Dec 1, 2024 66 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for December 01, 2024

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

Today's Stories

Politics

VIDEO: The Project to Connect the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod Railway with China is Progressing, and Opportunities for Mongolian Economic Growth Are Approaching

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: isee.mn

Mongolia's eternal neighbor, the People's Republic of China, is leading the global economy and has already reached a high level of development. Although they have invited us to board the "train of development," it is no secret that Mongolians remained stationary, discussing "tanks entering." Now, the construction of the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod border-crossing railway, which was stalled since 2015, is moving forward, bringing opportunities for Mongolians to become wealthy and develop closer. In particular, the "Government of Mongolia's 2024-2028 Action Plan" includes 14 mega projects, with the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod border crossing railway connection as the first priority. Officials stress that contracts and agreements to connect the railway are being staged with the Chinese side. Thus, we traveled to China to investigate the progress of the project and how the dead-end railway will be connected. China Energy Group is considered the world's largest company in coal, heat, renewable energy, and petrochemical production. The Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod border connection railway project is being handled by the China Energy Group from the Chinese side, while Mongolia's working group is led by the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Industry. Accordingly, we first got acquainted with the activities of China Energy Group. This group conducts comprehensive operations in coal, energy, chemical production, and transportation and is a state-owned company ensuring China's energy security. The group is the largest in the world in coal, heat, renewable energy, and petrochemical production. The group has 17 companies involved in coal production and construction, 88 coal mines, with a total capacity of over 720 million tons annually, as detailed by the leadership of China Energy Group. The coal production capacity is over 700 million tons annually, the total installed capacity of electricity is 340 million kilowatts, including 124 million kilowatts of renewable energy, and the length of railway usage is 4,266 km. In short, China Energy Group, responsible for the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod border connection railway project, is one of the big Chinese companies handling 1/6 of China's coal production, 1/7 of electricity generation, 1/8 of heat supply, and 1/9 of railway freight. The company ranked 84th in the "Fortune Global 500" in 2024. China Energy Group, set to partner with Mongolia over the long term, has 17 companies in coal production and construction and 88 coal mines. One of them is the "Heydaogu" mine of the "Kasem Group." It is China's largest open-pit coal mine with an annual capacity to extract 34 million tons of coal, as emphasized by Cui Gao-Yong, Deputy Director of the "Heydaogu" open-pit coal mine. Additionally, the "Kasem Group" has focused on green development by establishing two open-pit coal mines with a global benchmark capacity of 69 million tons and transforming a previously bare mountain with less than 25% vegetation cover into a green zone. Under the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod border connection railway project, collaboration will occur based on the "Three-in-One" principle. China Energy Group, with 4,266 km of railway length, completed the Gantsmod-Gashuunsukhait railway in 2015 per agreement and put it into operation. However, the linkage of this cross-border railway was stalled as Mongolians continued discussing "tanks from China," constructing a standard-gauge railway instead of the contracted one. Through multiple dialogues at various levels, including state leaders and governments, an intergovernmental agreement to jointly build the railway bridge structure was established for this year (2024). Besides linking the dead-end railway, contracts for coal purchase and sale and increasing mine capacity will be signed under the "Three-in-One" principle, according to Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Ts. Tuvaan. Discussions on coal purchase and sale agreements and mine capacity expansion issues are ongoing, and relevant officials are working hard on them. Once resolved and the agreements signed, the railway construction and assembly work is scheduled to begin in 2025, with transportation starting in 2027. The wide-gauge and narrow-gauge railway will be connected by a bridge structure, the construction will be completed by a Chinese company, with a budget of 979 billion MNT funded by Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC. Starting construction of this railway project, which was stalled for over a decade, will enable the development of the Shiveekhuren-Sekhee, Bichigt-Zuun Khatavch, and Hangi-Mandal railway port projects, as highlighted by officials. Additionally, implementing the "Joint Declaration on Developing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Between Mongolia and the People's Republic of China" will become a reality. As a result, the level of poverty will be reduced by half, and the per capita GDP will reach $10,000. Moreover, implementing this project is expected to increase Mongolia's GDP by an average of $3.5 billion annually, and the export income of the coal sector, which accounts for a third of Mongolia's exports, can increase 2.8 times from the current $2.61 billion to $7.4 billion. Furthermore, mining output around Tavan Tolgoi will have the potential to increase 2-3 times, and freight costs may decrease, offering numerous benefits.

Back to Table of Contents

The Government Decides to Submit a Draft Law Regarding Amendments to the 2025 Budget Law

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: ikon.mn

An extraordinary meeting of the Government was held during which the draft law on amendments to Mongolia's 2025 State Budget Law was discussed and it was decided to submit it to the State Great Khural (the Parliament of Mongolia). The President of Mongolia had vetoed the 2025 State Budget Law and the other accompanying laws that were submitted along with it. The State Great Khural discussed these vetoes and decided to invalidate these laws at the plenary session held. The current Budget Law does not provide for how to submit the state budget and related draft laws in such circumstances. According to the timetable specified in the Budget Law, the Government is required to submit the next year's state budget and related draft laws to the State Great Khural by September 1. To establish the legal environment for submitting and discussing the 2025 state budget and related draft laws within 2024, the matter of making amendments to the Budget Law was discussed and decided. Source: ZG Warning Please note that media organizations (including television, radio, social media, and websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either in full or in part.

Back to Table of Contents

Laws and Resolutions Rescinded

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Budget and Legal Standing Committees of the State Great Khural (Parliament) of Mongolia held a joint meeting to discuss the issue of rescinding laws and resolutions passed related to the 2025 state budget, in connection with the President's veto being accepted by the Parliament. As stipulated in Article 90.8 of the law regarding the procedure of the Parliament sessions, once the President's veto is accepted, laws and resolutions may be completely or partially rescinded, or amendments and changes may be made if deemed necessary. Chaired by C. Davaasuren, the Chairperson of the Budget Standing Committee, the joint meeting discussed the President’s veto and its implications. It was decided to nullify several laws, including the law on the 2025 state budget, the law on procedures related to implementing the National Wealth Fund law, amendments to the Corporate Income Tax law, changes to the Customs Tariff and Customs Duties law, the law on customs duty exemptions, additions and changes to the State and Local Property laws, and resolutions numbered 38, 39, and 40 of the year 2024 regarding granting permission for government securities, providing guidelines to the government, and amending the administrative system structure respectively. Resolution 41 concerning measures related to the passing of the 2025 state budget was also annulled. During the initial discussions, no fundamental disagreements arose concerning these proposals. D. Tsogtbaatar, a member of the Parliament, proposed unifying the stages of finalizing the first discussions of the draft laws under Article 39.24 of the Parliamentary Procedures Law, which the majority of the attending members supported. Additionally, the proposal to prepare and discuss a resolution regarding measures to be taken due to the invalidation of the laws and resolutions was discussed. The draft resolution included the task for the Government to resubmit the 2025 state budget law, with a suggested deadline by December 10, which was supported by most members. In the afternoon, the conclusions and proposals from the joint committee meeting were presented by Member of Parliament D. Tsogtbaatar to the Parliament. He noted that the Parliament accepted the President's veto on the law concerning the 2025 state budget and other associated laws and resolutions, leading to their annulment. The joint meeting of the Budget and Legal Standing Committees decided, in line with Article 90.8, to annul these laws, which was supported by the majority of attending members. The proposal to advance these legislative proposals to the next stage for final approval was put to vote, with 68 out of 70 members supporting the motion to proceed.

Back to Table of Contents

Hearing for Judicial Council Non-Judge Member Appointment Process to be Held

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

According to resolution number 05 of the Standing Committee on Legal Affairs, a working group was established with the responsibility of selecting a non-judge member of the Judicial General Council. In accordance with laws and regulations, the working group publicly announced the call for selection. Following this, the process involved several stages: receiving applications and materials from candidates, establishing a working group, registering candidates and announcing them publicly, posting candidate documents on the parliament.mn website, collecting and compiling information about candidates, organizing interviews by the working group, and finally, selecting candidates to be proposed to the State Great Hural (Parliament). The selection working group convened and identified Enkhbaatar S. and Altan-Ochir M. as nominees to be proposed to the State Great Hural. Subsequently, at the meeting of the Standing Committee on Legal Affairs, it was decided that the "APPOINTMENT HEARING" for these two candidates for the non-judge member of the Judicial General Council would be held on December 11. Representatives of citizens, legal entities, media, and public organizations who wish to participate in the appointment hearing should fill out the "Appointment Hearing Participant Registration Form" and send it to galsanbatb@parliament.mn by 5:00 PM on December 3.

Back to Table of Contents

Former Director of the National Center for Infectious Diseases D. Nyamkhuu to be tried next Thursday

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: isee.mn

The trial related to former director of the National Center for Infectious Diseases (NCD), D. Nyamkhuu, and others will take place next Thursday, December 5th. The case concerning the former director of NCD, D. Nyamkhuu and D. Barkhuu, was transferred to the court with an indictment based on the provisions of Article 1.8, paragraph 1; Article 3.1, paragraph 1; Article 3.2, paragraph 1 of the General Part of the Criminal Code, and Article 22.1, paragraph 2 of the Special Part of the law, as stated by the Capital Prosecutor's Office. The Chingeltei District Primary Criminal Court held a preliminary discussion on the case on October 2nd, and had scheduled the trial for guilt determination on November 13th, but it was postponed.

Back to Table of Contents

The Minister Withdraws Complaint in Supreme Court Regarding Land Revocation of Mongolian National University

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: isee.mn

Previously, there was a report on a case where the revocation of 2.5 hectares of land belonging to the "Mongolian National University," which held rights to use 25.5 hectares on Bogd Khan Mountain, was challenged in court. The Supreme Court of Mongolia deliberated on this case and provided an overview of the situation. According to the report, the "Mongolian National University" NGO uses 25.5 hectares in Zaisan Valley for tourism and eco-school purposes. Of this, 1,058 square meters from the first site's 21,140 square meters and 23,643 square meters from the second site's 136,820 square meters were partially revoked on the grounds they "overlap with forest fund land." The Administrative Court of First Instance in the capital ruled that "the forest fund area revoked on the grounds of overlap is not a protective zone meant for forest expansion, nor is it an area of thick vegetation, and it is clearly not a dense coniferous forest, as could be seen from the court's inspection records and photographs of the disputed area..." Therefore, it dismissed the claim entirely. The Administrative Appellate Court concluded, "The aim to develop tourism in a unique and picturesque natural landscape that represents the natural characteristics of a specific ecological area is clearly stated in the Tourism Law. This objective cannot be achieved without the use of the land. Therefore, Article 11 and 12 of the Special Protected Areas Law allows for land to be used for tourism in protected areas, with stipulations on what types of buildings and facilities can be constructed, coordinating with the Tourism Law..." Thus, it fully upheld the claim. The Supreme Court decided to review the dispute in a general meeting of the Chamber for Administrative Cases, citing "resolution of discrepancies in the application of the law" as the reason for judicial review. However, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change withdrew his complaint before the judicial review session. By law, if a party withdraws its complaint before the review session, it is considered as not having lodged a complaint, and the case cannot be reviewed. As a result, the ruling of the Administrative Appellate Court stays in effect.

Back to Table of Contents

Military Oath Ceremony Held

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: news.mn

The conscripts who joined the internal military organization with a term of service honorably pledged their "Military Oath," a guarantee of loyalty to their homeland and people. The ceremony was attended by the Chief of Staff of the Internal Military, Brigadier General R. Chinggis, the commander of the Internal Military's 05th unit, Colonel D. Manlaibaatar, and the head of the Police and Internal Military Unified Training Center, Police Colonel B. Davaazul. The internal military organization has a 103-year history and operates with a professional and capable staff. It adheres to the principles of respecting human rights and freedom, ensuring quick and seamless operation, and performs its essential duties to maintain national security in Mongolia. It also provides citizens with "military patriotic ideology" and training, continuing the preparation and transmission of seasoned soldiers. In this way, conscripts are trained in various professions during their service, preparing them to become police and internal military officers. They can also choose to learn one of eight in-demand professions in society, including auto mechanic, electrician, welder, lathe operator, and construction decorator. The organization, in collaboration with the Bank of Mongolia, aims to equip the younger generation with financial literacy to properly start their work and lives.

Back to Table of Contents

Delegates Learned How to Properly Conduct Their Work Within the Legal Framework

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Today, delegates of the Citizens' Representatives Meeting of Selenge Province participated in a capacity-building training on the fundamental concepts of the Meeting organization. As a result of the ninth local election, all 41 delegates of Selenge Province’s Citizens' Representatives Meeting attended a training session today on the operations and organization of the Meeting body, or the Local Self-Government organization. The training covered topics such as Meetings, Councils, Committees, Sub-Committees, Temporary Committees, Working Groups, and the Secretariat. It also addressed the powers and responsibilities of the Delegates, the resolutions of the Citizens' Representatives Meeting, the application of laws and regulations, the role of the Meeting in directing local development policies, and included broad content such as policy evaluation, criteria, effectiveness, and efficiency. The training was led by Dr. B. Byambayar, a lecturer at the Department of State Administration of the Governance Academy, Dr. A. Altanzul, an associate professor at the Department of Law of the Governance Academy, and senior lecturer Yo. Batsuukh at the Department of Policy and Political Science of the Governance Academy. Through this training, delegates gained specific knowledge and information on how to properly conduct their activities within the legal framework during their term of office.

Back to Table of Contents

Diplomacy

UVERKHANGAI: Ambassador Kate Smith Presented Projects to be Implemented Locally

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ambassador Kate Smith from Australia to Mongolia and Country Representative of The Asia Foundation in Mongolia, Sarah Taylor, visited Uvurkhangai Province. During their visit, they met with the provincial Governor and officials to discuss various projects and programs to be implemented collaboratively. Specifically, they provided information on the project "Climate Change and Women's Leadership," which is funded by Australia, and the "Let's Read Together" project aimed at improving early childhood literacy. They announced plans to operate in Uvurkhangai province starting next January. Additionally, they emphasized the inclusion of students and young people from Uvurkhangai in the Australian Government-funded scholarship programs. The Australian scholarships provide Mongolian citizens with the opportunity to pursue postgraduate degrees at Australian universities. In 2025, 50% of the scholarships will be awarded to private sector employees, civil society, and international organization staff. Details of the program can be found at www.australiaawardsmongolia.org.

Back to Table of Contents

Infrastructure

N. Manduul: $500 Million Arrived to Develop Selbe as a Model /TRACK/

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: isee.mn

This year, the capital raised 500 billion MNT through domestic bonds and another 500 billion MNT through foreign bonds. We spoke with N. Manduul, a member of the Ulaanbaatar City Council and Governor of Chingeltei District, about how these funds, particularly the $500 million in foreign bonds, will be utilized. - It is said that in the proposed 2025 budget for the capital city, vehicle taxes and road usage fees will be increased fivefold. Is this increase intended to pay off the 500 billion MNT domestic bonds issued this year? - Previously, 40-50 billion MNT was spent annually on road repairs. Last year, however, 400 billion MNT was allocated for this purpose, which is an increase by 9-10 times. The aim was to thoroughly renovate major arterial roads. 150 billion of this was financed through bonds, with the remaining 300 billion provided by the state budget. Therefore, the road fees are not being increased simply to pay off the bond debt. Road fees had not been increased for over 10 years. For example, a Prius pays an annual road fund fee of only 20,000 MNT. We aim to adjust these fees to be more in line with market principles. - Of the 500 billion MNT raised from domestic bonds, 300 billion was allocated to the Booroljuut Power Plant and 150 billion to comprehensive road construction. Do you think the decision to use the bond for these developments was correct? - When issuing the bonds, we explained to investors exactly what projects would be funded. This is in essence a commitment. We also received authorization from the Government and the Parliament. Since 2021, global investment in coal-fired power plants has stalled. The Booroljuut Power Plant is being built by the private sector. They had reached a point where they could not access finance from abroad due to their debts at home. Therefore, we supported the private sector by lending to them through bonds. In other words, the bond interest will be paid from the power plant. This will allow the power plant to be operational by this winter. - At the beginning of our conversation, you mentioned that vehicle and road usage fees were being increased. When N. Altankhuyag was Prime Minister, he was criticized for issuing Chingis and Samurai bonds that allegedly put the country into debt. However, this year Ulaanbaatar has issued a 500 billion MNT domestic bond and a $500 million foreign bond, the first of its kind. Who authorized Ulaanbaatar to issue these bonds? - The resolution clearly states the amount and purpose of the issuance. It was decided that the capital would spend such an amount on specific projects. Subsequently, the city budget was approved and the bonds were issued according to law and regulations. However, this is not something that can easily be done just because the law allows it. Our credit rating has recently improved. By synchronizing timing, we managed to secure the loan at a lower interest rate. The difference from previous bonds like Chingis and Samurai is that the funds were not clearly allocated, leading to unfinished large projects. This time, we are committed to exclusively using the $500 million foreign loan to develop the Selbe River infrastructure, prohibiting use for other purposes. The $500 million was deposited on the 21st. We keep it in the Central Bank for oversight purposes. Both the Central Bank and the capital city maintain dual oversight. - The public might be suspicious that the $500 million foreign bond was issued privately. Why was it done privately? Which foreign company purchased the capital's $500 million bond? - "Privately" might be a mistranslation. It means we proposed to a specific company and completed the transaction directly. This is much faster time-wise. There is no secrecy involved. Information about our bond is publicly available on Bloomberg. We aimed to attract large investors. The interest from major companies suggests they believe the projects can generate returns and repayments are feasible. Also, they see social benefits in converting ger districts into apartments and reducing pollution and traffic. When two large funds expressed interest, smaller and medium-sized companies followed suit.

Back to Table of Contents

Management of "Tavantolgoi Fuel" LLC to Transfer to the Capital City from December 1

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: news.mn

According to Government Resolution No. 62 of 2018, which prohibits the use of raw coal as stipulated in Article 18, "Tavantolgoi Fuel" LLC was established based on Board of Directors Resolution No. 23 of "Erdenes Mongol" LLC to construct a briquette production plant. The shares of this company are held as follows: 51% by "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" LLC, 39% by the Ministry of Energy, and 10% by the State Property Policy Coordination Agency. The company operates three plants in the western, eastern, and central regions. The western plant is located in Songinokhairkhan District, with an annual production capacity of 600,000 tons of fuel. The central plant is in Bayangol District, with a capacity of 200,000 tons per year, while the eastern plant is in Tuv Province, producing 600,000 tons of briquettes annually. Additionally, during the coal hearings conducted in 2023, the company reported having assets worth MNT 413.3 billion, liabilities of MNT 997.2 billion, and accumulated losses of MNT 583.9 billion. Now, the ownership of “Tavantolgoi Fuel” LLC is being transferred from the state to the capital city's ownership. Specifically, the Mayor of the city, K. Nyambaatar, has initiated the transfer of the company's management to the capital since 2023. As a result, starting from December 1st, the capital city will take over the management of the company.

Back to Table of Contents

Information on the Winter and Spring Preparation for 2024-2025

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, S. Amarsaikhan, provided information on the progress of preparations for the winter and spring of 2024-2025. He stated that in 2024, 15.4 million young animals will be raised across the country. This winter, of the 60.2 million livestock in 189.2 thousand herder households, 7.3 million livestock in 17.7 thousand herder households will migrate for better winter and spring conditions. The government has ensured the implementation in accordance with Resolution No. 286 of 2015 of the Government of Mongolia and Decree No. 68 of 2021 of the Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, which involve a methodology for assessing risks of dzud (severe winter conditions) developed by relevant professional organizations. The general risk assessment indicates that the risk level is "very high" in Arkhangai, Bayan-Ölgii, Govi-Altai, Zavkhan, Sukhbaatar, and Tuv aimags, "high" or above average in Govi-Sumber and Övörkhangai aimags, with the country's overall dzud situation assessed as "medium." In the agricultural sector, animal feed was planted on 94.9 thousand hectares nationwide in 2024, and 246.9 thousand tons of fodder were harvested. From the grain produced, 50.0 thousand tons of wheat have been converted into feed grain, supplying 289.8 thousand tons of feed to the livestock sector for the winter and spring of 2024-2025. The import of feed remains steady, with 71.2 thousand tons imported since the beginning of 2024, of which 35.9 thousand tons have been used for winter preparation since June 1. The nationwide preparation for winter and spring in the livestock sector, evaluated based on key indicators such as herders' forage and feed preparations, aimag and soum safety stock of forage and feed, water and fence availability, and herder households' readiness, has reached 86.7%. However, this is not a guarantee as conditions are highly dependent on the severity and duration of snow and dzud, emphasized the Deputy Prime Minister. He added that as of today, 65 boilers and 45 turbo-generators, essential equipment of thermal power plants, are operating smoothly. Additionally, with the revised national budget for 2024, a subsidy of 131 billion MNT has been resolved to fully support the winter preparation work plan, secure coal and fuel reserves, purchase imported electricity, reduce tariff losses, as well as repay accumulated debts to suppliers, taxes, and social insurance, and improve the financial efficiency of companies. For the settlement of the debt owed to suppliers due to preparatory work and technical organizational measures for winter readiness and execution of investments, 58.3 billion MNT will be allocated. To address losses from October and November from the price difference set lower than the actual cost of coal extraction, 32.0 billion MNT will be used. To offset losses from import electricity tariffs, 16.5 billion MNT will be provided. For settling debts due to social security contributions and taxes affecting some companies, 3.9 billion MNT will be used. In the energy sector's preparation to work without subsidies from 2025, 4.5 billion MNT will be used for short-term debt clearance and structural reorganization related to "Western Region Energy System" and "Altai Uliastai Energy System" SOEs. Under existing orders and decisions, winter readiness support as of September 30, 2024, has funneled 125.8 billion MNT to 27 state-owned factories and companies. During peak winter load operation, thermal power stations are running at full capacity without reserve equipment, prepared to limit consumer demand if unexpected outages in unit equipment occur. In addition, "Tavantolgoi Fuel" LLC has prepared 93.0 thousand tons of briquette fuel stock for winter preparation, and currently maintains 82,408 tons in stock across 38 warehouses and factory sites in 7 districts of the capital city. There are also 198.2 thousand tons of middling, 9.4 thousand tons of binder, and 20.0 million sacks on hand, continuing production normally with average execution at 97.5%. Furthermore, based on the official directive "On Intensifying the Winter Preparations of Residential and Public Utilities Organizations," 42.3 billion MNT has been spent on 44,821 projects, achieving a 93% completion rate for winter preparation across the sector. In local residential and public utility organizations, 19.6 billion MNT has been spent by November 6, 2024, achieving 90% plan completion. Ulaanbaatar city's residential and public utility organizations, consisting of 62 private and 4 local public ownership operating entities, have spent 22.7 billion MNT by November 6, 2024, achieving 96% plan completion for winter preparation as reported by the Deputy Prime Minister, S. Amarsaikhan.

Back to Table of Contents

Society

GOV-ALTAY: UNICEF Team Visits Gov-Altay Province

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

A team from UNICEF visited the Gov-Altay Province to discuss and exchange views on cooperation. The team was received by Governor G. Chinbat of the Gov-Altay Province, where they discussed the implementation of the 2024 cooperation plan and potential collaborative activities in the future. Governor G. Chinbat stated, “In the next four years, our province will continue to implement the 'Gov-Altay 80+' program, aiming to establish dental offices in local districts, provide cars for team doctors, resolve social issues for health sector employees, and set goals for our citizens to live beyond 80 years.” The operation costs and workforce expenses for the temporary child protection shelter, set to open in December this year with support from Japan's "Grassroots" program, have been included in the budget. Further cooperation was expressed for necessary equipment and furnishing work. The UN task force, with the commencement of immunization against the human papillomavirus for 11-year-old girls and boys in accordance with the schedule, urged relevant organizations to intensify vaccination efforts within the province. Also, the provincial government reported that the necessary computers and technical equipment were handed over to the Provincial General Hospital during this visit. The cooperation between Mongolia and the UN focuses on protecting children's rights, education, and health, and supporting the development of children and youth.

Back to Table of Contents

Featured Report: Citizens are preparing their winter supplies with 1-1.5 million MNT

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: news.mn

News agency summarizes last week's featured reports. THE PRICE OF ESSENTIAL GOODS HAS INCREASED BY 30% Mongolians have a bad habit of increasing the price of essential goods following any price increase. Although the government increased the price of electricity just a few days ago, the price of essential goods has already increased, and this increase has been felt in stores, especially in ger districts. We learned from store owners in ger districts about the price increase in essential goods and how people's purchasing power has weakened. Citizen Enkhbayar from Bayanzurkh district said, "In recent days, the price increase in bread and milk is evident. I buy bread and milk every day, but today bread has become 2500 MNT. Although the electricity price increase is directly related, prices shouldn't have increased yet. However, our shopkeepers raise prices by 5-10 MNT just upon hearing about the increase in electricity prices. While it is a minor increase now, it might rise significantly over time," the vendor next door said. Vendors highlighted that the prices of essential food items that people use the most, such as flour, rice, sugar, vegetable oil, and bread, have already increased. We prepared our report by visiting grocery stores in the ger districts of Chingeltei and Bayanzurkh in the capital. Specifically, the prices of flour, rice, sugar, bread, and vegetable oil, which are the most common food for citizens, have increased by 30-35%. These are 6-8 name stores located along streets and corners with fewer footfalls. CITIZENS ARE PREPARING THEIR WINTER SUPPLIES WITH 1-1.5 MILLION MNT Citizens are preparing their winter supplies, and during this time, the prices of essential goods, especially food and meat, decrease slightly. Therefore, this time we visited "Khuuchit Shonkhor" or Denjin 1000 market to report on the meat prices. At this market, there are not only butchers and vendors but also herders from the province selling meat. It has been a while since herders from Khentii, Sukhbaatar, Dornod, and the Gobi provinces have come here to sell meat. They mentioned that due to the increase in prices of hay, fodder, and food products, profits remain poor despite selling their livestock. At the market, mutton is priced at 12,000-13,500 MNT per kilogram, goat meat at 9500-10,000 MNT, beef at 12,000-15,000 MNT, and horse meat at 8500-9000 MNT. A citizen gathering food from the market said, "Meat prices are relatively cheap. For instance, beef is sold at 11,500 MNT. Preparing winter supplies and buying beef alone cost 1.2 million MNT." Meanwhile, meat vendor D. Naran mentioned that purchasing is poor. He remarked, "Meat prices are at their autumn level. Boneless beef thigh meat is sold at 17,500 MNT, and bone-in thigh and solid meat at 15,500 MNT. Citizens mostly gather their food from stalls, but they buy their winter supplies from vehicles parked outside. This year, meat sales are poor. For example, my stall brought in seven beef this morning, and four have been sold." This year, citizens are heading to markets aiming to prepare their supplies within 1-1.5 million MNT. They said they are looking for meat with adequate fat, buying mixed pieces such as beef thighs, parts of sheep, and a horse thigh. CANNOT FIT ON THE BUS IN THE CAPITAL Working and commuting hours make it difficult for capital residents to find a bus. In the winter cold, citizens still wait at least 30-40 minutes for a bus. Even after updating public transportation, the issue wasn't resolved. Hence, we covered the conditions at bus stops in this photo report. THE SUPREME COURT WILL MOVE TO KHANGARD PALACE NEXT YEAR Stripping off walls, ceilings, floors, and construction work are in full swing everywhere. Workers carry materials via elevators and discard unwanted items outside. Building debris piles up at the entrance of "Khangard" Palace, located on the west side of Sukhbaatar Square. The city's administration is moving to Yarmag, and the building is being renovated to house the Supreme Court. The relocation of "Khangard" Palace was discussed as early as 2013. After talking about the relocation for over ten years, it was finally resolved in September 2024. Previously valued at around 80 billion MNT, "Khangard" Palace, located in the A zone of the city, was appraised at 13.7 billion MNT for both land and building, drawing public attention. The 16-story building, in use since 2008, is in one of the most valuable locations in Ulaanbaatar. The city once paid for an independent appraisal of the palace in 2018, reaching 43.4 billion MNT, and again in 2022, reaching 79.5 billion MNT. According to officials, the privatization of "Khangard" Palace was discussed, so an appraisal was conducted to set a minimum price in 2018, evaluating it at 43.4 billion MNT. Moreover, in 2022, the Mayor's Office of the capital conducted a market appraisal, reaching 79.5 billion MNT. Neither appraisal amount was applicable to transfer state ownership. "Khangard" Palace is registered and balanced at 13.7 billion MNT.

Back to Table of Contents

Filing a Lawsuit Against an Unjust Penalty for Losing an ID Card

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Citizen P.H filed a lawsuit against the penalty for losing their national ID. The appellate court annulled the penalty notice, ruling that imposing a fine for losing an ID lacks legal grounds. Citizen P.H lost their national ID and applied for a replacement at the state registration agency. However, the agency informed them that they had violated "the procedure established by the state registration" and would only issue a new ID after paying a fine of 30,000 MNT. P.H considered this penalty for losing an ID to be unjust and filed a lawsuit. In the prosecutor's statement to the court: "... The act of losing or misplacing the ID by the citizen does not fall within the relevant procedures and does not constitute grounds for penalty. The citizen is not liable unless it was during the fulfillment of duties involving the handling of another person's ID as prescribed by law, resulting in its loss and invalidation." Meanwhile, the state registrar argued that "... the ID registration rules are registered at the unified legal portal and considered a legally enforceable act, and citizens are obligated to maintain and hold their national IDs, which constitutes an administrative offense." The government resolution No. 396 of December 26, 2018, approved the "Mongolian National ID Card Regulations," which state in section 2.7: "A citizen is obliged to fulfill the following responsibilities when holding a national ID," and in section 2.7.1: "Hold and maintain the ID carefully and cleanly." The prerequisite for liability is "clean maintenance," meaning that citizens are obligated not to deliberately alter the information or identifying features of their ID. Thus, misplacing or losing it does not count as a violation warranting liability. The National ID Card Regulations do not fully govern public legal relations, particularly the contested section "2.7.1", which does not create a public legal consequence. Losing an ID incurs only personal legal consequences and does not affect public legal constructs or societal norms negatively.

Back to Table of Contents

Winter Entrance Exam Begins on December 5

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The 2024 Winter Entrance Exam will be held from December 05 to 08, beginning with the exam on Mongolian language and literature. Examinees can print their Seating Arrangement by logging in with their registration number and password in the Examinee Corner on the website eyesh.eec.mn. The Center for Educational Assessment will provide pencils and erasers for filling in the answer sheet to the examinees. The exam will be organized in schools numbered 3, 21, 23, 50, and 84 in the capital city.

Back to Table of Contents

Winter Entrance Exam Begins Next Week

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: isee.mn

The "Winter Entrance Exam" for 2024 is scheduled to take place from December 5th to 8th, starting with the Mongolian language and literature exam. Candidates can print their "Seating Plan" by logging in with their registration number and password on the "Candidate's Corner" at eyesh.eec.mn. The "Educational Evaluation Center" will provide pencils and erasers for filling out the "answer sheets". The entrance exam will be held in the capital at schools number 3, 21, 23, 50, and 84.

Back to Table of Contents

Khovd: Thursdays Designated as Citizen Listening Days

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Governor of Jargalant district in Khovd aimag, B. Amartuvshin, has designated every Thursday as 'Citizen Meeting Day.' This allows residents to present their suggestions and complaints related to the district and local area every Thursday between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Governor B. Amartuvshin stated: "The participation of citizens is crucial for the development of Jargalant district, making state policies and activities transparent and open, and improving certain jobs and services. Therefore, to be closer to the citizens and to listen to their voices, we have made every Thursday a day for receiving citizen suggestions and criticisms.”

Back to Table of Contents

"Super" Plan to Live on Your Salary for a Month

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Living in Ulaanbaatar is like a fun race. Sitting down will leave you behind, while running too fast will tire you out. Those who have been racing here for a long time can easily overcome the small hurdles like fatigue, congestion, and frustration. But the young people who stumble and fall at the starting line are the most charming. Their first hurdle is to save their salary for the next month's race and accumulate money for mortgage payments. This is the first simple rule. Some have family members who coach them well, so they clear the first hurdle with ease. But they will continue to run. It is interesting to see how the lives of those who decide to brush off their knees without help from a coach unfold. According to the National Statistical Office, more than 400,000 people aged 19-30 live in Ulaanbaatar. Let's talk about the living conditions, where young people spend their salaries after graduating from university, and what they dream of in this article. Young people who have just graduated and started working have shared with us how they are living from salary to salary with a “super” plan. According to them, a large portion of their salary is spent only on rent and daily meals. 1. WHY IS RENT SO EXPENSIVE? B.Bolormaa, who has been working as a financial specialist for a year: In months with special occasions, my salary is not enough at all. Otherwise, I try to stretch it. During high demand, rent prices suddenly increase. There are many issues of renting at a high price even for deteriorating apartments. It's pleasant to be with family in Mongolia. Otherwise, it’s really stressful. E.Nyam-Ossor, an artificial intelligence engineer: Working in Mongolia feels like there is no standard. Due to low salaries, young people seem to worry about their immediate finances and can't plan for the future. If you rent the apartment you desire, most of your salary will be gone. Therefore, in that month you have to live without spending on anything. M.Mungunzul, a student doing part-time jobs: A lot of money is wasted on unnecessary things due to traffic. It felt like without working continuously for many years, I won’t be able to get what I want. My salary ends with monthly expenses, so I can’t save money. Thinking of my family, I might stay in Mongolia, but if for myself, I think I'll go abroad. The average salary for 1.4 million citizens working in Mongolia has reached 2.5 million tugriks. The median salary for the 700,000th worker is 2 million tugriks. Additionally, we provide official information on how the prices of items included in the “super” plan have increased in recent years. 2. UNTIL NEXT MONTH THE SALARY ENDS JUST RIGHT LOL... Why does the majority of the salary go to living expenses? Economist G. Batzorig explains, "The price increase of goods and services in Mongolia is explained by inflation. Developing countries are not producers, but consumers, so inflation is always high. Many factors such as currency exchange rates, transportation logistics, political policies, and macroeconomic instability influence inflation. 10% of nominal income from salary is lost to inflation. In Mongolia, about 40-50% of what is talked about inflation or average price increase is related to products like fuel, milk, meat, and vegetables. Using the meat market as an example, the supply is unstable, and vegetable supply is seasonal, factors that cause the base market development to be weak, leading to high prices for food and meat. Also, Mongolia being landlocked ranks poorly on the transport logistics index. This results in high transportation costs for goods and products. The inflation for basic goods averages over 10%, which means annually, 10% of your nominal income is lost to inflation." Youth spend most of their salary on renting accommodation. To save some money, they rent shared rooms, public housing, or one or two-room apartments. Let's see the current state of rent prices and conditions. Mostly, people look at ads on Unegui.mn and Facebook to rent a place, so we have prepared information from these sources. Public housing for 500,000-600,000 tugriks is available. A room for 600,000-700,000 tugriks. One or two-room apartments for 1.2-1.5 million tugriks. 3. WHEN WILL I OWN MY OWN HOME? The initial stage of a “super” plan involves choosing from the rental housing listed. In recent years, rent prices have spiked sharply. It is common for young people to jointly rent a two-room apartment and split the cost. Economist G. Batzorig explains how rising housing prices impact the economy and living standards: "The world has faced high inflation since the pandemic. Compared with normal times, in the last three years, prices of the top 10 goods in our country have doubled. This affects living standards. Such price increases and currency devaluation conditions the free fall of assets, leading to an impact on residents' incomes. Basic needs like this influence whether people feel happy or stressed in society. If society is stressed, and financial issues persist, it becomes easy for a person to decide to go abroad." Youth employ simple strategies to achieve their “super” plans, such as budgeting and cutting expenses. However, the most intriguing aspect is the information on how prices of consumer products in the “super” plan have increased over the last eight years. An IT engineer living in the US created a website that calculates how price increases from 2016-2024 affect real income. The website compares the price increase of commonly used goods, showing how your salary has changed from 2016 to today. His calculations reveal a 129% increase in product prices during this period, directly affecting your purchasing power. For example, the price of rice has increased by 92.67% compared to 2016, now at 2,326 tugriks. 4. THE MAIN REASON FOR THE EMERGENCE OF "BRAIN DRAIN" IS LIVING CONDITIONS AND SALARY DISPARITY Participating in Ulaanbaatar's “super” plan race, some young people face failures. Data on those studying or working abroad shows that due to high product prices, expensive rents, and inadequate salaries, “brain drain” occurs. Developing and underdeveloped nations see residents choosing to emigrate to countries with better economic conditions and higher incomes. The "Brain Drain Index" measures this, and since 2007, Mongolia ranks 123 out of 177 countries. Our brain flow index was 3.8% in 2019 and has increased to 4.2% in 2023. Losing future generations like this is regrettable. The head of the HUS Department of Economics states, "Brain Drain refers to the exodus of skilled labor abroad. Currently, our country faces this. The primary causes of brain drain are living conditions and wage differences." 5. IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES, ARE YOU ABLE TO SAVE AND BUY A HOUSE WITH YOUR SALARY? When the “super” plan to live on your salary for a month collapses, young people naturally wonder about moving abroad. Therefore, views from individuals living abroad are shared. Economist G. Batzorig provides information on how to live in this country without devising a “super” plan. He states, "To maintain the value of salaries, fiscal policies need coordination, and political stability must minimize macroeconomic shocks." "To create high-paying jobs, increasing foreign investment and production is necessary. Mongolia has low productivity per capita compared with other countries. If a nation has low productivity, so do its companies. Because of this low productivity, we are caught in the middle-income trap. Without increasing productivity, no matter how hard young people work, they won't earn high salaries, pushing them to seek opportunities abroad. Increasing GDP per capita to $10,000 could reduce outward movement. Low base GDP, productivity, and wages drive youth to seek better opportunities elsewhere. To create high-paying jobs, increasing foreign investment and growing production is essential.

Back to Table of Contents

ERDENEBAT DAMDIN: Benedictions and Praises Are Not Forgotten; They Remain Among the People

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

We had a conversation on the topic of benedictions and praises with Damdintsvee Erdenebat, a member of the Mongolian Writers’ Union, writer, poet, benedictor, praiser, horse announcer, Leading Folk Talent of Mongolia, STA, and an excellent bearer of heritage. - How did you first learn to recite benedictions and praises?
- I was lucky to have been raised absorbing "fairytales" from my father since the time I started talking, walking, and running. Although my father was poor and a hunter, he was wise. Many people gathered at our home, and they used to tell tales and legends, which may have influenced me. Around the age of ten, I became interested in fairy tales and riddles and started memorizing benedictions and praises. As a child, during the Lunar New Year, we used to ride horses and visit homes with friends. Once, we visited an old man named Dorjantzans, who said, "If you show your talent, I'll give you a gift." At that time, gifts were just pastries and sugar. So, influenced by Urjinhand's famous radio benediction "Praise of the Five Animals," which was popular back then, I recited a part of what I memorized. The old man was impressed and gave me 10 tugriks and a red scarf. That was my first award. Officially, I started participating in art reviews, folk art festivals, and competitions at the province and district level from the 1980s. - I believe that reciting from the heart is what defines a true benedictor more than memorizing. Do you think this unique cultural heritage can be carried forward by inheriting and passing down talent within families?
- I'm from the Gunnari of Khairkhandulaan Soum. But I grew up in the "Chuluutain Burd" of Taragt Soum. My family comes from nomads who moved from the Gobi to the Khotal mountains in the 1950s. On my father's side, my ancestry includes a benedictor named Van Naidan. My great-grandfather, "Craftsman" Bat, was skilled in work and eloquent in words. My biological mother was also a person with ready wit. The ability to directly express insights from observations inherited from my ancestors became evident in me, and I became known among people as the benedictor Erdenee. Encouraged by this, the path to becoming a benedictor, praiser, announcer, writer, and poet opened up for me. - Is reciting benedictions and praises different from reciting poetry?
- I can explain this difference with a poem called "Foal." On the high ridge, building your keep, Holding your mare on the wide grass, Wishing me great erg with much milk of mares, Filling the khul with milk, wish me, they say. May the foals in your pen be more than deer, May the foals with halters be more than birds. That's a benediction. "Foal with a long beautiful neck, With wide beautiful hips, With trot in its legs, With mane on its neck, With wolf ears, With bright eyes..." that's a praise. Whereas poetry and lyrics are different. For example: "Of the famed racing stallion’s blood, The first-winning Tumen Ekh’s future Extending the root, The rabbit mirage plains, With hardened hooves..." They are distinctive in meaning. I am not someone who went to school for this kind of research. However, I gained a lot of understanding by listening to people like ethnographer H. Nyambu and notable arts figure Jamtsyn Badraa, and by reading their works. I can call myself any of these three types. I participated in national competitions several times. I received special awards and certificates from the Ministry of Culture. - Judging by your works, you have written quite a lot on benedictions, praises, epics, and folklore. What do you prioritize in your artistic endeavors?
- I have been composing benedictions and praises for almost forty years. I have also announced horses and wrestling for many years. Benedictions and praises are essentially Mongolian poems and lyrics. In the past, not everyone could read and write, but there were many people with great talent. Therefore, benedictions and praises are oral traditions. Keeping up with the times, renewing these is important. For example, house blessings that speak of dwellings with willow walls and felt doors that open by lifting would be unsuitable in the current era. Thus, traditional benedictions are preserved while composing new blessings. I have written about thirty benedictions and praises. Few people compose benedictions. If seventy people read benedictions in a contest, only about 7-8 present their compositions. The rest recite traditional memorized benedictions. Writing and creating benedictions and praises require preserving the essence of national origin. One cannot distort the "Zee, khö" sound and its meaning. If it takes more than four minutes to recite, it becomes an epic, and if it takes hours, it becomes an epic tale. Also, there are brief sayings. It's like how long and short forms of traditional songs are classified as ayzam and besreg. - What do you think about Tanurai Erdenebat and the works of "The Hu" band that are conquering the world? Are they somehow distorting this heritage?
- Benedictions and praises can be recited in any form. Folk songs are being transformed. However, it is important not to forget to preserve our heritage. It is crucial not to change the language and words of traditional praises. Because of ignorance in distinguishing between black-gsei benedictions, prophetic benedictions, and eternal sky benedictions, some speak incorrectly. Benedictions must contain words and language that convey positive energy and turn everything towards good. It is inappropriate to say, "May your children's cup break, May your spoon or hook be broken" in every house. But if many children break their cups in a bustling house, that's when you say: "May you be numerous such that you can't recognize your children, May you be rich such that you can't count your offspring." This belongs to the genre of prophetic benedictions. There are so many foals that you couldn't recognize among a thousand horses. Now my father's sister is 105 years old. She can’t recognize her third and fourth generation offspring. Once, at a celebration, I heard someone say, "Assemble like swans, Match like wild horses" incorrectly as "Match like swans, Assemble like thieves". Young people have great voices and equipment is technologically advanced, so a beautiful voice can make people not pay attention. Therefore, it is important to be careful with the words of benediction. - You successfully participated with your grandchildren in the first regional benediction and praise competition. What was your impression?
- For a first competition, it had many participants and was quite nice. Later, there was a discussion and I shared my thoughts. My granddaughter T.Ochirdagina placed third in the age category of 8-12 years. I won the category of over 40 years. Son G.Ochirdarya participated with class and colleagues according to apprentice training. The main thing is not to lose the value of this beautiful competition and to continue the tradition to nurture many good benedictors. Whatever other regions, South Gobi almost always wins in national competitions. The head of the Center of Benedictors and Praisers Ts. Tserendorj is from South Gobi himself. They are a province that has succeeded in preserving and inheriting this intangible cultural heritage. Our province is also competitive. There are many excellent benedictors among us, as well as younger talents emerging. - What do you observe as errors or things to improve in the many competitions you have taken part in?
- The judges should have knowledge in this area; they should consider the language and expression of the benedictions and praises being read. It isn't benediction just because it fits the meter; you’ll see many flaws in the words when reviewing written benedictions at a poetry competition. In blessing a woman: they say, "With alabaster skin, With eyes dark as a telescope." This is from D.Natsagdorj's poem about lambs. Moreover, mixing and matching different people's blessings into something resembling a jumble and reciting it happens. As I mentioned earlier, there are many who speak maledictive blessings. Some people who cannot recite from memory on stage for five minutes stand to win and receive awards, which also doesn’t seem fair. Conducting contests for brief orations to train young people is the right approach. Minds will open fully. But when one recites the blessing of a house and then goes off on a tangent about a felt house, it's because they cannot improvise. - Do you think that this heritage was somehow forgotten at some time, or was it the benedictors and praisers themselves?
- Benedictions and praises were not forgotten; they remained among the people. Large art festivals and traditional art festivals have been organized without interruption, though the participants were few. This is likely because the benedictions and praises from those times were not short, being at least 2-3 pages long, so few people memorized them. Additionally, state support and attention waned for a period. In recent years, the Ministry of Culture has taken interest and started supporting this field again. Epic tales are maintained by the western regions who have carried on from their ancestors without interruption. In our province, epic tales existed, but they ceased. - As a renowned sum tasker, you have written many benedictions about horses.
- Mostly praises. Announcing horse races is in essence praising them. But there's something noteworthy. In horse announcing, it has transformed from horse announcements to praises for the jockeys. Before, we only briefly mentioned "prepared owner and riding child." Now the focus is heavily on the child. Separate praises exist for children. - How long have you been announcing horse races?
- I have been announcing horse races since I was sixteen. - Are you training disciples?
- State announcer B.Tsogtbaatar, O.Bazarragchaa, recently training blessings and praises through disciple training is G.Onobold, and many other protégés. My son E.Ochirsuren /"Great Mongolia"/ announces horse races and recites benedictions and praises. Now, I am teaching my grandchildren. With talent, one learns. Reciting benedictions and praises, announcing awards requires memory, being able to visualize something you see, having intuitive talent. - In the past, people with ready wit were called benedictors.
- Well-read people like Belem Sen, Lawyer Sandag, Jigmed, and Gelegbalsan, famous in their land for their wit and talent, were many. Even now, in the countryside, there are many who can humor everyone they meet with swift words. That's the essence of oral poetic wisdom. - You are recognized as an exceptional bearer of heritage in the province. Is every person who recites blessings recognized as a heritage bearer?
- Just as one who reads poems beautifully is called a poetry reader, not a poet, those who memorize and professionally develop benedictions or praises as art are different from heritage bearers who inherit and preserve these with innate talents passed down in their original form. Some memorize well but forget quickly. There are heritage bearers who have innate ability who pass it onto even kindergarten children. - What is your opinion on praises? Skillfully composed praises are rare. Praises by renowned benedictor and praiser L. Agvaanjambal "Galshar," "Khugnokhan," N.Dagiyiraz's "Legend of Uulgan Yellow," D.Jantsankhoygoi's "Sun Heaven Lenin," nowadays exceptional talents like D.Shirmenbaatar’s praises are the best, with no better ones emerging yet. - I think of folk tales as a form of oral tradition. But you write folk tales.
- Famous fairy tale authors like H.C. Andersen, A.S. Pushkin exist globally. So I thought, "If these tales can be composed," and wrote a tale called "The Deer with Silver Horns" following the oral tradition of folk tales. One of our directors was going to stage a puppet play of this tale but has since passed on. - Thank you. I wish you great success in your artistic endeavors.
- Thank you for highlighting the beautiful folk heritage and interviewing this old benedictor without exclusion. I wish success in your work and happiness in life.

Back to Table of Contents

KHOVD: Citizens of Jargalant District Promote Their Heritage

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

An open event was organized yesterday to promote and publicize the cultural heritage of the citizens living in the center of Khovd Province, Jargalant District. During the event, representatives of the 12 parts of Jargalant District participated, and heritage bearers displayed exhibitions in four directions and showcased an artistic performance urging pride in their cultural heritage. During this occasion, the Governor of Jargalant District, B. Amartüvshin, delivered a greeting and expressed his support for all stages of work to develop heritage bearers in the future. Representatives from the relevant offices also presented the project of the "Program for the Bequest and Dissemination of Tangible and Intangible Cultural Heritage among the Citizens of Khovd City" and promoted the policies and laws pursued by the state regarding cultural heritage. There are over 700 folk talents and heritage bearers in Jargalant District. This event benefits the promotion and dissemination of the works, talents, and skills of heritage bearers to the public, aiming to preserve, protect, and pass on the heritage. Additionally, it is advantageous for developing local tourism relying on local citizens, thus creating a financial source for them. The main organizers of the event were the Governor’s Office of Jargalant District, Khovd Province, and the NGO Center for Nature Research and Conservation of the Western Region.

Back to Table of Contents

126 Students Selected for the "Youth Parliament-2024" Program

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The fourth round of the "Youth Parliament" program, jointly implemented by the State Great Khural of Mongolia and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), was launched today. Under the theme "Youth Generation - Health," a total of 126 students were selected from over 800 children who registered from 21 provinces and nine districts to participate in the "Youth Parliament-2024" program. The selection process was conducted through a video composition on the topic "How to protect children's health and safety in the school environment?" and an essay on the topic "If I were a member of the Great Khural..." Videos created by the children were showcased during the program's opening ceremony. Of the 126 selected students for the fourth "Youth Parliament 2024" program, 45 are male and 81 are female, with 12 from ninth grade, 36 from tenth grade, and 78 from eleventh grade. Representing them, M. Möngöntsetseg from the 11a class of the first school in Ulaan-Uul sum of Khuvsgul aimag and J. Khantamir from the 10b class of the 48th school of the Bayanzurkh district of the capital city shared their impressions. The students discussed the pressing issues related to the environment and safety of their school surroundings and shared their motivations and goals for participating in the "Youth Parliament" program with their peers. In her opening speech, Deputy Speaker of the State Great Khural Kh. Bulgantuyaa noted the change in public perception since the program's inception in 2021. While initially criticized as an attempt to involve children in politics, it has become evident that children gain valuable knowledge and information beneficial to themselves and society, inspiring them to lead and implement various projects in their communities. She emphasized that the program had established a network of nearly 500 youth parliament members, enhancing its effectiveness and impact. Mr. Evariste Kouassi-Komlan, UNICEF Representative in Mongolia, extended his best wishes to the participants of "Youth Parliament-2024." He briefly explained children's rights, highlighting their interrelated and interdependent nature, including the right to survive, develop, be protected, and participate. He noted UNICEF's collaboration with the Mongolian government on numerous initiatives to improve children's learning environments, including early detection of streptococcal infections among 6-17-year-olds and vaccination drives for HPV, as well as promoting healthy eating habits among students. The main speech of the "Youth Parliament-2024" opening ceremony was delivered by D. Bumdar, Director of the Parliamentary Research and Development Institute of the State Great Khural's Office. His lecture covered the importance of civic rights and duties in parliament, emphasizing the constitutional rights and freedoms of Mongolian citizens and how advancements in public participation are being integrated into the Great Khural's activities. In the later sessions, B. Buyantogtokh, Advisor to the Health Minister, discussed the health and safety of students, presenting statistics on prevalent health issues among Mongolian children and emphasizing the effective implementation of health objectives through schools. Member of Parliament S. Erdenebold, Chair of the Human Rights Sub-committee, shared a short video on scientific and exploratory trends and introduced the international space exploration project "MARS-V," highlighting Mongolia's role as a potential global center for scientific experimentation and space tourism due to its similar ecological features to Mars. The opening concluded with speeches from N. Bulgantamir, Advisor to the Speaker, representing the trainers, and L. Düürenbileg, an outstanding participant from "Youth Parliament 2023," on behalf of previous program participants. The State Great Khural's Media Office provided this information. Follow @montsame.mn

Back to Table of Contents

Environment

Measures to Reduce Air Pollution Introduced

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: news.mn

The second extraordinary session of the Citizens' Representative Khural of Ulaanbaatar City took place on Friday. At the beginning of the meeting, Deputy Governor of Ulaanbaatar City, A. Amartuvshin, presented the implementation of the 62nd resolution of the Government of Mongolia, as well as the measures being undertaken to reduce air pollution within the city. In Ulaanbaatar, 55.6% of air pollution originates from ger districts, 28.9% from vehicles, and 15.5% from water heating boilers, small heating systems, and main power plants. According to the report of the Integrated Statistics Information System, the number of households living in ger districts has decreased from 50.2% to 44% since 2020. However, ger districts contribute 28.2% of the nitrogen dioxide pollution, while vehicle emissions account for 63.2%. This indicates that a significant portion of air pollution is caused by vehicle emissions. It was highlighted in the presentation that 74.2% of the 712,992 registered vehicles in the city are over 10 years old, and the amount of toxic substances emitted increases by 2-3 times when vehicles travel at a speed of 0-5 km/h. Short-term plans are being implemented to reduce air pollution, including: - Implementing housing projects for 20,000 households in the Selbe and Bayankhoshuu sub-centers, ger district redevelopment, and energy and heat source projects. - Gradually transitioning the heating systems of ger district households to centralized heating, gas, renewable energy, and electricity, and connecting steam and water heating boilers to other sources. - Updating the technology for producing improved fuel briquettes. - Increasing public involvement and participation in insulation projects. - Reducing indoor air pollution. - Decreasing pollution from motor vehicles. - Improving the capacity for air quality monitoring and analysis. These measures are being implemented by the Department of Public Relations and Communications of the Mayor’s Office of Ulaanbaatar City.

Back to Table of Contents

A. Amartüvshin: The Smoke Issue Will Be Fully Resolved by 2040

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The special II session of the Capital City Citizens' Representative Assembly was held, where 11 issues were discussed. Among the topics were the measures to reduce air pollution within the capital and the introduction of clean energy sources in Ulaanbaatar to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Several projects aimed at reducing air pollution in the capital are being implemented. In particular, as part of the policy to develop the city from a single-centered to a multi-centered city, sub-centers are being established, creating conditions for citizens in the ger districts to live in a healthy and safe environment, and a total of 202,626 household housing projects are being implemented. As part of the development of the sub-centers, 41,584 household housing units are planned to be built, 148,323 housing units under redevelopment, and 12,719 housing units with foreign loans and assistance. Deputy Governor of the Capital City, A. Amartüvshin, presented the implementation of the Government of Mongolia's Resolution No. 62, and the activities being implemented in the capital to reduce air pollution, as well as future policies. A. Amartüvshin stated: "Since the use of processed fuel, the air quality has not visibly improved. Improving coal and technology alone will not succeed. The solutions are redevelopment, housing, and renewable energy to resolve the smoke issue. Though processed fuel has not eradicated air pollution, it has provided its benefits. It has reduced the air pollution in Ulaanbaatar to some extent. The first phase of housing work in the six sub-centers to be implemented from 2024-2028 will take place. By 2040, 200,000 households will be housed without burning coal. This will fully resolve the smoke issue. Additionally, natural gas connections will be made, and renewable energy will be connected to sub-centers, redevelopment, and households not included in other types of housing. Short-term measures have been taken, including studies. Seals of household stoves in all nine districts of the capital were examined. As a result: - Out of 21,719 stoves in Chingeltei district, 10,912 stoves, - Out of 58,415 stoves in Songinokhairkhan district, 28,201 stoves, - Out of 8,256 stoves in Bayangol district, 4,106 stoves, - Out of 16,196 stoves in Khan-Uul district, 3,589 stoves, have sealing failures and pose a risk of suffocation. The main issue is that the stoves from previously implemented projects and measures are failing to meet usage requirements and have started losing seals. This has led to a suffocation problem. In the future, we will work on reducing the number of citizens suffering from suffocation and ultimately have a policy of not burning or using coal.

Back to Table of Contents

WARNING: On December 1st, Cold and Snowy Weather Expected in Central and Eastern Regions

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: isee.mn

For herders, residents, and transport operators: On December 1st, snow is expected in some areas of central and eastern regions, accompanied by snowstorms. The weather will turn cold in the eastern half of the country, and windy conditions are forecasted in desert, steppe, and open regions. Weather forecast from 8 PM on November 29th to 8 PM on November 30th, 2024: Precipitation: Mostly partly cloudy across the country. At night, snow will fall in the Uvs Lake basin and Khalkh River valley; during the day, snow will fall in the Uvs Lake basin, Mongol Altai, Khuvsgul, and Khentii mountainous areas, as well as Orkhon-Selenge valleys. No snow is expected in other areas. Wind: In the northern part, winds will shift from southwest to northwest at 6-11 meters per second, and in other areas, winds will blow from the southwest at 5-10 meters per second, intensifying to 14-16 meters per second in desert, steppe, and open areas. Temperature: At night, temperatures will range from -28 to -33 degrees in the headwaters of the Zavkhan River and the Baydrag River valley, -22 to -27 degrees in the Darkhad basin, Mongol Altai mountain areas, and the Ider, Tes River valleys. In the Uvs Lake basin, Gobi-Altai, Khangai, Khuvsgul mountainous regions, Orkhon, Selenge, Kharaa, Ero, Tuul, Kherlen river valleys, and Daringanga steppe, temperatures will be -16 to -21 degrees. In the front slopes of Khangai and Gobi regions, temperatures will be -3 to -8 degrees, and in other areas, temperatures will be -9 to -14 degrees. During the day, temperatures will range from -13 to -18 degrees in the headwaters of the Zavkhan River, the Darkhad basin, and the Tes River valley, -7 to -12 degrees in the Uvs Lake basin, Baydrag, and Ider River valleys. In the Mongol Altai, Khangai, Khuvsgul mountainous areas, Eg, Uur, Kherlen, and Khalkh river valleys, temperatures will be -3 to -8 degrees cold. In Khentii mountainous areas, the front slopes of Khangai, and in southern Gobi regions, temperatures will be +2 to +7 degrees, and in other areas, between -3 to +2 degrees. In Ulaanbaatar City Area: At night, partly cloudy and cloudy during the day. No snow. Wind from the southwest at 6-11 meters per second. At night, temperatures will be -9 to -11 degrees, around 0 degrees during the day. In Baganuur Area: At night, partly cloudy and cloudy during the day. No snow. Wind from the southwest at 6-11 meters per second. At night, temperatures will be -12 to -14 degrees, around 0 degrees during the day. In Terelj Area: At night, partly cloudy and cloudy during the day. No snow. Wind from the southwest at 6-11 meters per second. At night, temperatures will be -11 to -13 degrees, -1 to -3 degrees during the day. Weather forecast from December 1st to December 5th, 2024: On December 1st, snow is expected in some areas of central and eastern regions. On the 2nd, snow is expected in the Uvs Lake basin and Khuvsgul mountainous regions. On the 3rd, some areas of western provinces will see snow, and on the 4th, snow will fall in the Khangai, Khuvsgul, and Khentii mountainous areas, accompanied by snowstorms. Throughout most of this period, strong winds at 13-15 meters per second are expected in desert, steppe, and open regions. From December 1st, cold weather is expected in the eastern half of the country. In the Darkhad basin, the headwaters of the Zavkhan River, and Khurenbelchir areas, nighttime temperatures will be -28 to -33 degrees, daytime temperatures -16 to -21 degrees. In Khangai, Khuvsgul, Khentii mountainous areas, Ider, Eg, Uur, Ero, Tuul, Terelj, Kherlen, Onon, Ulz, Khalkh river valleys, and Dorno-Daringanga steppe, nighttime temperatures will be -23 to -28 degrees, daytime temperatures -12 to -17 degrees. In the Great Lakes basin and southwestern Gobi regions, nighttime temperatures will be -10 to -15 degrees, daytime temperatures -1 to -6 degrees. In other areas, nighttime temperatures will be -18 to -23 degrees, daytime temperatures -7 to -12 degrees.

Back to Table of Contents

Warning about the danger of ice breaking

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Although ice has formed on rivers, streams, and lakes, it is not yet fully frozen. Citizens and vehicle drivers are warned not to travel, considering the varying thickness of the ice along the entire length of the river. Therefore, the Emergency Management Department warns against walking or driving over the ice and not allowing young children to play on it.

Back to Table of Contents

Dornod: Frosty Morning

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Although the winter months have already arrived, frost falls on the countryside as if it were autumn, and the days pass lazily. Herders have settled in their winter camps, tirelessly preparing for the winter.

Back to Table of Contents

Weather in Ulaanbaatar: Warm at 0 Degrees Celsius

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: news.mn

Attention to herders, residents, and drivers: On December 1st, snow will fall in certain areas of the central and eastern provinces, a snowstorm will occur, and it will get cold in the eastern half of the country with windy conditions in the gobi, steppe, and grassland regions. This weather forecast is from 8 PM on November 29 to 8 PM on November 30. Precipitation: Mostly cloudy in most areas. At night, snow will fall in the basins of Lake Uvs and the Khalkh River, and during the day, snow will fall in the basins of Lake Uvs, Mongol-Altai, Khuvsgul, Khentii mountainous areas, and the Orkhon-Selenge drainage basin. There will be no snow in other areas. Wind: From the northwest in the northern parts of the country, turning southwest at 6-11 meters per second, and in other areas from the southwest at 5-10 meters per second, increasing to 14-16 meters per second in the gobi, steppe, and grassland regions. Temperature: At night, temperatures will range from -28 to -33 degrees in the sources of the Zavkhan River and the basins of the Baidrag River, from -22 to -27 degrees in the basins of the Darkhad Depression, Mongol-Altai mountains, and Ider and Tes river valleys, -16 to -21 degrees in the basins of Lake Uvs, Gobi-Altai, Khangai, Khuvsgul mountains, and in the basins of the Orkhon, Selenge, Kharaa, Yeroo, Tuul, and Kherlen rivers, -3 to -8 degrees in the foothills of the Khangai Mountains and the desert regions, and -9 to -14 degrees in other regions. During the day, temperatures will range from -13 to -18 degrees in the sources of the Zavkhan River and the basins of the Darkhad Depression and Tes River, from -7 to -12 degrees in the basins of Lake Uvs, Baidrag and Ider rivers, -3 to -8 degrees in the Mongol-Altai, Khangai, and Khuvsgul mountains, Eg, Uur, Kherlen, and Khalkh river basins, +2 to +7 degrees in the southern parts of the Khentii mountainous regions, foothills of the Khangai Mountains, desert regions, and -3 to +2 degrees in other regions. AROUND ULAANBAATAR CITY: At night, there are few clouds, and during the day it becomes cloudy. No snow is expected. Wind from the southwest at 6-11 meters per second. At night, it will be -9 to -11 degrees cold, and during the day, around 0 degrees. AROUND BAGANUUR: Few clouds at night, cloudy during the day. No snow expected. Wind from the southwest at 6-11 meters per second. At night, -12 to -14 degrees cold, and around 0 degrees during the day. AROUND TERELJ: Few clouds at night, cloudy during the day. No snow expected. Wind from the southwest at 6-11 meters per second. At night, -11 to -13 degrees cold, and during the day, -1 to -3 degrees cold. SOURCE: National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring

Back to Table of Contents

Innovation

Tender Invitation: Supplying and Installing Waste Plastic Melters and Conducting Training

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: ikon.mn

TENDER INVITATION: "Service for Supplying, Installing, and Adjusting Equipment for Melting Compressed Waste Plastics and Related Instruments, and Providing Training for Workers" Caritas Czech Republic (KCR), with funding from the European Union, is implementing the project "Ensuring Sustainability of Plastic Waste Recycling in Mongolia" in partnership with the Mongolian Environmental and Safety Center (MES), the T.G. Masaryk Institute of Water Research (WRI), the Mongolia Sustainable Development Bridge (MSDB), and Ecosoum NGO (ES). The project, which has been ongoing since September 2020 and is set to continue until April 2024, aims to contribute to Mongolia's economic development, poverty reduction, and transition to a resource-efficient, low-carbon, circular economy. To complete the remaining activities of the project, KCR and MES have extended their cooperation until December 31, 2024. The main goal of the project is to improve the production capacity of the waste recycling unit in Bulgan soum of Bulgan aimag by supplying equipment to melt collected plastic waste from all soums in the aimag, installing it, and providing relevant training to workers. This comprehensive service is being announced among businesses and organizations engaged in trade and services in this field. Scope of Work for Supplying, Installing, and Conducting Training for Melters: - Supply one of each of the following equipment and instruments: * Equipment for compressing and melting plastic bottles and bags at high temperatures to be used at the waste recycling unit in Bulgan soum of Bulgan aimag. * Electrical control panel for operating the plastic melter. * Motor. - Connect and test the melter and related instruments at the waste recycling unit in Bulgan soum, ensuring it is powered at 380 volts. - Provide introductory training to the unit’s manager and workers on operating the melter and related instruments, including safety instructions for operating the equipment (the service provider will include a program. The duration is one day). Collect names, addresses, and signatures of participants, and include photographic evidence in the training report. - After installing and testing the melter, transfer the equipment to the local Governor's Office, preparing three copies of the act signed and stamped by both parties, and provide one copy to the project team. Technical Specifications for the Melter and Related Instruments to be Supplied to Bulgan soum of Bulgan aimag: - Heating capacity for plastics: not less than 7 kW. - Production capacity for plastic products: not less than 100 kg/hour. - Must include an electrical control panel for operating the plastic melter. - Engine power: not less than 30 kW. - Warranty period must be at least one year. If any defects occur during the warranty period, the supplier must repair them at their own expense. These components must be able to directly facilitate the installation and operation of the plastic melter for production. Businesses are invited to submit their price proposals, supply, installation, and training plans as a comprehensive package. Tenders must remain valid for 30 days from opening. Tender documents including the PRICE PROPOSAL, PLAN FOR EXECUTION OF WORK, and a COMPANY PROFILE with information on similar past projects should be submitted by 10:00 AM on December 9, 2024, to erdene@environ.mn. Eligibility for foreign entities to submit a tender: No Advance procurement notice: No Address: Mongolian Environmental and Safety Center NGO, Bldg 1, 4th Floor, Room 11, 15th Khoroo, Bayanzurkh District, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia Phone: 459125, 99114157; 99010533 Email: erdene@environ.mn Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using this information in any form, fully or partially.

Back to Table of Contents

Mongolian Children Win Silver, Bronze, and Special Prizes at 'Global Pro Robot' Competition

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: isee.mn

Each year, the 'Global Pro Robot' competition is held in South Korea. This year, 12 students and six teachers from the 'Mongeni' secondary school represented Mongolia. They competed in two categories, earning silver, bronze, and special prizes. In the competition, which is aimed at elementary and middle school students, teams from eight countries participated. This is the first time Mongolia has taken part. In the VENUE device category: - E. Anar, a 1st grade student, won a silver medal. - A. Ayalguu, a 2nd grade student, received a bronze medal. - E. Temuulen, a 2nd grade student, also received a bronze medal. - M. Munkhbayar, a 2nd grade student, won a special prize. - T. Dalai, a 2nd grade student, won a special prize as well. In the DRONE category, 6th grade students: - O. Demchig - B. Erkhembayar - B. Tugsjargal - B. Suld-Od - O. Delgerbayar - B. Gegeenkhusel - P. Chinkhuslen received a special prize.

Back to Table of Contents

GOVI-ALTAI: Teachers Attend Calligraphy Training with Bamboo Pens

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Teachers from general education schools in Govi-Altai province have attended a calligraphy training session using bamboo pens. As part of implementing the National Program for the Mongolian Language and Script III, the province's Department of Education and the Language Policy Sub-Council organized a bamboo pen calligraphy training for 35 teachers of the Mongolian language and script. The training was led by M. Erdenebileg, a Buddhist artist from Dashchoilin Monastery and a doctoral student at the University of the Arts. He made valuable contributions to the promotion and preservation of the great culture of learning and spreading the traditional Mongolian script, according to the provincial Department of Education. This training event was successfully organized as part of the 2024 work plan of the Language Policy Sub-Council. The teachers who participated in this training are expected to take part in the next major project, the creation of Jangar.

Back to Table of Contents

Sports

PUBGM: Our country's "4Merical Vibes" team has qualified for the "Grand Finals" of this year's World Championship

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The electronic sports game PUBG MOBILE's World Championship (PMGC 2024) group stage matches concluded last week in Malaysia. The PUBG MOBILE World Championship consists of two stages: "Group Stage" and "Grand Finals." In the "Group Stage," a total of 48 top teams from various regions competed, and 15 teams qualified for the "Grand Finals" to be held in London, England. Four teams from our country competed in the "Group Stage," but only the "Falcons Force" team ranked first in the "Last chance" and secured a spot in the "Grand Finals." The teams ranked 1st to 6th in this stage earned the right to go to London. However, it has been reported by official sources that our country's "4Merical Vibes" team, ranked 7th in the "Last chance" stage, will participate in the PMGC 2024 "Grand Finals." This is because the Brute Force team from Bahrain, which ranked 6th in the "Last chance" stage, did not manage to obtain their visa in time to travel to London on December 6-8. Therefore, our country's "4Merical Vibes" team, which ranked 7th, will replace them and compete in the "Grand Finals" of the "PMGC 2024." As a result, both "Falcons Force" and "4Merical Vibes" teams from our country will participate in this year's World Championship. The matches of this competition will be held in London from December 6-8. A total of 16 teams will compete, and the winner will be determined based on the sum of 18 matches. Note: Please be informed that media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) must credit the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either in full or partially.

Back to Table of Contents

4Merical Vibes team to play in the World Championship final

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Due to the Russian team "Brute Force" players not obtaining British visas, Mongolia's "4Merical Vibes," who placed 7th in the Last Chance stage, will participate in the World Championship final. The final stage of the 3 million USD "PUBG Mobile Global Championship 2024" will take place in London, UK. The group stage of the tournament concluded, and the "Last Chance" stage to allocate the last final spots occurred last week. In this stage, which granted final spots to six teams, Mongolia's "Falcons Force" secured their place, but "Stalwart Esports" and "4Merical Vibes" could not. All three Mongolian teams that played in the Survival Stage advanced to play in the Last Chance stage. Mongolia's three teams are set to compete in the World Championship "Survival Stage." IHC Esports was eliminated from the World Championship, while Falcons Force advanced to the next stage. The Russian team "Brute Force," which was leading in the "Green" group and had secured final qualification, could not participate in the tournament due to the players not obtaining British visas. Consequently, the Mongolian team "4Merical Vibes," placed 7th in the Last Chance stage, is set to participate in the finals. This was officially announced by PUBG Mobile Esports, and later confirmed on "4Merical Vibes'" official page. Thus, two Mongolian teams will compete in the World Championship final, where 16 of the world's best teams will vie for the title.

Back to Table of Contents

International Master of Sports G. Otgonsetseg Wins 48 kg Category at Adult Judo "Top-6" Competition

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Mongolian Judo Association organized the "Top-6" competition for the top six judo athletes in each adult weight category. The event, held at the "UG Arena" sports complex, aimed to determine champions in 14 weight categories (seven for men and seven for women) with 83 athletes from 19 organizations participating. The prize fund for the tournament was 100 million tugriks. Athletes competed in a round-robin system to determine the champions, and the results will contribute to the athletes' domestic rankings. In the women's 48 kg category, International Master of Sports (IMS) Galbadrakh Otgonsetseg competed. She lost in extra time to J. Anudari, the silver medalist of the junior world championship, in the third round but won decisively in the final round against IMS Ganbaatar Narantsetseg, a World Masters silver medalist. As a result, with three athletes defeating each other, G. Otgonsetseg won based on the quality of her fighting, with G. Narantsetseg taking silver, and J. Anudari earning bronze. In the 48 kg category, J. Enkhbulag placed fourth, N. Undrakhbayar fifth, and T. Otgonjargal sixth. IMS G. Otgonsetseg had not competed since 2020. G. Otgonsetseg stated, "I have concluded my athletic career. Over the past two years, I established my club, 'Winner,' and began my career as a coach training young athletes. I participated in the 'Top-6' competition to present a challenge to junior athletes and sharpen them. I still hold Kazakh citizenship. I have applied for Mongolian citizenship." "Rio 2016" Olympic bronze and double bronze at the World Championships, Kazakh Honored Athlete IMS Galbadrakh Otgonsetseg obtained Kazakh citizenship in 2015 and represented Kazakhstan in the Olympics and international competitions. Together with her coach, D. Enkhbaatar, she went to Kazakhstan and competed successfully in contests representing the country. She has since returned to her homeland.

Back to Table of Contents

The wait is over, the long-awaited Major begins

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: news.mn

The Shanghai Major of the esports "CS2" officially starts today. Until December 15th, the top 24 teams selected from each continent and region will compete to make their mark in history and immortalize their names among the legends. The tournament, with a prize pool of 1.25 million dollars, kicked off its first day with "Opening Stage" matches, and Mongolia's "The MongolZ" team will play against China's "Rare Atom" at 14:00. Teams that achieve three wins in this stage will advance to the "Elimination Stage", while teams that lose three times will end their tournament journey. Most experts believe that the "The MongolZ" team will advance to the next stage effortlessly with a 3-0 record.

Back to Table of Contents

The MongolZ Team Wins First Match at WC Against China's Rare Atom

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The World Championship's second event of the year for the game Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), "Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024," began today in Shanghai, China. The tournament, with a total prize pool of 1.2 million USD, is organized in three stages: Open Stage, Elimination Stage, and Playoff Stage, running from October 30 to December 15. In this World Championship taking place in Shanghai, our country's "The MongolZ" team is competing from the Open Stage. In this stage, 16 teams compete in a round-robin format. Each team must play five times. The first eight teams to win three times will advance to the Elimination Stage, while the others will end their tournament run. In their first World Championship match, "The MongolZ" played against China's "Rare Atom" and won with a score of 13:2 in a "BO1" format. The match between the two teams took place on the "Anubis map," with our team starting on the offensive side and then switching sides with a score of 10:2. They then won three consecutive rounds on defense to secure a 13:2 victory. In this match, player "910" aka B. Usukhbayar led the team with 19 kills. "The MongolZ" will play their second match today. However, details on which team they will face and at what time are yet to be confirmed. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, fully or partially.

Back to Table of Contents

Mongolians Dominate the First Day of the Shanghai Major

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: gogo.mn

On the opening day of the Shanghai Major, Mongolia’s "The MongolZ" and the Australian team "FlyQuest", coached by a Mongolian, won two matches each to lead the standings. On the first day of the "Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024", which has a prize pool of $1,250,000, Mongolia's "The MongolZ" and the Australian "FlyQuest", coached by a Mongolian, played their opening matches. Both teams won their first two matches, leading the tournament, and are set to play crucial matches tomorrow to advance to the next stage. Results of the opening day matches: - The MongolZ 13-2 /Anubis/ Rare Atom - FlyQuest 13-6 /Anubis/ Complexity Gaming - The MongolZ 13-6 /Ancient/ MIBR - FlyQuest 13-5 /Nuke/ BIG "The MongolZ" easily overtook the Chinese representative Rare Atom in their first match and beat the Brazilian representative in their second match. FlyQuest caused an "upset" by defeating one of the leading American teams in their first match and dominated the German representative on the "Nuke" map in their second match. "The MongolZ" will play against a Chinese team in the first stage of the major. DECEMBER SPORTS: The pinnacle events of electronic sports will take place. In the CS2 World Championship, the Mongolian team ranked 5th to 8th. The "Opening Stage" matches of this top electronic sports tournament, involving 24 of the world's best teams, are being held in a Swiss system. The first eight teams to win three matches will advance to the second "Elimination Stage", while teams losing three times will return home. The first two teams of the "Elimination Stage" will be determined tomorrow, as well as the first two teams that will leave Shanghai and return home.

Back to Table of Contents

Preview: Ulaanbaatar Amazons vs AOD M Winx

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: news.mn

Due to the opening of the Darkhan United arena, the league has decided to organize tour matches in Darkhan city. The next tour match will be held today. This time, we have decided to highlight a match from the Mongolian Women's League: Ulaanbaatar Amazons VS AOD M Winx. The Amazons, leading the season without a single loss, will face Winx, a team primarily comprised of students from the National University of Mongolia. Although the two teams have shown vastly different results this season, today's match is unlikely to have a large point difference. Since the league break ended, they have each managed to play one game. In those games, the Amazons continued their impressive performance by easily defeating the Ten-Year team, while Winx were overpowered by the strong Aravt team. However, they still put up a good fight. Even though they haven't met expectations since the beginning of the season, this match was quite balanced in terms of its content. Especially, their board combination of E. Narangoo and J. Munkhsuvd did an excellent job in limiting the league's new twin towers, B. Solongo and B. Bolor-Erdene. Perhaps if they hadn't lost the ball 30 times, the result could have been different. The Ulaanbaatar Amazons' biggest advantage is their board players. B. Ariuntsetseg and Berg Grace have been exceptional this season. However, Winx has central players who can offer good competition against them. Also, the competition between N. Nandinkhusel and B. Gerelmaa in the front line will be very interesting. Therefore, AOD M Winx might deliver a strong performance. Our recommended choice: +35.5 handicap.

Back to Table of Contents

The Mascot for the Women's Euro 2025 Tournament Has Been Introduced

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The mascot for the Women's European Football Championship, which will be held in Switzerland in 2025, has been introduced to the public as a Saint Bernard puppy named Maddly. The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) explained the significance of the mascot, saying that the Saint Bernard is a well-known rescue dog in Switzerland famous for its courage, gentle nature, and skill in performing rescue operations in the harsh conditions of the Alps. The mascot is named after an event involving Madeleine Boll, the first licensed female football player in Switzerland. She played for the youth team of "FC Sion" and received her license in 1964, but the authorities revoked it the following year when they discovered that she was a girl, as she had received the license at the age of 12. "This was a really unexpected event, but I am incredibly proud, as this is a wonderful gift for me," the 71-year-old M. Boll shared with reporters after taking a photo with Maddly. She reminisced that when she started playing, women's football did not exist and was just beginning. The top women footballers of Europe will compete at stadiums in Switzerland from July 2 to 27, 2025, showcasing their speed, strength, and skill.

Back to Table of Contents

Arts

"Worldwide Heritage Series, Genghis Khan Exhibition" Opened in Berlin

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Under the auspices of the President of Mongolia, the Genghis Khan exhibition opened in the city of Nantes, France, and was selected as the best exhibition in Europe for that year. Following this, the next installment of the "World Heritage of Mongolia Series," led by academician S. Chuluun, director of the Genghis Khan National Museum, officially opened in Berlin, Germany. Attendees at the opening included Ambassador B. Mandakhbileg, Director of the Humboldt Forum K. Koch, and other dignitaries. The exhibition features Mongolian cultural heritage artifacts from the Ethnological Museum of Berlin, the Turfan collection from the National Library, maps of regions, and collections from the Ilkhanate period of Rashid Ad-Din. It is planned to release the second book of Mongolian cultural heritage in Germany. Academician S. Chuluun highlighted that the artifacts included in the "Mongolian Heritage in Germany" series are unique and have their own distinct context. Following this series, a Czech heritage work is set to be released next year.

Back to Table of Contents

The Play 'Mongol Khan' to be Performed in Japan in 2025

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The play "Mongol Khan," which started its Asian tour from Singapore's Marina Bay Sands Theatre, is set to be officially performed in Japan next year. The team behind the play has signed a collaboration agreement with Tremendous Entertainment Japan, one of Japan's leading cultural companies, to stage performances in Tokyo from October 10-20 and in Nagoya from October 24-26, 2025, between the Sumo Aki and Kyushu Basho tournaments. The Japanese performances of this play, which has received 4-5 star ratings from over 50 international theatre critics and leading global publications, will be co-produced by Mongolia's Cultural Envoy, actress, and Miss A. Bayartsetseg, M. Yesunmunkh, and Ryu Oh. On the Japanese side, the producers are Masayuki Suzuki, the CEO of Tremendous Entertainment Japan; Sunrise Productions Tokyo will be responsible for the Tokyo tour, and Chukyo TV will handle the Nagoya tour. "Mongol Khan" was performed 17 times at London's Coliseum Theatre in 2023, drawing over 42,000 spectators. This year, it played 22 times at Singapore's Marina Bay Sands Theatre, which hosts 45 million visitors annually, attracting over 30,000 audience members. The performances in Singapore were attended by approximately 10 international production companies from countries including the USA, China, Japan, South Korea, Turkey, the Arab Gulf countries, the UK, Australia, and Malaysia. As part of preparations for their performances in Japan, the cast recently did promotional photo shoots at Mount Fuji and in the cities of Tokyo and Nagoya. They have also started the process of publishing the Japanese version of the "Mongol Khan" comic book to introduce it to the Japanese market.

Back to Table of Contents

Legendary English Playwright Harold Pinter's "The Lover" Play to be Performed

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Freshly fallen snow is fluffy and soft. It covers the old and makes it new. It sparkles with color everywhere. It adorns the old city with New Year decorations. During the days filled with New Year atmosphere, Ulaanbaatar Drama Theater has decided to gift its audience a new play about love. "The Lover," a romantic and comedic play inspired by the work of Nobel laureate playwright Harold Pinter, will be directed by G. Gan-Ochir and performed starting November 29 on the stage of Ulaanbaatar Drama Theater. British legendary artist Harold Pinter, known as a writer, director, and actor in the theater art's three foundational fields, first delivered "The Lover" to audiences in 1963 as a television play, and it later became performed as a stage play in many countries around the world. Director G. Gan-Ochir said, "What do modern youth understand by love? How has the meaning of love transformed today? We will narrate this through music and movement to the audience." Actors and team members from the Ulaanbaatar Drama Theater participating in the play include M. Togtokhjaral, O. Maidraravjaa, Ts. Ragchaa, B. Zolzaya, G. Erdenebold, and Ya. Tugsjargalan. Ensemble cast includes Ts. Tselmeg, B. Uurtssaiyh, A. Nomin-Erdene, N. Baljinnam, B. Bayart-Od, T. Namsrai, D. Munkhtulga, A. Enkhjin, N. Munkh-Erdene, B. Khuslen. Play information: Age rating: 18+ Duration: 90 minutes Tickets available for purchase: https://ticket.mn/event/2384/

Back to Table of Contents

“Mongol TV” Wins Award at Asian Television Awards for the 5th Time

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Mongol TV has won in the “Best Adaptation of an Existing Format” category at the 29th Asian Television Awards for their show “The Voice Kids.” This marks the 5th time a work from Mongol TV has been recognized at the Asian Television Awards. The award ceremony took place on November 29. The Asian Television Awards has been held annually since 1996, where over 200 television networks from around the world submit their work. In 2019, Mongol TV’s "The Voice of Mongolia" won in the "Best Asian Entertainment Program" and "Best Adaptation of an Existing Format" categories, marking the first time for Mongolia. In 2020, "The Voice of Mongolia" won a "Best Music Show" award, and their show "Dancing with the Stars" won "Best Adaptation of an Existing Format." In three consecutive years, they have secured awards at the 29th Asian Television Awards. The best in Asian television participate in the Asian Television Awards open competition, judged by 60 judges from across the continent, who select and nominate the best works. The selection process is supervised by the international auditing firm PWC. Simply being nominated at such a prestigious event is an honor in itself. Mongol TV plans to delight its audience with a new season of the award-winning "Dancing with the Stars" in 2025. Warning: Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social, and Websites) should always cite the source (ikon.mn) in any full or partial use of our information.

Back to Table of Contents

GanZai Created by Khan Craftsmen Using the Tapestry Method

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The GanZai tapestry, or silk painting, is a rare and unique art form in Mongolia and is part of the Tuv aimag museum's collection. This artefact was acquired by the museum in 1958 and dates back to the 17th-18th centuries. This cultural piece includes every depiction except the physical forms of wrathful deities and guardians. Additionally, it symbolizes religious rituals and offerings. The GanZai was created by urban craftsmen using the tapestry method — silk and cotton are layered, and silk thread is twined. Over many years, this tapestry, a priceless cultural heritage, has been preserved. It measures 130 cm in length and 257 cm in width. This decorative artwork, which often expresses reverence and respect, is distinguished by its exquisite elegance and significant value. It's crafted with colorful silk for composition, enhanced with silk embroidery, and adorned with precious stones, making it distinct from conventional paintings. Moreover, it demands immense effort, patience, meticulous execution, and precise material selection, highlighting its unique nature. Source: Tuv aimag museum

Back to Table of Contents

Lovon Shireet Stupa

Published: 2024-11-30 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Avzaga Monastery, also known as the Shireet Lama Monastery or the Sundoi Lama Monastery, is located to the west of the center of the current Khishig-Öndör sum of Bulgan aimag, on the eastern front of Darkhan Khan Mountain in what was the area of Bishda Goon Monastery in the Tüsheet Khan aimag of Khalkh. This stupa was erected in 2015 on the ruins of this monastery to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the recognition of Galzangiin Rentsendorj as the fourth reincarnation of Lovon Shireet, an eminent religious leader born in the Tüsheet Khan aimag of Khalkh. As a child, he was recognized as the fourth reincarnation of the chief religious adviser Lama, who tirelessly served the people with religious guidance. In 1895, the eighth Bogd Javzandamba Khutagt, the head of the Khalkha Yellow Religion, declared the five-year-old son of Galsan from the Bishda Güün district of the Tüsheet Khan aimag as the true fourth reincarnation of the Lovon Shireet Lama, raising him as a non-secular spiritual leader. The Lovon Shireet incarnation was a highly respected lama who led religious services and lore, seated on a specially prepared lion seat within the monastery's interior, and held esteemed standing among the monastery and the public as a spiritually endowed lama, diviner, and seer. Local stories and legends recount that from the time of his recognition to his departure, he served the community with the power of the Dharma, winning people's faith and trust. He offered his disciples inner purity, enlightenment, peace, and protected them from illness and calamity. Old tales recount that locals flocked to his residence for blessings and rituals, such as reciting holy texts, making offerings, venerating mountains and hills, and seeking divination and omens. Such activities frequently kept him busy, as noted by elders in the vicinity, as confirmed by Dr. Jigmeddorj, an associate professor of history at the History Department of the National University of Mongolia, and D. Jargalsaikhan, an elder from Khishig-Öndör sum.

Back to Table of Contents

Today's Stories

Politics

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Sports

Arts

Politics

VIDEO: The Project to Connect the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod Railway with China is Progressing, and Opportunities for Mongolian Economic Growth Are Approaching

The Government Decides to Submit a Draft Law Regarding Amendments to the 2025 Budget Law

Laws and Resolutions Rescinded

Hearing for Judicial Council Non-Judge Member Appointment Process to be Held

Former Director of the National Center for Infectious Diseases D. Nyamkhuu to be tried next Thursday

The Minister Withdraws Complaint in Supreme Court Regarding Land Revocation of Mongolian National University

Military Oath Ceremony Held

Delegates Learned How to Properly Conduct Their Work Within the Legal Framework

Diplomacy

UVERKHANGAI: Ambassador Kate Smith Presented Projects to be Implemented Locally

Infrastructure

N. Manduul: $500 Million Arrived to Develop Selbe as a Model /TRACK/

Management of "Tavantolgoi Fuel" LLC to Transfer to the Capital City from December 1

Information on the Winter and Spring Preparation for 2024-2025

Society

GOV-ALTAY: UNICEF Team Visits Gov-Altay Province

Featured Report: Citizens are preparing their winter supplies with 1-1.5 million MNT

Filing a Lawsuit Against an Unjust Penalty for Losing an ID Card

Winter Entrance Exam Begins on December 5

Winter Entrance Exam Begins Next Week

Khovd: Thursdays Designated as Citizen Listening Days

"Super" Plan to Live on Your Salary for a Month

ERDENEBAT DAMDIN: Benedictions and Praises Are Not Forgotten; They Remain Among the People

KHOVD: Citizens of Jargalant District Promote Their Heritage

126 Students Selected for the "Youth Parliament-2024" Program

Environment

Measures to Reduce Air Pollution Introduced

A. Amartüvshin: The Smoke Issue Will Be Fully Resolved by 2040

WARNING: On December 1st, Cold and Snowy Weather Expected in Central and Eastern Regions

Warning about the danger of ice breaking

Dornod: Frosty Morning

Weather in Ulaanbaatar: Warm at 0 Degrees Celsius

Innovation

Tender Invitation: Supplying and Installing Waste Plastic Melters and Conducting Training

Mongolian Children Win Silver, Bronze, and Special Prizes at 'Global Pro Robot' Competition

GOVI-ALTAI: Teachers Attend Calligraphy Training with Bamboo Pens

Sports

PUBGM: Our country's "4Merical Vibes" team has qualified for the "Grand Finals" of this year's World Championship

4Merical Vibes team to play in the World Championship final

International Master of Sports G. Otgonsetseg Wins 48 kg Category at Adult Judo "Top-6" Competition

The wait is over, the long-awaited Major begins

The MongolZ Team Wins First Match at WC Against China's Rare Atom

Mongolians Dominate the First Day of the Shanghai Major

Preview: Ulaanbaatar Amazons vs AOD M Winx

The Mascot for the Women's Euro 2025 Tournament Has Been Introduced

Arts

"Worldwide Heritage Series, Genghis Khan Exhibition" Opened in Berlin

The Play 'Mongol Khan' to be Performed in Japan in 2025

Legendary English Playwright Harold Pinter's "The Lover" Play to be Performed

“Mongol TV” Wins Award at Asian Television Awards for the 5th Time

GanZai Created by Khan Craftsmen Using the Tapestry Method

Lovon Shireet Stupa

You might also like...

Mongolia News Summary for December 26, 2024

Mongolia News Summary for December 25, 2024

Mongolia News Summary for December 24, 2024

Mongolia News Summary for December 23, 2024

Mongolia News Summary for December 22, 2024