Mongolia News Summary for December 21, 2024

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

Today's Stories

Politics

• The Government Will Hold An Extraordinary Meeting to Discuss Issues Related to "Orona" and "China Energy"
• A draft law proposing amendments to the Law on Labor Migration was submitted
• Decisions from the Special Cabinet Meeting
• Draft Law Amendments on Labor Force Migration Submitted
• The Government Will Hold an Extraordinary Meeting Today
• The Law on Freedom of Assembly and Demonstration to Be Discussed by the Parliament Soon
• Kh. Buyanjargal: The MUEF does not support amendments to the Labor Migration Law
• The government is holding an extraordinary session
• Prime Minister to Make a Statement Today

Economy

• L. Oyun-Erdene: A Decision is Made to Distribute Dividends to Every Citizen from "Erdenes Tavantolgoi"
• L. Enkh-Amgalan: Foreign Workers Will Be Brought In Without Quotas in 16 Sectors
• L.Enkh-Amgalan: Process for Hiring Foreign Workers to be Simplified Due to Increasing Labor Shortage
• 10% of the Government's 34% Stake in the Uranium Project is a Golden Share
• L. Enkh-Amgalan: Opportunities to Employ Foreign Workers in 16 Economic Sectors Without Quotas
• 350,000 MNT dividend from 1,072 shares to be distributed in three parts next year
• Japanese Fast Food Chain "Pepper Lunch" to Open Branch in Mongolia
• P. Sainzorig: Not Limiting Foreign Workers Doesn't Mean There Will Be No Control
• L. Oyun-Erdene: Every Citizen Holding Shares in "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" Will Receive MNT 135,000 Starting Today
• Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC Distributes 135,000 MNT to Each Shareholder Today
• Events: Transparency of the Mineral Resources Professional Council Discussion to be Held
• L. Oyun-Erdene: For the first time in history, exported 81.8 million tons of coal
• N.Uchral: If the uranium and border connection projects advance, the income of the Wealth Fund will increase by about 9 trillion
• TODAY: Discussing the Transparency of the Mineral Resource Council
• 4 Trillion MNT Allocated to the Future Heritage Fund of the National Wealth Fund
• A Savings of 4 Trillion Tugriks Accumulated in the National Wealth Fund

Diplomacy

• Standing Committee Chairman D. Tsogtbaatar Meets with South Korean Ambassador Choi Jin Won
• Mongolia-Japan Relations Support Association Celebrates 30th Anniversary

Infrastructure

• Presentation of the Mongolia-Russia Intergovernmental Agreement on the Extension and Renovation of Power Station III
• L. Oyun-Erdene: We will approve the agreement for the railway at the Gashuunsukhait-Gants Mod border crossing, which has been stalled for 16 years, within this session
• The World-Renowned "Narita" Airport Management to be Introduced in Mongolia
• There is a Need to Bring in Foreign Labor in the Construction and Roads Sectors
• The British Government Offers Guarantee for the Metro Project
• Japan to Fully Finance the Construction of a New Thermal Power Plant
• Deliberation on the Connection of the Gashuun Sukhait-Gants Mod Railway and the Uranium Project with Orano Mining Group
• Areas in Ulaanbaatar Facing Possible Power Restrictions Today Due to Energy Capacity Shortages

Society

• The government acknowledges the extreme level of pollution and traffic congestion in the capital and moves to a heightened state of readiness
• Air Pollution Reaches Crisis Level, Transition to High Alert Status
• Vision for Reducing Smoke Not Even a Short-Term Plan Exists
• Use of Gas for Heating and Cooking Urged
• Transition to Heightened State of Readiness Until March 1
• What Happens When Transitioning to a Heightened State of Readiness?
• State and Local Administrative Bodies Placed on High Alert

Environment

• The Government holds an extraordinary meeting to discuss the draft law related to the agreement with Orano Mining
• L. Oyun-Erdene: Smog has reached a disaster level, therefore the capital city has been placed on high alert starting today
• S. Odontuya: A Plant for Semi-Coked or Blue Coal Will Be Established Based on the Baganuur Mine
• A Hearings on Air Pollution and Smog Issues to be Held
• Sulfur Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide Emissions in Mongolia
• S.Odontuya: A Semi-coking Coal Plant to be Established Based on Baganuur Mine
• J. SAINZAYA: Monitoring smoke from mountaintops and fighting against raw coal should not be the state's task
• Agreed to Hold a Monitoring Hearing on the Smoke Issue, Work Group Led by MP J.Chinburen

Innovation

• All Operations with Enterprises will be Integrated into "e-Business"

Health

• O.Batbayar: Residents of Ulaanbaatar are being exposed to pollution equivalent to smoking 10-20 cigarettes daily
• UGTE: Successfully Performed Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery on a Beating Heart

Politics

The Government Will Hold An Extraordinary Meeting to Discuss Issues Related to "Orona" and "China Energy"

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The regular government meeting has begun at the State Palace. It has been decided that the extraordinary meeting will discuss two issues. First, the working group will listen to the information on drafting and establishing an Investment Agreement in the field of uranium mining and utilization with the French company Orana Mining, and after finalizing the issue, will submit it to the Parliament. Second, the connection railway construction at the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod port will be undertaken by the Chinese state-owned China Energy company. Related to this, the request made by China Energy to the Government of Mongolia will be discussed and resolved. These two issues will be finalized at the government meeting and presented to the Parliament, with preparations made to resolve them within this year.

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A draft law proposing amendments to the Law on Labor Migration was submitted

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, submitted a draft law proposing amendments to the Law on Labor Migration to the Speaker of the Parliament, D. Amarbayasgalan. The government estimates that 280,000 jobs will be created during the implementation of 14 mega projects from 2024 to 2028. A study indicates that there will be a labor shortage until 2028 due to the low birth rate. Annual shortages of 30,000-40,000 jobs are emerging. Measures to encourage the employment of domestic labor in sectors with high productivity and salaries, such as mining, information technology, and banking, include setting limits on foreign labor. Meanwhile, in seasonal sectors such as construction, roads, and manufacturing, foreign worker job payment reductions or exemptions may be flexibly decided by the government within the scope of the policy document approved by the Parliament. The Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Protection also announced the elimination of bureaucratic delays that require two months to obtain permission to hire foreign labor, providing the possibility to do so online. The approval of the draft law will be crucial for accelerating the construction of infrastructure and production facilities of strategic importance and for implementing development projects.

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Decisions from the Special Cabinet Meeting

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The special cabinet meeting discussed and made decisions on key issues. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene announced that a dividend of 135,000 tugriks will be distributed today to every shareholder citizen of 'Erdenes Tavantolgoi.' Based on the company's performance and the year-end financial results of 2024, measures will be examined regarding the payment of dividends from the total net profit, in accordance with the law, to shareholders. 'Erdenes Tavantolgoi' provided dividends of 104,000 tugriks from the 2022 net profit and 256,000 tugriks from the 2023 net profit to each shareholder holding 1072 shares. If dividends are distributed from the expected 2024 net profit, it is preliminarily projected that each shareholder with 1072 shares in Mongolia will receive 357,200 tugriks before tax, which amounts to 337,700 tugriks after tax. During the announcement, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene stated that 'Erdenes Tavantolgoi' has now profited 4.3 trillion tugriks compared to previous losses. The average dividend per shareholder is projected to be around 350,000 tugriks. Considering the cold season and inflation, it was decided to distribute the dividend in three parts. The first installment, equivalent to the savings amount of 135,000 tugriks, will be provided today. The National Wealth Fund was named 'Chinggis Fund.' The cabinet passed a resolution to take measures regarding the National Wealth Fund’s income allocation for 2024 into the Savings Fund, Development Fund, and the Future Heritage Fund, to meet the target level for 2025. Minister N. Uchral and Finance Minister B. Javkhlan are assigned to implement this. Additionally, the National Wealth Fund will be named 'Chinggis Fund' in honor of Chinggis Khaan. The Deputy Prime Minister and Economic Development Minister L. Gantumur were tasked with researching and deciding on financing projects to reduce air pollution through the Development Fund. The construction of a Coke Chemical Plant based on the Baganuur mine will begin in the second quarter of 2025. According to the 2024-2028 government activity program and the 14 MEGA projects, the establishment of a coal-chemical complex and efforts to reduce air pollution in Ulaanbaatar will be supported by constructing a coal-pyrolysis plant in Baganuur district, utilizing the brown coal deposits. The plant will reduce harmful compounds and volatile substances in raw coal, producing smokeless coal. The construction is scheduled to begin by the second quarter of 2025. The relevant authorities were instructed to organize the required funding and quickly select an experienced international contractor, negotiate, and execute contracts according to legal and regulatory requirements, and report the results to the cabinet meeting by the second quarter of 2025. Government and local administrative agencies shifted to heightened alert status. Due to increased levels of pollutants in the air across Ulaanbaatar and provincial centers, exceeding permissible limits and negatively affecting public health and the environment, local governments and administrative units, as well as state and local administration agencies, will transition to heightened alert from December 20, 2024, to March 1, 2025. During the heightened alert period, implementing measures stipulated by the relevant laws—such as the Air Pollution Law, Public Health Services Law, and Disaster Protection Law—is mandatory for all government members, agency heads, local governors, and business and organization leaders. Redefining air quality improvement zones and developing comprehensive short, medium, and long-term programs to reduce air pollution are tasked to the National Committee for Environment Pollution Reduction Chair, Environment, and Climate Change Minister S. Odontuya, as well as local governors. A draft law to support the development of Kharkhorum city will be submitted to parliament. The initial draft law aimed at supporting the construction and development of Kharkhorum city, together with associated legal projects, will be submitted to the parliament. Reflecting the presidential decree on reconstructing Kharkhorum city, registered as part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, to safeguard cultural heritage and strengthen state traditions, while facilitating safe and healthy living conditions, increasing social service access, and ensuring balanced regional development, the government was tasked to study and resolve the issue of reconstructing the former capital of the Mongolian Empire and to refine the legal framework. The draft law consists of seven chapters and 36 articles, focused on balanced regional development, restoring historical and cultural heritage, promoting sustainable tourism, planning an environmentally-friendly and technologically-driven Kharkhorum city, and regulating investment relationships.

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Draft Law Amendments on Labor Force Migration Submitted

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Today, Minister of Labor and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, submitted a draft law on amendments to the Law on Labor Force Migration to Speaker D. Amarbaysgalan of the State Great Khural. The initiator of the law noted that there is a real shortage of domestic labor in the labor market, with an average of 30-40 thousand positions lacking employees per year. He further emphasized that, according to the government's 2024-2028 program, there is a demand for 280,000 jobs to implement 14 mega projects. To address the shortage of domestic labor and increase investment and business activity, a flexible policy is being pursued. This includes limiting the number and proportion of foreign workers in high productivity economic sectors such as mining, extraction, information technology, and banking and finance, while promoting domestic labor employment in these sectors. The draft law includes new regulations aimed at eliminating bureaucratic obstacles for enterprises and organizations hiring foreign workers, as well as simplifying and digitizing certain processes. This information was provided by the press office of the State Great Khural. Follow @montsame.mn

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The Government Will Hold an Extraordinary Meeting Today

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The government has called an extraordinary meeting today. The session will cover current issues such as Ulaanbaatar's air pollution and the traffic congestion in the capital. Additionally, some draft laws to be submitted to the State Great Khural (Parliament) will be discussed. It is currently unclear whether there will be a press conference following the meeting.

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The Law on Freedom of Assembly and Demonstration to Be Discussed by the Parliament Soon

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: isee.mn

Without the need for permission from the governor, citizens can now organize a demonstration merely by notifying the local police 48 hours in advance. The Parliament will soon discuss the Law on the Freedom of Assembly and Demonstration. Minister of Justice and Home Affairs, O. Altangerel, announced, "The Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs has completed drafting the revised Law on the Procedure for Organizing Demonstrations and Assemblies and the amendments to certain laws related to ensuring human rights and freedoms. These will soon be submitted to the Parliament." In this framework, the current Law on the Procedure for Organizing Demonstrations and Assemblies has been renamed to the Law on the Freedom of Assembly and Demonstration. Let's delve into what changes have been made in this revision. Our country first instituted a law on the procedure for organizing demonstrations and assemblies in 1994. Since then, the Parliament has amended it seven times. For instance, in 2006, regulations were added to prohibit camping, tents, and vehicles at Sukhbaatar Square. In 2015, the law was changed to require only notification rather than permission for organizing demonstrations and assemblies, but still necessitated a response. Changes were made in connection with the enactment of the Law on Offenses in 2015 and the Law on Disaster Protection in 2017, expanding the scope of prohibitions during disasters and emergencies. Previously, a law passed in 2014 stipulated that only internal military forces could be used in dispersing demonstrations forcibly, but allowed for the support of special-purpose agencies for national security. The requirement to submit a notification in writing by January 12, 2024, and adding state special protection zones as prohibited locations for demonstrations, were part of the changes. From these amendments, it's apparent that the law was progressively revised to restrict the expression of opinions, assembly, and participation in demonstrations, and to strengthen the measures for dispersal. During the last parliamentary term, the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs, along with MP Tsogtgerel, prepared a draft amendment to the law on the procedure for organizing demonstrations and assemblies, taking public opinion but failing to discuss it before the next parliamentary term began. Accordingly, the laws were returned to their proposers as per the legal process. Both the revision worked on by MP Tsogtgerel and the Ministry of Justice aimed to eliminate the requirement for obtaining permission to organize demonstrations and assemblies. Now, under the Law on the Freedom of Assembly and Demonstration drafted by the Ministry of Justice, if citizens, public organizations, or political parties need to hold a demonstration, they can do so by notifying 48 hours in advance without awaiting approval. The practice of notifying 48 hours in advance aligns with international standards. As elaborated in section 8.2 of this law, except for certain specified locations, a demonstration or assembly must be notified to the relevant local police authority at least 48 hours in advance, either in writing or electronically. The law stipulates that during a demonstration, public and civilian safety must not be compromised. The police are tasked with ensuring the safety of participants in demonstrations and assemblies. Presently, by law, citizens exercise their constitutional rights, express opinions, and speak out by notifying the governor three days in advance, with a response from the governor on registration also required within three working days. If the governor refuses to register, participants cannot proceed with a demonstration, but they are entitled to appeal this to the court, which must decide the rationality of the governor's refusal within six working days. In such cases, organizing a demonstration from notification to actual assembly would take a total of 9-14 working days. Local governors have often exhibited subjective attitudes utilizing this provision in the past. Also, the law opens the right for foreign nationals to participate in demonstrations organized in Mongolia as per Mongolian legislation, prohibiting anyone from being stalked or having their freedom restricted for organizing or participating. Discrimination of any form is banned. To recall, in December 2022, a directive from then-Mayor D. Sumyabazar for forcibly dispersing the Coal protests that lasted for days at Sukhbaatar Square was issued. The revised draft developed by the Ministry of Justice prohibits creating deliberate hindrances to lawful demonstrations and assemblies, as well as administrative regulations aimed at forcibly dispersing such events or inciting disorderly conduct. There is public concern about what penalties would be imposed on those paid to protest or those staged by political orders. The law's article 7.8 prohibits forced involvement in demonstrations through monetary incentives, threats, or coercion. Organizers and participants are required to maintain public order at demonstration sites, respect others' rights and freedoms, avoid harming others’ health and property, and not carry weapons, hazardous chemicals, or explosive substances. Intoxication or use of drugs is prohibited, as is causing damage to public property, cultural monuments, or others' assets. It is illegal to induce participation through money or threats and to cause traffic disruptions, essentially banning road blockades for demonstrations. Violations will be penalized under Offenses and Criminal laws.

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Kh. Buyanjargal: The MUEF does not support amendments to the Labor Migration Law

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Today, the Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, introduced a draft law to amend the "Labor Migration Law." In response, the Mongolian Trade Union Confederation (MUEF) held a press conference to express their opposition to this draft law. Kh. Buyanjargal, the General Secretary of the Confederation, stated: "The amendments to the law would allow foreign workers employed in Mongolia for up to three years in sectors other than mining and oil extraction to work without setting quotas or limits. It would also exempt foreign workers from job-related fees during this period. Therefore, the MUEF is issuing an official statement against this." The Mongolian government has estimated that 280,000 jobs will be created under 14 mega projects to be implemented from 2024 to 2028. Minister L. Enkh-Amgalan mentioned plans to reduce or waive fees for foreign labor in seasonal construction and infrastructure projects. Currently, there are 17,831 foreign workers in the country, including 12,364 Chinese nationals, 768 from Vietnam, and 415 from Turkey, among others. Most of these foreign workers are aged between 35 and 55. However, according to statistics from our national bureau, there are 1,448,369 citizens capable of working, with 70,000 unemployed aged between 20 and 40. Approval of the proposed amendments may lead to certain issues within our country, particularly in terms of national security and the potential for foreign workers to take jobs away from the national workforce. It seems to be a law directly supporting employers. Additionally, this may also impact demographics. The issue with Vietnamese residents settled in the country for many years continues to be a topic of strong discussion today. Moreover, there could be price hikes for goods and shortages, along with money flowing out of the country in the form of salaries. These are potential negative factors that need to be considered. Although these should have been properly discussed and resolved, this has not happened. Therefore, our confederation does not support the amendments," he said. Warning: Media outlets (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, entirely or partially.

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The government is holding an extraordinary session

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: news.mn

The government is holding an extraordinary session today, starting at 8:00 AM. During this session, they will discuss the air pollution in Ulaanbaatar city, traffic congestion in the capital, and matters concerning the National Wealth Fund. Additionally, there will be discussions on the transboundary railroad project connecting Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod to be submitted to the State Great Khural (parliament) and the Investment Law.

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Prime Minister to Make a Statement Today

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

An extraordinary government meeting is continuing today from 08:00. The meeting is discussing issues such as the air pollution in Ulaanbaatar, traffic congestion, the border connection of the Gashuunsukhait railway, and the draft law related to the investment agreement with the French Orana Group. Decisions from the meeting will be presented, and Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene will make a statement today at 11:30.

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Economy

L. Oyun-Erdene: A Decision is Made to Distribute Dividends to Every Citizen from "Erdenes Tavantolgoi"

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The government held an extraordinary meeting this morning to discuss three main issues. It was decided to present the agreement negotiation issues with France's Orano Mining and China's China Energy to the Parliament next week. Following this, Prime Minister of Mongolia L. Oyun-Erdene gave a briefing about the discussed issues. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene stated: "Today marks the 100th day since the establishment of the Coalition Government. In this regard, the government held an extraordinary meeting to review the performance of work over the 100 days and the fulfillment of the tasks given to the ministers. Secondly, they listened to the results and general economic indicators of state-owned companies. Thirdly, they discussed information, conclusions, and an action plan regarding air pollution." Economic Overview: As of December 20, 2024: - Mongolia's economic growth is at 5%, - The country's foreign currency reserve amounts to 4.9 billion USD, - The state budget has a surplus of 1.3 trillion MNT, of which 50% is expected to be allocated to the Development Fund within the National Wealth Fund. - Export revenue reached 17 billion USD. - Coal production reached a historic high of 81.8 million tons. This suggests that coal exports have reached their current capacity limit. Further improvements in transport logistics could allow reaching 100 million tons. The Future Heritage Fund of the National Wealth Fund has reached 4 trillion MNT. Leaders of the Mongolian People's Party, the Democratic Party, and the HUN party signed a memorandum on January 31, 2024, following constitutional systematic changes, and submitted the National Wealth Fund law to the Parliament, which was approved. This law is beginning to yield initial positive outcomes. The National Wealth Fund will be named in honor of our Great Khan, following the example of international wealth funds. Internationally, this fund will be recognized as the "CHINGGIS FUND." The Future Heritage Fund of the National Wealth Fund has reached 4 trillion MNT. The Accumulation Fund now offers open access to 495 billion MNT in savings through "E-Mongolia," which translates to a 135,000 MNT savings account in the name of each Mongolian citizen. Every citizen can now see how their savings are linked to wealth. New opportunities have been created to use this savings in non-cash ways for healthcare, education, and housing. From 2025, citizens can opt to receive their savings card. The more wealth is utilized, the more the accumulation grows. Accumulations will increase from 34% of the National Wealth's share and the attributable AMAT revenue, enhancing citizens' savings. Progress of 14 Mega Projects: Our government announced the implementation of 14 mega projects to accelerate development. Half of these focus on increasing energy sources. Notably, an agreement for a loan for the Erdeneburen Hydropower Plant has been established. Construction work will commence in the upcoming spring, creating a positive environment for investors. Additionally, a decision was made to establish a Coke Chemical Plant based on the Baganuur coal mine, one of the 14 mega projects. Regarding the Investment Agreement with Orano Mining: The Investment Agreement on uranium with "Badrakh Energy" will be submitted to the Parliament next Wednesday. This will be the second major investment agreement following the Oyu Tolgoi project. In the agreement with "Badrakh Energy," the government will hold a 10% golden share, and Mongolia will not bear any liability. The government intends to allocate 24% of its 34% ownership to citizens' accumulation funds in the form of savings through AMAT. If successful, this would set a positive precedent for subsequent projects, providing opportunities for citizens to have ownership over their wealth. Regarding the Negotiation Agreement with China Energy: A railway agreement for the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod border crossing was established between the two governments. This will be presented to the Parliament next week. In Parliament, they will openly discuss why this railway border crossing has been delayed for 16 years, who caused the delays, and why opportunities were missed. Considering the interests of many people and specific companies, it is expected that both the media and the Parliament will approach this matter with diligence. Regarding the Profits of Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC: As of today, Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC has operated profitably with 4.3 trillion MNT. Every Mongolian shareholder has the possibility of receiving a dividend of 350,000 MNT. It was decided to distribute the dividends in three parts rather than in a lump sum to prevent inflationary pressure. It was deemed advisable to distribute dividends equivalent to the accumulation amount, or 135,000 MNT. When the 2024 balance comes out, dividends will be distributed to citizens in January or February 2025. Businesses are enabled to allocate 1% of their income to address air pollution: Today's discussions also included agreements to tackle air pollution. Acknowledging that the traffic congestion, air pollution, and soil pollution in the capital have reached a crisis level, measures are being taken to upgrade readiness. In light of disaster conditions, they concluded that a special legal environment should be established in cooperation with the Parliament. A legal framework for a 1% tax has been established. If businesses allocate 1% of their income to initiatives beneficial to society within the government's goals, they can be exempted from this tax. Businesses are given the opportunity to use this source to reduce air pollution in the capital if they choose.

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L. Enkh-Amgalan: Foreign Workers Will Be Brought In Without Quotas in 16 Sectors

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Minister of Labor and Social Welfare, L. Enkh-Amgalan, provided information about the introduction of the draft law "On Amendments to the Law on Labor Migration." He stated, "The government has submitted to the State Great Khural a draft law proposing amendments to the Law on Foreign Labor Migration. Mongolia is currently experiencing a real shortage of workforce. Over the next four years, 14 mega projects will be implemented. This will create 280,000 job opportunities. It is estimated that Mongolia faces a shortage of 30,000 to 40,000 jobs annually. However, the restriction on labor in high-productivity, high-salary sectors such as mining, information technology, and banking will remain. Meanwhile, for sectors with high labor demand like construction and road work, which are seasonal in nature, the process of bringing in foreign labor is being simplified. Previously, large companies were exempt from fees when employing foreign labor, while smaller companies could not benefit from this. Now, all companies, regardless of size, will be exempt from these fees. This legislative defect has been corrected, and all enterprises will be exempt from fees. Foreign labor will be introduced without quotas in 16 sectors. This also implies an exemption from fees. In addition, the permits related to hiring foreign labor are being digitized, reducing bureaucracy.

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L.Enkh-Amgalan: Process for Hiring Foreign Workers to be Simplified Due to Increasing Labor Shortage

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

L. Enkh-Amgalan, Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, introduced the draft of "The Act to Amend the Law on Labor Migration." He stated, "A real labor shortage has developed in Mongolia. In the next four years, we need labor to implement 14 mega-projects. This will create an estimated 280,000 new jobs. Every year, there is a shortage of 30,000 to 40,000 jobs in our country. However, restrictions on foreign workers remain in industries like mining, banking, finance, and information technology. On the other hand, we plan to simplify the process of hiring foreign workers for jobs in the construction sector and seasonal developmental projects, where the demand for labor is increasing." "Previously, large companies could access foreign workers, while small business owners did not have this opportunity, causing a significant disparity. The new draft law aims to eliminate this difference. Therefore, 16 economic sectors will be able to hire workers without having to pay a labor tax." "Additionally, obtaining permission to employ foreign workers used to take over two months, but now we plan to digitize this process," he emphasized. Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Platforms and Websites) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using any part of our information.

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10% of the Government's 34% Stake in the Uranium Project is a Golden Share

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene presented the resolution from the extraordinary meeting of the government cabinet. During this meeting, information was given regarding the proposal to submit the uranium project negotiation with the French state-owned company Orano Mining to the Parliament. He stated, “The investment agreement for the Badrakh Energy Project is set to be presented to the Parliament next Wednesday. This is the second largest investment agreement since the Oyu Tolgoi project. It was absolutely necessary to wait for the approval of the 2025 national budget. This was due to the need to resolve issues related to the National Wealth Fund, and a decision had to be made on whether to maintain a 34% stake or to replace up to 34% with royalty (AMNAT). Thus, 10% of the government’s 34% stake will be a golden share. In other words, the Mongolian side will not bear any responsibility. The other 24% of the 34% stake will go in the form of public savings into the Accumulation Fund, with calculations considering the inclusion of royalty (AMNAT). If this agreement can be reached, it will pave the way for many project negotiations in the future. Moreover, since the 34% stake and royalty-related matters will be centralized into the citizens’ E-Mongolia savings, a societal atmosphere will be created where every citizen supports large projects. On the other hand, the wealth directly goes to the owner, and all previously discussed conditions can be monitored by the citizens themselves," he said.

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L. Enkh-Amgalan: Opportunities to Employ Foreign Workers in 16 Economic Sectors Without Quotas

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The Minister of Labor and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, made an announcement. He stated, "The Government of Mongolia has submitted a draft law to the National Assembly seeking amendments to the Law on Foreign Labor Migration. Mongolia is experiencing a shortage of labor. In the next four years, there is a demand to implement 14 mega projects, which presents an opportunity to create 280,000 jobs. Typically, Mongolia faces a shortage of 30,000 to 40,000 jobs annually. However, in sectors like mining, banking, finance, and information technology—known for high productivity—restrictions on foreign labor will remain. The primary focus is on easing the process of employing foreign workers in sectors like construction and seasonal infrastructure projects where there is a labor demand. The proposed law seeks to simplify this process. Previously, legal loopholes allowed big companies to lobby for exemptions from labor fees. This draft law aims to eliminate such loopholes and offers tax exemptions for foreign labor across 16 real economic sectors without distinction between large or small companies. It currently takes up to two months to obtain a permit to hire foreign workers. The draft law proposes to eliminate bureaucratic delays and enable all permits to be acquired electronically.

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350,000 MNT dividend from 1,072 shares to be distributed in three parts next year

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

In an extraordinary Cabinet meeting, a decision was made to submit a draft law on state-owned companies to the parliament and to distribute dividends from 1,072 shares. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene provided this information at the State Palace. He stated, "After reviewing the balance sheets of state-owned companies, we will retain those operating profitably under Erdenes Mongol. Companies that have been unprofitable for three consecutive years were discussed for merging and changing their status. The status will be changed into 3 to 4 forms. The company 'Erdenes Tavantolgoi,' which used to operate at a loss, worked with a profit of 4.3 trillion MNT in 2024. Every shareholder citizen of this company is now eligible to receive a dividend of 350,000 MNT. This amount will increase from next year. Dividend payouts have been received for the last three consecutive years. Erdenes Mongol conglomerate has been managing the dividends of 'Erdenes Tavantolgoi.' Therefore, it was deemed important to distribute dividends during the cold season. Previously, giving 100,000 MNT did not impact inflation. However, if 300,000 MNT is given to each citizen now, it poses a significant risk of fueling inflation, so it was considered appropriate to distribute it in three parts. A similar amount to the accumulation in the savings fund, i.e., 135,000 MNT, will be distributed as dividends. Dividends will continue to be distributed in January and February of 2025. The dividends of 'Erdenes Tavantolgoi' will not be diverted to other uses," he stated. Warning: Media outlets (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite their source (ikon.mn) when using our information in whole or in part as specified.

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Japanese Fast Food Chain "Pepper Lunch" to Open Branch in Mongolia

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The Japanese fast food chain restaurant "Pepper Lunch" plans to open its first branch in Mongolia in 2025. The chain has signed a franchise agreement with Blümon Group, a local distributor in Mongolia, according to Inside Retail. Yuto Tago, the executive director of "Pepper Lunch," stated, "We have signed a franchise agreement with our partner in Mongolia. Mongolia will be the 17th country where 'Pepper Lunch' has opened a branch." "Pepper Lunch" is known for its premium steak, noodles, "Pepper Rice," and its signature "Cheese Curry Rice." Founded in 1994 by chef Kunio Ichinose, the chain now operates over 500 branches. In 2020, "Pepper Food Service" sold the "Pepper Lunch" franchise to J-Star investment fund for $79 million. This acquisition spurred the brand's expansion. In 2023, "Pepper Lunch" signed agreements with "Majestic Restaurant Group" and NiKU to expand in the United States. "Majestic Restaurant Group" plans to open ten "Pepper Lunch" branches in Tampa, Orlando, and Gainesville by 2028, while NiKU is set to establish ten branches in Hawaii by 2033. The franchise plans to operate in 100 locations in North America by 2026, with branches already in cities like British Columbia, California, Florida, Guam, Nevada, Texas, and Vancouver. Source: Finance.yahoo.com

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P. Sainzorig: Not Limiting Foreign Workers Doesn't Mean There Will Be No Control

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Members of Parliament P. Sainzorig and N. Batsumberel have submitted a bill to Mongolia’s Parliament that proposes not setting a quota on the number of foreign workers allowed to work in the country and to exempt them from work permit fees. They provided information about this bill. Member of Parliament P. Sainzorig stated that according to Article 27.4 of the Law on the Legal Status of Foreign Citizens, the number of foreign citizens residing privately within the territory of Mongolia should not exceed three percent of the Mongolian population, with citizens from a single country accounting for up to one percent. The quota for foreign workers has become a tool for officials to hassle enterprises and organizations. Examining those involved in bringing foreign workers into the country, it appears that politicians are engaged. Small and medium business owners cannot join the quota scheme, while large enterprises can join the quota and are fully exempt from work permit fees imposed by the government. He highlighted that this does not contradict national security, as there is an oversight institution. The foreign residency agency oversees this according to the Law on the Legal Status of Foreign Citizens. Annually, about 20,000 foreign worker quotas are set, with the decision issued by October 1. After that, enterprises and organizations have no opportunity to participate. Companies bringing foreign workers have to pay 15 million 600 thousand MNT in addition to salary, social insurance, accommodation, and food expenses, which small enterprises cannot afford. Removing the quota does not mean there will be no control. Last year, work permit fees for 5,673 individuals were fully exempted. The government has been carrying out significant lobbying in this regard. Therefore, he proposed determining the procedure for deciding which enterprises receive exemption directly in parliament, where representatives of the people are involved. The proposal includes conditions for foreign specialists to train Mongolian workers. For sectors other than oil extraction and mining, the number of foreign workers will not be limited. Lawmakers ask for support on this issue for two years until December 31, 2026, as enterprises and organizations seek this possibility to recover after economic difficulties. Sainzorig emphasized that firstly, they will support Mongolian workers, but if it becomes unavoidable, foreign workers will be brought in. Additionally, if workers are brought in illegally, fines will be increased to up to 20 million MNT. There are also provisions stating that foreign skilled workers must train Mongolian workers. If they fail to fulfill this training obligation, penalties and responsibilities will be included. Historically, Mongolia has always strengthened its position by partnering with foreign countries for knowledge transfer. In China, new workers begin with an average salary of 1,439 USD, and skilled workers can earn up to 3,000 USD by 2024. Given these conditions, it is unlikely many will flood into Mongolia for work. Companies are eliminating job positions due to scarce human resources. Mega projects are certainly facing labor shortages, with 30,000 unemployed youths in Mongolia unable to meet the requirements of available jobs. If they learn from foreign skilled specialists, they have the opportunity to thrive in their homeland. This law is initiated to develop Mongolia. Member of Parliament N. Batsumberel asserted that small and medium-sized producers cite labor shortages and issues with responsible workers as pressing concerns. They require experience in introducing new technology, know-how, and accessing foreign markets with their products. The intention behind the proposed bill is to "Let's develop Mongolia." Hence, bringing in foreign labor is essential. Foreign labor is not limited to citizens of only one or two countries, as the major issue confronting agricultural, construction, manufacturing, and assembly business owners is labor. Thus, in an effort to provide growth opportunities for business owners, this bill has been submitted.

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L. Oyun-Erdene: Every Citizen Holding Shares in "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" Will Receive MNT 135,000 Starting Today

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Every citizen holding shares in "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" will receive MNT 135,000 starting today, as decided in an extraordinary meeting of the government. Accordingly, MNT 135,000 will be transferred to the account of every shareholder from today. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene stated that "the previously loss-making 'Erdenes Tavantolgoi' company has now turned a profit of 4.3 trillion MNT. On average, each citizen is entitled to 350 thousand MNT. Considering the cold season and inflation, a decision was made to distribute the dividends in three parts. Today, 135 thousand MNT will be distributed, equivalent to the amount in the savings fund." Warning: Media organizations (television, radio, social media, and websites) must mention the source (ikon.mn) in any form when using our information.

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Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC Distributes 135,000 MNT to Each Shareholder Today

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Based on the 2024 net profit calculated from the year-end performance results of Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC's operations, measures to distribute the appropriate portion of the total net profit as dividends to citizens, as prescribed by law, are to be studied and resolved by the relevant authorities, the Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene announced. Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC distributed 104,000 MNT to each citizen holding 1,072 shares from the 2022 net profit and 256,000 MNT as dividends from the 2023 net profit. If the company distributes dividends from the expected 2024 net profit, the amount per share is estimated at 350 MNT, which means that a Mongolian citizen holding 1,072 shares will receive 357,200 MNT, or 337,700 MNT after deducting taxes, according to preliminary estimates. "The previously loss-making Erdenes Tavantolgoi company has now achieved a profit of 4.3 trillion MNT. Considering factors such as the cold season and inflation, the government has decided to distribute dividends in three installments. An equivalent amount to the savings fund, or 135,000 MNT, will be distributed today," the Government Information and Communication Service announced.

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Events: Transparency of the Mineral Resources Professional Council Discussion to be Held

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At 08:00, the regular meeting of the Government is continuing at the State Palace. At 09:30, the Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, will submit the "Amendment to the Law on Labor Migration" bill to the Chairman of the Parliament and provide information. At 10:00, the fall session of the Parliament will convene. At the Open Society Forum's conference hall, from 10:00 to 11:30, a discussion on the topic "Transparency of the Mineral Resources Professional Council" will be organized. At 11:00, the Ministry of Health will provide information on influenza and flu-like illnesses. At the "National Information Center" at 11:00, the National Association for the Protection of Consumer Rights of Mongolia and the Mongolian Gas Fuel Association will jointly give a briefing on "Methods, Ways, and Solutions to Address Ulaanbaatar's Air Pollution." Note: Media outlets (TV, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, complete or partial.

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L. Oyun-Erdene: For the first time in history, exported 81.8 million tons of coal

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

An extraordinary meeting of the government was held today. Presenting the decisions made from the meeting, the Prime Minister is making a statement to the public. L. Oyun-Erdene noted that it has been 100 days since the government's action program was approved. As of December 20, 2024, Mongolia has exported 81.8 million tons of coal, the highest in its history. The 2024 state budget showed a profit of 1 trillion tugriks, 50% of which will be allocated to the Stabilization Fund. A real accumulation of 4 trillion tugriks has been formed in the National Wealth Fund. The right to utilize this fund in a manner that enhances wealth accumulation has been opened. 495 billion tugriks have been concentrated in the National Wealth Fund. This means every citizen's account has accumulated a savings of 135,000 tugriks. This fund has been legislated to be spent on health and education.

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N.Uchral: If the uranium and border connection projects advance, the income of the Wealth Fund will increase by about 9 trillion

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The government held an extraordinary meeting today to discuss and make specific decisions on the agreements to be signed with France's Orano Mining and China's China Energy. Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene gave a briefing on the decisions. After that, Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat N.Uchral provided detailed information related to the government decisions. From today, citizens can open a Savings Account under their name on the I Mongol application. Therefore, citizens now have the opportunity to check the balance of the savings account under their name by accessing the I Mongol application. N.Uchral, Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat, said, "The Wealth Fund has three sub-funds. The Savings Fund will accumulate up to 34% of the profits from state-owned mining companies. This fund will be spent on health, education, and housing. Today, the citizens' accumulation savings fund will be officially opened on I Mongol. 'Erdenes Mongol Group' has accumulated income in the past period. As of today, 'Erdenet Plant' has accumulated 273 billion MNT, 'Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi' company 200 billion MNT, and 'Darkhan Metallurgical Plant' has accumulated funds. As a result, the fund's capital has reached 507 billion MNT. By logging into I Mongol, the income of the savings account can be viewed. When the income is distributed to the citizens, it means that 135,000 MNT has been accumulated in the deposit of one citizen. You can spend this on health, education, or housing. However, the government's policy is about how to increase this income. If the Zuunbayan-Uovan uranium project enters economic circulation, 0.7 trillion MNT will accumulate in the Savings Fund from 2025 to 2040. If the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod railway border connection railway, or the China Energy project, advances, the income of the National Wealth Fund will increase by 8.1 trillion MNT. It is projected that by 2040, the income of the Savings Fund will reach 38 trillion MNT. Next week, these two project agreements will be introduced to the government and submitted to the State Great Khural (Parliament) for approval. By advancing only these two projects, the Savings Account or citizens' savings will increase. In the future, citizens will be able to log into I Mongol and see how much money is in their Savings Account. As the projects progress, you will also see how much the project's dividend adds to your savings account and deposit.

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TODAY: Discussing the Transparency of the Mineral Resource Council

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Overview of events on Friday, December 20: 10:00-14:00: Meetings of the working groups and joint sessions of the State Great Khural. 10:00-11:30: At the Open Society Forum: A discussion on the "Transparency of the Mineral Resource Council." 11:00: At the "ZM" Information Center: The National Association of Mongolian Consumer Rights Protection Organizations and the Mongolian Gas Fuel Association will provide information on the topic of "SOLUTIONS AND WAYS TO ADDRESS ULAANBAATAR'S SMOG." 11:00: At the Ministry of Health: Information and recommendations on flu and flu-like illnesses. - The new year exhibition and trade fair of Mongolia and Russia is opening in Ulan-Ude, the capital of the Republic of Buryatia, Russia. The exhibition and trade fair will continue until December 22. - The city's family clinics are operating with extended hours until 21:00. - At the Central Stadium: A "Winter Delicacies" extended trade fair is taking place.

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4 Trillion MNT Allocated to the Future Heritage Fund of the National Wealth Fund

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

An extraordinary meeting of the Government was held today. Prime Minister of Mongolia L. Oyun-Erdene provided information regarding the issues discussed and decided at this meeting. He stated, “Today the Government met with three main objectives. Firstly, it has been 100 days since the Government action plan was approved. We evaluated the fulfillment of the assignments given to the ministers. Secondly, we discussed the preliminary economic indicators towards the end of the year, marking December 20 as a cut-off date. Thirdly, we approved the conclusions of the National Air Quality Committee and the capital city's emergency operational plan regarding air pollution.” Summarizing some of the decisions made: - The current economic growth rate is 5%, with foreign currency reserves at $4.9 billion, and a positive outlook for it to reach $5 billion by the end of the year. - The state budget shows a surplus of 1.3 trillion MNT. - Exports have reached $15.7 billion, with coal exports at 81.8 million tonnes, setting a historical record. The reason for discussing these indicators on December 20 is that it was the earliest feasible time to observe the first monetized results after the National Wealth Fund Law was enacted. As you recall, the leaders of the Mongolian People’s Party, Democratic Party, and the People's Party signed a memorandum on January 31, 2024, after making structural changes to the Constitution, and submitted the National Wealth Fund Law to the parliament for approval. Today the first results came to light after the implementation of this law. Following the example of international wealth funds, the National Wealth Fund is to be named with an emblematic gesture after our Great Khan, and internationally it will be recognized as the "CHINGGIS FUND." Four trillion MNT have been deposited into the Future Heritage Fund of the National Wealth Fund. A total of 495 billion MNT have been deposited into the Accumulation Fund in the name of Mongolian citizens, with a savings of 135,000 MNT per citizen becoming available through e-Mongolia starting today. Citizens can now see how their savings relate to wealth accumulation. The savings can be utilized in non-cash forms for health, education, and housing purposes. Starting from 2025, you can obtain your Accumulation Card if desired. As wealth is utilized, savings will grow. 34% of the national wealth and its associated mining revenue will generate accumulation, increasing citizens' savings. As new mega projects are implemented, the savings of citizens will increase due to legal arrangements. It is projected that with the full implementation of 14 government mega projects, the Accumulation Fund could reach 18 trillion MNT by 2030. The Development Fund is preliminarily set to accumulate 50% or 500 billion MNT of one trillion MNT. The Development Bank has been transformed into an EXIM Bank. The loan agreement for the Erdeneburen hydropower plant project, one of the 14 mega projects spearheaded by the Government, has been finalized. Neighboring countries and wealth funds have expressed their commitment to collaborate on major energy projects. Moreover, a decision has been made to establish a Coke Chemical Plant based on the Baganuur mine. An agreement between governments to connect the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod border crossing railway, as well as the investment contract for the Badrakh Energy project, is set to be submitted to the parliament next Wednesday. These projects, which were previously stalled by political influence for 16-20 years, are now moving under the joint government's administration showcasing its commitment. When significant projects are on the brink of progress, many whose interests are impacted cause disturbances. Soon there will be open discussions in the parliament about these issues. Attempts and attacks to distract the public or manipulate focus were evident when issues related to Erdenet 49%, the Development Bank’s bad loans, and the coal and railway issues surrounding Erdenes Tavantolgoi were being resolved. However, the public remains astute, continuing to move in the path of justice. “Erdenes Tavantolgoi,” which was operating at a loss, is currently turning a profit of 4.3 billion MNT. Dividends amount to about 350,000 MNT per shareholder on average. A decision was made to distribute dividends in three installments, considering the cold season and inflation. In the first round, each citizen will receive 135,000 MNT. Relevant decisions have also been made regarding air pollution issues. The traffic congestion and air and soil pollution in the capital Ulaanbaatar are results of various causes. We must address the issues comprehensively. Therefore, Ulaanbaatar city should have financial, human resources, and legal capacities to comprehensively solve its issues. The State Great Khural and the Government should provide all necessary political support to the capital. In support of turning air and soil pollution, as well as energy scarcity, into a public endeavor, the one percent tax benefit of sales revenue for enterprises in the fourth quarter of 2024 and the tax benefit for 2025 are to be solely used for air pollution reduction activities in the capital city. A special legal environment is required to resolve fundamental issues facing the capital, and this issue should be presented urgently to the parliament. All citizens and enterprises are called to cooperate with the Government in this endeavor. Furthermore, the government discussed the draft bill proposed by the President of Mongolia supporting the construction of the "Kharkhorum" city, the decision regarding the establishment of the "Hunnu" smart satellite city in Khushig Valley, projects to be implemented in the capital Ulaanbaatar city, progress of the Tuul Highway, and the general plan until 2040 during the Cabinet meeting. Thank you for your attention.

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A Savings of 4 Trillion Tugriks Accumulated in the National Wealth Fund

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: news.mn

During an extraordinary meeting of the government, the Prime Minister of Mongolia, L. Oyun-Erdene, provided information on the issues discussed and decided upon. During this briefing, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene stated, "One year ago, the leaders of the Mongolian People's Party (MPP), the Democratic Party, and the National Labor Party announced their collaboration to establish the National Wealth Fund and signed a memorandum of understanding. Following that, the draft law on the National Wealth Fund was submitted to and approved by the Parliament. As of today, a savings of 4 trillion tugriks has been accumulated in the National Wealth Fund. Out of this, 495 billion tugriks have been monetized into individual accounts. If divided among every citizen, this means an accumulation of 135,000 tugriks per person. As the wealth fund is being monetized, an organization for international management has been established. It will be recognized internationally under the name Chinggis Fund. It will operate following the example of the wealth funds of Norway and Kazakhstan. Over the past year, the Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Mongolia, and the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Protection have worked together well. The right to manage and spend the accumulation fund in a way that increases it is being granted. Citizens can check their accumulation through E-Mongolia and can verify it in card form. This money will not be used in cash, as it is a time-bound deposit. It will be used in non-cash forms such as for health, education, and housing."

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Diplomacy

Standing Committee Chairman D. Tsogtbaatar Meets with South Korean Ambassador Choi Jin Won

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: isee.mn

Chairman of the Standing Committee on Legal Affairs of the State Great Khural, D. Tsogtbaatar, received the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea to Mongolia, Choi Jin Won, today. At the beginning of the meeting, Chairman D. Tsogtbaatar expressed his desire for Mongolia's Standing Committee on Legal Affairs to collaborate with the Legal and Judicial Committee of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea as part of the inter-parliamentary cooperation between the two countries. He requested the ambassador's support in implementing this long-term and effective collaboration. He noted that Mongolia and the Republic of Korea share similar cultures, traditions, values, and systems. Given the similarity in foundational conditions and South Korea's extensive experience in strengthening its democratic system, there is much Mongolia can learn, he said. "We are interested in studying and implementing your experience in developing the legal framework for foreign investment and the business environment to the current level, and we hope to collaborate at the level of our parliaments' standing committees," he added. Furthermore, he expressed a desire to learn from and implement South Korea's methods and experiences in strengthening its current judicial system. Ambassador Choi Jin Won thanked the chairman of the Standing Committee for the meeting and expressed his willingness to convey the proposal to deepen and develop the cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries and to work together. The parties exchanged views on developing bilateral relations, including inter-parliamentary and standing committee cooperation, as reported by the Press and Public Relations Office of the State Great Khural.

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Mongolia-Japan Relations Support Association Celebrates 30th Anniversary

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The "Partnership Association" for Mongolia-Japan relations celebrated its 30th anniversary this month. The association was founded in 1994 through the initiative of S. Dambadarjaa, the first Ambassador of Mongolia to Japan, and individuals who actively participated in developing bilateral relations. Since then, many important activities have been carried out to strengthen and develop the friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation between Mongolia and Japan. For example, they have organized events to commemorate historical milestones in the relations between the two countries, produced documentaries, published books and pamphlets, organized scientific conferences and forums, and supported activities in the fields of arts, culture, education, and humanitarian efforts, thus operating broadly. During the anniversary celebration, the members of the "Partnership Association" expressed their intention to focus more on expanding and developing Mongolian-Japanese trade and economic relations alongside strengthening the existing friendly relations between the two countries. It is also the 50th anniversary of the Cultural Exchange Agreement between Mongolia and Japan this year. In connection with this, academician Ts. Batbayar presented a lecture on "Mongolia-Japan Cultural Relations in 50 Years."

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Infrastructure

Presentation of the Mongolia-Russia Intergovernmental Agreement on the Extension and Renovation of Power Station III

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Minister of Energy B. Choijilsuren presented to the Speaker of the State Great Khural, D. Amarbayasgalan, the draft law "On the Approval of the Project Agreement between the Government of Mongolia and the Government of the Russian Federation on the Design of the Extension and Renovation of Ulaanbaatar City's Power Plant III". Power Plant III, which provides 32% of the heating supply of the capital city and 16% of the power of the central region, has been in operation for its 56th year. Due to technical failures and malfunctions, a situation has arisen where the supply of thermal power to consumers may be restricted. Therefore, the law initiator clarified that in order to reliably meet the current and growing energy demands of Ulaanbaatar city, it is planned to extend and renovate the power plant in two stages. Specifically, in the first stage, a new 50 MW thermal power plant will be built, and in the next stage, the decommissioned 48 MW station will be dismantled, and a new thermal power plant with a capacity of 250 MW will be built on its site. The draft intergovernmental agreement consists of a total of 11 articles, covering issues related to the scope of work for the design of the extension and renovation, engineering research, and analysis, as well as general conditions and other relevant issues. Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social networks, and Websites) must mention the source (ikon.mn) if using this information in any form, fully or partially.

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L. Oyun-Erdene: We will approve the agreement for the railway at the Gashuunsukhait-Gants Mod border crossing, which has been stalled for 16 years, within this session

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene presented the decisions made by the government during an extraordinary meeting. He stated, "The government initially planned to implement 14 mega projects and to overcome the political deadlock surrounding these mega projects, we established an agreement called 'Courage for Rapid Development' and three parties have joined forces. Recently, a loan agreement for the Erdeneburen Hydroelectric Power Plant was signed in Shanghai. Work will begin in the spring. We have recently returned from visits to countries in the region. In discussions with national wealth funds, our country was identified as a potential energy exporter, especially in the Gobi region. By 2030, there will be a significant demand in China, indicating the feasibility of implementing mega projects. Next week, we will engage in discussions with China Energy regarding the border connection of the Gashuunsukhait-Gants Mod crossing, marking a historic start in the energy sector. Additionally, a decision was made to establish a coking chemical plant based on the Baganuur mine. The core of many issues lies in the energy sector. Thus, 50% of the 14 mega projects are mega projects. The government-to-government agreement on the railway border connection of the Gashuunsukhait-Gants Mod crossing, which has been stalled for many years, will be discussed today and will be submitted to the State Great Hural (Parliament) by next Wednesday. It is interesting to examine why this railway agreement has been stalled for 16 years from a historical perspective, as intriguing logic will emerge. The time is approaching for open discussions in the State Great Hural. What happened in 2013 and 2014? Why couldn't the two governments come to an agreement? Why couldn't China Energy Group and Erdenes Tavantolgoi JSC directly understand each other? Many logical explanations can be seen here. This was a major issue that hindered our exports, and it will be discussed in the State Great Hural session next week. We earnestly request the public to support including the 16-year-stalled project for approval in this session and to grant the possibility for the governments to come to an agreement." Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Websites) are reminded that if they use our information in any form, fully or partially, they must always cite the source (ikon.mn).

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The World-Renowned "Narita" Airport Management to be Introduced in Mongolia

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar - "Khushig Valley Airport" LLC from "Chinggis Khaan" International Airport has signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate with Japan's "Narita International Airport Corporation" and "Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd.". The three parties will jointly organize training to improve the professional skills and services of the staff involved in the services and operations of "Chinggis Khaan" International Airport. According to L. Tsenguunjav, Executive Director of "Khushig Valley Airport" LLC, "Chinggis Khaan" International Airport has achieved a "4-star" rating from the international "Skytrax" organization, which audits and rates global air carriers and airports. Additionally, this year they welcomed their second passenger for the first time. In essence, the airport's reception capacity and services have reached international standards. To maintain and further improve this level of achievement, the airport will learn from the leading management, advanced methods, and know-how of Japan's globally renowned "Narita" and "Haneda" airports, which rank among the world’s top 10 airports. Through cooperation, "Narita" airport staff will be transferred to work in Mongolia, and staff involved in the services and operations of "Chinggis Khaan" International Airport will participate in both long-term and short-term training in Japan. At the signing ceremony, Japan's Ambassador to Mongolia, His Excellency Ambassador Masaru Igawahara, noted that the "Chinggis Khaan" airport was originally built with concessional loans from the Japanese government and is working to further improve its operations. This year, the number of passengers reached 2.2 million, surpassing expectations, and the airport is internationally recognized, comparable to airports in Osaka, Frankfurt, and Paris. The ceremony held at the Ministry of Transport and Communications was attended by the Minister of Transport, B. Delgersaikhan, the CEO of the Mongolian-Japanese joint venture "New Ulaanbaatar International Airport", Tekefumi Kitanaki, and Vice President of Business Development at "Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd.", Kazuyo Hachisuka.

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There is a Need to Bring in Foreign Labor in the Construction and Roads Sectors

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Speaker of the Parliament, D. Amarbaysgalan, was presented with the "Draft Law on Amendments to the Law on Employment Migration" by Member of Parliament and Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan. Minister Enkh-Amgalan provided information about the draft law. He stated, "There is a shortage of labor in Mongolia. Over the next four years, 14 mega projects are set to be implemented. As a result, 280,000 jobs are expected to be created. Each year, we face a shortage of 30-40,000 jobs in our country. Previously, large companies were given tax exemptions for hiring foreign labor, but this did not apply to small enterprises. The restrictions on labor in high-productivity sectors such as mining, banking, and information technology remain effective. However, the process of bringing in foreign labor in the construction and roads sectors is being simplified by this legislative amendment. Previously, large companies were given tax exemptions for hiring foreign labor, but this did not apply to small enterprises. Such legal "lobbies" existed, eliminating this disparity. Bureaucracy was also created by law in this manner. With this legal change, it became possible to send all documents electronically and get approvals more efficiently," he said.

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The British Government Offers Guarantee for the Metro Project

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

City Mayor H. Nyambaatar gave a briefing to journalists. During this briefing, he informed about the major projects planned for the coming years. He said, "We will move forward with the metro, the Tuul expressway, and the ring road to ease traffic congestion. We plan to reduce air pollution by providing housing for the ger district residents and implementing energy projects." As part of the traffic congestion reduction efforts, the budget for the Tuul expressway has been fully allocated in next year's municipal budget. The British Government has offered a guarantee for the metro construction project, and discussions are currently underway. Specifically, the British Government plans to issue a guarantee letter to the Government of Mongolia for a sum of three billion pounds sterling over 15 years for the metro project. Additionally, the long-discussed V power plant, which has been a topic of conversation for 25 years, is set to start. We have held negotiations with enterprises interested in investing in this project. We plan to carry out the V power plant using the existing "Thermal Power Plant II" ash pond based on the approved ready feasibility study within the framework of public-private partnership.

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Japan to Fully Finance the Construction of a New Thermal Power Plant

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: isee.mn

During a working trip to Japan, Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar was received by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Akiko Ikuina. During this meeting, they discussed the issue of constructing a new thermal power plant in our country. Specifically, using the previously approved feasibility study for the 5th power station, they have finalized the decision to build a new Thermal Power Plant (TPP) with investment from Japan within the framework of public-private partnership. The Japanese government has decided to fully finance the construction of this new TPP, which is scheduled to begin in 2025 and will be based on the foundation of "Thermal Power Plant II" at this location.

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Deliberation on the Connection of the Gashuun Sukhait-Gants Mod Railway and the Uranium Project with Orano Mining Group

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: isee.mn

An extraordinary meeting of the government is taking place today. The meeting is discussing issues related to air pollution and traffic congestion in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar, along with matters concerning the wealth fund, the connection of the Gashuun Sukhait-Gants Mod railway, and the draft resolution of the Parliament concerning the uranium project with the French "Orano Mining" group.

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Areas in Ulaanbaatar Facing Possible Power Restrictions Today Due to Energy Capacity Shortages

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

As a result of energy capacity shortages, power restrictions may be implemented today in Ulaanbaatar. The restrictions are expected to occur between 10:00 AM and 11:00 PM on Friday. The duration of the power restrictions is estimated to be between 60 and 120 minutes. "Consumers are advised to turn off electrical appliances that are not necessary during these times to manage their usage," stated the "UBCTSC" JSC. Warning: Media outlets (television, radio, social and web pages) must mention the source (ikon.mn) in any form when using our information in full or in part.

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Society

The government acknowledges the extreme level of pollution and traffic congestion in the capital and moves to a heightened state of readiness

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At an emergency government meeting today, the air pollution issue of Ulaanbaatar city was discussed, and it was decided to move to a heightened state of readiness. Additionally, Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene presented the decisions made to reduce air and soil pollution. He stated that the traffic congestion, air, and soil pollution in the capital Ulaanbaatar are symptoms of various underlying issues such as energy shortage, land deals, and lack of proper planning. The government's standpoint is that the city should have the financial capability to solve its own problems. The issues of the city cannot be solved beyond the city administration. It is necessary for everyone to acknowledge that the traffic congestion and energy shortages, along with the air and soil pollution have reached a disastrous level in Ulaanbaatar. Therefore, from today onwards, we are moving to a heightened state of readiness. To solve these pressing issues, the legal framework needs to be renewed, and next week the matter will be openly presented to the parliament to seek support. Over 50 laws regulate the issues of the capital, but air pollution and traffic congestion should be considered and addressed as a disaster. A special legal framework is necessary, and it will be promptly submitted for urgent discussion. To promote the reduction of air pollution as a universal effort, a legal framework for a one percent tax exemption has been established. If businesses allocate one percent of their sales income to support the government’s objectives and contribute to societal benefits, they will not be subjected to this tax. It is estimated that businesses could retain around one trillion MNT worth of taxes if they wish. It has been decided that tax exemptions for the last quarter of 2024 and for 2025 will be entirely allocated to reduce the air and soil pollution in the capital. From 2026 onwards, it would be appropriate to open up other issues such as education and culture. Additionally, to solve the problems plaguing the capital, it is deemed absolutely necessary to take strict measures starting with land clearance, according to the prime minister’s statement. Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, fully or partially.

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Air Pollution Reaches Crisis Level, Transition to High Alert Status

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

An emergency meeting of the government was held on Friday. After the meeting, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene held a briefing. The Prime Minister stated that the issue of air pollution in Ulaanbaatar should not be discussed only in winter and forgotten in spring. The government maintains the position that the capital city should have the financial capacity to solve its own issues. It must be accepted by everyone that the air and soil pollution and energy shortage in Ulaanbaatar have reached a disaster level. Therefore, today we have transitioned to a state of high alert. It is seen as necessary to establish a special legal framework to work with the State Great Khural (Parliament) to solve the pressing issues of Ulaanbaatar city. This will be introduced to the State Great Khural starting next Monday. The legal issues of Ulaanbaatar city are governed by more than 50 separate laws. Traffic congestion and air pollution are considered disasters and are being viewed at the disaster level. Solutions have been proposed. Implementing all this will require a large amount of financial resources. There will be a need to come to an understanding with the public, starting from land clearance. It is appropriate to say that strict measures need to be taken. Under the government's policy, if businesses support certain socially beneficial services with 1% of their sales revenue, this 1% tax will be exempted. If businesses choose, they can allocate 1% of their taxes in the fourth quarter of 2024 and throughout 2025 to solve air and soil pollution issues. Therefore, there is an opportunity to allocate around 1 trillion MNT against air pollution.

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Vision for Reducing Smoke Not Even a Short-Term Plan Exists

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Just three days ago, the State Emergency Commission (SEC) convened under the prompt of President Khurelsukh to discuss the issue of smoke reduction and made several decisions. However, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene and Ulaanbaatar Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar, who had been absent, suddenly appeared the next day and disregarded what was discussed, announcing that they are going to do something else instead. In short, the heads and feet of the authorities are no longer in coordination. The events that unfolded this week can be said to have revealed that not only does our country lack a vision for reducing smoke, but it also lacks short-term plans. Furthermore, the government has reinstated the National Committee on Environmental Pollution Reduction, which was dismantled exactly a year ago for being ineffective, indicating the state’s memory is poor. Until recently, no one was in charge, and even though citizens demanded it and protested, the authorities did not pay attention to the smoke issue. Suddenly, we now have many authorities "solving" the problem, with numerous tasks to do but with unclear results. Nevertheless, the leaders' sudden epiphanies and uncalculated, shocking decisions do not inspire confidence that they will reduce Ulaanbaatar's smoke. They merely mentioned the usual measures like amending laws, regulations, and standards, and populistically searching for culprits. Moreover, how many years will we keep talking about replacing stoves and chimneys like a broken record? Also, having been in power for around nine years, only yesterday has the MPP realized that they need to develop long, medium, and short-term plans to reduce air pollution. Even more peculiar is that the Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, Kh. Nyambaatar, without any research, has unexpectedly announced his “smart idea” to exclude all cars without catalytic converters from the roads. Acting like a king, dictating, commanding, scolding, and bullying, he is just doing what he knows best, sticking to traditional methods. Moreover, claiming that 84,400 households have stoves that could fall apart at any moment, he melodramatically stated that there is an urgent need for modernization, trying to appear as though he cares for the people. He also described the stove replacement as a "big thinking" project and announced its implementation despite public opposition. There is a suspicion that instead of providing citizens with the opportunity to repair their broken stoves, they might be going around in circles. Furthermore, the plan is to transition households to gas fuel. Why bother replacing stoves if that's the case? While the city mayor talks about providing stoves to ger district residents, the government makes a grand decision to create a “chimney-free zone.” The lack of clarity and disorder of this situation is a true reflection of the authorities, showing how they are trying to buy time by brainwashing citizens. Moreover, establishing a chimney-free zone is not new to the citizens of Ulaanbaatar. In 2013, a smoke-free zone was opened in Bayangol district, limiting the use of raw coal and supplying processed fuel. Also, over two years ago, an order co-signed by the Minister of Environment and Tourism and the Mayor of the capital established a zone to improve air quality, prohibiting the burning of all fuels in some parts of the city center's ger districts. Consequently, some households turned to electric heating. However, with the increase in electricity prices this year, they have returned to burning fires. Twenty years ago, stoves were distributed, ten years ago there were smoke-free zones. A year ago, there was a National Committee for Reducing Environmental Pollution. All these things give us a feeling of traveling through time.

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Use of Gas for Heating and Cooking Urged

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The National Federation of Consumer Rights Protection Societies of Mongolia and the Mongolian Gas Fuel Association held a briefing under the theme "Solutions and Ways to Solve Ulaanbaatar's Air Pollution." The associations made the following appeals to the citizens of the capital and the State Great Khural: To the citizens of the capital: - Use gas and electricity sources for heating homes and preparing food.
- Limit the use of traditional stoves with chimneys and inform state, local, and relevant organizations about this. Support the use of gas heating equipment and new gas-powered electric heating by promoting direct communication with NGOs and state agencies and fighting bureaucratic hurdles. To the State Great Khural: - Implement measures to solve household, ger district, and individual housing heating with gas and electricity by the first session of the 2025 Parliament.
- Resolve funding issues and discount or waive payments for electricity and gas used for heating.
- Exempt imported products and equipment related to this initiative from customs and excise taxes.
- Urge MPs to personally visit households in challenging living conditions during the transition week between 2024 and 2025 to observe the status of toxic smog and air pollution in the city. Study and resolve issues of providing subsidized electric heating prices, organize public hearings, and present findings during the Parliament session. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must mention their source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form—either fully or partially.

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Transition to Heightened State of Readiness Until March 1

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The Prime Minister of Mongolia, L. Oyun-Erdene, during his announcement today, stated that the traffic congestion in the capital, Ulaanbaatar, the power shortage, and the pollution of soil, air, and environment have reached a crisis level that must be acknowledged at all levels. Thus, a transition to a heightened state of readiness is in effect starting today. It has been decided that this heightened state of readiness will be enforced in the capital from today until March 1, 2025. According to the government's official statement, "In order to reduce air pollution, improve quality, and protect public health, administrative territorial units and state and local government agencies within the capital will transition to a heightened state of readiness from today until March 1, 2025." During this period, the measures prescribed by the Law on Air, the Law on Public Health Services, the Law on Disaster Protection, and other relevant laws and regulations must be implemented. Government members, agency heads, all level governors of the capital, and the management of business entities and organizations have been tasked with this duty. Article 10.4 of the Disaster Protection Law outlines the measures to be enacted when transitioning to a heightened state of readiness: - 10.4.1. Disseminate disaster alert signals to the public, revise and implement disaster protection plans. - 10.4.2. Transition administrative territorial units and state/local government organizations, and legal entities to a special operating regime. - 10.4.3. Quickly and effectively communicate disaster alerts to the public. - 10.4.4. Establish quarantine and restriction regimes, mobilize forces for disaster and local resources. - 10.4.5. Increase disaster resources based on the government's decision at the national level and local governors' decisions at regional levels. - 10.4.6. Limit, cancel, or prohibit cultural arts and public events. - 10.4.7. Temporarily halt or partially suspend activities of non-strategic trade, production, public entertainment, service facilities, and educational institutions, close entry ports or restrict movements through them. - 10.4.8. Organize temporary relocation of people, animals, property from disaster zones, provide assistance to victims, and supply temporary shelters and food. - 10.4.9. Implement special regimes for legally responsible entities crucial to maintaining socio-economic stability and normal conditions for public services. - 10.4.10. Change the duties, purposes, labor conditions, and working hours of state and state-owned organizations for the established period. - 10.4.11. Undertake necessary measures to ensure the normal operation, safety, and security of vital state structures, state-protected and strategic facilities. - 10.4.12. Direct relevant organizations to prevent shortages, price surges, and public disorder of strategic goods. - 10.4.13. Implement measures to reduce or stop the spread of false disaster-related information in media and social networks, tailored to the situation's scope and timeframe. - 10.4.14. Decide on and ensure the implementation of measures aimed at maintaining economic stability. - 10.4.15. Establish and enforce special regimes at border ports in collaboration with state border protection agencies during disasters and extraordinary situations. - 10.4.16. Limit or temporarily cease the transportation of hazardous chemicals and substances when necessary. - 10.4.17. Collect necessary information from citizens, organizations, and legal entities, ensuring confidentiality and non-misuse beyond disaster protection purposes. Communication, media organizations must prioritize disaster-related information and transmit it without delay during heightened and universal readiness. A special working regime as per 10.4.2 will be confirmed by the head of the state authority responsible for emergency management. Decisions and measures arising under 10.4 must comply with Mongolia's Constitution and other laws if they limit citizens' fundamental rights and freedoms. They must: - Be made according to legal grounds and procedures. - Aim to protect national security, public order, public morals, public health, or other fundamental rights. - Be necessary and appropriate to the situation, with clear scope and timeline. - Not infringe human rights to life, conscience, religion, or impose torture, inhuman, or degrading treatment prohibited by Mongolia's Constitution. Disaster protection decisions and measures must restrict citizens' fundamental rights and freedoms to the minimum necessary as appropriate to the situation. The State Great Khural shall regularly monitor that government decisions under 10.4 comply with Mongolia’s Constitution and other laws.

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What Happens When Transitioning to a Heightened State of Readiness?

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The government held an extraordinary meeting today where Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene announced the transition to a heightened state of readiness. What measures are taken during a heightened state of readiness in disaster protection? During this time, measures such as delivering disaster alert signals to the public, media institutions transmitting disaster-related news immediately, mobilizing manpower, equipment, and materials, establishing quarantine regimes, and increasing disaster reserves are implemented. According to the Law on Disaster Protection of Mongolia, the heightened state of readiness is defined as follows: 10.4. For specific territories and objects, to prevent disasters, search and rescue, eliminate consequences, and carry out urgent recovery operations, the following measures shall be taken when transitioning to a heightened state of readiness: 10.4.1. Delivering disaster alert signals to the population, revising and implementing disaster protection plans; 10.4.2. Transitioning administrative, territorial units, state and local government organizations, and legal entities to special work modes; 10.4.3. Rapidly and efficiently delivering disaster alerts to the population; 10.4.4. Establishing quarantine regimes, mobilizing forces and resources at the local and national level; 10.4.5. Increasing government and local disaster reserves by decision of the Government or respective local governors. 10.5. During a heightened or general state of readiness, communication and media organizations shall receive and transmit disaster-related news and information immediately without order. 10.6. To carry out search and rescue operations, eliminate consequences, and urgent recovery in focal areas across several administrative and territorial units, the following measures shall be taken when transitioning to a general state of readiness: 10.6.1. Restricting operations of non-essential enterprises and services except for those intended for communication, energy distribution, and strategic purposes for a specific period; 10.6.2. Implementing measures according to disaster protection plans. 10.7. During a general state of readiness, the measures outlined in 10.4.1-10.4.5 shall also be implemented. 10.8. The regulations for special work modes as per 10.4.2 shall be approved by the head of the state administration in charge of emergency matters.

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State and Local Administrative Bodies Placed on High Alert

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

To reduce air pollution, improve its quality, and protect public health, the capital's administrative and territorial units, along with state and local administrative bodies, have been placed on high alert from today until March 1, 2025. During this heightened state of readiness, the government members, agency heads, governors of all levels, and heads of enterprises and organizations are instructed to implement measures prescribed by the Air Law, the Public Health Service Law, the Disaster Protection Law, and other related legislations. Furthermore, as mandated by the Air Law, the regions for improving air quality in the provinces and the capital will be reevaluated and reset. Short, medium, and long-term programs and plans aimed at reducing air pollution will be developed, approved, and implemented as instructed by the chairperson of the National Committee for Pollution Reduction, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change S. Odontuya, and the governors of the provinces and the capital, according to a report from the Government Information and Knowledge Center.

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Environment

The Government holds an extraordinary meeting to discuss the draft law related to the agreement with Orano Mining

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Government of Mongolia is holding an extraordinary meeting. During the meeting, discussions are taking place on air pollution, traffic congestion in the capital city, the Wealth Fund, and two draft laws to be submitted to the parliament. It is planned to discuss the legal frameworks for the development of the Tavantolgoi-Gashuunsukhait railway infrastructure and the joint uranium mining project with the French company "Orano Mining" during this extraordinary meeting. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must mention their source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either in full or in part.

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L. Oyun-Erdene: Smog has reached a disaster level, therefore the capital city has been placed on high alert starting today

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: isee.mn

Due to smog reaching a disaster level, the capital city has been placed on high alert, as announced by Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene. Specifically, in order to reduce air pollution, improve air quality, and protect public health, administrative and territorial units, as well as state and local administration organizations throughout the capital city will be on high alert status until March 1, 2025. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene, while making this announcement, stated, "We will work in collaboration with the State Great Khural to urgently resolve the pressing issues of Ulaanbaatar city. A special legal environment is absolutely necessary. We will introduce this openly to the State Great Khural next Monday and seek support. Currently, Ulaanbaatar city's issues are being addressed by over 50 separate laws, which we will consolidate. We will treat the situation as a disaster. To promptly implement specific solutions, we will employ very strong measures including large financial resources and land evacuation."

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S. Odontuya: A Plant for Semi-Coked or Blue Coal Will Be Established Based on the Baganuur Mine

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The decisions from the government meeting are being presented by the head of the National Committee on Reducing Air Pollution and the Minister of Environment and Tourism, S. Odontuya. She stated that they are currently working on a master plan to eliminate air pollution in the long term. In the medium term, the decision has been made to establish a plant for semi-coked or blue coal. The plant will be set up using financing from Erdenes Mongol company based on the Baganuur coal mine. It is planned to produce the first 100,000 tons of blue coal by 2025, and a total of 800,000 tons of products by 2027. Therefore, it is believed that air pollution can be addressed by 2027. This is one of the key solutions to reduce air pollution. When we look at the experiences of countries that have reduced air pollution, they often cooperate with private sectors. If companies use one percent of their sales revenue to support socially beneficial services under the government's policy, they are legally allowed to keep that one percent tax-free. If companies wish, they can allocate around 1 trillion MNT towards fighting air pollution. Therefore, a decision has been made to use the tax-free one percent for reducing air pollution in the fourth quarter of 2024 and in 2025. The ministry has approved the regulation. This regulation includes various activities, products, and services. Let's allocate all possible funds to air pollution in 2024 and 2025. - What will happen to the Tavantolgoi fuel plant once the new plant is established? - The Tavantolgoi fuel plant is outdated. We moved from raw coal to refined coal, which had its advantages. Now, we are transitioning to the next stage of production. This plant receives more than 200 billion MNT in subsidies from the state annually. Therefore, we want to move away from outdated methods and invest our funds in new ventures.

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A Hearings on Air Pollution and Smog Issues to be Held

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

At the meeting of the Standing Committee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture of the State Great Khural held on the 19th of this month, a working group was established to prepare for a general oversight hearing on air pollution and smog issues. The working group will be chaired by Member of Parliament J. Chiinburen. The group will consist of Members of Parliament B. Bat-Erdene, J. Bat-Erdene, H. Baasanjargal, Ts. Baatarkhuu, P. Batchimeg, B. Bayarbaatar, G. Ganbaatar, L. Munkhbayasgalan, M. Mandkhai, Z. Mendsaikhan, D. Naidalaa, Dam. Tsogtbaatar, S. Lundeg, A. Undraa, B. Uyanga, S. Erdenebold, S. Zamira, and M. Gankhuleg. Additionally, a majority of the members who participated in the meeting supported electing J. Chiinburen, Member of Parliament, as the chairperson of the general oversight hearing.

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Sulfur Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide Emissions in Mongolia

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide are released from ger districts, while PM 2.5, PM 10 particulates, and nitrogen dioxide emissions come from vehicle exhaust. At the meeting of the Standing Committee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture of the State Great Khural, information on air pollution issues was provided by the Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia and head of the State Emergency Commission. This information was introduced by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya. According to a study on air pollution sources, 55.6% of air pollution comes from households in ger districts, 28.9% from vehicles, and 15.5% from other factors. The minister noted in her report that the number of households in ger areas decreased from 5.2% in 2023 to 44% in 2024. Regarding the composition of pollutants, for PM 2.5 and PM 10 particulates, ger districts account for 17.6%, while 52.3% come from motor vehicles, and other sources account for 30.1%. Carbon monoxide comes 64.1% from ger districts, 24.9% from vehicles, and 11% from other sources. Sulfur dioxide is emitted 71.7% from ger districts, 3.8% from vehicles, and 24.5% from other sources. Nitrogen dioxide emissions account for 28.2% from ger districts, 63.2% from vehicles, and 8.6% from other sources. The study shows that sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide from ger districts, and PM 2.5, PM 10, and nitrogen dioxide from vehicles, significantly contribute to air pollution. A major part of this pollution comes from vehicles. As of 2022, there were 712,992 vehicles registered in the capital city, of which 74.2% are over 10 years old. Vehicles emit 2-3 times more pollutants when traveling at 0-5 km/h. Therefore, measures to reduce traffic congestion are necessary to curb these emissions. Minister S. Odontuya discussed ongoing efforts to transition ger districts to apartment blocks to reduce urban concentration and develop the city into a multi-centered metropolis. Under this policy, 202,626 housing units are being built to provide residents with healthy and safe living conditions that meet standards. This includes 41,584 units in subcenters, 148,323 units in redevelopment areas, and 12,719 units through foreign aid. By transitioning ger districts to apartment blocks, air pollution is expected to be reduced by 22% and traffic congestion by 36.3%. The government has also initiated a project to switch households from solid fuel to gas in three phases, targeting 100,000 households by 2027-2028 to achieve a 27.8% reduction in air pollution caused by ger districts. Additionally, a pilot project with the UN Development Program aims to improve the livelihood of 45 households by connecting them to solar energy. Over the next few years, plans to transition a larger number of households to renewable energy sources are expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions and energy costs. The construction of the Tuul expressway will also help reduce congestion and increase average traffic speed by 13.5%, lowering vehicle-related air pollution by 8%. New ring roads will enhance connectivity and allow for multi-level intersections, aiming to further improve traffic flow and reduce emissions. A metro network is planned between Tolgoit and Amgalan, featuring 14 stations, to further enhance urban mobility and reduce pollution. Efforts are underway to expand energy infrastructure to ensure a reliable power supply and reduce dependency on coal by introducing waste-to-energy systems. The anti-pollution measures also include continuous monitoring by the Police Eco-Inspection Division and the Capital Air and Environmental Pollution Control Department. Enforcement actions are being taken against violations of the government's coal use restrictions, aiming to support ongoing plans to relocate households and reduce raw coal consumption. The cumulative results of these projects are expected to significantly reduce air pollution levels by 80% by transitioning 82,600 households to apartment living and increasing renewable energy usage to 30% by 2028. This comprehensive approach aims to address both immediate and long-term environmental and health impacts of urban air pollution in Mongolia.

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S.Odontuya: A Semi-coking Coal Plant to be Established Based on Baganuur Mine

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Relevant ministers are providing information on the decisions made at the government's extraordinary meeting. A National Committee for Reducing Air Pollution has been established. Within the framework of a medium-term policy to eliminate air pollution, it has been decided to establish a semi-coking coal plant, which will later be called "blue coal." It is planned to produce the first 100,000 tons of coal at this plant, based on the Baganuur mine, by next year. By 2027, it is expected to produce 800,000 tons of coal, which is seen as a possibility to solve air pollution. The Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya, stated, "In line with the law passed to support private sector development in Mongolia, which allows 1% of income tax to be spent on social responsibility, a decision has been made. Specifically, the 1% discount for 2025 will be spent on reducing air pollution. Our ministry approved the procedure a week ago. This procedure included many types of services and activities. Thus, it creates an opportunity to reduce air pollution through private sector financing by introducing all kinds of insulation, heating systems, gas heating, and providing households." "A blue coal plant will be established with financing from ‘Erdenes Mongolia’. The 'Tavan Tolgoi Fuel' company is considered outdated and to have fulfilled its duties at the time. This factory operates under very difficult conditions with state subsidies. ‘Erdenes Mongolia’ has conducted research on the investment for the new plant. It will soon be presented to the public," she added.

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J. SAINZAYA: Monitoring smoke from mountaintops and fighting against raw coal should not be the state's task

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Let's present an interview with J. Sainzaya, the executive director of the "Truth Constraint" NGO, about the budget spent on reducing air pollution, the policies and decisions implemented by the state in this direction. - Your organization is working to oversee the budget expenditure and legal implementation. How do you evaluate the effectiveness of the budget spent on reducing smoke? - The budget of Mongolia is expanding year by year. There is no other country in the world that has doubled its budget within four years. However, this large amount of money is not "adhering" to the people's lives, nor is it bringing any good things to them, which is strange. The main reason for this is corruption. - Corruption has become a real problem in our country. As governance is corrupted and has reached its limit, the citizens are living poorly. In international terms, corruption is considered a form of torture. In our country, the authorities torture the citizens. We, the residents of the capital, are living under the torture of our government. This is a very serious issue that everyone should pay attention to. In the past, people spent billions of tugriks on reducing smoke over the past time, and citizens almost memorize and recite this exaggerated expenditure. Between 2008 and 2016, about 560 billion tugriks were spent on fighting air pollution, and 456 billion tugriks from 2017 to 2022. Since 2001, 30-40 billion tugriks have been spent annually from the capital's budget on reducing smoke, and this year it reached 60 billion. Over the past three years, around 500 billion tugriks from international organization grants and donations have been spent to reduce air pollution. It is reported that a total of 1.5 trillion tugriks will be used to reduce smoke until 2024. This is an internet-based, shallow calculation of readily accessible information. According to our calculations, three times more funds than this have been spent on reducing air pollution. Imagine a child gets sick because of smoke. In such cases, one of the family members has to take time off work to take care of the sick child, possibly hospitalizing them. Every time it happens, the household's income decreases, and they suffer economically. A significant amount of money is spent on hospital beds, medicine, and treatment fees, and the losses multiply every time the child gets sick. When parents are told for the third time that "the same treatment will be administered, and there will be no result, so handle it yourself," it is evident that air pollution is making citizens suffer and economically burden them in this way. Meanwhile, no effective measures against this problem have been implemented. The first unit responsible for the air pollution problem was established in Mongolia in 2008. Seventeen years have since passed. A unit with a massive structure, called the Capital City Department for Combating Air and Environmental Pollution, is still operating, with over 50 employees. Its daily operating expenses, salaries, incentives, work tools, and stationery costs are all covered by the state budget. This money should also be accounted for in the budget spent on reducing air pollution. Furthermore, the harmful effects of smoke affecting the mental state and quality of life of the citizens must be accounted for. The number of people dying from carbon monoxide poisoning had been on average 10-20 per year but now has increased to 40. In a country of only 3 million people, it is tragic and frightening that citizens are dying 40-50 per year just from smoke. There are also terrifying numbers concerning fetal mortality. Unfortunately, in-depth calculations about the damage to citizens' health and economy caused by air pollution do not exist in our country. The 1.5 trillion tugriks only cover a tiny portion of the total damage. - Do you think the large sum spent on reducing air pollution wasn't of any use? - There are organizations with the duty to fight smoke, yes. The budget for reducing air pollution continues to be allocated. However, smoke remains at a disaster level. Therefore, those responsible for policy and decision-making are not doing their jobs correctly, or they are missing the point. I looked at the transparency implementation performance of the Capital City Department for Combating Air and Environmental Pollution's report for the first half of 2023. Reporting transparently on the work done is necessary, an example of good governance. Surprisingly, the performance of their work is always between 70-100%. Completing their planned work at 100% means the allocated budget was also used 100%. It seems they perform well on paper. But where are the results in real life for their 100% completed works? The most shameful and tragic part is that checking and controlling the use of raw coal and stopping its entry into the city are included among the measures. If the fuel the residents use is truly good, high-quality, cheap, and smokeless, then why would people resort to burning raw coal secretly? Moreover, focusing on such trivial things is not their task. In addition to the Capital City Department for Combating Air and Environmental Pollution, many organizations are supervising the use of raw coal. Instead of scattering manpower on this useless task, they should improve the quality of their improved fuel. State officials waste money producing paper, and assess their work as 100% done. However, in reality, the smoke thickens, and its harmful effects are increasing. Citizens are getting more poisoned and sick. Therefore, organizations responsible for air pollution must change their course of action. If you indeed want transparency, change and renew your policies and plans with citizens' participation. You spent money for 17 years. There are no results. Work differently now. - The projects and programs aimed at reducing smoke were once actively implemented by the government, but in recent years, they have relatively gone silent. I view this as a reflection of citizens losing faith, becoming suspicious, and criticizing any work labeled "fighting air pollution." Recently, they only talk about distributing, forcing residents to take measures like fuel, carbon monoxide detectors, and stoves. Lately, the capital announced a plan to distribute "smokeless" stoves to 32 thousand households for 28 billion tugriks. - Stoves were distributed before, and now they are repeating it. A Mongolian youth reportedly developed a stove that burns smoke and even got a patent in China. It is said that it was not only accepted in China but also in Europe. If they truly aim to introduce smokeless good stoves, why not support the Mongolian engineer who has been internationally recognized and buy his products? It's true that we cannot move all our households into apartments at once. The need for stove burning exists for now. There may be problems with the stove and the fuel burned inside it. We are not experts, so we don't know. But the stove you offered and distributed did not and will not yield results. The fuel you are delivering is not working. Everyone is saying this. If we criticize like this, we hear "Then we'll import coal from China." What's the point of exporting our best coal to China, giving us their leftover waste, and now saying, "We'll get fuel from the southern neighbor"? Are we to process and buy our own exported coal back at a high price? Why should we do this? Is it because we have so much money to waste? Why should we, the rightful owners of the wealth, have to use waste while harming our health? Fundamentally, they should provide us with the best. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene said something to the effect of, "Smoke has crept into the Great Sky. Saying 'it's not our issue' and sitting idly is not possible." What does this mean? Was air pollution not your issue? Did you think this problem didn't apply because you lived in a smokeless area? The Prime Minister, having toured abroad during the 2025 budget discussions, suddenly appears afterward saying "Let's discuss the smoke issue. Do you know the laws, regulations, budget, finances?" In reality, the head of the government should be introducing the extent of the disaster during budget discussions and approvals, talking about the necessary actions, costs, and funding requirements. This is how we expect that person to work. If compared to a household, the Prime Minister is like the mother, responsible for knowing and solving all the sensitive and crucial issues. Also, at the beginning of the year, he talked about holding closed discussions on the smoke issue. Until then, how many children will get sick, and how many people might perish seems irrelevant to politicians. It seems they will sit quietly until the smoke season ends. Having such a Prime Minister is a disgrace. I am deeply ashamed. I see no future without smoke. - Audit institutions reviewed the budget spent on reducing air pollution, and it has been repeatedly established that a considerable amount was wasted on ineffective and pointless work. Moreover, many international and domestic research, monitoring bodies made similar calculations regarding budget and financing. This has played an important role in informing citizens with factual data, improving public oversight. Yet it is unfortunate that those who did meaningless work and caused loss to the state cannot be held accountable. The government has become insensitive to the issue of smoke. - The accountability system in our country is at zero. Such a notion doesn't exist. When an official makes a mistake and causes significant financial loss to the state, they are "punished" by appointment elsewhere as director. They then repeat their mistakes. Very few people oversee this. Ch. Ganjavkhlan, known to the public as the founder of the "Lantern Signal" NGO, recently spoke out strongly about the problem of smoke and demonstrated in the central square of the capital. People said, "He moved by order, took money." People believed them, got influenced, blamed Ch. Ganjavkhlan, and avoided joining him. In truth, the government is successfully manipulating us. They create positions for themselves to enjoy luxury while spending the money squeezed out of us. - Speaking responsibly about the smoke issue and demanding accountability, long-term policies and plans are often discussed. Is it correct to address the issue as if it's impossible to solve today or tomorrow, and can only see results in the distant future, in a long-term perspective? - Those responsible for policymaking and decision-making talk most about long, short, and medium-term policies and plans, yet they themselves don't know about these matters. Even the head of the government does not know. Time spent fighting smoke is not short. Intensive activities in this direction started in 2008, and countless governments changed during this time. However, in the last eight years, only one party ruled. L. Oyun-Erdene has been continuing as the head of government. Yet he talks as if he's only now seeing the smoke—the ultimate sign of irresponsibility. - Organizations responsible for air pollution keep evading responsibility, transferring their duties, and leaving the whole burden on the capital. Yet you criticized the main unit responsible for this issue in the capital, the Department for Combating Air and Environmental Pollution, for ineffective work. - I thoroughly dug into this organization's website. The problems currently being discussed and facing us were also talked about in the 2010s. The important thing is that compared to the present, slightly better works were being implemented back then. At least they had detailed, specific planning for their activities. At that time, 20-30 billion tugriks were spent fighting smoke; now it's hundreds of billions. Yet the current situation has worsened instead. Isn't it tear-jerking? This year, the Capital City Department for Combating Air and Environmental Pollution received financing of 39 billion tugriks. With this, they have improved the measurement infrastructure and capacity, measuring emissions from 233 steam boilers and seven power plants in the capital, and conducted 66 trials on improved fuel. They have reported that these had a good effect on controlling air pollution and shared transparent information with citizens and the public. When you investigate what work they actually did, you'll find things like this. - In general, do we need to keep "feeding" a large structure that can't do its job with the budget, or should we "shake" it into action? - If the organization's budget and expenses have expanded massively yet achieve no results, then it's not doing its job right. Or its policies are faulty. We did not wish for them to produce paper. In the government, it seems like there is a policy, or interest, to keep citizens poor, ignorant, uneducated, and unable to fight back. We need to boldly speak out and fight against all the wrongs. Only by doing so can we bring about better times. - How should the state participate in the air pollution issue? They've been seen even inspecting stoves, fuels, and giving "lessons" on fire-lighting. - The state needs to formulate accurate policies, and implement laws. Surveying smoke from a mountain, looking for raw coal in vehicles entering the city is not their job. City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar should be putting demands on those responsible for air pollution issues, instead of scolding citizens everywhere. He should stop them from observing smoke from a mountain, speak openly about failed policies, and throw it in their face.

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Agreed to Hold a Monitoring Hearing on the Smoke Issue, Work Group Led by MP J.Chinburen

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At yesterday's meeting of the Standing Committee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture, members discussed a public petition related to the issue of smoke hearings. The public petition placed on the electronic system regarding the conduct of a monitoring hearing on the smoke issue has reached the threshold specified in Article 39.4 of the Law on the State Great Khural of Mongolia. According to the provision in Article 95.3 of the Law on the Procedures for the Sessions of the State Great Khural, if more than 70,000 citizens support a public petition, the Chairman of the State Great Khural refers it to the relevant Standing Committee within five working days to prepare for a plenary session to make a decision, which was introduced in the session of December 13, 2024. The Chairman of the Standing Committee, B. Beysen, read and presented it to the members, noting that the petition had been transferred to the Standing Committee in order to discuss and resolve the issue. In accordance with Article 95.4 of the same law, if the proposal of the relevant Standing Committee is received during a session, the issue should be discussed within one week. The matter was discussed based on these guidelines. First, a vote was conducted on the wording to support the general monitoring hearing on the smoke issue, with 76.8% of participating members in favor. The election of the head of the Working Group was also considered, electing Member of Parliament J. Chinburen. The proposal was supported by the majority of the members present at the session. Subsequently, the resolution of the Standing Committee on the establishment of a Working Group was discussed and approved. This resolution tasked the Working Group led by MP J. Chinburen, with members B. Bat-Erdene, J. Bat-Erdene, Kh. Baasanjargal, Ts. Baatarkhuu, P. Batchimeg, B. Bayarbaatar, G. Ganbaatar, L. Munkhbayasgalan, M. Mandkhai, Z. Mendsaikhan, D. Naidalaa, Dam. Tsogtbaatar, S. Lundeg, A. Undraa, B. Uyanga, S. Erdenebold, S. Zamira, and M. Gankhuleg, to prepare and organize a general monitoring hearing on air pollution and the smoke issue. Following the adoption of the above resolution, the draft resolution on electing the Chairperson of the General Monitoring Hearing was discussed. The majority of the members at the session supported electing MP J. Chinburen as the Chairperson. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either in full or in part.

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Innovation

All Operations with Enterprises will be Integrated into "e-Business"

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

A draft law has been prepared to be discussed at a government meeting to enhance state productivity. As part of this effort, a draft law will be formulated to amend the Law on Permissions to ensure the alignment of legal and regulatory acts that regulate permissions and permission-like relations provided by the state. The Minister of Mongolia and the Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat, N. Uchral, have been instructed to develop a unified methodology for integrating and evaluating the performance plans of all levels of government and local administrative organizations and their employees, in line with economic indicators of national long, medium, and short-term development policies. If necessary, he will propose amendments to the relevant laws. Furthermore, the National Committee on State Productivity has been tasked with organizing the integration of all activities of interacting with enterprises from the state into the unified state service system "e-Business" to create a favorable environment for doing business.

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Health

O.Batbayar: Residents of Ulaanbaatar are being exposed to pollution equivalent to smoking 10-20 cigarettes daily

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The National Center for Infectious Disease Research (NCIDR) provided the latest information concerning air pollution and the flu outbreak. O. Batbayar, the deputy director of NCIDR and the deputy head of the Rapid Response Team for influenza-like illnesses, made the following statement. He stated, "Due to air pollution, during last weekend, the hospital workload and emergency calls increased by 60-70%. What this shows is that air pollution is significantly increasing the hospital workload and emergency calls. According to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, when fine particulate matter reaches 22 micrometers, it is equivalent to smoking ONE cigarette. In some districts of Ulaanbaatar, this indicator sometimes reaches 200-400. Residents of Ulaanbaatar are being exposed to pollution equivalent to smoking almost 10-20 cigarettes daily. During such times, it is necessary to wear masks and take preventive measures. As the fine particulate matter in the air increases, the number of hospital visits and emergency calls also increases. These are directly related, as shown by the actual hospital workload and number of calls." As of 12:30 today, air quality indicators have exceeded permissible levels in the following locations in Ulaanbaatar. Specifically, in Bayankhoshuu, pollution is extremely high, with PM 2.5 particulate matter reaching 464, which indicates that residents there are being exposed to pollution equivalent to smoking over 20 cigarettes. Source: Agaar.mn Warning: Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must always cite their source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, whether fully or partially. Please take note of this!

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UGTE: Successfully Performed Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery on a Beating Heart

Published: 2024-12-20 | Translated from: news.mn

For the first time in Mongolia, coronary artery bypass surgery on a beating heart has been successfully performed with minimal invasion. Since 2017, the Third State Central Hospital's Department of Cardiovascular Surgery has been performing coronary artery bypass surgery on a beating heart through a midline sternotomy. The hospital successfully performed coronary artery bypass surgery on a beating heart using a left thoracotomy with minimal incision. The left thoracotomy approach offers advantages compared to traditional midline sternotomy, including smaller wound size of about 7-8 cm, less postoperative wound pain, lower risk of wound infection, and relatively better healing, as highlighted by the doctors.

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