of Justice expressed the following positions:

Speaker of the Parliament D. Amarbaysgalan: Members of the government and city authorities often visit this area and announce to the public that they plan to "demolish" it, giving populist statements. Two years ago, the Prime Minister visited and instructed that the building on the riverbed, which poses a flood risk, be demolished. However, members are now demanding transparency on why additional approval was granted afterward.

Therefore, city leaders must report to Parliament within a week on the actual work they have done. If necessary, a working group can be established by order of the Speaker of the Parliament to investigate this process. This issue is intended to demonstrate whether there is justice in society and how important public interest is, which is why special attention will be paid to it.

Especially since the Prime Minister's visit, it is crucial to clarify what additional permits were issued and by whom.

If the information provided to Parliament is deemed insufficient, a temporary committee for monitoring inspections will be established at the start of the autumn session.

Minister of Justice O. Altangerel: How the initial approval was granted and whether construction continued after the Prime Minister's visit is purely an issue of official duty. Therefore, the Anti-Corruption Agency needs to be involved in this matter.

An order has been issued to suspend the enforcement of the decision until a court ruling is made. We cannot change this directive.

Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) should always cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, whether fully or partially.

Bogd Mountain Road Will be Closed Tonight

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The road behind Bogd Mountain, specifically from the Bugan Khaliun intersection to the Marshal Bridge, will be closed for traffic tonight from 23:00 for renovation.

The repair work is expected to continue until 06:00 on September 2.

Therefore, officials advise citizens and drivers to choose alternative routes.

The Road from 32nd Roundabout to Khailaast Junction Renovated and Opened for Traffic

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The road from Chingeltei Avenue, specifically from the 32nd roundabout to Khailaast junction, had not been renovated since 2009. As a result, many potholes had developed, and the road's usability had deteriorated significantly.

The renovation project for this road commenced on the 13th of this month. The traffic was closed from the 27th, allowing for resurfacing work to be completed. The renovation project of the road, which is one kilometer long and has a width of 14-16 meters accommodating four lanes, was completed today, allowing for the reopening of traffic.

The road from Chingeltei Avenue, specifically from the 32nd roundabout to Khailaast junction, had not been renovated since 2009. As a result, many potholes had developed, and the road's usability had deteriorated significantly.

Intercity buses to Bayan-Ulgii, Uvs, Khovd, and other eight provinces will depart from Dragon Center until September 15

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The road to the Nomin bus station located in the territory of Songinohairkhan district, 20th khoroo, will be completely closed for paving work.

Therefore, intercity buses that used to operate from Nomin bus station to the following provinces:

Arkhangai
Bayan-Ulgii
Bayankhongor
Govi-Altai
Zavkhan
Uvurkhangai
Uvs
Khovd

will be departing from Dragon Center until September 15, 2024, as reported by the National Center for Road Transport.

Installed Cameras in 1,100 Buses to Detect Vehicles Traveling on the Bus Lane and Stopping at Bus Stops

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

According to traffic regulations, it is prohibited to temporarily or permanently stop on designated bus stops for public transportation between 06:00-22:00. Additionally, driving private vehicles in the first lane, designated for buses, is also prohibited.

However, citizens are causing obstacles for public transportation, which 80-90% of the city's residents depend on, by parking their cars at bus stops and driving in the first lane. Therefore, telecameras have been installed in 1,100 public buses.

According to Senior Specialist and Police Major G. Otgontamir from the Traffic Police Department's Prevention Division, "Telecameras have been installed on public transport buses. These cameras detect violations of vehicles stopping at bus stops, document them with photographs, and send the information to the Traffic Management Center. Consequently, the drivers of vehicles that stop at bus stops will be fined according to the Law on Violations.

Specifically, by installing telecameras in 1,100 buses, violations of vehicles stopping temporarily or permanently at bus stops between 06:00-22:00 and traveling in the first lane are being documented.

Therefore, we warn against temporarily or permanently stopping at bus stops between 06:00-22:00 and traveling in the first lane," he stated.

In Ulaanbaatar, 1,100 public transport buses serve citizens daily.

The law stipulates a fine of 20 units, equivalent to 20,000 MNT, for violations of temporarily or permanently stopping at bus stops and traveling in the first lane.

Society

The Diplomat: Mongolia Hosted the World Women's Summit for the First Time

Published: Sat, 31 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Reinforcing its commitment to the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Plan of Action and the Sustainable Development Agenda until 2030, Mongolia has made another leap in its feminist foreign policy by organizing the World Women's Summit for the first time in Ulaanbaatar. This summit was organized to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Mongolian Women's Federation. Held on August 22-23, the summit served as a mechanism for the world’s women leaders to discuss issues and seek solutions from a "unified front."

The summit was organized based on the Ulaanbaatar Declaration released after the meeting of women foreign ministers in Mongolia in 2023. Women ministers from France, Germany, Indonesia, Liechtenstein, Mongolia, and South Africa gathered to discuss feminist foreign policy.

Under the auspices of Mongolia's President U. Khurelsukh, the summit was co-organized by Mongolia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United Nations. About 800 women leaders participated, including heads of state and government from 19 countries, 20 governmental and non-governmental organizations, representatives of civil society, and 600 women representatives from all sectors of Mongolia.

In his opening remarks, President U. Khurelsukh highlighted the necessity of actions directed at achieving gender equality in overcoming emerging issues such as climate change. He also emphasized the opportunities decision-making women should create for girls and women.

Mongolia’s Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg emphasized the need to empower women in non-traditional sectors such as the digital economy, security, sports, and the environment and to enhance cultural cooperation among nations. She also called for gender equality in tackling global welfare and climate change.

Reflecting on the progress of the past 30 years, Minister B. Battsetseg stated, "The 1995 Beijing Declaration proclaimed ‘women's rights are human rights, and human rights are women's rights,’ emphasizing significant global goals to eliminate obstacles in gender relations. Significant progress has been achieved in revising discriminatory laws, combating gender-based violence, and seeing girls and women enter classrooms, workplaces, and leadership positions in large numbers."

However, she noted the need for more work ahead, stressing that "many of the challenges, unequal opportunities, and systemic obstacles facing women globally are ultimately tied to education levels. Therefore, I urge discussing solutions in connection with the education of girls and women."

Slovenia’s first female President Natasa Pirc-Musar, an honorary guest at the summit, expressed her appreciation for Mongolia’s initiative to create a space for discussing these issues. In her remarks, she stressed transforming gender equality into gender justice. She also called for the cessation of the "horrific crimes" committed against girls and women in Palestine, Afghanistan, Syria, Ukraine, Sudan, and other war-torn countries.

The World Women's Summit was attended by high-level guests and representatives from Laos, Kyrgyzstan, Bulgaria, Turkey, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Among international representatives were UN Geneva Center Director Tatiana Valovaya, UN Women Goodwill Ambassador Cindy Bishop, Indonesian climate activist Nala Amirah, former President of the UN General Assembly and Executive Director of the Global Women Leaders Voices, María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés, and Deputy Secretary-General of the UN Amina J. Mohammed. They all urged for intensified actions to ensure gender equality.

Mongolia's hosting of the first World Women's Summit illustrates not only its feminist foreign policy directions but also demonstrates that Mongolia’s policymakers are seeking comprehensive approaches to support global objectives, such as those put forward in the 1995 Beijing Declaration, the Action Program, and the 2023 Sustainable Development Goals. The country's multi-pillar foreign policy aims to address societal issues like gender equality more significantly on the international stage. Thus, international forums and dialogues play crucial roles in enabling Mongolia to be an active participant in global affairs.

Mongolia's feminist foreign policy line in Ulaanbaatar seeks to find permanent solutions to overcome social barriers hindering Mongolian girls and women from succeeding and developing in modern society, both in principle and practice. The recent parliamentary election resulted in the highest female representation in Mongolia’s history. Mongolia also saw its first female general appointed in 2022.

The summit's focus on the interrelationship of pressing social issues such as gender equality and the green transition holds significant importance. Indeed, the summit was held under the theme "For a Green Future," and discussions throughout the concurrent sessions frequently addressed climate issues. For instance, during a session on "Gender-equal economy," Director of Foreign Affairs for the Green Climate Fund S. Oyun emphasized the current green transition as an opportunity to ensure gender-inclusive participation and support for women-led, energy-efficient, small, and medium enterprises.

In an interview with "The Diplomat," Mongolia’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Member of Parliament S. Odontuya stated that one of her department's goals is to set up a working group focused on issues faced by women in the context of climate change. In this way, even though the World Women's Summit has concluded, it is emphasized that women leaders and climate change activists have the opportunity to collaborate and partner on various issues. Such partnership can bring tangible outcomes in many continents, including for Mongolian girls and women.

Environment

Memorandum on Cooperation for the Protection of Lake Baikal to be Established

Published: Sat, 31 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

During the government's special meeting, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya, presented the memorandum on cooperation for the protection of Lake Baikal.

The actions to be implemented for the protection of Lake Baikal are directly related to the Selenge River basin, and initial proposals have been submitted to include the accumulation and resource creation of fresh water in the basin of the Selenge River in the implementation plan of the memorandum, with a focus on disaster prevention.

According to the government's Press and Information Office, the fourth section of the memorandum project has highlighted special attention to the "Egiin Gol Hydropower Plant" project.

Recovery of Vehicles Submerged in Lake Khuvsgul Completed

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The operation to clean Lake Khuvsgul and recover submerged vehicles and machinery has concluded after four years. President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh, during his tenure as Prime Minister, sought to protect and conserve Mongolia's freshwater resources, ecosystems that form the headwaters of rivers as part of the "Vision 2050" long-term development policy and the Government's 2020-2024 action plan.

After being elected as the President, he initiated actions to protect the ecosystem of Lake Khuvsgul, improve infrastructure, and reduce pollution by identifying, locating, and retrieving submerged vehicles from the lake bottom.

The retrieval of the "Sukhbaatar Ship," which sank in 1985 in Lake Khuvsgul, in 2001 marked the beginning of this operation. Scientists from the Mongolian University of Science and Technology and the National Defense University developed a technical chart and assembled recovery structures, marking a historic event in Mongolia's history.

The operation continued until today, culminating in a handover ceremony of the recovered vehicles and machinery to local authorities in Khatgal village, Alag-Erdene district, Khuvsgul province. The ceremony was attended by President Khurelsukh, the General Commander of the Armed Forces, generals, officers, non-commissioned officers, personnel, scientists, researchers, engineers, local leaders, and citizens, expressing gratitude to those involved.

During this period, a task force of over 120 individuals from the National Emergency Management Agency, the General Staff of the Armed Forces, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Mongolian University of Science and Technology, the National Defense University, and "Geomaster" company retrieved 11 vehicles from depths of 33-171 meters in Lake Khuvsgul.

This effort prevented the dispersal and contamination of about 50 tonnes of fuel, oil, lubricants, and hazardous waste into the lake. Had hazardous waste spilled, it would have polluted 2.53% of the lake's surface area—over 70 square kilometers—potentially contaminating the Eg River, Selenge River, and eventually Lake Baikal, which holds 20% of the world's freshwater.

Furthermore, scientists determined a significant risk to the ecosystem of Lake Khuvsgul, with potential harm to 50% of fish, planaria, and aquatic microorganisms. The President emphasized that cooperative efforts managed to halt this major risk and danger.

The vehicles handed over to the local authorities represent the hard work and contributions of those involved and serve as a reminder for citizens to love and protect Lake Khuvsgul. Future efforts will focus on protecting the natural environment, the ecosystem of Lake Khuvsgul, and developing eco-friendly tourism, as instructed by the local government.

The extraction operation involved:

First-time lateral pulling from deep water under harsh weather conditions using calculations by Mongolian scientists, methods by Mongolian engineers, and the expertise of personnel.
Emergency services divers completed unprecedented tasks, gaining skills and experience.
For the first time, a multi-functional Pro-5 model water drone was used, along with a "Farm" or lifting crane, mounted on a floating bridge deck designed by Mongolian scientists for surveying, detecting, and retrieving objects from the lake bottom.
Throughout the operation, the principle of prioritizing personnel safety and adhering to occupational health and safety rules prevented any accidents or mishaps.

The handover ceremony for the vehicles and machinery included participation from Deputy Chief of Staff of the President's Office B. Enk-Amgalan, General Staff Chief Major General S. Ganbyamba, National Emergency Management Agency Chief Major General G. Ariunbuyan, Khuvsgul Provincial Governor P. Lkhagvajav, National Emergency Management Agency First Deputy Chief and Staff Chief Brigadier General J. Chultemsuren, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change's Director of Policy Implementation and Natural Resources, Z. Uranchimeg, General Staff's Engineering Troops Management Department Connector Colonel M. Batbold, Khuvsgul Province Emergency Management Director Deputy Colonel S. Ganbold, among task force members, provincial and local leaders, and citizen representatives.

Lake Khuvsgul represents around 75% of Mongolia's freshwater and 0.4% of the world's freshwater. It replenishes its water once every 500 years and contains about the same amount of freshwater as 10 years of all of Mongolia's rivers' flow. Approximately 25% of its surrounding area consists of forest taiga, housing many rare animals and plants.

President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh initiated the protection of Lake Ganga in 2017, during his Prime Minister term. As a result, the endangered ecosystem of Lake Ganga was fully restored by 2023, with water levels reaching 2005 measurements. A second phase protection project for the lake commenced this year. Furthermore, the President is implementing projects to revive the Kherlen River, Lake Ugii, and Bumbat Spring.

The Equipment and Vehicles Submerged in Lake Khuvsgul Have Been Retrieved

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The operation to clean Lake Khuvsgul and retrieve submerged vehicles and equipment has been ongoing for four years and has now been completed.

When Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh was serving as the Prime Minister of Mongolia, he included the goals of placing the ecosystem, which forms the source of Mongolia's freshwater rivers, under special protection and preserving its natural state in the "Vision-2050", Mongolia's long-term development policy, and the government’s action program for 2020-2024.

After being elected as the Head of State, he initiated and launched efforts to protect the ecosystem of Lake Khuvsgul, improve its infrastructure, clean hazardous waste from the lakebed, and reduce pollution by detecting, locating, and retrieving submerged vehicles.

The retrieval of the "Sukhbaatar Ship", which sank in Lake Khuvsgul in 1985, in 2021 marked the beginning of this initiative. Scientists from the Mongolian University of Science and Technology and the National Defense University developed a technological map and installed a retrieval facility, marking a historic first in Mongolia.

The ongoing operation completed today with a ceremony to hand over the retrieved vehicles and equipment to the local authorities in Khatgal Township, Alag-Erdene District, Khuvsgul Province.

President Khurelsukh, Commander-in-Chief of the Mongolian Armed Forces, attended the ceremony, expressing gratitude to the generals, officers, servicemen, scientists, researchers, engineers, local leaders, and citizens who participated in the effort.

During the operation, a working group consisting of more than 120 people from the General Authority for Emergency Management, the General Staff of the Armed Forces, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the University of Science and Technology, the National Defense University, and "Geomaster" Company retrieved 11 vehicles and equipment from depths of 33 to 171 meters in Lake Khuvsgul.

As a result, approximately 50 tons of fuel, oil, lubricants, and hazardous waste were prevented from contaminating the lake.

If the hazardous waste had leaked, it was determined that 2.53 percent of the lake’s surface area, equivalent to an area of over 70 square kilometers, could have become polluted, subsequently contaminating the Eg River and the Selenge River, and ultimately affecting Lake Baikal, which contains 20 percent of the world's freshwater.

Scientists have found that 50 percent of fish and water micro-organisms could have perished, posing a significant risk to Lake Khuvsgul’s ecosystem.

In his speech, President Khurelsukh emphasized the averted danger and risk through collective effort.

These retrieved vehicles and equipment symbolize the hard work and achievement of those involved and serve to remind citizens of the importance of caring for and protecting Lake Khuvsgul.

He urged local leaders to continue prioritizing the protection of nature, the ecosystem of Lake Khuvsgul, and promoting environmentally friendly tourism.

The retrieval operation featured:

The first-time organization of cross-sectional retrieval from water depths under difficult weather conditions based on methods calculated by Mongolian scientists and engineers.
Divers from the emergency management agency undertaking unprecedented tasks, gaining experience, and enhancing their skills.
The use of a multi-function Pro-5 model underwater drone for the first time to study, detect, and retrieve objects from the lakebed.
The use of a “Farm” crane mounted on a floating bridge platform, designed by Mongolian scientists, which was highlighted by participants in the operation.

An emphasis on safety ensured that no accidents or injuries occurred during the operation, as the principle of prioritizing the safety of personnel, labor protection, and compliance with safety regulations and procedures was upheld.

The ceremony to hand over the vehicles and equipment to the local authorities included Deputy Head of the President's Office B. Enkh-Amgalan, Major General S. Ganbyamba, Head of the General Authority for Emergency Management, Major General G. Ariunbuyan, Governor of Khuvsgul Province P. Lkhagvajav, Chief of Staff and First Deputy Head of the General Authority for Emergency Management, Brigadier General J. Chultemsuren, Director of the Department of Natural Resources Policy Implementation at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Ts. Uranchimeg, Colonel M. Batbold, representative of the General Staff of the Armed Forces Construction Engineering Army Administration, and Deputy Colonel S. Ganbold, Head of Khuvsgul Province’s Emergency Department.

Lake Khuvsgul contains about 75 percent of Mongolia's freshwater and 0.4 percent of the world's freshwater. It takes 500 years to fully purify its water once.

The lake contains as much freshwater as ten years’ worth of the average annual flow of all the rivers in Mongolia, and encloses 25 percent of the taiga forest, along with the majority of the country’s rare animals and plants.

President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, when serving as Prime Minister in 2017, initiated efforts to protect Lake Ganga. As a result, the ecosystem of Lake Ganga, which was on the verge of drying, was fully restored by 2023, with the water level reaching the 2005 level. Additionally, a second phase protection project for the lake has been launched this year.

Furthermore, restoration projects for the Kherlen River, Lake Ugii, and the Bumbat Mineral Spring have been implemented under the President’s initiative.

The Government to Establish a Memorandum on "Cooperation for the Protection of Lake Baikal"

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Government of Mongolia held an extraordinary meeting today.

During the meeting, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya, introduced the Memorandum on "Cooperation for the Protection of Lake Baikal."

The activities to be implemented for the protection of Lake Baikal are directly related to the Selenge River basin, and initial proposals have been submitted to the negotiation plan for implementing the memorandum. These include creating a reserve of fresh water resources in the Selenge River basin and focusing on issues of natural disaster prevention.

The fourth section of the memorandum's draft emphasizes special attention to the "Eg River Hydropower Project," according to the Government's Press and Public Relations Department.

Additionally, it was mentioned that President V.V. Putin of Russia will make an official visit to our country on September 3. During this time, he will participate in the signing ceremony of documents between the governments of the two countries.

Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web sites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either partially or completely.

Innovation

Will Collaborate with the USA in Developing a Digital Economy

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications, Ts. Baatarkhuu, welcomed Richard Buangan, the US Ambassador to Mongolia.

He emphasized that the government is focusing on developing digital economy, science, and technology parks, as well as promoting companies operating in the information technology sector not only in the region but worldwide. He highlighted the continuation of discussions previously held with the USA to elevate cooperation to a new level.

Additionally, they discussed continuing collaboration in the introduction of payment systems, experience exchange, capacity building in cybersecurity human resources, studying the leading experiences of US startups, supporting the science and information technology sectors with a favorable legal and economic ecosystem by establishing a model park in Mongolia, with the goal and aspiration of becoming a hub connecting Asia.

Richard Buangan, the US Ambassador to Mongolia, expressed gratitude to the Mongolian government for its special attention to accelerating digital transition in every sector. He noted that the development of a digital economy and ensuring cybersecurity are priorities for both governments, and pledged to support Mongolia through mutual experience sharing and collaboration.

D. Tungalag: Changing four ministers in four years cannot lead to quality education if the ministry is unstable

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

We spoke with D. Tungalag, General Coordinator of the "For Universal Education" civic organization, about the newly approved Educational Package Law.

How do you perceive the Educational Package Law from the perspective of a researcher?

We met with school principals to discuss the education law. My conclusion is that the law was created with a forward-looking approach, aiming to push the current state towards the future. For instance, principals voice concerns that some elements cannot be implemented, but if we approach these positively and can implement them practically, the law might advance the current situation. The law was drafted with a lot of involvement, discussions, and a long process of research, incorporating many stakeholders. Extensive discussions and debates took place in the parliament before it was approved, so as a specialist in the field, I view this as a favorable law.

This law is based on three main principles. First, if we want to ensure children's right to education, what roles do the state, parents, the public, NGOs, and local organizations have, and what should they do? It's a law outlining that children's educational rights require collaboration from all sides. As a result, children will be enrolled in schools compulsorily. Once enrolled, they will receive quality education, demand methods, tools, and conditions tailored to their diverse needs. Schools, local governments, and ministries have the right and obligation to provide these. Teachers need to adapt themselves; school leadership must operate with new cultural practices. Such processes requiring sequential waves of change must happen. Thus, the perspective on who teachers and school leaders are needs changing. However, is this wave forming or not?

Secondly, the law aims for inclusivity. Previously, children had to adapt to schools. For example, if a round-shaped child joined a square school, they needed to become square to fit in. The curriculum required them to match the teaching methods and school's expectations. But now, the question is how to adapt the classroom, learning process, and teaching approach for a round child. We must be interested, study, and experiment on what makes a child learn successfully. Whether the child has disabilities or comes from a different civilization, whether they learn by sight or hands-on experience, the unique learning aspects need studying. Education quality improves when teaching activities are tailored to these needs. Such is the philosophy of the law. Watching how this transforms and changes is an interesting issue.

Thirdly, a fundamental policy is lifelong learning. It's not limited to kindergartens and schools. Learning begins when the brain starts forming in the womb. So, regardless of whether a child is in prison, a monastery, a border detachment, or has severe disabilities, they must learn. The important aspect is how and when, not necessarily in a classroom. They can study online or through assignments. A teacher might visit once or twice a month. Furthermore, learning isn't a one-time event like graduating from a university. I like citing an example: someone I know well retired at 55 and re-enrolled in university, now studying as a traditional medicine practitioner. Lifespans are extending, so learning should be viewed differently. Learning, like eating, drinking, and sleeping, is a natural activity. If we take education out of the confines of walls, we can learn from everything we do. The law was created with this vision and concept.

Are the basic conditions ready for implementing the Educational Package Law? Will your organization monitor its implementation in any way?

Passing a law is one thing. Our organization is focusing on its implementation. The primary condition for ensuring implementation is to immediately approve the accompanying rules, regulations, instructions, and standards. A bare provision of the law changes nothing. For example, educational minister's approval of a school's charter is crucial. If the minister fails to approve a standard charter, all schools could start without regulations. To avoid any risks arising from this, the rules, regulations, and standards accompanying the law must be issued promptly. Out of about 40, around 20 are currently approved. This process must be expedited. Additionally, there's a significant delay in public awareness about laws. Teachers, parents, learners, school principals, and local education officials who will implement the laws should understand not just clauses in PowerPoint presentations but also the broader concepts, objectives, and theories. For example, if the law mandates inclusion of all children with different needs, it should address the difficulties with autistic children. Without this understanding, explaining the real benefits of attending a regular school may be challenging. Without explaining the principles and values behind the law, it doesn't work. Therefore, promoting the law should be conducted by state organizations starting from the parliament. Traditionally, a lawyer is the one who understands reading legal terms. We need reasons and conditions to implement laws.

We strive to ensure the right to education for everyone, facilitating the implementation of the law. Regardless of the location, the right to education must be guaranteed. As a civic organization, we contribute our efforts and resources to implementing this law. Meanwhile, we urge and demand from the government. After the local government elections, we have developed tools for monitoring the law's implementation and evaluating its initial phase by the end of October. Based on this evaluation, we will provide actionable recommendations to the government regarding aspects where the law's implementation falters and push for the required measures.

Educational policy stability often wavers with government longevity. How does your organization address this?

One key accomplishment of our education coalition is ensuring consistency in educational policy and maintaining regular updates to the curriculum. Ensuring that educational policy is founded on research and evidence is our priority for the government. Educational policy shouldn't change based on personal views, specific groups' desires, or commercial or religious objectives. Policies must be based on evidence and proof, which we strongly insist upon.

Secondly, policies shouldn’t be drafted in secrecy. Policies should not be implemented based on unrecorded or unapproved directives serving specific interests. Policies must be officially recorded and approved by an authorized body, clearly stating objectives, results, measures, and the source of funding, which we demand.

Thirdly, without wide-ranging discussions, educational policy shouldn't change. Particularly, in education, policies should not be developed without agreeing with and consulting parents, teachers, and learners. For instance, they intend to charge parents for preschool meals. The first thing should be consulting parents. Whose child attends preschool? Parents enroll the children, so the state shouldn't impose unreasonable demands without prior explanation. They should explain the rationale behind the policy, the nutritional content, and the consequences of paying a fee. Civic societies or, at least, experts should be consulted. We conduct constant external monitoring. We are aware of potential injustices or issues that may arise. Cooperative dialogue with scientists, researchers, and international project implementers is necessary before changing educational policy. We push the government directly, achieving successful outcomes.

Additionally, the government has worked in this direction. The Vision 2050 represents Mongolia's first long-term development policy. A long-term development policy means it won't change frequently. Regardless of the change of any minister or government, the policy will be implemented as planned. We see this as a positive aspect and actively participate, discussing and providing input on long-term educational policy. Therefore, I'm confident that educational policy won't change frequently over the long term.

What significant advantages and changes have been incorporated into the educational policy? What is their significance?

The most important policy document in our sector is the 12-year curriculum, which extends to 15 years with three additional preschool years. It specifies what subjects are taught in the first grade, the skills, attitudes, and values instilled in individuals. This fundamental policy document changes only based on its implementation period, not any time in between, as legally stipulated. It will only be discussed when it reaches 12 years. A clause has been added that the curriculum will not change every four years. Additionally, curriculum development has traditionally been assigned to experts such as university and college instructors and educational research institute staff responsible for education. However, this year's curriculum renewal involves civil society, parents, young people, and employers. Civic organizations participate in the curriculum development committee. We review drafts of curricula and educational materials. For example, we examine the incorporation of human rights issues, gender equality, compatibility with democratic and constitutional principles, or the promotion of violence from certain perspectives. In the previous parliament, civic organizations requested the Prime Minister to let the Minister of Education maintain a position for four years. Previously, four ministers were changed within four years. When the new government formed, we asked for a capable and skillful minister to work in the role for four years. Having the same minister is crucial for the education sector, impacting the lives of many. If ministers are easily replaced, the impact on education quality will not materialize.

Organizing Educational E-Systems and Improving Integration

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Ministry of Education has established a working group to organize the sector's e-systems, improve integration and information exchange, and develop a unified information technology interface architecture to begin their work.

The about 30 systems that provide education services electronically are uncoordinated and disorganized, causing inconvenience akin to digital oppression for users such as teachers, students, parents, and guardians. Therefore, it aims to establish a competitive market principle that satisfies the needs and requirements of schools, teachers, students, parents, and guardians.

The working group is headed by the Minister of Education's advisor, D. Gantulga, and includes more than 40 representatives from both the public and private sectors. The working group will analyze the education sector's services and reach a consensus. The division states that it aims to clarify the responsibilities and working principles between the public and private sectors, supporting fair market competition and providing Mongolian engineers with the freedom to innovate, adapt global technologies, and foster creativity.

Use of Artificial Intelligence Begins in Family Clinics

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

As part of the project "Strengthening the National System for the Prevention, Treatment, and Support of HIV and Tuberculosis in Mongolia," it has been decided to gradually supply primary healthcare institutions with high-resolution portable X-ray machines based on artificial intelligence.

Today, artificial intelligence-based high-resolution portable X-ray machines, each costing 197,791,425 Mongolian Tugriks, were handed over to the first five family clinics.

Member of Parliament and Minister of Health T. Munkhsaikhan emphasized that the result of this equipment could increase the early detection of tuberculosis, reduce the spread of the disease, delays in diagnosis, service congestion, and costs. He noted that this marks the beginning of our country's hospitals using artificial intelligence to provide services and expressed commitment to keeping pace with global advancements, bringing healthcare services closer to citizens through technological progress.

SELEGEN: Ch.Altantuya: Over 100 Vacant Teacher Positions Have Arisen This School Year

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Selenge Province's Department of Education, Culture, Science, and Sports has a tradition of organizing an annual conference to review the successes and achievements of the past academic year and to discuss the goals and objectives of the new school year.

During the event held on the 29th of this month, a conversation was held with Ch.Altantuya, the acting head of the province's Department of Education.

The educational sector of the province is reviewing its successes, achievements, and shortcomings and discussing the tasks to be undertaken in the new school year. Thank you. During the 2023-2024 academic year, we worked towards the goal of "Improving the management of kindergartens and schools based on collaborative involvement and evaluation, and enhancing the accessibility and quality of educational services." Within the province, 22,153 students were enrolled in 35 general education schools, and 7,933 children attended 43 kindergartens. The enrollment in preschool education increased by 7.6% compared to 2023, reaching 92.8%, while the coverage for basic education increased by 2.4%, concluding at 94.2%.

Within the province, more than 30,000 children were enrolled in 80 educational institutions, and over 3,000 teachers and staff worked to provide educational services equitably as per legislation. Additionally, 641 students studied in 31 specialties at two vocational education institutions.

The lifelong learning unit under the center for lifelong learning operates in 16 soums and 3 towns. This institution organizes training with 21 teachers and 348 learners at general education schools. The equivalent curriculum was used to provide compensatory education to 65 learners in primary education, 138 in basic education, and 146 in full secondary education.

Various training, counseling, and advocacy activities were organized in six areas of lifelong education, engaging 1,707 citizens in 45 different activities.

The past academic year concluded smoothly. As per the Minister of Education and Science's order, the structure of the academic year was implemented, and support was provided in organizing end-of-year exams for students of all forms of ownership at general education schools, vocational schools, and polytechnic colleges under unified leadership.

Activities aimed to ensure the continuity of classroom lessons and instruction based on the policies, laws, orders, and directives for pre-school educational institutions. For example, initiatives to improve kindergarten management were implemented in stages, increasing the enrollment rate to 92.8%. Activities supporting children's development in six areas were regularly organized through preschool curriculum programs.

Teachers conducted initial assessments of children's skills at the beginning of the school year to plan educational activities based on this assessment and conducted regular progress evaluations.

At the end of the school year, assessments of developmental outcomes for 2-5-year-old children enrolled in 39 state kindergartens were conducted for each group and compiled into three levels. In this assessment, 2,666 children (13.6%) were at an average level, and 17,005 children (84.1%) were at a satisfactory level, while 449 children (2.3%) were assessed at a below-average level.

An evaluation to measure school readiness included 2,071 first-grade students from 71 classes. The provincial average was 73.4%, which is 3.2% higher than the national average of 70.22%. However, this is 0.6% lower than the performance assessment in 2022.

Eleven kindergartens involved 260 children from herding families in their catchment area through alternative programs such as summer nomadic and mobile ger kindergartens.

In the efforts to improve organizational management, support for developing high-quality kindergarten management models, strategic planning methods, and internal assessment methods were provided by our agency twice.

Additionally, professional group models, narrative teaching methods, exhibition lessons, and lecture competitions for experience exchange, as well as regional activities such as "Learn and Grow Together," were organized with the participation of teachers and management staff.

In 2023, 18 kindergartens received organizational incentives after being evaluated between the first and fourth levels of performance evaluation. Furthermore, 244 teachers from 39 kindergartens were evaluated, with 158 teachers receiving incentives by being ranked between the first and fourth levels. In 2024, the number of teachers evaluated between the first and fourth performance levels has increased.

In the 2023-2024 school year, 1,986 six-year-olds were enrolled in the first grade. The net enrollment rate was 93.4%, and the gross enrollment rate was 97.6%, which increased by up to 2.5% compared to the previous year. This is due to revisions to the education sector's information system, which registers only six-year-olds within the catchment area electronically in their respective schools.

With this in mind, it is necessary for citizens and households to verify the accuracy of their registration addresses and to complete and confirm any necessary relocations if moving to another soum, province, or city.

Last academic year, one hour of mathematics per week for 3rd and 4th-grade students was organized using the "EduTen" digital platform based on Finnish educational experience. A total of 4,338 students participated, including 2,067 from 3rd-grade and 2,271 from 4th-grade classes across 154 groups.

Additionally, the "Pearson" English program was applied for 5th and 6th grades. A total of 4,185 students participated from 145 classes, including 2,167 from the 5th grade and 2,018 from the 6th grade. As part of this initiative, an electronic agreement worth approximately 134.9 million MNT was carried out, along with budgetary and local investments of 437 million MNT for upgrading equipment and strengthening internet capabilities. Nineteen digital classrooms, 770 tablets, and 89 computers were newly acquired.

In 2023, performance evaluation revealed that 25 schools rated between the first and fourth levels, achieving an average exceeding the national level by 1.19% and improving by 2.71% compared to the previous year.

Of the 978 teachers who underwent performance evaluations, 527 were rated between the first and fourth levels, marking a 4.2% increase from the last year.

Furthermore, participation in the 2022 international quality assessment survey (PISA) showed that schools in Mandal soum and Sukhbaatar soum schools ranked 4th nationally in reading, mathematics, and science evaluations.

Schools and kindergartens focused on creating a healthy, safe environment for children's development, including nutritional support, equipment renewal, and mental, physical, and psychological well-being.

Campaigns such as "Bullying is Not Allowed" and "Let's Check and Protect Together," along with arts and sports contests, curriculum-based competitions, and other activities, were organized.

Teachers won 3 golds and 1 bronze, while students achieved 1 gold, 3 silvers, and 4 special positions in national olympiads.

Additionally, competitions such as the "Science Fair Selenge" and science contests designed to support students' intellectual and creative abilities were organized. The initiative, spearheaded by MP Ch.Undram, involved over 300 children and youth from 10-12th-grade students of 34 schools, as well as vocational school students from more than 100 teams competing with their creations. Four teams earned positions in the national competition.

An academic conference titled "Developing Educational Institution Management Based on Collaborative Involvement" was held, wherein the collaborative leadership's impact on organizational success and strategies for long-term planning were discussed. The Mandal soum's 3rd kindergarten's methodology specialist B.Narantsetseg and the Legend team from Mandal soum's 4th general education school presented their methods, advancing to a national academic conference and securing top positions.

By the 306th decision of the Government of Mongolia, the Vocational Training Center (VTC) in Selenge province and the VTC in Shaamar soum were merged. This provided a pathway for students to transfer credits from polytechnic college education to Horticultural Agricultural University classes, allowing continuation to higher education.

Admission for the 2024-2025 academic year has been initiated in 16 specialties based on regional development characteristics, labor market demand research, and employer requests. Zuunhara Polytechnic College (PC) in Mandal soum offers 13 specialties as well.

Relying on regional advantages, Zuunhara PC opened a "Forest Technician" class under its long-term strategy to develop agricultural specialty education, enrolling 17 students.

Polytechnic college graduates now have the opportunity to complete a bachelor's degree through direct admission to the 3rd year of HAA University and the technical university, thanks to foreign partnerships. Additionally, those with a GPA above 3.0 are eligible for continuation with a full scholarship at the Agricultural Academy in Russia's Buryatia.

Graduates also have the opportunity to study and work at Sojeon and Namseoul Universities of South Korea and participate in "Student Soldier" programs such as military training.

There were shortages of 65 teachers across 25 schools for 19 specializations in the 2023-2024 academic year. This represents a supply meeting 97.9% of demand for professional teachers. Over 100 teaching positions are vacant this school year, posing potential challenges to maintaining normal educational operations. Fourteen schools in the province are prepared to offer housing support to attract necessary teachers. However, other schools and kindergartens lack options for providing social security or housing, hindering the relocation of professional teachers.

Across the province, 80 educational institutions have established Ethics Subcommittees. These subcommittees assist, provide oversight, and prevent ethical violations with guidance from higher committees.

In total, 129 educational and advocacy actions were conducted, impacting over 3,300 teachers and staff, ensuring compliance with pertinent laws and regulations.

Despite this effort, the number of complaints regarding interpersonal behavior among staff remains unchanged. Therefore, every teacher and employee is urged to adhere to ethical guidelines and laws in their operations.

Health

Senior Citizens, Children, and Pregnant Women Receive Free Influenza Vaccination

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

As the new school year begins and people gather, coupled with the onset of cold weather, influenza and flu-like illnesses spread. The most reliable method to prevent this is through vaccination.

Influenza vaccinations have begun at family clinics, and senior citizens, children from 6 months to 5 years old, pregnant women, and healthcare workers can receive the vaccine for free.

Once vaccinated, immunity is maintained for one year, providing protection against the illness. Most children who have died from influenza had not received the seasonal flu vaccine. According to studies, 7 out of 10 people believe that wearing a mask can prevent infection.

Additionally, following the schedule announced by your district's health center, children aged 2 to 5 can receive free screenings for urinary tract infections and parasitic worm eggs.

Source: Capital City Health Department

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The implementation of the resolution related to the "Measures to Be Taken Following the Inspection of the Causes of Medicine Price Increases," adopted by the previous parliament, is insufficient. Thus, the new parliament, consisting of 126 members, has discussed and approved the resolution "Measures to Be Taken to Ensure the Implementation of the 38th Resolution of the State Great Khural 2024." During this session, members asked questions and received answers.

MP L. Munkhbayasgalan: We all know that low-quality medicines are imported and sold. We've all experienced it ourselves. This matter is not discussed nor are solutions found because the pharmaceutical mafia appears to have formed in Mongolia. Moreover, there isn't permission to import essential medicines needed after severe illnesses. Our doctors prescribe them, and those medicines come in secretly and are sold covertly. After heavy surgeries, patients can't get their medicines. They are expensive, and because bringing them into Mongolia is not permitted, people are forced to go abroad. The line of citizens who mortgage their homes to go abroad is unending. Why can't the truly necessary medicines be included in the import list? Isn't the mafia working in its real sense here? Fake medicines are a joke. Moreover, the mafia network has infiltrated the medical device and equipment market. Only companies of doctors working in a few big hospitals and those receiving pensions bring them in. Everyone knows this, but no one speaks up. Mongolians seem to have this habit of not speaking out against doctors and monks. What measures will be taken regarding these matters?

MP J. Chinburen: There is no register of required painkillers and new medicines based on new technologies. It takes 6-12 months to register. After registering, they are tested in laboratories. When holding hearings, this whole process deliberately sets up barriers to keep others from entering the medicine market, using a localized technology. So, the resolution we propose to pass will allow us to directly import medicines approved by WHO in highly developed countries into Mongolia through a simplified process. Essentially, they will not need to be re-registered or tested in laboratories.

The hand-to-hand trade is a serious issue. We are making a lot of strict regulations with the law set to take effect on October 1st. For example, it will be impossible to advertise medicines and health supplements on social networks. If advertised, fines will be imposed, and responsibility will be assigned. However, non-prescription health products can be advertised on television, radio, press, and websites. Another important provision is prohibiting incentives. In other words, doctors will not promote medicines.

MP M. Narantuya-Nara: The medicine network has become a business. There is a pharmacy under every apartment building. Who issues the permits for supplying medicines? There is skepticism among citizens that people related to the government obtain them. I request answers regarding whether the licensing authority is truly operating without corruption.

Also, medicine and pharmaceutical advertisements will be banned online, but they are allowed on television. Out of ten commercials aired on television, seven or eight are pharmaceutical ads. This also limits free competition. Anything can be forbidden, but the result is important.

It is true that Mongolia receives cheap and inadequate pharmaceuticals. I think many issues related to abortion medicines might be circulating nowadays.

MP J. Chinburen: It is true that retail pharmacies have sprung up in every corner. This is related to the abolition of major legal regulations. Moreover, because pharmaceutical sales are profitable, pharmacies are operating according to market demand. These regulations will be included in the new law. Today we are including an important aspect in the law we are going to pass. That is empowering people with medicine control. For instance, medicines imported at wholesale prices will be reported by box, piece, or ampoule. Citizens will be able to scan a QR code at pharmacies and see what wholesale price was paid and what they are being charged. This is considered a superior method to empower people to monitor price increases.

The legal act regarding individuals facing legal responsibility for advertising medicines and pharmaceutical products through social networks is unclear. For example, it might be claimed that a health supplement cures cancer without any evidence or accountability. A flaw of social networks is that the public cannot see who is selling what to them, which is why we pointed out this issue to the legal working group. For instance, someone might suggest on a Facebook group that they recovered by taking a certain medicine, urging others to try it, despite cancers having various forms requiring different treatments. Our intentions to help sometimes cause harm. This is why health business cannot be a profit-seeking venture. Therefore, citizens must be cautious and alert. Such businesses should not be allowed in Mongolia. They must be under regulation and control.

The "Child Immunity Support Campaign" of Monos Pharmacy has started nationwide

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At a time when school classes are starting, children's immunity sharply decreases, making their bodies susceptible to infections as immunity weakens. Children can easily catch colds and the flu when gathered together.

Therefore, we are sharing methods to support your child's immunity:

Regularly provide Vitamin D in appropriate doses required by the child's body.
Give 200-250ml of fruit juice rich in Vitamin C daily.
Perform point massage on the child's body every day.
Bath the child in water with savory or black tea.
Teach the child to gargle with soda water every morning.
Ensure regular handwashing.

Additionally, ensure that your child goes to sleep no later than 9 PM. After 9 PM, growth hormones are released, which activate the immune cells and relieve stress and fatigue. For adults, sleeping at this time can slow down the aging process.

Feed your child three meals a day, as this supports their immunity, and ensure they engage in 30 minutes to 1 hour of active exercise daily.

Parents should be aware that young children also experience stress. Leaving your child alone for long periods, causing dissatisfaction or stress, and keeping them in uncomfortable conditions can affect their immunity. Parents should talk with their children to reduce stress.

If you cannot leave your home or there is no Monos pharmacy nearby, you can order from the Monos hotline 1800-1883, the www.emonos.mn website, or the emonos application for free delivery.

Sports

PARIS 2024: G.Bolor-Erdene to Compete for the Gold Medal

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

On the second day of the Paralympics, in the men's K-44 category of 63 kg in para taekwondo, Mongolia's honored athlete Ganbat's Bolor-Erdene is competing.

Our athlete received a bye in the first round and dominated Dominican's Geraldo Castro 19:5 in the quarterfinals.

In the semifinals, he defeated Italy's Antonino Bossolo 6:4. He scored two points just one second before the time ran out, securing victory over a tough opponent.

G.Bolor-Erdene faced A.Bossolo in the quarterfinals of the Tokyo Paralympics three years ago and was defeated.

He will compete for the gold medal against Turkey's Mahmut Bozteke. They had a close match in the repechage round in Tokyo, where the Turkish athlete won 23:22 and subsequently defeated A.Bossolo for the bronze.

The final match will take place at 3:46 Ulaanbaatar time.

Today's Stories

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Politics

Parliament: Fourth Discussion on the Budget Amendment

The Government Held an Extraordinary Meeting and Made the Following Decisions

PHOTO: The Extraordinary Session of the State Great Khural Concludes with an Increase of MNT 3.1 Trillion in the 2024 Budget Expenditure

Non-judge Member of the Judicial Council N. Otgonchimeg Released from Duty

Parliament's Special Session Meeting Concludes Today

Who will allocate and spend how much from the 2024 national budget?

It Was Advised to Re-budget Social Welfare Expenses

D.Zagdjav: Our Audit Report Does Not Conclude That the Decision Made by the Then Prime Minister and Current President Was Incorrect

S.Önör: If a Healthy Foundation Isn't Established, Party Governance Will Continue to Dominate Instead of Citizen Governance

J. Ganbat: I Did Not Request a Bonus Either Officially or Unofficially

Report to Parliament Within a Week on Steps Taken to Demolish the "Corruption" Housing Complex

The Issue of Transferring "Tavantolgoi Fuel" to the Property of the Capital Left to be Decided in the Autumn Session

Appointing B. Solongo as the First Deputy Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat

B. Solongo was Appointed as the First Deputy Head of the Cabinet Secretariat

Economy

EVENT: The 4th Mongolia and Inner Mongolia Trade and Investment Summit to Take Place

Investors from Inner Mongolia in Renewable Energy, Mining Visit to Explore Business Projects

Enterprises Will Pay Tax at One Percent of Sales Revenue by Using "Simplified Regime"

Tax Benefits will be Provided for Expenses Incurred under Social Responsibility

Diplomacy

Will Putin's Visit Halt the Uranium Project?

The issue of granting work and holiday visas to Mongolian citizens in Australia is under the jurisdiction of the relevant authorities of the country

Infrastructure

Commissioning the Shivee Khuren-Sekhee Border Railway and Initiating Energy Sector Reforms

If a vehicle with a provincial license plate stays in the city for more than 48 hours, a fee of 5000₮ per day will be charged

Cameras Installed at 22's Checkpoint and Emeelt to Register Local Vehicles

Meet: The Citizens, Companies, Locations, and Capacities of 72 Approved Parking Lots in Ulaanbaatar

MIAT LLC to Operate Direct Flights to Ho Chi Minh City, a World-Famous Tourist Destination

Approximately 4,850 Containers Awaiting Departure to Mongolia at Tianjin Railway Station

Instructed to Submit Information to Parliament on the Approval Issue for the Additional Construction of the "Aqua Garden" Complex Within a Week

Bogd Mountain Road Will be Closed Tonight

The Road from 32nd Roundabout to Khailaast Junction Renovated and Opened for Traffic

Intercity buses to Bayan-Ulgii, Uvs, Khovd, and other eight provinces will depart from Dragon Center until September 15

Installed Cameras in 1,100 Buses to Detect Vehicles Traveling on the Bus Lane and Stopping at Bus Stops

Society

The Diplomat: Mongolia Hosted the World Women's Summit for the First Time

Environment

Memorandum on Cooperation for the Protection of Lake Baikal to be Established

Recovery of Vehicles Submerged in Lake Khuvsgul Completed

The Equipment and Vehicles Submerged in Lake Khuvsgul Have Been Retrieved

The Government to Establish a Memorandum on "Cooperation for the Protection of Lake Baikal"

Innovation

Will Collaborate with the USA in Developing a Digital Economy

D. Tungalag: Changing four ministers in four years cannot lead to quality education if the ministry is unstable

Organizing Educational E-Systems and Improving Integration

Use of Artificial Intelligence Begins in Family Clinics

SELEGEN: Ch.Altantuya: Over 100 Vacant Teacher Positions Have Arisen This School Year

Health

Senior Citizens, Children, and Pregnant Women Receive Free Influenza Vaccination

J.Chinburen: Advertising Medicines and Health Products on Social Media Will Be Banned

The "Child Immunity Support Campaign" of Monos Pharmacy has started nationwide

Sports

PARIS 2024: G.Bolor-Erdene to Compete for the Gold Medal

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