Dec 3, 2024 66 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for December 03, 2024

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

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Politics

Supported discussing the draft law to amend the Budget Law

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Budget Standing Committee of the State Great Khural held a discussion on whether to proceed with the draft law to amend the Budget Law. Presenting on the draft law, Finance Minister B. Javkhlan noted that in the scope of his legal authority, the President imposed a veto on the law on Mongolia's 2025 budget and accompanying legislation that was submitted and approved by the State Great Khural on November 20 of this year. The State Great Khural accepted the President's veto during its session on the 22nd of the last month. As a result, at the unified session of the State Great Khural on November 29 of this year, the laws on Mongolia's 2025 budget and the accompanying legislation were annulled. In connection with this, a resolution on "Measures to be taken with the law and resolution being nullified" was adopted by the State Great Khural, instructing the government to resubmit the 2025 budget draft by December 10, 2024. Under Article 8.4 of the Budget Law, the government must submit the annual budget project by September 1, and the State Great Khural is obliged to approve it by November 15. However, if the laws on the state budget, Future Heritage Fund budget, National Wealth Fund budget, Social Insurance Fund budget, and Health Insurance Fund budget are annulled, there is no specific regulation to govern the resubmission of the budget project, which is why this draft law was developed. The initiators of the bill believe that by passing it, there will be an opportunity for the government to re-develop the annual budget project and submit it to the State Great Khural. In connection with the issue being discussed, member of the State Great Khural G. Temuulen inquired whether it is possible to detail the time for discussing and approving the budgets of local governments within the bill. Finance Minister B. Javkhlan responded that they considered many aspects of specifying a timeline in the bill. Normally, after the state budget is approved, the budgets of aimags, the capital city, soums, and districts are approved. But what if they fail to approve the budget within the legal timeline? It is considered proper to include regulation to approve the schedule within the year, taking into account such risks. State Great Khural member Dav. Tsogtbaatar asked if it is possible to include detailed regulations related to the President's veto on the budget in the draft law, to which the Chairman of the Budget Standing Committee, Ts. Davaasuren, explained that since the State Great Khural has nullified the law on Mongolia’s 2025 budget, the government will resubmit a new budget project. This would result in the budget discussion being conducted in four stages. However, one regulation to govern this should be included. According to the Budget Law, discussions must be held with a 5-day interval. As the resubmission and discussion of the budget project is time-sensitive, it might be necessary to amend the usual process and skip this rule, as local budgets might not be approved on time otherwise. Finance Minister B. Javkhlan stated that the issue of introducing a legislative regulation to discuss budgets without returning them to the government when the President vetoes remains open. Some believe that the issues related to the President’s veto on the budget are adequately regulated by articles 90.8 and 90.9 of the law on the procedures of the State Great Khural's sessions. However, others argue that the legal capacity of these articles is weak. The current amendment regulates how the government should resubmit the budget if the State Great Khural returns it. Overall, there is a need to clearly include the regulation asked by the member of the State Great Khural in the law in the future. After this, State Great Khural member J. Batjargal supported adding such a new regulation to the Budget Law, as the President's veto on the budget in its entirety has been accepted by the State Great Khural, leading to the annulment of relevant legislation and necessitating resubmission. In the initial discussion of the draft law, there were suggestions to determine a time limit for the State Great Khural to discuss and approve the resubmitted budget project, and to plan a timeline for subsequent approvals of local budgets including aimags and the capital city. Finally, the draft law to amend the Budget Law was put to a vote within the framework of fundamental principles, where 15 out of 19 members participating, or 78.9%, supported it. Therefore, it was decided to present the Standing Committee's opinion and conclusion related to this matter at the unified session of the State Great Khural, as reported by the Information Media Office of the State Great Khural.

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Supreme Court: Discussing the Development Bank Case

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

The Supreme Court of Mongolia's criminal review hearing is discussing the case related to the Development Bank, involving a total of 80 people and four legal entities across 540 folders, based on the prosecutor's objection and 41 complaints filed by the defendants and their lawyers. In the Great Hall of the Supreme Court, 54 participants are physically present, while 20 participants are joining online from the location of the Administrative Court of Appeals. Due to the limited space and capacity, complainants are participating in person, while defendants are providing explanations online, as remarked by the judge. In this session, the case involves 80 individuals and four legal entities related to the charges from the July 7, 2023 decision no. 704 of the first-instance criminal court of Sukhbaatar District, and the March 22, 2024 ruling no. 362 of the appellate court of Ulaanbaatar. The case involves accusations against officials of the Development Bank for abusing their positions to unlawfully provide advantages to others, issuing loans, misusing loans for non-intended purposes by enterprises, money laundering, and receiving and giving bribes. Defendant Ch. Munkhbayar's lawyer D. Batsuukh stated: "Our client is currently detained. He should have requested to participate in the review hearing. How was this decided? How can the detained defendants participate in the court hearing?" Lawyer D. Tuvshintamir, appearing as a representative of "Vertex Mining Partners," noted, "My attendance was recorded incorrectly. I have submitted a request to be physically present in the courtroom to provide explanations." The court temporarily adjourned to deliberate on the request to have three detained defendants participate in person. The decision was made to deny the defendants' request and allow participation through their lawyers. Judge M. Purevsuren is presiding over the proceedings.

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Kh. Nyambaatar: Plan to Increase Vehicle Taxes

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Kh. Nyambaatar: The proposal to increase vehicle taxes by 2-3 times and road usage fees by 5 times has been included in the budget. Today's City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar introduced the draft resolution about the modification of the vehicle tax rates and road usage fees to the City Council. He stated, "By the City Council's resolution on February 8, 2024, the tax rate for vehicles and self-propelled machinery was set with a 0% tax for buses, without changes in other vehicle taxes since 2013. Increasing the vehicle and road usage taxes will fund expanding and improving the road network, maintenance, and updates to technology, thus positively impacting traffic congestion." It has been proposed to the council that the current vehicle tax, defined by law, will be increased 2-3 times and the road usage fee 5 times based on current rates, thus reflecting an increase of 151.5 billion MNT in the city's road fund in next year's budget proposal. The current vehicle tax per year: Vehicle types: - 12-wheel motorcycle: 2,000-6,000 MNT
- 23-wheel motorcycle: 1,500-9,000 MNT
- Passenger cars:
- Up to 2001 cc
- 2001-3000 cc
- Over 3000 cc
In the capital and national cities:
- 16-96 MNT per cc
- 18-108 MNT per cc
- 22-132 MNT per cc
In other cities:
- 16-48 MNT per cc
- 18-54 MNT per cc
- 22-66 MNT per cc
- Minibuses (up to 15 seats): 35,000-105,000 MNT
- Buses: 52,000-156,000 MNT
- Trucks:
- Up to 1 ton: 25,000-75,000 MNT
- 1-2 tons: 35,000-105,000 MNT
- 2-3 tons: 45,000-135,000 MNT
- 3-5 tons: 55,000-165,000 MNT
- 5-8 tons: 80,000-240,000 MNT
- 8-10 tons: 90,000-270,000 MNT
- 10-20 tons: 100,000-300,000 MNT
- 20-30 tons: 120,000-420,000 MNT
- 30-40 tons: 180,000-540,000 MNT
- 40-50 tons: 220,000-660,000 MNT
- 50-60 tons: 280,000-840,000 MNT
- 60-70 tons: 320,000-960,000 MNT
- 70-80 tons: 360,000-1,080,000 MNT
- 80-90 tons: 400,000-1,200,000 MNT
- 90-100 tons: 440,000-1,320,000 MNT
- Over 100 tons: 480,000-1,440,000 MNT
- Special purpose vehicles: 16,000-48,000 MNT
- Tractor and other self-propelled equipment: 14,000-42,000 MNT
- Small tractors: 7,000-21,000 MNT
- Trailers (per ton): 5,500-16,500 MNT
- Electric vehicles: 0-100,000 MNT
The road usage fee for vehicles registered in the capital: - Passenger cars, taxis: 30,000 MNT
- Others (up to 2000 cc): 20,000 MNT
- 2001-3000 cc: 30,000 MNT
- 3001-4000 cc: 40,000 MNT
- Over 4000 cc: 50,000 MNT
- Freights (by capacity in tons):
- Up to 1 ton: 40,000 MNT
- 1-2 tons: 45,000 MNT
- 2-3 tons: 50,000 MNT
- 3-5 tons: 55,000 MNT
- 5-8 tons: 60,000 MNT
- 8-10 tons: 65,000 MNT
- 10-18 tons: 70,000 MNT
- Over 24 tons: 85,000 MNT
- Buses:
- Up to 15 seats: 40,000 MNT
- Over 15 seats: 60,000 MNT
- Tanker: 50,000 MNT
- Special: 40,000 MNT
- Trailer: 30,000 MNT
- Mechanism Transport Services: 60,000 MNT
- Technology: 60,000 MNT
- Small: 30,000 MNT
- Motorcycles and mopeds (2 or 3 wheels): 10,000 MNT
Public broadcasters are reminded that when using our information in any form, full or partial, they must cite the source (ikon.mn).

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Draft Law on Amendments to the 2025 Budget Law of Mongolia Submitted to Parliament

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan, a member of the Government of Mongolia, submitted the draft law on amendments to the Law on the 2025 State Budget of Mongolia to the Speaker of the Parliament of Mongolia, D. Amarbayasgalan. The Government of Mongolia has urgently submitted this draft law to be deliberated in accordance with Article 33.1 of the Law on the Procedures of the Sessions of the State Great Khural. The State Great Khural reviewed and annulled the veto imposed by the President of Mongolia on the Law on the 2025 State Budget and other accompanying laws that were jointly submitted during its plenary session on November 29, 2024. Following this, the Government of Mongolia has submitted the draft law on amendments to the Law on the 2025 State Budget, as reported by the Press and Information Department of the State Great Khural.

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Amendment to the Law on the 2025 State Budget of Mongolia Submitted to the Parliament

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Today, the Minister of Finance of Mongolia, B. Javkhlan, submitted the draft amendment to the law on the 2025 State Budget of Mongolia to the Speaker of the State Great Khural (Parliament of Mongolia) D. Amarbayasgalan. The government of Mongolia submitted this draft to the parliament as an urgent matter according to the procedure outlined in Section 33.1 of the law on the rules of parliamentary sessions. The State Great Khural reviewed and annulled the President's veto on the 2025 State Budget Law and other accompanying laws submitted along with it during the plenary session on November 29, 2024. In this context, the government of Mongolia has submitted the draft amendment to the law on the 2025 State Budget, as reported by the Press and Information Department of the State Great Khural.

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A Draft Law to Amend the 2025 State Budget Law Submitted to the Parliament of Mongolia

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Today, Mongolia's Ministry of Finance, represented by Minister B. Javkhlan, submitted a draft law to amend the 2025 State Budget Law to the Speaker of the Mongolian Parliament, D. Amarbayasgalan. This draft law was presented urgently to the Mongolian Parliament by the government, as specified in section 33.1 of the law on the procedures of the Parliament. The President of Mongolia had vetoed the 2025 State Budget Law and its accompanying laws, which had been submitted earlier. However, the Mongolian Parliament negated this veto during a unified session held on November 29, 2024. Following these proceedings, the Mongolian government submitted the draft law to amend the 2025 State Budget Law, as reported by the Public Relations Office of the Mongolian Parliament.

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Decision on Increasing Vehicle Taxes and Road Fees Today

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The extraordinary II meeting of the Capital City Council (ITKH) is continuing today, with plans to discuss six issues. Notably, the meeting aims to approve next year's city budget, revise and approve the percentage of vehicle taxes and road usage fees, discuss the 2025 land management plan, and update the waste burial fees for the centralized landfill—focusing on economic issues. The proposal to increase vehicle taxes and road usage fees by 3-4 times next year has become a source of public discontent among city residents. The exact amount of the increase in these taxes and fees will be made public today, with the decision to be made by 45 representatives of the ITKH. According to Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin, nitrogen dioxide emissions, which contribute significantly to Ulaanbaatar's air pollution, consist of 28.2% from ger district households and 63.2% from vehicle emissions. This indicates that vehicle emissions account for a considerable portion of air pollution.

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Decision on Increasing Vehicle Taxes to Be Made Today

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The extraordinary second session of the city's Citizens' Representative Meeting is scheduled to take place today. Six issues are set to be discussed during this session. Among these, the topic of increasing the official tax rate for vehicles in the capital for 2025, as well as the proposal to quintuple the road usage fee, has attracted public attention. The city has proposed to increase the vehicle tax as follows: - Official tax for "Prius" from 36,000 to 108,000 tugriks - "Lexus 570" from 188,100 to 564,300 tugriks - "Porter" from 30,000 to 75,000 tugriks - "Land Cruiser 200" from 151,800 to 455,400 tugriks Road usage fee: - Vehicles with engine capacity up to 2000 will increase from 20,000 to 100,000 tugriks - Vehicles with engine capacity from 2001 to 3000 will increase from 30,000 to 150,000 tugriks - Vehicles with engine capacity above 4001 will increase from 50,000 to 250,000 tugriks If representatives of the Ulaanbaatar City Citizens' Representative Meeting support this, these changes will be implemented starting next year.

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Decision to Increase Car Taxes Today

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

The extraordinary II session of the City Council will be held today. During this session, a total of six issues are scheduled to be discussed, including topics on increasing the tax rates on vehicles and raising the road usage fees fivefold. Specifically, the city plans to increase the official vehicle tax as follows: - Official tax for "Prius" from 36,000₮ to 108,000₮. - "Lexus 570" from 188,100₮ to 564,300₮. - "Porter" from 30,000₮ to 75,000₮. - "Land Cruiser 200" from 151,800₮ to 455,400₮. Road usage fee: - Vehicles with an engine capacity of up to 2000 will see an increase from 20,000₮ to 100,000₮. - Vehicles with an engine capacity from 2001 to 3000 will increase from 30,000₮ to 150,000₮. - Vehicles with an engine capacity above 4001 will increase from 50,000₮ to 250,000₮.

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Kh. Nyambaatar: Vehicle taxes to be increased 2-3 times, road usage fees 5 times

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The City Council meeting is ongoing. During this time, the City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar introduced a draft resolution about the revision and approval of vehicle tax rates and road usage fees. He stated, "Based on the draft budget law for the fiscal year 2025, a baseline income and expenditure of ₮3.4 billion is calculated without contributing any revenue to the state budget. In recent years, the number of vehicles in the capital has increased. This has resulted in the road network being unable to meet current needs. In order to enhance the accessibility of main and secondary roads in the city, more than 138 km of roads will be renewed. While revising the vehicle tax rates and road usage fees, public transportation tax was set at 0 percent. Since 2013, there have been no changes made to this law. By updating these tax payments, we aim to improve the city’s road network, reduce congestion, and increase the budget of the road fund. The vehicle tax will be increased 2-3 times, and the road usage fee will be increased 5 times, as included in the budget proposal," he said.

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Parliamentary Party Groups to Convene

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: isee.mn

According to the schedule, the party groups of the MPP and DP in the State Great Khural (Parliament) will convene to consolidate their positions on issues to be discussed during the standing committee and plenary sessions this week. Additionally, a meeting of the working group responsible for familiarizing themselves with the implementation of the Permit Law, which was established by the 83rd directive of the Speaker of the State Great Khural in 2024, will take place to draft relevant proposals and conclusions. There will also be a working group meeting on the implementation of the Environmental Protection Law, set up by the 78th directive of the Speaker of the State Great Khural in 2024, tasked with developing proposals, conclusions, and necessary legislative drafts. Lastly, another working group meeting will take place, formed by the 173rd directive of the Speaker of the State Great Khural in 2024. This meeting aims to support the re-engineering of processes being implemented to make state services more people-centered and to increase productivity with a unified methodology, and to draft proposals and conclusions.

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Draft Law Amending the 2025 State Budget Law Submitted to Parliament

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

The Speaker of Mongolia's State Great Khural, D. Amarbaysgalan, received from the Minister for Finance, B. Javkhlan, the draft law to amend the law on the 2025 state budget of Mongolia. The government of Mongolia has urgently submitted the draft for discussion according to section 33.1 of the law on the procedure of sessions of the State Great Khural. The State Great Khural had previously invalidated the President of Mongolia's veto on the 2025 State Budget Law and other accompanying laws during a plenary session held on November 29, 2024. Following this, the government of Mongolia submitted the draft law to amend the 2025 state budget. Therefore, this week's session will involve the standing committee and party groups discussing the drafts submitted by the government.

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City Council: Vehicle Taxes to Increase 2-3 Times

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

The second extraordinary session of the City Council of Citizens’ Representatives began today. At the session, the fulfillment of the city's 2024 land use plan and the draft plan for 2025 was presented by G. Munkhbaatar, the head of the City Land Management Department. Representative T. Batsogt stated that he had submitted suggestions from the citizens of his electoral district to the Land Office. He mentioned issues related to land allocation in the 26th sub-district of Bayanzurkh, where private companies were allocated land that became unusable for building due to lacking entrances and exits. He emphasized the need for green spaces and kindergartens in an area without state-owned kindergartens. Representatives suggested forming a working group to resolve land issues, highlighting problems such as land disputes, misuse of land by those in power, and the lack of facilities such as schools and kindergartens. Concerns were raised about the mismanagement of land by private companies and the need for strategic planning to reclaim unused lands. The meeting also addressed new proposals for the vehicle tax and adjustments to the city's 2025 budget. The Mayor, Kh. Nyambaatar, presented the city’s budget, outlining goals for increased tax revenues. The proposed changes aim to increase vehicle taxes by 2-3 times and road usage fees by 5 times, contributing an additional 151.5 billion MNT to the road fund. The initial discussion of the three resolutions related to the 2025 budget and tax changes concluded, and it was decided to further discuss these in party group meetings before the final approval. The session was adjourned with plans to reconvene on December 4, 2024.

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The budget presented by the government is a revised budget, not a completely new one

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The MPP caucus in the Parliament held a meeting today. During the meeting, they discussed the state's budget proposal for the coming year. During the meeting, the draft law on amendments to the Budget Law was discussed, and the members participating decided it was appropriate to proceed with the discussion. The leader of the MPP caucus in the Parliament, L. Munkhbaatar, Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan, and B. Dalkhaasuren, the head of the MPP caucus's working office, informed the press about the issues discussed during the caucus meeting. Leader of the MPP caucus in the Parliament, L. Munkhbaatar, stated: "In today's caucus meeting, we reviewed the draft law on amendments to the Budget Law urgently submitted by the government. It is a revised budget, not a completely new one." On the 8th of last month, the Budget Law for 2025 was approved; however, the President of Mongolia vetoed it alongside the entire set of legislation prepared in connection with this. The Parliament accepted the President's veto. The Judiciary and Budget Standing Committees formed a working group and prepared a law to regulate the 2025 budget proposal through a one-time primary law draft. However, the draft prepared by this working group did not gain the support of the members. Consequently, the Parliament decided to return the 2025 budget to the government and invalidate the law. In response, the government submitted a draft law on amendments to the Budget Law. It was deemed appropriate to discuss this draft urgently in the meeting. Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan remarked: "Since the budget presented by the government is a revised budget rather than a completely new one, the representatives of the provinces, the capital, soums, and districts need to await the approval of the Law on the State Budget of Mongolia for 2025." The draft law states, "If the Parliament has invalidated the state budget, the Future Heritage Fund budget, the National Wealth Fund budget, the Social Insurance Fund budget, or the Health Insurance Fund budget for the reasons stipulated by law, the government will submit the relevant budget draft to the Parliament." The draft also specifies that the Representatives' Khural of provinces, the capital, soums, and districts must review and approve the budget drafts of their respective levels before the start of the next fiscal year.

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O. Tsogtgerel: The Seizure and Confiscation of Private Property is Prohibited

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

The Democratic Party Caucus in the State Great Khural (Parliament) of Mongolia held a briefing. O. Tsogtgerel, the leader of the Democratic Party Caucus in the Parliament, stated that the caucus received information on three issues. First, they listened to information about measures being implemented within the framework of the "20-minute City" policy aimed at reducing traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar. Second, with the President vetoing the 2025 budget, a new situation has arisen, requiring regulatory adjustments. Hence, the Government submitted a draft amendment to the Budget Law, for which they listened to the Finance Minister's presentation. Third, last week, the Democratic Party Caucus organized a discussion in collaboration with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation. As a result, the decision was made that it would be appropriate to submit a draft parliamentary resolution concerning the protection of private property, economic freedom, and the development of a free market economy. The draft resolution includes four provisions: 1. Improving the legal framework to prevent the government from arbitrarily seizing and commandeering private property, revoking granted rights, and other entities infringing upon private property. The government is instructed to draft a bill and submit it to the Parliament. 2. Drafting a bill to prohibit establishing additional state-owned enterprises in sectors not legislated by Parliament, which the government should develop. 3. Clearly defining the conditions under which the government will assume responsibilities towards those holding licenses, permits, and certificates granted by them, and drafting the necessary legal framework to submit to Parliament. Additionally, developing and introducing measures aimed at promoting a competitive market economy, facilitating foreign trade, reducing tariffs, encouraging non-mining exports, reducing financing costs for small and medium enterprises, and accelerating financial sector liberalization are areas for which the Democratic Party Caucus believes a resolution should be submitted. N. Ganibal, acting secretary-general of the Democratic Party, stated: "Last week, the Prime Minister confirmed the governors of the provinces, allowing them to start their work. Unfortunately, actions to violate the law have arisen due to disagreements over a single vote. For example, during the local elections, candidates from the Mongolian People's Party (MPP) in the Citizens' Representative Meeting of Orkhon Province failed to register within the legal timeframe, resulting in none being eligible to run. However, a court decision favored them, leading to 21 seats for MPP candidates and 20 for Democratic Party candidates. They continue to break the law today. There have been illegal attempts to revoke the mandates of representatives elected by the people. There is even an issue where the use of surveillance and monitoring operations has been done in collaboration with law enforcement agencies. During elections, legal activities by political parties are not prohibited. However, during the challenging times of elections, activities organized by the parties are unfairly interpreted as law violations, with judicial action being taken against the children's development card by portraying it as illegal. Despite the people's decisions being made, attempts to disqualify elected individuals to secure their power in the provincial Great Khural by those violating the law are shameful acts, and those attempting this should understand this.

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Kazakh and Chinese Citizens to be Tried for Unauthorized Exploration in Bayan-Ölgii

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

The Prosecutor's Office has overseen the registration of 43,999 cases and 4,782 investigations, drafting indictments for 185 criminal cases and forwarding them to the court. Notable cases include: - The Capital Prosecutor's Office has filed an indictment against S.B, an official of the National First Central Hospital, for demanding and receiving bribes from businesses winning tenders announced by the hospital, under Article 22.13.1 (Bribery) of the Criminal Code, at the Sukhbaatar District Criminal Court. - An indictment was filed against H.O, an official of the Ministry of Road and Transport Development, for accepting bribes based on conflict of interest, under Article 22.4.2 (Public Official Bribery) of the Criminal Code, at the Sukhbaatar District Criminal Court. - B.N and B.D were indicted for exploiting the vulnerability of minors and orchestrating their prostitution, under Article 13.1.2.1 and 13.1.2.2 (Human Trafficking) of the Criminal Code, at the Bayangol District Criminal Court. - Citizen G.M was indicted for illegally crossing the state border using another person's foreign passport through the Altanbulag checkpoint in Selenge province, under Article 19.14.1 (Illegal Border Crossing) of the Criminal Code, at the Inter-District Criminal Court of Selenge province. - The Bayan-Ölgii Prosecutor's Office indicted customs officials J.U and M.B for abuse of power, enabling unauthorized clearance of goods at the Tsagaannuur checkpoint before receiving analysis results, under Article 22.1.1 (Abuse of Power) of the Criminal Code, at the Inter-District Criminal Court of the province. Officials H.J, T.B, and D.A also facilitated uninspected vehicles crossing the state border, giving undue advantage, resulting in similar charges. - Mongolian citizen S.Kh, Nursultan D.A (Kazakhstan), and Hu J, Ma Sh, and Wu Sh (China) have been charged with illegal mineral exploration and exploitation without a permit in Bayan-Ölgii province, destroying evidence used in the crime, under Article 24.2.1 (Illegal Mineral Exploration and Exploitation) and Article 21.1.1 (Falsification and Destruction of Evidence) of the Criminal Code, at the Inter-District Criminal Court of the province. - From the Dornogovi Provincial Prosecutor's Office, Chinese citizen Yu Sh was charged with illegally crossing the state border with movable historical and cultural artifacts, under Article 18.5.3 (Illegal Transportation of Goods Across the State Border) of the Criminal Code, at the Inter-District Court of Zamyn-Üüd province.

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The Second Volume of Xi Jinping's Book on State Governance Published in Mongolian

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The launching ceremony for the books "Xi Jinping: On State Governance" and "Xi Jinping: Selections of Speeches on Poverty Alleviation" written by Chinese President Xi Jinping was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This ceremony was jointly organized by the State Council Information Office of China, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, and the Chinese Embassy in Mongolia, among others. A team led by Chinese studies translator M. Chimedtseye, consisting of six members, translated the "Xi Jinping: On State Governance" book, which was made available to readers in Mongolian five years after the initial volume. Translator M. Chimedtseye said, "This book is a series of four volumes. It has been translated into 42 languages of the world and has spread to about 180 countries. In Mongolia, the first volume was published and released five years ago. Today marks the release of the second volume. The book's content is broad in scope. It includes President Xi Jinping's meetings, interviews, lectures, speeches, and directives. Topics include the development and prosperity of the world, the peaceful coexistence of multiple cultures, and global green development. For Mongolians, the book is significant for understanding China's state policy and deepening relations with neighboring countries because it specifically outlines the policy regarding relations with neighboring countries.” Five years ago, in 2019, the team led by M. Chimedtseye, consisting of Mongolia’s best translators, made the first volume available to Mongolians. The second volume was translated in 2022 and revised before reaching readers today. The translation of the third series volume has been completed and submitted to China for review, while the translation of the fourth volume is 40% complete. Meanwhile, Chinese studies translator Ch. Batarkhuu independently translated the book "Xi Jinping: Selections of Speeches on Poverty Alleviation." He noted, "In celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and China, Mongolian translators have completed the translation of two books. This book was translated within a year and sent to China for review, and today it is in the hands of readers as a finished product. The book has six chapters, 200 pages, and focuses on political theory. It is a work that showcases the experiences of poverty alleviation efforts, which are particularly highlighted in China's fight against poverty.” Additionally, during the book launch, a joint academic seminar on "On State Governance" was organized between China and Mongolia.

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Law on Amendments to the 2025 State Budget of Mongolia Submitted to Parliament

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Today, Mongolia's Minister of Finance, B. Javkhlan, submitted the draft law on amendments to the 2025 State Budget of Mongolia to D. Amarbaysgalan, the Speaker of the State Great Khural (Parliament of Mongolia). The Government of Mongolia has urgently submitted this draft law for deliberation in accordance with Article 33.1 of the Law on the Procedure of Parliament Sessions. The State Great Khural discussed the president's veto on the 2025 State Budget Law of Mongolia and other accompanying laws that were submitted along with it. The plenary session of the State Great Khural annulled the veto. Consequently, the Government of Mongolia has submitted the draft law on amendments to the 2025 State Budget, as reported by the Press and Media Department of the State Great Khural.

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O. Tsogtgerel: It is appropriate to introduce a law to stop the seizure of private property by the state

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Democratic Party group held their regular meeting and discussed three issues. O. Tsogtgerel, the head of the Democratic Party group, provided information about it. "The Democratic Party group in the Parliament heard information on three issues. First, we listened to information on measures being implemented under the 20-minute city policy aimed at reducing traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar. Second, a new situation has arisen due to the President's veto on the 2025 budget, creating a need for procedural adjustments, and the government submitted the Budget Law, prompting us to hear the information from the Minister of Finance. Additionally, last week the Democratic Party group organized a discussion in collaboration with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation. Following this, it was decided that it is appropriate to submit a draft resolution to Parliament. Within this framework, we considered it appropriate to submit a draft resolution with four articles to promote the development of the free market and the protection of private property and economic freedom. Firstly, the unauthorized state seizure and requisition of private property should be stopped. The legal environment to prevent the annulment of granted rights and the unauthorized invasion of private property by other parties should be improved, and the government should be tasked with developing a legal draft to submit to Parliament. Secondly, it is appropriate for the government to draft a project to prohibit the establishment of additional state-owned companies in business sectors unless established by law. Thirdly, the government should be tasked with determining the certification, guarantee, and obligations of the government regarding the licenses and approvals it grants and submit the relevant legal draft to Parliament. Also, it is appropriate for the Democratic Party group to propose the development and introduction of measures to develop a competitive market, facilitate foreign trade, reduce tariffs, encourage non-mining export sectors, reduce financing costs for small and medium-sized businesses, and accelerate financial sector liberalization."

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Putin Approves 2025-2027 Budget Focused on Military Spending

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

Vladimir Putin has approved Russia's budget for 2025-2027. According to the budget published on the government's website, military spending in 2025 has significantly increased. Specifically, 32.5% of the total budget is allocated to national defense. This amounts to 13.5 trillion rubles or 145 billion U.S. dollars, representing a 28.3% increase from the previous year. The Russian State Duma and the Federation Council approved the budget over the past 10 days. This budget is considered the most secretive since the Soviet Union era; in other words, almost a third of the total expenditures are non-transparent to the public. Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine has become the largest conflict in Europe since World War II. This war is depleting the resources of both Russia and Ukraine. Ukraine, for its part, continues to receive billions of dollars in aid from its Western allies. Meanwhile, new leaders of the European Union have pledged to continue supporting Ukraine. For example, the new president of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, visited Kyiv on Sunday. Their visit to Ukraine right after assuming their offices is considered to have sent a strong message to the world. President Zelensky has stated that even if any ceasefire agreement is made between Russia and Ukraine in the future, representatives from the European Union and NATO must be present. This is because Ukraine sees its future security as inextricably linked with them. SOURCE: AP, REUTERS

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Economy

Coal Export Cycle: Economic Impact and Risks

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The price of coal for export decreased by more than 20% as of October compared to the same time last year. Over the past 12 months, the total physical volume of coal exports exceeded 80 million tons, reaching a record level. The decline in China's steel production may affect the price and volume of Mongolia's coal exports in the next 12 to 18 months. For the first three quarters of 2024, the growth was 5%, with the third quarter alone showing an annual growth of 3.9%. In the past year or more, growth based on coal exports has been relatively high, and the exchange rate has remained stable, which has contributed to the increase in the total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expressed in US dollars, as well as the GDP per capita. As of September 2024, the GDP reached 23 billion US dollars, and the GDP per capita amounted to 6,606 US dollars.

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How many people in Mongolia earn over 10 million MNT? Is your salary fair?

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The average salary in our country is 2.5 million MNT. According to international statistical data, jobs that pay four times more than the average salary account for 1-7% of the private sector workforce in a given country. This percentage is 5-7% in highly developed countries and 1-3% in developing countries. In our country, it can be estimated that the number of jobs offering a salary above 10 million MNT is around 2%. With approximately 780,000 people working in government, private, and international organizations in Mongolia, 2% would equate to about 15,600 positions that might offer a salary of 10 million MNT or more. Calculate your potential salary: The Lambda.Global platform, which gathers top talents, uses artificial intelligence to estimate your potential salary for free. By clicking this link and uploading your CV, you can calculate your potential salary within 10 seconds. Lambda.Global calculates suitable jobs and salaries based on your skills, education, prior work experience, and achievements. High-paying sectors and positions: To earn an income of over 10 million MNT, you may need to work in the following sectors: 1. Mining sector: - Middle, senior, and managerial positions in large mining companies - International-level engineers and technology specialists - Leaders of major projects like Oyu Tolgoi 2. Banking and finance sector: - Managerial positions above mid-level in banks - Senior managers and above in investment banks - International financial consultants 3. Communications and technology sector: - Managerial positions in operator companies - International tech consultants - Management in major startup companies About Lambda.Global: Lambda.Global is an AI-based recruiting platform aiming to drive Mongolia's economic development by connecting top talents worldwide with employers and projects. *These data were generated using artificial intelligence (ChatGPT, Claude) and verified by some statistics from the 1212.mn website. Notice: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information, whether in whole or part.

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Mongolian Dark Cabinet Policy Turns into Flea Market Trade

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

Diplomatic service is the institution responsible for implementing and promoting Mongolia's foreign policy abroad. Diplomatic missions play a crucial role in expanding political, trade, economic, social, and cultural relations and cooperation between two countries. According to the law, diplomatic missions have become special state services. In this context, they are supposed to be free from politics and political pressure or manipulation. However, in Mongolia's diplomatic service, knowledge, skills, and the merit system are overshadowed by a "double standard" criterion. Essentially, in our diplomatic service, "some are more equal than others." Previously, the Constitutional Court was a resting place with a salary for former members whose political careers had ended. Those "formers" who were pushed out of politics served those in power to retain their positions, selling out the Constitution, a painful yet real truth. There are even instances when they sold the constitution by carloads. Now, Mongolia's diplomatic service has become a refuge, reward, and offering for political castaways. The golden anchor and the country's safety black box policies, among others, seem to have been lost. Diplomats are expected to collect about 80 percent of the information needed by their country's special services legally in the course of their daily operations. To collect such information, one needs to be specialized and professional. Yet, Mongolia appoints non-career diplomats filled with money as ambassadors to influential countries like the United States, which drive global political and economic policies. It's almost an unwritten rule to appoint former members of parliament who have reached retirement age as ambassadors, whose political careers are over. For example, former MP N. Enkhbold is serving as ambassador to China, and O. Enkhtuvshin is serving as ambassador to Russia. Lu. Bold was appointed ambassador to Belgium as a reward for his "loyalty" to U. Khurelsukh. Such non-professional appointments pose considerable risks to Mongolia's diplomatic service. Especially considering the sensitive and risky geopolitical environment of the major powers surrounding Mongolia, entrusting foreign policy to "volunteers" is a major foreign policy blunder. Implementing a diplomatic policy is not the same as committing theft and fraud under the name of lawmaker. Mongolia faces a military threat at the back and a trade war at the front. In such circumstances, who implements the foreign relations policy abroad is an urgent question of national security. The personal profession, expertise, faith, and values should be considerations and criteria today. The only subject responsible for protecting the security of a buffer and small state externally is the diplomatic mission. Especially when global order is changing, international geopolitical situations are intensifying, and nuclear threats become core national concerns, it is highly risky to distribute the diplomatic service to a few people at the top. After the parliamentary elections, a government comprising three parties was formed. Leaders of the Democratic Party and the People's Party, who joined Oyun-Erdene's government by invitation, are contemplating how to sustain the party members of the dry old parties for eight years. The establishment of a coalition government by the MPP, DP, and HUN parties means sharing both punishment and privilege. Therefore, in an international relations crisis during a very complex and difficult time, a substantial and professional appointment must be made in foreign relations. It is the foreign policy that assures Mongolia's democracy and security. Therefore, in the appointments of ambassadors in 2025, it is important not to be biased by "some are more equal than others." The foreign appointments are vital to determine and safeguard the national interests, sovereignty, and the territorial integrity of the nation. However, appointing D. Odbayar, involved in harassing a flight attendant during his tenure as chairman of the Constitutional Court and shaming Mongolia worldwide, as the Consul General in Hong Kong would send an atrocious message internationally. Having a sex scandal representative is intolerable and insulting to foreign nations. The appointments of Ts. Jadamaba as Consul General in Busan, a member of the Democratic Party, and N. Lhagvadorj of the HUN Party as Consul in Eren are not professional. Leaders of the political party that joined the government have already agreed to appoint members of the Democratic Party, including S. Erdene, Sh. Jandos, Ts. Odontungalag, D. Erdenebat, and M. Buyandelger, as ambassadors and consuls. From MPP, the appointment of former MP D. Sarangerel as ambassador to Turkey is already confirmed. Reports have surfaced that either former MPs G. Munkhtsetseg or Ts. Munkhtsetseg might be appointed as ambassador to Germany. Names like B. Jargalmaa, D. Oyunkhorol, Ts. Munkh-Orgil, and Ts. Tserenpuntsag are also considered for the new appointments of ambassadors. However, it is something to contemplate what exactly G. Munkhtsetseg, for instance, would do for Mongolia's interests in Germany other than reading poems. How political parties distribute positions and who they appoint as boss and apprentice is their business. But at least policy implementation abroad must be entrusted to people who will not tarnish Mongolia's image. For example, the President's advisor E. Odbayar, former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs G. Amartuvshin, former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Munkhjin, and from DP, S. Bayartsogt, Da. Ganbold, B. Byambasaikhan, and M. Chimeddorj possess the knowledge and skills in Mongolia to implement foreign policy better than anyone else. It is worth noting in passing that diplomatic appointments need to align with Mongolia's dark cabinet policy. If the dark cabinet policy is turned into a bargain at a flea market, it will inevitably leave a bad image on Mongolia.

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The Budget is Annulled and Government Officials Worry About Loan Payments

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

The State Great Khural nullified the budget for 2025 and its accompanying laws last Friday, which requires the government to rework next year's budget proposal and submit it to parliament. In response to this decision, the government held an extraordinary meeting on Friday evening and decided to rework the 2025 budget along with accompanying laws. However, there is doubt whether it will be possible to submit the budget proposal by December 10 as required by the State Great Khural. Finance Minister B. Javkhlan has stated that it will not be possible to submit the budget proposal within this timeframe. He noted during a session of the State Great Khural, "It takes six months to prepare the budget. The budget must be submitted with 22 types of documents; if one is missing, the State Great Khural should not accept it. Ideally, it should be approved by December; otherwise, 220,000 state employees will be paid the minimum wage of 660,000 MNT. Issues such as 'how do we issue mortgages?' will arise," he warned. The State Great Khural has tasked the government with resubmitting the budget, risking the country sitting without an approved budget. In other words, if the government fails to submit the budget proposal with accompanying projects by December 10, it will be impossible for the State Great Khural to approve it within this month. In such a case, 220,000 state employees will receive the minimum wage. Furthermore, seniors and people with disabilities will have to get by one month without pensions or benefits. The issue of how they will repay their loans is looming. Banks will demand loan repayments on time regardless of whether the state budget is passed or not. In today's Mongolia, few are without loans. Over 60% of the elderly have pension loans, while most state employees are in debt, with loans for housing, cars, tuition, and more. In addition to bank loans, there are loans from non-bank financial institutions. Few people in government are without app-based loans. The saying "salary was received and gone" is linked to these various types of loans. Without a national budget, the elderly will face a major issue on how to repay their pension loans in the new year. Pensions are deposited at the beginning of each month, followed by loan repayments at the start of each month. Therefore, due to the irresponsibility of both the State Great Khural and the government, the 2025 budget was blocked. Therefore, they must either approve the budget before the new year or bear the responsibility for compensating loan interest. For state employees, it is the same. With a minimum wage of 660,000 MNT, their loan payments will not be met. Consequently, instead of blaming each other for submitting and approving a deficit-heavy budget, the government and the State Great Khural should focus on properly doing their jobs to ensure full salaries for state employees.

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Audit: Warning Given to Kh. Nyambaatar and Opportunity to Reduce City Budget Expenses by 16.2 Billion

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: itoim.mn

During the regular meeting of the City Council, the proposed 2025 budget for Ulaanbaatar City, submitted by the Mayor's Office, was discussed. The National Audit Office recommended reducing the city’s expenses by 16.2 billion MNT and income by 3.9 billion MNT in the budget proposal for the capital city for 2025. It was suggested that the city expenses could be reduced by removing certain measures from the city’s budget. A total of 2.2 billion MNT was planned for activities that did not meet budgetary requirements, lacked calculations and studies, and were not supported by evidence in the Mayor’s Office's budget for payable services to be performed by others. For example, 200 million MNT was allocated for measures to implement effective management of cash resources of the capital city, conduct studies, and provide consulting services, among others. A total of 1.7 billion MNT was planned for organizing an international trade and economic forum in cooperation with sister cities with which relations of brotherly friendship are maintained. In implementing the 2025 development plan of the capital city, 3.5 billion MNT was planned for measures with unclear needs and overlapping operational duties. For example, 100 million MNT was planned to start the "Cultural Rights Experiment" activities. A one-time extravagant expense of 1.6 billion MNT was planned, which could be avoided. For instance, 400 million MNT was allocated for organizing the New Year’s celebration. The planned increase of the charter capital of the Capital City Property Fund by 9 billion MNT is unsubstantiated, with unclear allocation and purpose. The 7 billion MNT planned for the charter capital of "New Century Tree Corporation" LLC and the Capital City Risk Management Fund "CHOS" LLC violates the State Savings Law. A warning: Last year, 1.8 billion MNT was added to the charter capital of the Emelt Eco Industrial Park, which was spent on operational activities. There is a risk that the 12 billion MNT intended as an investment in increasing the charter capital of legal entities in the 2025 capital city budget could be used for operational expenses instead. As such, the National Audit Office advised the Mayor of the City, Kh. Nyambaatar, to reduce city expenses by 16.2 billion MNT and increase income by 3.9 billion MNT. Additionally, since some expenses were incurred even before the budget was approved, the Mayor and the city administration were warned not to repeat such violations. It was also noted that 16.9% of investment measures did not have proper plans, 20.4% exceeded the two-year validity period of expert conclusions, 37.5% lacked land permits, and 40.9% did not have technical conditions from the relevant organizations.

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Audit: Warning to N. Nyambaatar and the Opportunity to Reduce Ulaanbaatar City Budget Expenditure by 16.2 Billion

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: itoim.mn

During the regular session of the Ulaanbaatar City Council, the draft budget for the city of Ulaanbaatar for 2025 was discussed, as submitted by the City Mayor's Office. The National Audit Office suggested reducing the revenue by 3.9 billion MNT and the expenditure by 16.2 billion MNT in the city's 2025 budget draft. It was advised that the city's budget expenditure could be reduced by eliminating the following measures. The City Mayor's Office had planned 2.2 billion MNT in various measures that did not meet budgetary requirements, lacked calculations and evidence, and were unsubstantiated. For example, 200 million MNT was allocated for implementing effective cash flow management, conducting research, and providing consulting services; another 200 million MNT was allocated for developing Ulaanbaatar City’s securities and debt management regulations, conducting studies, and acquiring consulting services. A sum of 1.7 billion MNT was allocated for organizing international trade and economic forums with cities having friendly relations. Under the framework of implementing Ulaanbaatar City’s 2025 development plan, 3.5 billion MNT was planned for measures with unclear needs and duplicated functions. For instance, 100 million MNT was planned for initiating the "Cultural Rights Book Trial" project. Additionally, 200 million MNT was allocated for hiring NGOs, non-profit organizations, and private sector entities to deliver some public services, while 2.9 billion MNT was planned for other operational costs and 200 million MNT for anti-corruption operations. One-off, avoidable extravagant expenses amounting to 1.6 billion MNT were planned. Among these, 400 million MNT was allocated for organizing New Year celebrations, 950 million MNT for implementing the "Creative Star" project, 60 million MNT for legal consulting services, 40 million MNT for legislative research, and 200 million MNT for the "Patriotic Student" campaign. An unexplained 9 billion MNT increase in the charter capital of the city’s property fund was deemed undocumented and lacked clear allocation and purpose. A total of 7 billion MNT was planned for the charter funds of Shinjil Zuunmod Corporation LLC and the Ulaanbaatar Risk Management Fund HOS LLC, which was contrary to the public finance economy law. A warning was issued: Last year, a decision increased the charter capital of the Emeelt Eco Industrial Park by 1.8 billion MNT, which was subsequently spent on current operations. However, in the 2025 city budget draft, 12 billion MNT marked as capital fund increases for legal entities poses a risk of being spent as current expenditures. In this manner, the National Audit Office recommended reducing the city's expenditure by 16.2 billion MNT and increasing revenue by 3.9 billion MNT to City Mayor N. Nyambaatar. Additionally, warnings were given to the City Mayor and the Office to avoid any future instances of incurring expenses before budgets are approved. There were also warnings regarding investment measures, noting that 16.9% had no design plans, 20.4% exceeded the two-year limit of validation, 37.5% lacked land permissions, and 40.9% had not obtained technical conditions from the relevant authorities.

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Khan Bank Will Continue as the "Leading Bank" for Sustainable Financing Next Year

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Khan Bank has received the "Best Sustainable Financial Institution" award for the fourth consecutive year. This prestigious award was given in recognition of Khan Bank's leadership in advancing sustainable finance, as evaluated by the Bank of Mongolia, the Financial Regulatory Commission, and the Sustainable Finance Association. These organizations recognized Khan Bank's outstanding implementation of sustainable finance practices in the financial system according to international standards. Since 2018, Khan Bank has aligned its operations with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and has undertaken numerous initiatives in this direction. In 2020, the bank established and began implementing its own Sustainable Development Policy. As of the third quarter of 2024, Khan Bank's green loan portfolio has reached 647 billion MNT, representing 53% of the total green loan portfolio within the banking system. The bank aims to increase the proportion of green loans to 10% of its total loan portfolio by 2025. Under the "Green Bond Program" approved by the Financial Regulatory Commission in June 2023, Khan Bank plans to raise a total of USD 30 million through a two-phase process. In December 2023, the bank offered the first tranche to the public by issuing green bonds equivalent to USD 5 million (17 billion MNT) on the Mongolian Stock Exchange for the first time. Last month, in the second phase of the program, Khan Bank offered green bonds worth USD 25 million to strategic investors. Long-term partners, such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), invested USD 12.5 million each in these bonds. Khan Bank, a leader in sustainable development, has been successfully fulfilling the role of "Leading Bank" of the Sustainable Finance Association for 2024 and will continue to hold this esteemed responsibility in 2025. This means that next year, Khan Bank will continue collaborating with the Sustainable Finance Association to promote sustainable finance principles, implement initiatives for green and gender-sensitive financing, and lead member institutions in the direction of sustainable development. Prosperous together - Khan Bank

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Audit: Warning Given to Kh. Nyambaatar and the Possibility of Reducing the Capital Budget by 16.2 Billion

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: itoim.mn

In the regular meeting of the Capital City Council, the draft budget of Ulaanbaatar City for 2025, submitted by the Capital Governor's Office, was discussed. The National Audit Office recommended reducing the income by 3.9 billion MNT and the expenditure by 16.2 billion MNT in the 2025 budget draft of the capital. They advised that the city's budget expenditure could be reduced by cutting the following measures. The Capital Governor's Office budgeted measures totaling 2.2 billion MNT without requirements for budgeting, proper research, or supporting evidence for costs related to work to be performed by others. For example, 200 million MNT was allocated for the implementation of effective management of monetary resources at the city level, research, and advisory services. Similarly, 200 million MNT was set aside for the development of Capital's securities and debt management regulations, research, and advisory services. It was planned to allocate 1.7 billion MNT for organizing international trade and economic forums in cooperation with "sister cities." Also, 3.5 billion MNT was planned for uncertain needs and overlapping functions within the framework of implementing the 2025 Development Plan of the Capital City. For example, 100 million MNT was allocated for initiating cultural vouchers. Furthermore, 200 million MNT was allocated for work to be outsourced to civil society organizations, NGOs, and private organizations, 2.9 billion MNT for other operational expenses, and 200 million MNT for Anti-Corruption operations, among others. A one-off, avoidable extravagant expense of 1.6 billion MNT was also planned. For instance, 400 million MNT for organizing a New Year celebration. Moreover, 950 million MNT was allocated for the "Creative-Star" project, 60 million MNT for obtaining legal consultancy, 40 million MNT for legal research, and 200 million MNT for the "Patriotic Student" campaign. It has been noted that increasing the charter fund of the Capital's state-owned enterprise fund by 9 billion MNT is unsubstantiated, with unclear allocation, nomenclature, and purpose. The charter funds of the new Zuun Mod Corporation LLC and the Capital Risk Management Fund HOS LLC were planned to be increased by a total of 7 billion MNT, violating the law on government savings. Warning: The previous year, the increase of 1.8 billion MNT to the charter fund of the Emeelt Eco Industrial Park was approved and used for operating expenses. However, the 2025 capital budget draft indicated that 12 billion MNT listed as investments in the charter funds of legal entities could potentially risk being used for operating expenses. Thus, the National Audit Office advised the Capital Governor Kh. Nyambaatar to reduce the capital expenditure by 16.2 billion MNT and increase income by 3.9 billion MNT. Furthermore, it warned the Mayor and Governor's Office against incurring some expenses before the budget is approved due to violations previously committed. Additionally, 16.9% of investment measures lacked project design, 20.4% were over the two-year period for verification assessment, 37.5% did not have land permits, and 40.9% had not obtained technical conditions from relevant organizations.

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Khan Bank Continues as the "Leading Bank" for Sustainable Finance Next Year

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Khan Bank has received the "Best Sustainable Finance Organization" award for the fourth consecutive year. This prestigious award was given by the Central Bank of Mongolia, the Financial Regulatory Commission, and the Sustainable Finance Association in recognition of the bank's leadership in developing sustainable finance with its team and implementing common principles and best practices of sustainable finance at the international standard level within the financial system. Since 2018, Khan Bank has integrated the 17 Sustainable Development Goals into all levels of its operations and has been continuously working to implement many initiatives in this direction. Notably, in 2020, they established and began implementing their own Sustainable Development Policy. As of the third quarter of 2024, Khan Bank's green loan portfolio reached 647 billion Mongolian tugriks, accounting for 53% of the total green loan portfolio of the entire banking system. Looking forward, the bank aims to make 10% of its total loan portfolio green by 2025. Under Khan Bank's "Green Bond Program," approved by the Financial Regulatory Commission in June 2023, the plan is to raise financing equivalent to a total of 30 million US dollars in two phases. In December 2023, the first phase offered 17 billion tugriks worth of Green Bonds, equivalent to 5 million US dollars, to the public on the Mongolian Stock Exchange for the first time. Last month, as the second phase of this program, Khan Bank offered a 25 million US dollar Green Bond specifically to strategic investors, with its long-term partners, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), each investing 12.5 million US dollars. As a leader in sustainable development, Khan Bank has been actively working as the "Leading Bank" of the Sustainable Finance Association for 2024 and will continue this distinguished role into 2025. Through this, Khan Bank will work with the Sustainable Finance Association next year to further disseminate the principles of sustainable finance and implement initiatives in green and gender-responsive financing, while leading member organizations towards sustainable development. Cooperation for growth - Khan Bank Notice: Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite ikom.mn as the source when using our information in any form, in full or in part.

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Khan Bank to Continue as a "Leader Bank" for Sustainable Finance Next Year

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

Khan Bank has been awarded the "Best Sustainable Organization" award for the fourth consecutive year. This prestigious award was given by the Bank of Mongolia, the Financial Regulatory Commission, and the Sustainable Finance Association in recognition of the bank's leadership and exceptional implementation of sustainable financing principles and best practices according to international standards. Since 2018, Khan Bank has been integrating the 17 Sustainable Development Goals into all levels of its operations, and in 2020, it established its own Sustainable Development Policy. As of the third quarter of 2024, Khan Bank's green loan portfolio has reached 647 billion MNT, accounting for 53% of the total green loan portfolio in the banking system. The bank aims to make 10% of its total loan portfolio green loans by 2025. In June 2023, under Khan Bank's "Green Bond Program," the Financial Regulatory Commission approved a plan to raise a total of 30 million USD in two phases. In December 2023, for the first time, a green bond worth 17 billion MNT, equivalent to 5 million USD, was offered to the public and traded on the Mongolian Stock Exchange. Last month, as the next phase of this program, Khan Bank's long-term partners, the ADB and the EBRD, each made an investment of 12.5 million USD in a 25 million USD green bond specially offered to strategic investors. As a leader in sustainable development, Khan Bank has been successfully operating as the "Leader Bank" for 2024 under the Sustainable Finance Association and has been entrusted with continuing this distinguished role until 2025. As a result, Khan Bank will continue to collaborate with the association to promote sustainable finance principles, implement green and gender-sensitive financing initiatives, and lead member organizations in sustainable development directions. Growth Together – Khan Bank

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State Business Expanding, Private Sector Being Squeezed Out

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

"For 18 years, we collected donations and did eco-friendly volunteer work. Since the state entered the forestry sector, the tree nursery business has become monopolized, increasingly focusing on trade, profits, and deals. The government itself has become a social cancer. They are going on a single outing with the 10-year budget of our club. This amount of money could be used to plant and grow over two million trees as well as care for 12,000 children and youths..." These are the lamentations of Dr. D. Serdaram, an associate professor at the National University of Science and Technology, who established the volunteer organization "My Club" with the aim of improving the ecological education of citizens while greening, restoring, and protecting Mongolia. For the past 20 years, Dr. Serdaram has tirelessly united thousands of environmentally conscious children and young people, establishing forest belts in 13 locations across Mongolia and successfully planting and nurturing over two million seedlings. All of this was achieved through voluntary initiatives organized by the club and funded by public support and donations—without receiving a penny from the state. "My Club" aims to plant and cultivate 10 million trees nationwide, having already achieved roughly 20% of this goal in 18 years. To plant two million trees, they faced considerable challenges, scraping together funds almost as precariously as licking the ice of the Tamir River to reach their present stage. The members of "My Club" know better than anyone just how arduous and demanding forestry efforts can be, requiring dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment—especially for those working independently without state support. Therefore, in recent years, under the guise of implementing the "Billion Trees" national movement, government officials have increasingly frustrated these individuals, squandering taxpayer money on ineffective and seemingly pointless tasks while disrupting the forestry sector. The club's leader criticized how the state pretends to take on these responsibilities, expanding its trade and business while failing to genuinely support citizens and enterprises working in afforestation and tree planting. This is just one example of how our government increasingly intrudes into every sector, large or small, effectively squeezing out private businesses. For years, successive governments have claimed they would reduce bureaucratic interference in business. In practice, however, little progress has been made. Instead, state involvement in the business sector has increasingly expanded year by year, squeezing and restricting the private sector's market opportunities. Talk about reducing bureaucratic hurdles has persisted, but there has been little tangible action or progress. The recent period under Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene's administration has amplified these issues. The government still projects an image of involvement only in strategic or public infrastructure sectors vital to national security, as outlined in international agreements or by law. However, in reality, there is no sector or business left untouched by political leaders and those in power. When it comes to illustrating state involvement in business, consider the example of state-owned enterprises. Currently, 99 central companies regularly report to the State Property Policy and Regulation Department. Including their subsidiaries and affiliates, the number grows to 122. The number of local government-owned companies is countless. When compared to our country's population, economic development level, and market capacity, this is an excessively high number, surpassing even some developed countries. International researchers have pointed out this fact, highlighting that this number is 1.5 to 4 times greater than in developed countries like Norway, Sweden, and Singapore. Even in Singapore, which is known internationally for successful governance of state-owned companies, only about 30 such companies exist, managed through "Temasek Holdings." Given these circumstances, one can gauge the extent to which the Mongolian government is enmeshed in business. When analyzing the financial performances—profits, losses, debts, and subsidies—of these companies, the metrics are unimpressive. According to assessments by the International Monetary Fund, 40% of the 99 state-owned enterprises in Mongolia are financially risky in terms of debt-to-asset ratios, and 20% pose risks in terms of return on assets. Last year, only five of these companies contributed to the state budget and operated profitably. Despite increasing its influence and presence in the business sector, the state has been unable to operate effectively and has instead accrued losses, exemplifying the adage of taking unearned benefits through inappropriate means. Globally, state ownership is generally confined to strategic sectors such as energy, natural resources, and transportation. Yet, in Mongolia, state involvement now dominates business operations across nearly every sector, including mining, transportation, telecommunications, agriculture, banking, finance, construction, and even forestry. Even the capital city plans to raise funds through bonds for housing projects and sales, contrary to earlier commitments. A few months ago, city mayor Kh. Nyambaatar announced from an international conference platform his intent to focus on regulation and legal constraints to prevent the state from entering businesses that the private sector can handle. However, he has since decisively turned into a "builder," intent on his new role. What new businesses the state might initiate in the future and whose opportunities it will infringe upon remains uncertain. Readers are well aware of the hazards of heavy state involvement in the business sector, which curtails the free market development, hampers profitable private ventures, and reduces competitiveness. Consequently, economic growth slows, efficiency diminishes, governance systems become unstable, and corruption and theft flourish. This is because state-owned and politically-connected businesses often become grounds for politicians and powers-at-be to insert allies, push products, and interfere with impartial processes. In reality, the bureaucracy blocks fair and profitable market operation through increasing state involvement, posing risks that only expand over time—an unspoken rule. Corruption and official malfeasance, constantly entangling state enterprises, are intrinsically linked to structural distortions, as evidenced by high-profile cases like the Development Bank and coal theft scandals, all reflecting profound governmental entanglement in the business sector. Indices measuring economic freedom, business environment appeal, global competitiveness, and corruption perception have persistently underscored concerns with the Mongolian state’s regulatory policies and property ownership, offering recommendations such as improving governance, enhancing transparency, and limiting the establishment of new state-owned companies. International experts and analysts working in Mongolia share the opinion that it is time to avoid further establishment of state-owned enterprises and to minimize government interference in business. D. Uyunbadam, manager of the Governance Program at the “Open Society Forum,” expresses this particularly, emphasizing not to establish new state-owned companies and minimize governmental involvement in economic ventures. Heavy state intervention in the business sector slows down economic growth and leads to inefficient budget use. In recent years, significant investments have been made in many small projects initiated by the government. They soon attempted ventures like butter production and dairy farm establishment. The state should stand firm on its assertion of avoiding economic endeavors. Only this will lead to an economically healthy nation, she noted. The government should focus on fostering competition, limiting dominance, and protecting entrepreneurs and investors without competing with them or usurping their positions.

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Diplomacy

Mongolia Among Four Countries to Receive Defense Aid from Japan

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The government of Japan has decided to include the Philippines, Indonesia, Mongolia, and Djibouti in its Official Security Assistance (OSA) program for this financial year, which aims to provide aid to the defense sectors of countries with similar development goals, according to official sources in Tokyo. As part of this program, surveillance and monitoring equipment tailored to the specific needs of each country will be supplied free of charge. The total value of the technical equipment and supplies to be provided to the selected four countries is estimated at 5 billion yen (approximately $33 million). For Mongolia, the provision includes equipment intended for air traffic control and management. As a country that borders both Russia and China, Mongolia is striving to expand its relations with other nations in an effort to reduce its over-dependence on these two neighboring countries. This could have influenced Mongolia's inclusion in receiving this aid. Source: Yomiuri Shimbun Warning: Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) must mention their source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, whether in full or in part.

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Discussing Project Outcomes and Future Cooperation

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Secretary General of the Parliament, B. Baasandorj, met with Kang Jung Ryeo, the Deputy Director of the South Korean international cooperation organization KOICA in Mongolia, as well as experts, program staff, and the research team of the UN Development Programme's governance initiative. During the meeting, they discussed the outcomes of projects aimed at ensuring gender equality at decision-making levels and women's political participation, as well as future stages of cooperation. Secretary General B. Baasandorj highlighted that the project played a crucial role in increasing women's participation at decision-making levels. For instance, in the 9th parliamentary elections, 32 women were elected to the 126-member parliament, marking significant progress in promoting gender equality in both the political history of Mongolia and in Asia. He emphasized that the current parliament prioritizes human-centered principles and aims to conduct all legislative activities with a focus on human rights. The strategic goals for the 2024-2028 Parliament center on establishing a human-centered parliament, and they expressed their desire to collaborate with the KOICA organization to ensure the implementation of this strategic plan. Kang Jung Ryeo, the Deputy Director of KOICA in Mongolia, expressed support for the human-centered activities of the parliament and noted that the current parliament includes representatives from five parties and many women legislators. Hence, they aim to expand their cooperation. Additionally, they intend to support the legislative activities of the parliament members and solidify the successes of the first phase of the project, while aligning their programs with the 2024-2028 strategic plan of the Parliament. The Parliament's Press and Information Department reported these updates.

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The Hague Court Rejects Mongolia's Appeal Request

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

President Putin of Russia visited Mongolia. In a statement made in October, the judges of the International Criminal Court noted, "Participating states and individuals are obligated to arrest and surrender persons under the arrest warrant of the International Criminal Court, regardless of position or citizenship. Considering the serious situation that Mongolia is not cooperating with the Court, it has been deemed necessary to refer this issue to the Assembly of the participating countries." Mongolia filed an appeal against this decision and requested the disqualification of two judges of the International Criminal Court. However, according to the Azerbaijani news outlet "News.az," The Hague Court announced that it would not accept Mongolia's appeal. It was deemed that the complaint was not related to an official judicial decision regarding the merits of the case or procedural issues and thus was not subject to appeal. Furthermore, it was regarded as a compliance assessment related to the obligation to cooperate with the Court. In other words, this was not about punishing Mongolia but rather about whether to cooperate with the Court. It is worth mentioning that the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin in March last year, accusing him of committing war crimes by unlawfully deporting hundreds of children from Ukrainian territory. Under this warrant, the court's member states, numbering 124, are required to arrest Putin if he sets foot on their territory. As a country that has joined the Rome Statute, Mongolia is obliged to arrest Putin if he visits. If it refuses to fulfill this obligation, the International Criminal Court can make a determination and report to the Assembly of the participating states, which then takes appropriate measures. SOURCE: NEWS AZ

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Infrastructure

O.Tsogtgerel: Traffic Congestion in Ulaanbaatar has Cost 3.6 Trillion Tugriks in Damages

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Democratic Party's caucus in the Mongolian Parliament held a press conference to discuss matters deliberated in their regular meeting. O.Tsogtgerel, the leader of the Democratic Party caucus, stated that December 10 is International Human Rights Day. It is a commemorative day when the first demonstrations for democracy took place in Mongolia on December 10, 1989. December 29 marks the day of restoring national freedom and independence. Important commemorative days such as these fall in December. The Democratic Party caucus discussed three issues at today’s meeting: 1. The measures being implemented under the "20-Minute City" policy to reduce traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar were reviewed. 2. Information provided by the Finance Minister was heard regarding the President’s complete veto of the 2025 Budget Law and the subsequent submission of the Budget Law by the Government. 3. The caucus organized an event in collaboration with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation on November 27. A decision was made that it is appropriate to submit a draft resolution to Parliament following this event. The draft resolution contains four clauses related to developing a free market and protecting private property and economic freedom.

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G. Munkhbaatar: Next Year, We Will Implement 652 Projects and Measures in Urban Planning

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: ikon.mn

A regular meeting of the Ulaanbaatar City Citizens' Representative Council is taking place today. During the session, the Ulaanbaatar Land Management Agency, represented by G. Munkhbaatar, presented the execution of the 2024 Land Management Plan of the capital city, as well as the draft plan for 2025. As of the 22nd of last month, the execution of the 2024 Land Management Plan of the capital city is at 91.3% completion. Regarding land management implementation, 76 tasks have been accomplished at a rate of 92.2%. In terms of urban planning, 716 tasks have been completed at 86.7%. Additionally, 139 tasks related to land compensation and location sizing have been completed at 85.6%. For land fees, measures have been taken using the unified land cadastre system, with a total claim of MNT 72.7 billion for 2024. The draft of the 2025 Land Management Plan for the city states that 652 projects and measures are planned for implementation in the field of urban planning next year. Specifically, 73 tasks are planned for land management implementation, 312 for urban planning, 143 for compensation and location sizing, and MNT 81.5 billion is expected to be collected in land fees. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form entirely or partially.

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Society

Breaking News: Mongolian Citizen Dies in Fire at Fertilizer Factory in South Korea

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: isee.mn

A tragic incident has occurred where a Mongolian citizen has died in a fire at a fertilizer factory located in Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. According to reports from the Anseong City Police Department, a fire erupted in a container at the fertilizer factory, resulting in the death of one individual. Investigations revealed that the deceased was a Mongolian citizen in their twenties, referred to as 'A'. Firefighters received the alert and responded swiftly, deploying 19 fire engines and 57 firefighters to extinguish the blaze, which took approximately 50 minutes to put out. During the operation, they discovered a deceased person at the scene, whose identity was initially unknown but was later confirmed to be the Mongolian citizen.

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Get a Chance to Travel Abroad by Using Your TDB POS

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Trade and Development Bank (TDB) has announced its "Happy Merchant" incentive program for its merchant or POS holder clients. Aimed at supporting small and medium-sized businesses, this promotional campaign saw 26 lucky clients receive their prizes this October. Would you like to be the super lucky winner and get the opportunity to travel abroad? You too can participate in this program by using TDB's POS machine in your trade services. For every 100,000 MNT in revenue received, you will earn one raffle entry. By choosing TDB's POS machine, you can: - Avail micro business loans
- View and monitor your transaction history
- Be securely protected from cash-related risks
- Conduct your payments quickly and efficiently. The 1800-1977 support center is available 24/7 to address any issues, requests, or proposals you may have, enabling you to resolve any problems quickly and efficiently. Business owners, earn a raffle entry for every 100,000 MNT income you receive with your TDB POS machine and join the campaign. Check your reward eligibility at loyalty.tdbm.mn. If you do not have a TDB POS, order one now at www.cardcentre.mn/posrequest. Congratulations again to all the lucky clients who used TDB's POS machine. TO A SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TOGETHER. Warning: Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, whether in whole or part.

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Environment

Mongolian Prime Minister Issues Call to Action at COP-16

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The 16th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP-16) has begun in Riyadh, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As the host country of COP-17 to be held in 2026, Mongolia's Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene participated as an honored guest at the opening ceremony and delivered a speech. This conference, held under the theme "Our Land, Our Future," discusses a broad range of issues including the implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, combating desertification and land degradation, taking responsive actions against drought and desertification, promoting eco-friendly food production, women's land ownership rights, youth participation, and employment. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene emphasized that at this critical time when we need to resolve the challenges posed by climate change, desertification, and land degradation, the parties to the convention must strengthen political leadership, unity, and mutual understanding to make bold decisions for a common future. He presented the policies and activities being implemented by the government of Mongolia to combat desertification and land degradation. The Prime Minister stated, "Climate change and desertification are directly impacting the daily lives and lifestyles of people in every country. According to UN research, the frequency of natural and climatic disasters in Mongolia has doubled over the past 20 years. For instance, last winter experienced the heaviest snowfall in 50 years, leading to a severe dzud that killed millions of livestock, followed by unprecedentedly heavy summer floods in over fifty years. We see and feel such examples worldwide daily. Our territory is our future. Therefore, this conference is being held under the slogan Our Land—Our Future. The current circumstances demand that humanity stand for one another to protect our future lands. Climate change, desertification, and pandemics have also reminded us to be "One for All, All for One." Hence, the future consultations are urged to unite under this ideology." Lastly, the Prime Minister noted that Mongolia has initiated the establishment of an "International Coalition for Sustainable Rangelands and Tackling Land Issues for the Future" during the 17th Session of the parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. He expressed his gratitude to the UN General Assembly for adopting a resolution to commemorate 2026 as the "International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists." The government of Mongolia is aligning its actions with international organizations and countries across the globe in reducing climate change impacts, introducing renewable energy, and implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Under the initiative of the President of Mongolia, a national movement called "One Billion Trees" has been launched, which has resulted in planting 84 million trees and increasing seedling reserves to 63 million, considered a good practice internationally. The implementation of large-scale projects for clean energy is crucial in reducing the effects of climate change and carbon emissions. Mongolia is focusing on the transition to clean energy, promoting investments, and major reforms in tax environments to support clean energy production, highlighted Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene. He invited governments, investors, wealth funds, and the private sector to collaborate mutually beneficially on these projects. As the country to chair the 17th meeting of the parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, Mongolia is keen to contribute to global efforts to combat drought, desertification, and land degradation, and actively cooperate with participating parties and wished success for the conference proceedings. Additionally, he invited guests and delegates to participate in the COP17 to be held in Mongolia in 2026. The primary activities of the 16th session of the parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification will continue with the participation of Minister of Environment and Climate Change S. Odontuya and her delegation. The COP16 conference coincides with the 30th anniversary of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification and is the largest international event hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It also marks the first time the conference is held in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

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Introduced Measures to Reduce Air Pollution

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: montsame.mn

During an extraordinary second session of the Ulaanbaatar City Council, the Deputy Mayor of the city, A. Amartuvshin, presented the implementation of government resolutions regarding the efforts to reduce air pollution. The primary sources of air pollution in Ulaanbaatar are the ger districts, contributing 55.6%; vehicles, contributing 28.9%; and water heating boilers, small heating boilers, and main facilities of thermal power plants, contributing 15.5%. Furthermore, according to the unified report from the Statistics Information Center, the number of households in ger districts decreased from 50.2% to 44% since 2020. However, 28.2% of nitrogen dioxide emissions are from ger districts, while 63.2% come from vehicle emissions. Notably, 74.2% of the registered 712,992 vehicles in the city have been used for over 10 years. When vehicles travel at speeds of 0-5 km/h, the emission of harmful substances increases by 2-3 times compared to normal conditions. To tackle air pollution, the following plans are being implemented: - Implement housing, ger district redevelopment, and energy source projects for 20,000 households in the Selbe and Bayankhoshuu sub-centers. - Gradually transition household heating in ger districts to central heating, gas, renewable energy, electricity, and other sources. Connect steam and water heating boilers to other sources. - Update the technology for producing improved briquettes. - Increase citizen and community involvement in insulation projects. - Reduce indoor pollution. - Decrease pollution from motor vehicle sources. - Implement measures to improve the capacity for air quality monitoring and analysis. These activities are being undertaken by the Publicity and Information Department of the Ulaanbaatar City Administration, according to the City Administration's Media Office.

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“Disclosure of Climate Transparency” is a Key Tool to Increase Green Financing Trust

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Under the patronage of the President, the "TOS Forum-2024" was held for the third time, serving as an important event to identify strategies for adapting to climate change and opportunities for green investments. On the first day of the forum, the Bank of Mongolia and the TOS Association jointly organized a training and discussion session on "Climate Disclosure and Opportunities for Green Investment." During this session, the Bank of Mongolia, in collaboration with the Mongolian Sustainable Finance Association and the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, introduced guidelines for climate transparency reporting, aimed at implementing the ISSB's new S1 and S2 standards in Mongolia. As part of localizing these standards, they developed phased methodologies and voluntary guidelines for financial institutions and presented practical tools for collecting quantitative data to the public. Participants expressed interest in the funded greenhouse gas emissions calculator and climate disclosure data collection tools introduced during the event. International experts highlighted that these tools are crucial for accelerating green investments by financial institutions. The event emphasized that "Disclosure of Climate Transparency" is a key tool to increase trust in green financing and prevent greenwashing. Sharing international best practices and effective implementation solutions during the forum provided valuable insights and solutions to expand the sources of sustainable financing, which was a major outcome of the event.

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Mongolia Participates in the World Forestry Congress

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: news.mn

B. Javkhlan, Advisor for Project Coordination and Civil Society Policy at the President's Office of Mongolia, participated in the second World Forestry Congress held in Nanning, the capital of Guangxi province, China, known as the "Green City." The congress discussed innovative ideas and new technologies to combat climate change, desertification, biodiversity loss, and to develop forestry, expand its scope, and ensure balanced development between humans and nature. In his speech, Advisor B. Javkhlan emphasized the importance of global collaboration, rather than individual countries acting alone, to address challenges such as global warming, climate change, desertification, pasture degradation, and the scarcity of drinking water, forests, and jungles. He also noted that the initiative to establish a "Mongolia-China Cooperation Center for Combating Desertification" is gaining momentum under the leadership of the two countries' heads of state. The center's establishment is expected to make significant contributions to environmental protection and the restoration of forestry, not only in the two countries but also in the region. He exchanged views with leaders of forestry-related government organizations from China and other countries to strengthen relations and cooperation. Additionally, he called for active collaboration and participation in organizing the 17th Conference of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in Ulaanbaatar in 2026. China, the organizer of the congress, ranks fifth in the world by forest area, following Russia (815 million hectares), Brazil (497 million hectares), Canada (347 million hectares), and the USA (310 million hectares). However, it leads the world in forest restoration, having reforested over 87.6 million hectares, with a goal to plant and grow 70 billion trees by 2030. In 2023, the total production value of China's forestry and pasture sector reached $1.28 trillion, supporting over 100 million rural households in the agricultural sector and providing jobs for over 60 million people. Over 1,600 delegates from nearly 90 countries participated in the second World Forestry Congress.

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"One for All, All for One": Mongolian Prime Minister Calls for Unity Against Desertification

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: isee.mn

The 16th Conference of the Parties (COP-16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) has commenced in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. As the country that will chair COP-17 in 2026, the Prime Minister of Mongolia, L. Oyun-Erdene, attended the opening ceremony as a guest of honor and delivered a speech. This conference, held under the theme "Our Land, Our Future," will explore a wide range of issues, including the implementation of UNCCD to combat desertification, addressing drought and land degradation to restore land by 2030, eco-friendly food production, women's land ownership rights, youth participation, and job opportunities. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene emphasized the urgent need for political leadership, unity, and mutual understanding among the Convention's Parties during this critical time to address the challenges posed by climate change, desertification, and land degradation. He also outlined the policies and actions undertaken by the Government of Mongolia to combat desertification and land degradation. He explained that climate change and desertification affect every country and people's daily lives. According to the United Nations, natural and climatic disasters in Mongolia have doubled in frequency over the past 20 years. Last winter, unprecedented snowfall created severe hurdles, causing the deaths of millions of livestock, while the previous summer saw the worst flooding in over 50 years. "Our land is our future." Therefore, this conference is organized under the motto "Our Land, Our Future." The situation demands that humanity stands together to protect what is crucial for our future. Both climate change and desertification warn us to be "One for All, All for One." He urged future consultations under this ideological banner. During COP-17, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene announced Mongolia's initiative to form an "International Coalition on Pasture and Land for the Future." He thanked the UN General Assembly for adopting the resolution to observe "International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists" in 2026. The Government of Mongolia is collaborating with international organizations and countries worldwide, aligning its efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and promote renewable energy as part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Through the "One Billion Trees" national movement initiated by the President of Mongolia, 84 million trees have been planted, with 63 million seedlings in reserve, receiving recognition as a model practice internationally. To reduce the impacts of climate change and cut carbon emissions, it is vital to implement major clean energy projects. Mongolia is focusing on clean energy transitions, supporting investments, and starting significant reforms in taxation and the investment environment, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene highlighted. He invited governments, investors, sovereign wealth funds, and private sectors to collaborate on mutually beneficial terms on these projects. As the country chairing the 17th session of the UNCCD, Mongolia is committed to contributing to global efforts to fight drought, desertification, and land degradation and preserve the environment. He expressed readiness for active cooperation with all stakeholders and wished success to the conference attendees, inviting them to participate in COP-17 in Mongolia in 2026. The main activities of COP-16 continue with participation from a delegation led by Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya. The COP-16 coincides with the 30th anniversary of the UNCCD and represents the largest international event hosted by Saudi Arabia in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

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In ten parts of Ulaanbaatar, the air is SLIGHTLY POLLUTED while two locations show POLLUTION, according to the index

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: ikon.mn

As of 09:15 today, the air in ten parts of Ulaanbaatar is slightly polluted, while in two locations it is polluted, according to the air quality index. Specifically, in Khan-Uul district, the air is slightly polluted in areas like German house, Yarmag, Arzat, near the power station, and in Bayangol district at MNB, Chingeltei district in Khailaast, Songinokhairkhan district in Bayankhoshuu, Bayanzurkh district in Shargaad, Sukhbaatar district in Dambadarjaa, and Nalaikh. However, in the First microdistrict of Songinokhairkhan district and around school No. 65 in Tolgoit, the air is polluted. Recommendation: When the air quality index is between 101-200 or slightly polluted, adverse effects on health may appear for highly sensitive people, particularly those with chronic cardiovascular, respiratory disorders, especially asthma. It is advised to reduce time spent outdoors doing strenuous activities and to stay away from roads. When the air quality index reaches 201-300 or polluted, adverse health effects become evident, especially for highly sensitive people. Those with chronic conditions should monitor their blood pressure, avoid prolonged outdoor activities, and wear masks. Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social media, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, wholly or partly.

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Mongolia Participates in the World Forestry Congress

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Mongolian Presidential Advisor on Project and Program Coordination and Civil Society Policy, B. Javkhlan, participated in the second World Forestry Congress held in Nanning City, the capital of Guangxi Province, known as China’s “Green City”. The congress discussed innovative ideas and new technologies on combating climate change, desertification, and biodiversity loss, as well as developing forestry and expanding its coverage to ensure balanced human and natural development. In his speech, Presidential Advisor B. Javkhlan emphasized the importance of global cooperation in overcoming issues such as global warming, climate change, desertification, pasture degradation, and scarcity of drinking water, forests, and jungles, rather than having a single country tackle these challenges alone. He called for active collaboration and participation in organizing the 17th Conference of Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in Ulaanbaatar in 2026. The advisor also highlighted the acceleration of efforts to establish the "Mongolia-China Joint Cooperation Center to Combat Desertification," an initiative by the heads of state of Mongolia and China. This center is expected to make a significant contribution to protecting the environment and restoring forestry in both countries and the region. During the congress, he exchanged views on intensifying relations and cooperation with the heads of forestry-related government organizations from China and other countries, encouraging support and active participation in the 2026 conference in Ulaanbaatar. China, the organizer of the congress, ranks fifth globally in total forest area, following Russia (815 million hectares), Brazil (497 million hectares), Canada (347 million hectares), and the USA (310 million hectares). However, China leads the world in reforestation, with over 87.6 million hectares reforested, and aims to plant and grow 70 billion trees by 2030. In 2023, the total production value of China’s forestry and pasture sectors reached $1.28 trillion, supporting over 100 million rural households in the agricultural sector and providing jobs for over 60 million people. The second World Forestry Congress was attended by more than 1,600 representatives from 90 countries around the world. Source: President's Office

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Innovation

JAICA Announces the Best Projects Supporting Sustainable Development

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: ikon.mn

JAICA's representative office in Mongolia has announced the best projects of the "Mongolia Open Innovation and Co-creation for SDGs 2024" or "MICS 2024" program, which aims to select and support the implementation of projects addressing social issues in Mongolia. This time, the "Bio-toilet" project, a joint effort between the Mongolian Koosen Technology College and Japan's Star Engineering company, which aims to test and localize healthy bio-toilets, and "Creativision," a startup by instructors and students at the National University of Mongolia manufacturing scientific lesson equipment, were selected. This program, which selects open innovations and co-creations aimed at achieving Mongolia's Sustainable Development Goals, is characterized by encouraging participants from various sectors such as the government, private sector, education, and financial organizations of Mongolia and Japan to combine their technology, initiatives, and resources to create and implement innovative solutions. The head of JAICA's representative office in Mongolia, Miyagi Kensuke, said, "In recent years, the world's situation has sharply changed due to climate change, rising energy prices caused by wars and conflicts in some countries, and an increase in the number of immigrants, making it increasingly difficult for a single nation or organization to address international issues alone. Therefore, it is important that the MICS program fosters conditions where Mongolian and Japanese parties collaborate to initiate and implement innovative solutions that address Mongolia's social issues and aim to achieve sustainable development goals. We are delighted if, by the Mid-Term Event of this program, organized from 2023, we have managed to develop and disseminate new 'Co-creations' and 'Collaborations' aimed at solving Mongolia's social issues." A total of 197 teams entered their projects into this competition, going through several rounds of selection. During the opening event held on June 11 of this year, 64 projects were selected, and presented to the public, investors, and other stakeholders, with representatives of 15 teams progressing to the next round presenting their projects in Tokyo to Japanese investors and interested parties. As a result of the multiple-stage selection process, the organizers have explained that 10 teams whose projects were selected will receive diverse support and participate in a mentoring program from last August until February of the next year. In particular, leading experts in business and innovation from Mongolia and Japan are organizing training and meetings to impart knowledge on business planning, marketing, finance, and investment attraction methods, as well as supporting each team in finding and connecting with domestic and international partners. The special partner of the program is the Metropolitan Business Innovation Center, and the executive is JUGAMO, the association of Japanese graduates. During this event, participants of a business tour organized by JAICA's Kyushu branch in Japan familiarized themselves with the projects, which was another highlight of this year's "MICS 2024." This program is open to anyone who wishes to turn innovative ideas into reality, and the final presentation and closing event of MICS 2024 are planned to be held in February 2025. Note: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) using our information in any form, in full or in part, must necessarily mention their source (ikon.mn).

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Mongolia's First Mobile Virtual Card with 40% Cashback

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The "Digi Card," the first mobile virtual card in Mongolia introduced by Khan Bank, elevates your financial needs to a whole new level, allowing you to express your sense of style and creativity. It is launched to the market for clients over the age of 18 and is open to anyone who desires more flexible and exciting financial services. Features of the "Digi Card": - Choose from 2 designs, 5 colors, and 8 types of animated stickers. - Create a card by selecting from 8 animated stickers on your favorite color. - Unique design choices that reflect the customer's personal touch. Advantages: - Clients can create the virtual card themselves for free. - Choose from international Visa and UnionPay networks to create your virtual card. - Option to create a card with a flexible term. - Make purchases, receive discounts, and promotions by linking it to the Digi Pay app. - As it is a non-physical card, it contributes to reducing carbon emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice. - Change card status, get an e-PIN, see statements, access detailed information on international pending transactions, and pay credit card bills through the Khan Bank app. Special Promotion: From November 27, 2024, to December 27, 2024, make purchases on the following websites using your mobile virtual card and receive a 40% cashback: - www.Apple.com - www.Netflix.com - www.Amazon.com - https://store.steampowered.com/ - https://m.pinduoduo.com/ Campaign Terms: - Maximum transaction amount: 250,000 MNT - Minimum transaction amount: 12,500 MNT - Maximum cashback per customer: 100,000 MNT - Minimum cashback per customer: 5,000 MNT - Cashback will be transferred to your account on December 30, 2024. To learn how to create a new virtual card, click HERE, and for detailed card information, click HERE. Become a client of the first mobile virtual card in Mongolia and stay ahead by obtaining innovative financial products and services! Harmony of Shared Growth - Khan Bank

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Arts

Chinggis Khan Exhibition Opens in Berlin, Germany

Published: 2024-12-02 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Under the auspices of the President of Mongolia, the Chinggis Khan exhibition will open in Nantes, France, in 2024, which has been selected as Europe's best exhibition. Meanwhile, the series "Heritage Scattered Around the World," showcasing Mongolian cultural artifacts in Germany, officially opened in Berlin. The opening ceremony was attended by the director of the Chinggis Khan National Museum, academician S. Chuluun, Mongolian ambassador to Germany B. Mandakhbileg, director of the Humboldt Forum K. Koch, and other officials. The exhibition includes Mongolian cultural artifacts from the Ethnological Museum in Berlin, the Turfan collection from the State Library, maps of the Khokh Nuur area, and collections from the Ilkhanate era by Rashid al-Din. The second book on cultural heritage in Germany is planned for 2025. Academician S. Chuluun highlighted that the artifacts included in the "Mongolian Heritage in Germany" series are unique and have their own distinct collection. The previous 11-volume series was published with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth. The series is planned to be introduced to the public. It will be published in the Czech Republic as "Czech Heritage" next year.

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Arts

Politics

Supported discussing the draft law to amend the Budget Law

Supreme Court: Discussing the Development Bank Case

Kh. Nyambaatar: Plan to Increase Vehicle Taxes

Draft Law on Amendments to the 2025 Budget Law of Mongolia Submitted to Parliament

Amendment to the Law on the 2025 State Budget of Mongolia Submitted to the Parliament

A Draft Law to Amend the 2025 State Budget Law Submitted to the Parliament of Mongolia

Decision on Increasing Vehicle Taxes and Road Fees Today

Decision on Increasing Vehicle Taxes to Be Made Today

Decision to Increase Car Taxes Today

Kh. Nyambaatar: Vehicle taxes to be increased 2-3 times, road usage fees 5 times

Parliamentary Party Groups to Convene

Draft Law Amending the 2025 State Budget Law Submitted to Parliament

City Council: Vehicle Taxes to Increase 2-3 Times

The budget presented by the government is a revised budget, not a completely new one

O. Tsogtgerel: The Seizure and Confiscation of Private Property is Prohibited

Kazakh and Chinese Citizens to be Tried for Unauthorized Exploration in Bayan-Ölgii

The Second Volume of Xi Jinping's Book on State Governance Published in Mongolian

Law on Amendments to the 2025 State Budget of Mongolia Submitted to Parliament

O. Tsogtgerel: It is appropriate to introduce a law to stop the seizure of private property by the state

Putin Approves 2025-2027 Budget Focused on Military Spending

Economy

Coal Export Cycle: Economic Impact and Risks

How many people in Mongolia earn over 10 million MNT? Is your salary fair?

Mongolian Dark Cabinet Policy Turns into Flea Market Trade

The Budget is Annulled and Government Officials Worry About Loan Payments

Audit: Warning Given to Kh. Nyambaatar and Opportunity to Reduce City Budget Expenses by 16.2 Billion

Audit: Warning to N. Nyambaatar and the Opportunity to Reduce Ulaanbaatar City Budget Expenditure by 16.2 Billion

Khan Bank Will Continue as the "Leading Bank" for Sustainable Financing Next Year

Audit: Warning Given to Kh. Nyambaatar and the Possibility of Reducing the Capital Budget by 16.2 Billion

Khan Bank Continues as the "Leading Bank" for Sustainable Finance Next Year

Khan Bank to Continue as a "Leader Bank" for Sustainable Finance Next Year

State Business Expanding, Private Sector Being Squeezed Out

Diplomacy

Mongolia Among Four Countries to Receive Defense Aid from Japan

Discussing Project Outcomes and Future Cooperation

The Hague Court Rejects Mongolia's Appeal Request

Infrastructure

O.Tsogtgerel: Traffic Congestion in Ulaanbaatar has Cost 3.6 Trillion Tugriks in Damages

G. Munkhbaatar: Next Year, We Will Implement 652 Projects and Measures in Urban Planning

Society

Breaking News: Mongolian Citizen Dies in Fire at Fertilizer Factory in South Korea

Get a Chance to Travel Abroad by Using Your TDB POS

Environment

Mongolian Prime Minister Issues Call to Action at COP-16

Introduced Measures to Reduce Air Pollution

“Disclosure of Climate Transparency” is a Key Tool to Increase Green Financing Trust

Mongolia Participates in the World Forestry Congress

"One for All, All for One": Mongolian Prime Minister Calls for Unity Against Desertification

In ten parts of Ulaanbaatar, the air is SLIGHTLY POLLUTED while two locations show POLLUTION, according to the index

Mongolia Participates in the World Forestry Congress

Innovation

JAICA Announces the Best Projects Supporting Sustainable Development

Mongolia's First Mobile Virtual Card with 40% Cashback

Arts

Chinggis Khan Exhibition Opens in Berlin, Germany

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