Jan 16, 2025 59 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for January 16, 2025

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 has established Regional Councils and ordered the organization of conferences within this quarter

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Yesterday, at an expanded meeting of the government, the chairpersons of aimag and city councils, as well as governors, participated. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene presented the establishment of regional councils, their operation rules, and organization during the meeting. He instructed Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan to implement these plans. Additionally, he mandated aimag and city governors to organize regional development conferences before March of this year, and to develop and discuss development plans up to 2040. Furthermore, it was tasked to provide support for implementing 14 mega projects and an equal number of legal reforms, within the government's 2024-2028 action program. From 2024-2028, the government plans to conduct regional development constructions, such as the "Five Loop" highway connecting aimag centers with border crossings, Buur Lake water border at the eastern region, 4C airport, Erdeneburen hydroelectric power plant in the western region, Eg River hydroelectric power station in the northern region, a new city of Zuunmod in the central region, a new Harhorin city in the Khangai region, and projects to support the regional socio-economic development, including the Tavantolgoi power station, an oil refinery, cross-border railways from Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod, Khangi-Mandal, Shiveekhuren-Seekhe border crossing stations, cargo transfer terminals, and development of eastern and western vertical economic corridors. The development priorities for the regions have also been classified. For example, the Khangai region is defined as a "specialized area for traditional animal husbandry and a sub-region for urban development," the western region as "an energy-specialized area and a sub-region for natural tourism," and the eastern region as "an area specialized for historical tourism and intensified agriculture." Ulaanbaatar's area is defined as an "international banking, financial, and business development center."

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Working Groups That Don't Work!

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: news.mn

In the capital, when initiating or implementing any work or resolving cases that have caught the public's attention, a working group consisting of several people is established. What work the established working group does or has implemented is unclear. Establishing a working group with a grand name and appointing a leader has become almost an unwritten law. However, there is no achievement from work done or implemented and resolved effectively. For instance, working groups have been established to solve pressing issues such as the well-known coal case, the green bus issue, and air pollution. Recently, a working group was established to assess the demands of citizens raised during a protest. During the protest organized at D.Sükhbaatar Square, activists demanded the resignation of the government. Consequently, a working group led by the Head of the Cabinet Secretariat, N. Uchral, was established to make conclusions and present proposals based on the demands raised during the protests. Measures proposed as a result of this working group's conclusions will be presented at a government meeting, as stated by the Minister of Justice, O. Altangerel, during a briefing. The Mongolian People's Party (MPP) formed a working group to stabilize the new government. The MPP's Executive Council convened and formed a working group to implement the major objectives included in the MPP's agenda. This includes establishing a wealth fund, housing programs, anti-corruption initiatives, human rights guarantees, rural development, and regional development support. The working group consists of MPP Chair L. Oyun-Erdene, Chairman of the State Great Khural D. Amarbayasgalan, and interim General Secretary Y. Sodbaatar. A working group to accelerate the implementation of education-related laws has been established. During the meeting of the Standing Committee on Education, Culture, Science, and Sports, the Education Minister P. Naranbayar provided information on the implementation of the Higher Education Law. During this meeting, MP G. Damdinyam criticized the insufficient implementation of education-related packages of laws and proposed the establishment of a working group to accelerate the implementation of these laws. A majority of committee members supported the resolution to establish this working group. A working group was established to prepare and conduct hearings on air pollution and smog. The State Great Khural has formed a working group responsible for organizing general control hearings on air pollution and smog, chaired by MP J. Chimburen. The working group consists of MPs B. Bat-Erdene, J. Bat-Erdene, Kh. Baasanjargal, Ts. Batkhuyag, P. Batchimeg, B. Bayarbaatar, G. Ganbaatar, L. Munkhbayasgalan, M. Mandhai, Z. Mendsaikhan, D. Naidalaa, Dam. Tsogtbaatar, S. Lundeg, A. Undraa, B. Uyanga, S. Erdenebold, S. Zamira, and M. Ganhuleg. The working group will prepare and organize the air pollution and smog hearings. Some members of the public are urging that these hearings be conducted not in the State Palace but in the most polluted areas of the city, specifically going to the ger districts on the ground. A working group was once established to organize hearings on coal. During the tenure of Speaker G. Zandanshatar, a working group was formed to organize hearings on coal. The current city mayor, Kh. Nyambaatar, was set to lead this temporary committee, with members such as G. Temuulen, G. Ganbold, B. Enkhbayar, S. Ganbaatar, and T. Dorjkhand joining as members of this temporary standing committee. A temporary committee to investigate the green bus issue was also formed. During his period as Speaker, G. Zandanshatar ordered the establishment of a temporary committee to investigate the "Green Bus" issue. Consequently, the temporary committee was formed, including then MPs P. Anujin, D. Batlut, J. Bat-Erdene, Ts. Davaasuren, G. Temuulen, J. Batsuuri, N. Ganibal, S. Odontuya, and T. Dorjkhand. Many such working groups have been established, but after some time, without yielding results, they are dissolved. For example, the national committee for reducing environmental pollution was dissolved, and it was re-established under the leadership of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, S. Odontuya.

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Economy

It's Important to Create a Fair Tax Environment for Everyone

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: news.mn

Since the pandemic, many businesses and entrepreneurs facing heavy tax burdens have been forced to declare bankruptcy or cease operations. To understand how tax reforms can be effectively implemented for the benefit of private businesses and the current socio-economic context, professionals in the field have provided insights. IT IS NECESSARY TO INCLUDE CLEAR, SIMPLE, AND UNDERSTANDABLE PROVISIONS IN THE LAW
According to B. Baasandorj, chairman of the Economic Legal Affairs Committee of the Bar Association of Mongolia:
- The legal aspect of determining tax rates is a political decision. Legal practitioners cannot specify what exact rate is appropriate. The clarity of the law is measured by its simplicity and comprehensibility to citizens, regardless of any decision made within the political framework. For instance, if the law states that discounts apply to citizens and businesses located at 500 or 1000 kilometers away from Ulaanbaatar, it causes ambiguity. The exact starting point from which to measure these kilometers isn't defined, leading to misunderstandings between tax inspectors and citizens. If the residential area of a citizen eligible for discounts deviates by even 1-2 kilometers, disputes arise about tax relief eligibility. So, regardless of any proposal or decision made, if it is incorporated into legislation without a legal systemization and scientific legal methodologies, similar misunderstandings and disputes will continue to occur. Concerning the Value Added Tax (VAT), which is the most extensive consumption tax, every citizen pays this tax. The discontent arises because the tax burden to generate budget revenue is placed on businesses. The Tax Law differentiates businesses, and the responsibility to collect taxes needs to be detailed and reduced for businesses. From a legal standpoint, the approach is to treat individuals differently according to their sales income and economic capacity. The standard in Mongolia exempts entities from VAT if their sales do not reach 50 million MNT. Whether we achieve clarity in the legal regulation of such definitions is where disputes arise. However, the simplified mode, which many countries apply as a threshold for small taxpayers, aims at tax efficiency and minimizing audit costs. EVERYONE WHO RUNS A BUSINESS OR TRADE MUST PAY VAT!
According to B. Khush-Erdene, Executive Director of the Ulaanbaatar Chamber of Commerce:
- Many opinions on tax reform have been expressed by businesses. The main idea is for a system that is simple, clear, straightforward, non-overlapping, and fair for all taxpayers to function. Overlapping regulations and legal provisions at tax authorities must be eliminated. In addition, tax rates need to be lowered and the tax base broadened. Today's tax policy focuses on fragmenting businesses. From the perspective of companies, and national manufacturers, growth is paramount. Therefore, tax laws and reform policies should be directed at allowing businesses to expand. In terms of corporate income tax laws and other legislations, there are various tiers, such as sales. Removing these tiers and ensuring equality, where every taxpayer pays a flat rate—5% at 5%, 10% at 10%, etc., is necessary. The current practice of higher taxes on higher incomes is unequal. Expanding the base for VAT by setting sales revenue thresholds is also practiced. Removing this threshold so all business operators and traders pay VAT is desirable. Business representatives propose lowering the VAT rate to five percent. Furthermore, legal terms need clarification, and introducing new terminology is also needed. Broad and varied uses of terms lead to different interpretations by tax inspectors and cause diverse pressures and risks for businesses. Furthermore, clarity on exemptions, reliefs, and incentives criteria is needed. Some exemptions appear to target minorities. If the law intends to provide exemptions, all entities meeting criteria should be eligible. Simply put, the principle of equal treatment should apply to every business operator.

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The Reserve Requirement Ratios for Tugrik and Foreign Currency Will Be Increased by Two Units

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Mongolia held an unscheduled meeting yesterday and made two decisions. Considering the current state of the economy, banking, and financial markets, and the external risk factors, it was decided to keep the policy interest rate unchanged at 10%. Additionally, the reserve requirement ratios for banks' tugrik and foreign currency were decided to be increased by 2 percentage points, bringing them to 13% and 18%, respectively. The annual inflation rate stood at 9% nationwide, and 9.1% in Ulaanbaatar. The main factors driving inflation above the target upper limit were higher-than-expected increases in electricity, meat, and imported goods prices. Prices of services, rents, and imported goods have risen sharply due to internal demand associated with economic recovery and growth, as well as wage increases. Looking ahead, factors such as secondary impacts from price hikes in state-regulated services, dividends distribution by Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC, and continued expansion of budget expenditures are expected to add pressure, necessitating a tightening of the monetary policy stance. While significant changes have not been observed in the growth prospects of the external and domestic economies, geopolitical risks and uncertainties remain unchanged. The high levels of credit growth in the banking sector could potentially lead to the accumulation of risks in the financial sector by spurring consumption and domestic demand. Therefore, to tighten the monetary policy stance and ensure economic and financial stability, it was decided to raise the reserve requirement ratios for banks' tugrik and foreign currency by 2 percentage points each. This decision aligns with the objective of stabilizing inflation at the target level in the medium term and strengthening the stability of the economic and financial sectors. In the future, based on changes in the external and internal economic environment, as well as shifts in inflation and economic forecasts, the Monetary Policy Committee will take further policy steps as necessary.

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Housing Prices Increase by 14.6% Compared to the Previous Year

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The housing prices in Ulaanbaatar have been steadily increasing in recent years. As of December 2024, the price of housing in Ulaanbaatar has increased by 14.6% compared to the same period last year, and by 1.1% compared to the previous month. In December 2024, the average price per square meter of new housing reached 4.65 million MNT, with the highest price being in Sukhbaatar district at 5.72 million MNT. The average price per square meter of new housing is as follows by district: - Khan-Uul district: 4.68 million MNT - Chingeltei district: 4.62 million MNT - Bayanzurkh district: 4.45 million MNT - Bayangol district: 4.28 million MNT - Songino-Khairkhan district: 3.29 million MNT In December 2024, the average price per square meter of old housing was 4.27 million MNT, with the highest in Sukhbaatar district at 5.90 million MNT. By district, the average price per square meter of old housing is: - Chingeltei: 4.68 million MNT - Khan-Uul: 4.57 million MNT - Bayanzurkh: 3.81 million MNT - Bayangol: 3.76 million MNT - Songino-Khairkhan district: 2.94 million MNT In December 2024, the average price of new housing in Chingeltei district increased by 33.2% (1,150.4 thousand MNT) compared to the same period last year, which is the highest increase, while Khan-Uul district saw the smallest increase of 10.3% (438.0 thousand MNT). As for old housing, Sukhbaatar district experienced the highest increase at 36.9% (1,589.7 thousand MNT), while Bayanzurkh district had the smallest increase at 12.0% (409.4 thousand MNT). Source: National Statistical Committee

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"Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi" to Invest 600 Billion Tugriks in District Heating Fuel

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The households in the ger districts of Ulaanbaatar will not be using improved briquette fuel this winter. Specifically, production of enhanced fuel will cease starting March 1, 2025. The ger district households in Ulaanbaatar will transition to using semi-coke fuel, and a decision has been made to establish a factory for its production. It takes 2-3 years to construct a factory for semi-coke, known as "blue fuel." Until the factory is operational, "Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi" will enrich its thermal coal to supply to the households. In other words, no binders will be added, and the coal will be washed for use starting October. "Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi" is set to provide 600 billion tugriks to cover the fuel needs of the ger district households in Ulaanbaatar for the next two years. The government has tasked "Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi" with financing the operations of Tavan Tolgoi Fuel Company for the next two years. Over the years, "Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi" has invested 1.5 trillion tugriks into Tavan Tolgoi Fuel Company. Yet, Tavan Tolgoi Fuel Company operated with a 1.2 trillion tugrik loss. The Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, H. Nyambaatar, stated, "'Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi' will decide the financing of the fuel factory until January 1, 2027. After that, the city will take over the factory without losses." H. Munkhjargal, acting Executive Director of "Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi," said, "The government has tasked us to finance Tavan Tolgoi Fuel Company until January 1, 2027. From its inception, 'Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi' has invested 1.5 trillion tugriks. With the upcoming two-year funding, the total will be two trillion tugriks. Estimating an investment of around 300 billion tugriks annually, over two years, 600 billion tugriks will be invested."

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Bank of Mongolia Signals Continued Tight Monetary Policy Despite Unchanged Interest Rate

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Bank of Mongolia announced decisions to reinforce its policy of containing inflation and curbing loans during an extraordinary meeting. On Tuesday, the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Mongolia announced the decision to keep the policy rate at 10%, while increasing the mandatory reserve requirements for banks' domestic and foreign currency holdings by two percentage points each, bringing them to 13% and 18% respectively. Furthermore, it signaled an intention to maintain a tight monetary policy this year amidst risks of increasing inflationary pressures due to rising electricity and heat prices, cash handouts, and fiscal expansion. Inflation, which had remained within the Bank of Mongolia's target level throughout the year, hit 9.0% in December 2024, having increased by almost four percentage points in just over half a year. Additionally, Mongolia's exports rose 3.9% in 2024, but imports surged by 25.5%, causing the trade surplus to drop by 30% compared to the previous year. These indicators suggest that the central bank's fight against inflation will be challenging this year. To restrict bank lending and money supply, which limit the impact of the policy rate, the Bank of Mongolia has consecutively raised the mandatory reserve requirements in its last two meetings. As of October last year, total loan growth in the banking system accelerated to 31.4%, with the total loan amount reaching 35 trillion tugriks. On Tuesday, the tugrik continued to weaken against the US dollar, reaching 3426, which is the lowest level in about 13 months. The money supply reached 43.3 trillion tugriks in the preliminary December results, an increase of 15.2% from the previous year. Compared to the over 30% increase seen in the first half of the year, the money supply has slowed down, but increased consumer spending continues to pose a risk of “economic overheating” driving inflation further. The US Federal Reserve, which significantly influences the decisions of central banks in developing countries, has recently indicated that it will only lower interest rates when confident that inflation has sufficiently subsided. In November, US core inflation stood at 2.8% year-on-year, remaining above the Fed's 2% target. Should the Federal Reserve bravely cut its rate, the gap with the Bank of Mongolia’s policy rate could widen, increasing pressure on the tugrik's exchange rate against the US dollar. Furthermore, major banks on “Wall Street” speculate that if Donald Trump, the elected president, fulfills his promise to raise tariffs, the US dollar could strengthen further. On Tuesday, the tugrik continued to weaken against the US dollar, reaching 3426, which is the lowest level in about 13 months.

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By reducing taxes, the competitiveness of domestic enterprises will improve

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Economic Law Committee of the Mongolian Bar Association and the Ulaanbaatar Chamber of Commerce jointly organized the "Tax Reform - Private Sector Participation" discussion. During this discussion, representatives from the sector highlighted the need to reduce tax rates, eliminate duplications, and redefine some terminologies. It was also noted that the timing for tax reporting and payment should be coordinated. Regarding this, the Executive Director of the Ulaanbaatar Chamber of Commerce, B. Khash-Erdene, stated, "During this discussion, we conducted research and developed proposals regarding the issues faced by enterprises. Many participants highlighted the significant duplication in activities related to tax organizations and inspectors. It is also common to levy the same type of tax on multiple enterprises. Furthermore, due to the incorrect definition of some terms, tax organizations and inspectors provide inconsistent interpretations, causing great confusion among citizens. In other words, this indicates the lack of coherence in tax laws. Therefore, tax reforms need to be straightforward, clear, organized, and free from duplications. Tax laws should be regulated to ensure equal treatment of all citizens and enterprises subject to tax. Furthermore, attention should be given to developing the economy through the private sector. Additionally, we proposed to reduce the tax rate. Authorities always claim that taxes are low. Although this may seem so compared to other countries, there are significant additional operational costs. Overall, by reducing taxes, the competitiveness of domestic enterprises will improve." This discussion aims to improve the tax environment in Mongolia by consolidating the views of private sector participants on the implementation of the tax package law and submitting them to relevant government agencies to ensure economic development. It also aims to expand the activities and scope of the private sector.

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Diplomacy

The President of Mongolia Embarks on a State Visit to the Republic of Turkey After 20 Years

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, departed from his home country today to make a state visit to the Republic of Turkey from January 15-19, 2025, at the invitation of the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This visit is particularly significant as it coincides with the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries and is the first state visit by a Mongolian head of state to Turkey in 20 years. The relationship between Mongolia and Turkey dates back to the era of the Xiongnu Empire in the 3rd century BCE, which was established on the territory of present-day Mongolia and has evolved over thousands of years. The two countries established diplomatic relations on June 24, 1969. Turkey has had an embassy in Ulaanbaatar since 1996, while Mongolia opened its embassy in Ankara in 1997 and established a Consulate General in Istanbul in 2013. Today, the two countries maintain "Comprehensive Partnership" relations. Former President N. Bagabandi visited Turkey in 1998 and 2004, and former Speaker of the State Great Khural Z. Enkhbold visited in 2013, former Prime Minister M. Enkhbold in 2006, and former Foreign Minister Ts. Gombosuren in 1992. From the Turkish side, President S. Demirel visited Mongolia in 1995, A. N. Sezer in 2002, Speaker of the Grand National Assembly M. A. Sahin in 2010, J. Cicek in 2014, Prime Minister R. T. Erdogan in 2005 and 2013, Deputy Prime Minister Hakan Cavusoglu in 2018, and Foreign Minister M. Cavusoglu in 2015. Therefore, the current visit by the Mongolian President is only the second state-level visit by a president to Turkey. Moreover, since 1992, Mongolian students have been studying in Turkey under scholarships from the Turkish government, starting with about 30 students and increasing to 50 following a 2005 visit by Turkey's Prime Minister. Efforts are underway to increase this number to 100. During this state visit, agreements will be signed for cooperation in education, youth, and health. Since 2012, Turkish Airlines, Turkey's national airline, has been operating direct flights between Ulaanbaatar and Istanbul, enhancing economic, business, tourism, and people-to-people relations between the two countries. Furthermore, in 2014, a visa-free travel agreement for up to 30 days was established between the citizens of both countries, boosting the number of travelers and further developing the tourism sector. By 2013, Mongolia and Turkey aimed to achieve bilateral trade of 100 million USD, a goal that was reached in 2022, with trade totaling 110 million USD. During this state visit, the presidents of the two countries will hold bilateral meetings and official talks and provide information to the media representatives. Throughout the visit, the parties plan to sign over 10 documents, including intergovernmental agreements on "Cooperation in Education," "Cooperation in Youth and Sports," "Cooperation in Health and Medical Sciences," as well as agreements in other areas like the environment, mining, roads, transport, infrastructure, forestry, and legal affairs. It is noteworthy that during his visit to Mongolia in 2013, Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan inaugurated Ankara Street in Ulaanbaatar. A budget of 700,000 USD was allocated for the street's renovation in 2010. Additionally, the Turkish government provided Mongolia with 28 million USD in grants from 2002 to 2017. Thus, this state visit by Mongolia's head of state is taking place amid rapidly expanding multifaceted cooperation between the two nations.

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TODAY: President U.Khurelsukh to Depart on a State Visit to Turkey

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Overview of today's events: The President of Mongolia, U.Khurelsukh, will depart for the Republic of Turkey to make a state visit from January 15-19 at the invitation of the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM: An international theoretical and practical conference on "Improving the Legal Environment for the Execution of Civil Court Judgments" will be held in the "Great Lord Chinggis Khan" hall at the government palace. Phone: 9111-8608, 8805-3401 11:00 AM: A press conference for the movie "Lady", inspired by the song "Lady" by the band "Khurd", will be held in the "Ulaanbaatar" hall of the Corporate hotel. Phone: 96696674 4:00 PM: Training is being conducted for chefs in rural areas in connection with the increase in the cost of raw materials for school meals in general education schools and dormitories. Phone: 94996949, 99169068 - Military registration is ongoing in the capital from January 6-22. - Materials for citizens who have purchased an apartment for the first time and students studying in domestic and foreign universities wishing to receive tuition fee concessions are being accepted at the General Taxation Department starting January 1. - Official number orders will start being accepted from January 15. - An exhibition of new and selected works is on display at the "Blue Moon" gallery from January 7-20. In the regions: - The 7th Mongolian Taekwondo Festival "Let's Love and Protect Our Gobi Bear" is being held in 7 categories in Khutul city of Saikhan soum, Selenge aimag from January 13-17. Abroad: - An exhibition of Mongolian script and language will be organized from January 15 to February 25 in Taiwan, Seoul, South Korea, and Tokyo, Japan.

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State Visit of President Khurelsukh to Turkey Begins

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

President of Mongolia Ukhnaa Khurelsukh has arrived in Ankara for a state visit to the Republic of Turkey at the invitation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. President Khurelsukh, along with his spouse L. Bolortsetseg and accompanying delegation, was welcomed at Ankara's "Esenboga" International Airport by Ali Yerlikaya, Minister of the Interior of the Republic of Turkey, and G. Munkhbayar, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to the Republic of Turkey. This visit is part of the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and marks the first visit by a Mongolian head of state to Turkey in 21 years. During the state visit, the presidents of the two nations will hold a private meeting and official talks and will provide information to representatives of the media. The visit will see the signing of over 10 intergovernmental agreements on cooperation in various fields, including "Cooperation in the Education Sector," "Cooperation in the Youth and Sports Sector," cooperation in healthcare and medical sciences, and cooperation in the fields of environmental protection, mining, transportation, infrastructure, forestry, and legal affairs. Mongolia and the Republic of Turkey established diplomatic relations on June 24, 1969. They opened embassies in Ulaanbaatar in 1996 and in Ankara in 1997, respectively. The two countries have a comprehensive partnership. Previously, Mongolian President Natsagiin Bagabandi visited Turkey in 1998 and 2004, while Turkish Presidents Suleyman Demirel and Ahmet Necdet Sezer visited Mongolia in 1995 and 2002, respectively.

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Temporary Closure of Nine Mongolia-China Border Checkpoints on January 29-31

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The National Committee for Port Revival has announced that nine border checkpoints between Mongolia and China will be temporarily closed on January 29, 30, and 31. As a result, the public, businesses, and individuals are advised to plan their travel schedules accordingly. The border checkpoints that will be temporarily closed due to the Chinese New Year celebrations on January 29, 30, and 31 are: - Zamiin-Uud - Gashuunsukhait - Shiveekhuren - Khangi - Khavirga - Bichigt - Burgastai - Sumber - Bayankhoshuu 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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Mongolia and China Border Crossings Temporarily Closed from the 29th to 31st of This Month

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The National Committee for Border Revival has announced that nine road crossings between Mongolia and China will temporarily close on the 29th, 30th, and 31st of this month. Citizens, businesses, and the public are advised to plan their travel schedule accordingly during these days. These closures coincide with the Spring Festival in China, taking place on January 29th, 30th, and 31st. The specific border crossings that will temporarily close include Zamyn-Uud, Gashuun Sukhait, Shivee Khuren, Khangi, Khavirga, Bichigt, Burgastai, Sumber, and Bayankhoshuu.

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Socio-economic Indicators of the Republic of Turkey During President Khurelsukh's State Visit

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The State Visit of the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, to the Republic of Turkey begins today. This visit is part of the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries and marks the first visit of a Mongolian head of state to Turkey in 20 years. Here is some information about Turkey. The Republic of Turkey is situated at the crossroads of Asia and Europe and spans an area of 783,562 km². It is bordered by the Black Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, the Aegean Sea, and the Sea of Marmara. Turkey shares land borders with eight countries: Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, and Syria. As of 2024, the country's population is 85.3 million. The Turkish ethnic majority comprises 70-75% of the population, Kurds make up 18%, and other ethnic groups constitute 7-12%. Approximately 99.8% of the population is Muslim (mostly Sunni), and the remaining 0.2% are Christians. The country is administratively divided into 81 provinces across seven geographical regions. From 1299 to 1923, the Ottoman Empire existed for 624 years in the region known as Anatolia or Asia Minor. After World War I, the empire collapsed, leading to the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey on October 29, 1923, with a parliamentary system of government. The founding father of the Republic is Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the leader of the War of Independence and the first President. Atatürk introduced a new constitution and enacted laws based on Western and European standards, including the separation of religion and state, the abolition of traditional female veils, and the replacement of the Arabic script with Latin letters. Turkey is the only Muslim-majority country with a secular state. The current Constitution was adopted in November 1982. On August 10, 2014, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was elected the 12th President of Turkey in the first-ever direct presidential election in the country's political history. Erdoğan was reelected as the first President under the new "Presidential System" adopted in a constitutional amendment effective from April 16, 2017. He won the 2018 presidential election with 52.59% of the vote and was reelected on May 28, 2023, with 52.18% of the vote. Turkey's legislative body, the Grand National Assembly, has 600 members elected for five-year terms through a proportional representation system. There are over 150 registered political parties, with around 10 major ones having significant influence. The most recent parliamentary election was in 2023, with the Justice and Development Party-led coalition winning a majority. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan leads the ruling party, which has won six consecutive elections since 2002, maintaining power for 22 years. The main opposition, the Republican People's Party (CHP), holds 135 seats. Numan Kurtulmuş of the ruling party has chaired the Grand National Assembly since 2023. The next parliamentary elections are scheduled for 2028. Since 1980, Turkey has consistently pursued free-market economic policies. It now ranks 17th globally and 6th in Europe in economic development. Turkey's GDP was $819.9 billion in 2021, $907.1 billion in 2022, and $1.1 trillion in 2023. As of the third quarter of 2024, GDP reached $952.147 billion. Per capita GDP was $9,664 in 2021, $10,622 in 2022, and $12,849 in 2023, with expectations of reaching $15,000 by the end of 2024, according to statistics offices. The Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK) reported inflation rates of 36.08% in 2021, 64.27% in 2022, and 64.77% in 2023. Bazaar Times projects inflation rates of 41.5% in 2024, 17.5% in 2025, and 9.7% in 2026. Turkey has a thriving automotive, machinery, electronics, textiles, food, oil refining, petrochemical, iron, steel, construction, and tourism industries. In 2024, the country produced over 1.3 million cars, placing it in the top 10 globally for car production. According to TUIK, by the end of 2024, Turkey is expected to host 61 million tourists, bringing in $60 billion in tourism revenue. Turkish Airlines, the country's leading airline, had 446 passenger planes and 23 cargo planes as of December 2024. The company is a leader in Europe, operating flights to 330 destinations in over 120 countries. In 2024, the airline transported 72.2 million passengers. The industrial sector accounts for 27.1% of Turkey's GDP, agriculture for 16.7%, and services for 56.2%. Agriculture employs 24.7% of the workforce and is a global leader in nut, cherry, apricot, fig, and pomegranate production. Turkey ranks in the top 6 for watermelon, cucumber, tomato, olive, onion, sugar beet, tobacco, tea, and apple yields, and in the top 10 for wheat, barley, rye, plum, lemon, orange, and cotton cultivation. Meat, milk, wool, and egg production make up one-third of agricultural output. Turkey imports about 90% of its oil and natural gas needs but also exports through pipelines traversing its territory. Notable pipelines include the 1,876 km Kirkuk-Ceyhan oil pipeline from Iraq, the 1,776 km Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline, and the 560 km Samsun-Ceyhan oil pipeline. Natural gas pipelines include the 1,491 km Iran-Turkey pipeline and the Shah Deniz pipeline from Azerbaijan to Turkey. Recently, Turkey completed major projects like Istanbul's third airport (costing $22.1 billion), a third bridge over the Bosporus (costing $3 billion), and a 13.6 km rail tunnel under the Bosporus (at $4.5 billion). Since 2013, Turkey has been engaged in constructing the Akkuyu nuclear power plant in collaboration with Russia, costing $22 billion. Turkey's GDP grew by an average of 6.8% annually from 2002 to 2010. However, the global economic crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, regional conflicts, and the 2023 earthquake limited growth to 5.1% in 2023. Economic growth forecasts for Turkey are 3.5% in 2024, 4.0% in 2025, and 4.5% in 2026. State employees' average monthly salary in Turkey is between 40,000 and 45,000 Turkish Lira (approximately $1,200), while private sector workers earn about 20,000 to 30,000 Lira monthly (around $850). Turkey joined NATO in 1952. With a military force of about 800,000 personnel, Turkey is the second-largest in NATO after the United States. Its defense sector has seen tremendous growth, with $6 billion in arms sales revenue in 2024. Turkey produces various military equipment, including satellites, fifth-generation fighter jets, helicopters, tanks, armored vehicles, and air defense systems domestically. Currently, 80% of defense production is local, exporting different weapons, equipment, unmanned aerial vehicles, and warships to over 100 countries, including Pakistan and Malaysia.

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Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve Received

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry J. Enkhbayar received the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to Mongolia, Mr. Atul Malhari Gotsurve, and the Second Secretary of the Embassy, Sanjeev Kumar. At the beginning of the meeting, Minister J. Enkhbayar noted that this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Republic of India. He expressed gratitude for India's recognition of Mongolia's independence as the first non-socialist country to do so. He also acknowledged India’s significant support when Mongolia joined the United Nations in 1961. During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Mongolia in 2015, the project to "Build an Oil Refinery" was supported, bringing the strategic partnership between the two countries to a new level. The Minister also expressed gratitude to India for being among the first to donate vaccines during the global COVID-19 pandemic. In recent years, trade and economic relations between the two countries have intensified. Mongolia imports various medicines, pharmaceutical raw materials, and animal vaccines from India, while India has shown interest in Mongolia’s mining raw materials, wool, and cashmere. Additionally, in Mongolia’s concept of regional development, the Central region is designated as a sub-region for food, agriculture, and light industry development. The Minister stated readiness to collaborate to intensify cooperation in these sectors. Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve remarked on the delayed implementation of the “Mongolia-India Dairy Program” planned for 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the need to renew the plan. He also highlighted the potential for cooperation in exchanging experiences and preparing vaccines and biopreparations against animal and livestock infectious diseases in the food, agriculture, and light industry sectors. Minister J. Enkhbayar mentioned that the Biocombinate, which produces animal-derived medicines and vaccines against infectious diseases, needs to be updated. He asked to convey Mongolia’s desire to collaborate in veterinary and plant protection fields within India’s agricultural sector to the relevant state bodies. Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve emphasized the importance of the cooperation and support being developed with India. He conveyed willingness to actively cooperate to support Mongolia's agricultural and economic objectives.

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Embassy in Prague Warns of Organized Crime Involving Money Laundering

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Embassy of Mongolia in Prague, Czech Republic, has issued a warning to Mongolian citizens residing in the country to protect their personal information and take precautions against becoming victims of organized crime involving money laundering and online fraud. Specifically, the Czech Republic Police have warned that recently, many foreign residents, particularly young people, have become victims of organized crime schemes involving money laundering. Criminal groups are exploiting foreign residents who have bank accounts in Czech banks by collecting personal information through advertisements on social media to facilitate money laundering activities. These schemes often use the Telegram application, where offers and surveys such as "Do you have a bank account?" and "Do you want to make a large amount of money?" are targeted at foreigners. Responding to any of the numerous advertisements written in Czech on the Telegram app could lead to the exposure of personal information, making bank accounts vulnerable for use in money laundering crimes, and individuals could potentially be accused of participating in such crimes unknowingly. Therefore, caution is advised. In light of this, the Embassy advises everyone to be wary of fake websites, protect their personal information, and take preventive measures against online fraud and criminal activities.

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Infrastructure

C. Tuvaan: If the Dornogovi Oil Refinery Becomes Operational, It Will Supply 55% of the Domestic Market with Euro-5 Compliant Fuel

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

We discussed the progress of the oil refinery being built in Dornogovi province with the Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, C. Tuvaan. Our country started constructing the oil refinery in Altanshiree soum, Dornogovi aimag using a $1.2 billion loan from the Government of India since 2018. As of today, the work progress is at 20%, yet our country has started repaying the principal loan. Furthermore, the timeline for commissioning has been extended by 38 months, and the Parliament is debating increasing the loan by $500 million. As a result, Mongolians are set to build the oil refinery on a $1.7 billion loan over eight years. We discussed with him issues such as why the initial feasibility study (FS) changed and why the investment is increasing. The feasibility study for the oil refinery being built in Altanshiree soum, Dornogovi aimag has been modified, and the investment increased, leading to an additional $500 million loan from the Export-Import Bank of India. However, only 20% of the work has been completed. What is the reason for the increased investment? For what work will the additional $500 million be used? In 2017, the Government of India made a decision to provide Mongolia with a $1 billion loan. The then-government of our country decided to build an oil refinery with this money and developed an FS. They prepared an FS to build the oil refinery for $1.2 billion and laid the foundation. I consider this decision to be very correct. By the end of 2024, Mongolia will have consumed a total of 2.5 million tons of refined petroleum products. 96% of this was imported from a single country, namely Russia, and it involved $1.9 billion worth of consumption. The principle is to source any product from as many sources as possible to ensure safety. Therefore, we must have a refinery domestically to secure a stable source. It will also help retain foreign currency within the country. So it is beneficial for the foreign trade balance. Expelling around $2 billion overseas affects our economy negatively. Therefore, aiming to build this refinery, keeping the currency domestically, and covering 55% of our market is justified. The FS has an arrangement to be updated every five years. Accordingly, in September, during the Mineral Resources Sector Conference, an amendment was made to the FS of the oil refinery being constructed in Altanshiree soum. There were several unavoidable reasons for this update. The foundation of this plant was laid and tenders were announced just as we were confronted with COVID-19. Nothing progressed during the two years of COVID. After COVID, even though tenders were announced, no organizations participated, causing significant delay. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the prices of sophisticated equipment worldwide have increased. Consequently, it became impossible to construct the plant with the previously planned $1.2 billion. Moreover, on the Mongolian side, there was a proposal to increase the aviation fuel by 40,000 tons and high-octane automotive gasoline by 60,000 tons in the FS. As the quantities increased, costs have risen from the equipment to be installed and storage tanks to be built. There are also other issues. Thus, it was decided to take an additional $500 million loan, totaling $1.7 billion to complete the construction. This includes consulting services, third-party inspection costs, and all this payment amounts to this sum. What is the current actual condition of the construction work? What works have been completed for it to be at 20%? Initially, the work was organized into four packages known as EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction). After this, the financing that was one lump sum was divided into four, planning to carry out all works concurrently. EPC-1 involves non-engineering simple construction works, EPC-2 includes non-patented construction work vacuum distillation, saturated gas emission, and accompanying oils facilities, EPC-3 is to build the thermal power plant needed for this project, and EPC-4 involves the work on patent-covered equipment. The EPC-1 construction is 100% complete. EPC-2 is at 20%, while EPC-3 is at 13%, and EPC-4 is about to start. The current President U. Khurelsukh laid the foundation stone when he served as Prime Minister. At that time, it was said that this plant would be commissioned in June 2024. But now it has been postponed by another 38 months. Is there any guarantee not to repeat the errors in the next 38 months? It's a project that heavily depends on external factors. As it is a concessional loan from the Government of India, Indian companies are operating. External conditions necessarily include COVID. During this time, workers couldn’t come. Moreover, companies didn't apply when tenders were announced locally. Since it's a large project, it requires considerable effort. From the moment the loan agreement is ratified by the Parliament's autumn session, the timeline to commission, operate, and start counting the 36-38 months begins. Therefore, unless we make prompt decisions and secure financing, delays might occur again. Some MPs criticized, "Why were worker residences built first? Why run a pipeline to Dornod?" Could you invest in necessary infrastructure? All four packages have separate planning. Tenders are being announced according to the planned schedule. Civil-purpose non-technological buildings, residential housing for workers, offices, and warehouses necessary for the plant are all going at the same pace. Disregarding any delays, these works follow the schedule. The crude oil supply field for this refinery is in Matad soum, Dornod aimag. It will be from PetroChina Dachin Tamsag’s 19th and 21st fields. Crude oil is transported via pipelines, not by vehicles or rail. Thus, we plan to bring crude oil by pipeline. The tender was announced in 2020, and China’s Norinco company won, executing the work with a total of $380 million financing. As of today, work completion stands at 82%. The transport pipeline must be ready when commissioning the plant. The pipeline is expected to be completed early. We are dependent on fuel from Russia. The people have suffered in this regard. Can it be commissioned within the next 38 months? When will it break even? We have left behind most of the major obstacles. Therefore, within the last graphic timeline, all work will be handled by squeezing it well within those 38 months. An accelerating working group, led by me, has been launched. From the Parliament, the Standing Committee on Industrialization has also formed a working group. This acceleration work proceeds at the level of the working group. Also, there are companies that provide and charge for external performance monitoring. Thus, this refinery will be commissioned on time. This refinery will cover 55% of the domestic market once commissioned. Thus, it will stop around $1 billion outflow. The refinery's annual sales will be around 4.5 trillion. It was calculated to break even in 7.5 years. We will supply our domestic market with high-quality refined petroleum products from domestic sources. The diesel fuel produced will be of higher quality than what we currently use, equivalent to Euro 5 standards. Aviation fuel will also be produced. From whichever angle you look, this is a highly significant project necessary for Mongolians.

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"Ulaanbaatar Railway" JSC Sets New Record by Transporting 33.4 Million Tons of Cargo in 2024

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The "Ulaanbaatar Railway" JSC, which plays a vital role in our country's social and economic development, transported 33.4 million tons of cargo, surpassing its previous record by 1.1 million tons. When breaking down these freight transport metrics by type, it exported 11.6 million tons of cargo, achieving 104.3% of the plan; imported 3.8 million tons, achieving 104.5% of the plan; transported 12.7 million tons domestically, achieving 102.2% of the plan; and transited 5.2 million tons, achieving 104% of the plan. Of the export cargo, 11.4 million tons were transported to China, and 2.9 million tons of imported cargo were transported from Russia. Source: "Ulaanbaatar Railway" JSC Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Websites) must mention their original source (ikon.mn) when fully or partially using our information in any form.

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The Construction of Kharkhorum City Requires 26.4 Billion Dollars

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: news.mn

Based on the decree of the President of Mongolia, the government has set the goal of establishing a new Kharkhorum city in the Orkhon Valley and has begun work on this task. A bill supporting the development and construction of Kharkhorum city has been submitted to the State Great Khural and is currently being discussed. Building a city requires not only planning but also substantial investment of money and time. Given that it takes seven years for the country to build a 220 km road linking Darkhan to Ulaanbaatar, the notion that constructing a new city for 500,000 people might take 500 years is not without basis. Nevertheless, the goal has been set to establish a new city to alleviate the growing population expansion. Preliminary feasibility studies estimate that constructing Kharkhorum city with a capacity for 500,000 residents will require 26.4 billion U.S. dollars. Therefore, the government plans to cover 70% of the required funding through private sector investment, with the remaining 30% being financed by the state and local budgets. Essentially, the state aims to address the infrastructure. Currently, land covering 189,363.19 hectares, which includes the territories of Oginuur, Khashaat, and Kharkhorin soums in Arkhangai and Uvurkhangai aimags, has been taken under special state protection for constructing the city. The Orkhon Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Specifically, the valley, which is registered under UNESCO's World Heritage and Mongolia's specific protection status, is home to historical and archeological sites like Erdene Zuu Monastery, Puntsagdarjaalin Monastery of the Western Shankh, Tovkhon Monastery, and the ruins of the Western Monastery of Shankh. Due to the risk of damage, destruction, or theft of these invaluable monuments during city construction, land adjacent to these historical sites, covering 189,363.19 hectares, has been taken under special state protection. In drafting the urban plan for new Kharkhorum city, the intention is for it to be a center for administration, culture, tourism, healthcare services, international relations, and high-tech production for Mongolia, with a particular focus on developing tourism. Approximately 40,000 tourists visit annually to see the historical heritage sites in the Orkhon Valley. It is anticipated that the number of tourists will increase by designing the city anew and restoring the historical sites. In supporting the development of Kharkhorum city, the government has planned to collaborate with the following nations: The Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat, N. Uchralt, stated, "We have expressed our willingness to collaborate with Turkey on a project to restore archaeological findings in the Orkhon Valley. During the Prime Minister's visit to the United Arab Emirates, a proposal to collaborate on energy and engineering infrastructure for Kharkhorum city was put forward. We are working with Australia on projects for water pipelines, green spaces, and renewable energy. We are collaborating on a housing project with Bulgaria. With China, we will implement joint projects for greenery and renewable energy. With Russia, collaboration will involve building materials production and infrastructure projects. With South Korea, through the Koica international agency, we aim to introduce the historical and archaeological findings of new Kharkhorum to the public. The establishment of Kharkhorum city will be a major project for attracting international investment,” explained N. Uchralt.

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Possible Electricity Outage Locations in Ulaanbaatar Today

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Due to a power capacity shortfall, there may be electricity restrictions today, Wednesday, January 15, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM in certain locations. We are providing this information. To ensure the continuous and reliable operation of the power system, citizens are urged by UBEDN JSC to lower their heating mode and turn off any electrical appliances that are not needed. Warning to Media: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must always cite us (ikon.mn) as the source when using our information in any form, either fully or partially.

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Will Darkhan-Uul Become the Next Ulaanbaatar?

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

In the last three years, 7,423 people have moved to Darkhan-Uul province, making it the leading province in terms of migration within the nation. Following are Orkhon (7,036), Tuv (5,436), and Selenge (4,585) provinces. The number of officially registered residents in Darkhan-Uul province is more than 110,000, and when including university students and temporary residents, it exceeds 130,000. After the introduction of mortgages with an interest rate of three percent for local areas, the demand for housing in Darkhan-Uul province has increased and prices have skyrocketed. By 2024, the price per square meter of an apartment has risen by 7% compared to the same time last year, reaching 3.5 million MNT. In 2014, the average price per square meter was 1.2-1.4 million MNT, and in 2022 it was between 1.8-2.8 million MNT for old and new apartments, respectively, showing a significant increase. In 2024, 584 units of housing in seven locations were put into use in Darkhan-Uul province, while work is ongoing to build housing for 2,116 households in 24 locations with 9, 12, and 16 floors. Last September, the government decided to relocate the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry along with its affiliated agencies to Darkhan-Uul province. Additionally, there are plans to centralize agricultural and technical schools in this region and establish a student campus. At the same time, major companies like "Mobicom Corporation" and "Nomin Holding" are expanding their products and services in this region. There are also reports that "Oyu Tolgoi LLC" has begun offering attractive conditions and opportunities for employees to settle in Darkhan. These latest developments related to Darkhan-Uul province highlight the intensifying migration towards this region. On one hand, this is a result of the "New Revival Policy" implemented by the government, and on the other hand, it reflects how the pollution and congestion in Ulaanbaatar are forcing people to change their living environment. One of the main goals of the "New Revival Policy" is the "Revival of the Countryside," which aims to balance the development of urban and rural areas and thus increase migration from the capital to local areas. To support this policy, the government has lowered mortgage loan interest rates to three percent, offered tax incentives, and created economic stimuli such as doubling the salaries and bonuses of government employees. Provincial leaders are competing with each other to offer attractive promises and have started implementing various programs and measures aimed at encouraging migration to rural areas. Not all provinces have experienced the same level of progress despite these efforts. Only Darkhan-Uul, Orkhon, Selenge, and Tuv provinces continue to see an uninterrupted increase in migrants, which is closely related to their geographical location, job opportunities, education, health, and the accessibility of basic social services. Given this, the number of migrants to this province is expected to continue growing, and its population will steadily increase. But whether Darkhan-Uul can maintain its advantages remains uncertain. Will it avoid becoming like Ulaanbaatar, with pollution, traffic congestion, disorderly planning, and overconcentration? Implementing the "New Revival Policy" and developing provincial centers into independent cities with national and local status puts Darkhan-Uul at the core. Therefore, the government will intensify efforts to attract people to this region in the coming years. This will help Ulaanbaatar residents escape the pollution and congestion they face daily. Additionally, through the "Open Darkhan" program initiated by the local administration, policies to boost population growth and promote housing are being implemented, which will contribute to this effort. Darkhan aims to house 80% of its residents in apartments by 2030, eliminate ger districts by 2035, and increase its population to 300,000. To achieve this, large-scale projects like "Youth District I, II" to provide housing for 10,000 families and 32,000 households are underway. These efforts will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the population growth and migration in this region, leading to increased concentration and certain challenges. Residents are already reporting increased air pollution, traffic congestion, and reduced job availability. What will be the future course of action? To avoid developing Darkhan-Uul in the image of Ulaanbaatar, special attention must be paid to planning and organization from now on. Proper zoning for roads and infrastructure, calculating the load resulting from population growth and concentration, and carefully selecting locations for constructing buildings and housing will initiate this work. If housing projects continue to be built in an unplanned manner, leading to congestion like the capital, it will inevitably become a concrete jungle. Despite numerous urban planning policies and documents in Ulaanbaatar, implementation and organized development have been lacking. However, Darkhan has opportunities to avoid repeating these mistakes and prevent potential future risks. Urban planners, engineers, and economists offer various suggestions and positions. Some recommend "expanding the residential area outwards in a sparse initial plan," while others argue "since Darkhan is not as densely concentrated as Ulaanbaatar, it is appropriate to develop the residential area towards the center rather than haphazardly expanding it." Additionally, if "housing policy is the main focus, then the engineering infrastructure should be systematically resolved and planned around industrial zones and sub-centers." Regardless of the merits of these suggestions, it is crucial that land speculation does not flourish in Darkhan-Uul as it did in Ulaanbaatar, and that excessive construction is avoided. Planning-related documents and concepts must be strictly followed and implemented, and oversight and accountability must be improved. Darkhan-Uul province, with its good road accessibility and location in an infrastructure node, besides agriculture and animal husbandry, also offers broad opportunities for the development of manufacturing, trade, transport, and tourism. The ability to create a major urban area with national status in this advantageous region largely depends on the policies and activities of the government and local administration. Some economists have proposed that by developing Darkhan-Uul, Orkhon, Dundgovi, and Umnugovi central and border provinces with economic stimuli, it is possible to attract 700,000-800,000 people to these regions and avoid increasing the population of the capital from its current level. Currently, the government is promising a bright future and financial opportunities, encouraging citizens to move to the countryside, while local leaders promote their plans to improve housing access as their key agenda. In essence, the primary goal and philosophy of the "Revival of the Countryside" is not merely to relocate urban citizens to rural areas, but to create favorable living conditions in rural areas, thereby increasing migration. The government of L. Oyun-Erdene is focusing too much on the form of this program and not enough on its substance and internal content, which raises concerns that this may lead Darkhan-Uul to become the next Ulaanbaatar. This situation serves as a reminder and warning of potential challenges ahead. If this negative "prediction" comes true, many people will have their right to live in a healthy and safe environment violated, living in stress just like the residents of the capital.

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Zavkhan: The Uliastai Thermal Power Plant Project is 41% Complete

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The construction project of a thermal power plant with a capacity of 30 Gcal/h in Uliastai, Zavkhan aimag, is currently 41% complete. The project team presented the implementation report of the environmental management plan for the 30 Gcal/h thermal power plant construction project to the aimag's Environmental Department. The main contractor "MEZ" LLC began work in April 2023, and the project is set to be completed by August 31, 2026, according to the Zavkhan aimag's Environmental Department. In Zavkhan aimag, 62 projects with a total budget of 252.6 billion MNT from the state budget are being implemented in 2024. Of these, 15 projects span multiple years, including the project to start construction of a 30 Gcal/h thermal power plant in Uliastai. It is planned to build an 8.4 km thermal pipeline and 11 heat distribution centers with a soft loan of 13.9 million USD from South Korea. The main contractor is South Korea's "Byuksan Engineering" LLC, and "MEZ" LLC is the subcontractor responsible for the construction works. Last year, the foundations of the main boiler building were fully completed, and equipment assembly was carried out. For example, in mechanical assembly, frameworks for two 10 Gcal/h boilers and one 5 Gcal boiler have been erected, and work on heating surfaces and metal structures has been done. Additionally, the work on the screen pipes, drums, water heaters, air heaters, the installation of the intermediate circuit, and the installation of the fuel transmission system in the basement floor of the building have been completed, as reported by the Planning and Investment Department of Zavkhan aimag's government office. Reports on the implementation of the environmental management plan for the 30 Gcal/h thermal power plant project in the city of Uliastai are being presented.

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Society

D. Sünjid: The Labor Rights and Safety of Employees at Tavantolgoi Fuel's Western Center are Being Violated

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The sub-discussion on "Smoke and Health" is taking place today. The discussion is chaired by Member of Parliament and Chairman of the Human Rights Subcommittee S. Erdenebold. During this event, Human Rights Commission Chairman D. Sünjid stated, "We conducted inspections at both centers of Tavantolgoi Fuel LLC. In particular, the labor rights and safety of internal employees working at the western center located in Songino Khairkhan district are not being ensured. Therefore, we have sent a demand to improve this and ensure labor safety. We have repeatedly conducted inspections and are checking what improvements are being made and what progress has been achieved. The one in Nalaikh has relatively less fine dust."

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Protesters to Declare Hunger Strike

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: news.mn

The "Resign the Government" protest organized by the Freedom Coalition Party continues for the fifth day. Organizers have stated that the protest will continue until January 22. Meanwhile, five members of the Freedom Coalition Party, including E. Odbayar, announced that they are preparing to declare a hunger strike in the main square demanding the resignation of the government. Advice for conducting a protest or gathering: - Do not succumb to provocations or incitements from others - Be cautious of slipping and falling - Avoid getting into crowded areas where there is pushing and shoving - Do not use force in any situation - Do not consume alcoholic beverages - Keep away from railings, grills, and any sharp-edged objects as warned by the police department.

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Environment

Only factual and research-based information will be discussed in the air pollution hearing

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: news.mn

On November 27, 2024, citizen Munkhishig Batbaatar initiated a petition titled "Let's hold an air pollution hearing, monitor, evaluate, and improve budget expenditures" on the public petition and complaint system petition.parliament.mn. By obtaining over 70,000 signatures, various arrangements were made to conduct a general oversight hearing. Today marks the first part of the three sub-discussions aimed at the general oversight hearing. The discussion is chaired by Member of Parliament S. Erdenebold. According to Article 29, Section 29.2.4 of the Law on Parliamentary Inspection of Mongolia, a working group established by the Standing Committee on Environment, Food, and Agriculture of the State Great Khural (Parliament) organized a general hearing on air pollution issues. An official protocol-based discussion on "Air Pollution and Public Health (Right to live in a healthy and safe environment)" is about to begin. MP J. Chinchuren, head of the parliamentary working group for organizing the hearing, will open today's discussion. J. Chinchuren, MP and head of the air pollution hearing working group, greeted participants: "In the framework of organizing a general oversight hearing on air pollution issues, welcome to everyone attending today on the topic of air pollution and public health, especially focusing on ensuring the right to live in a healthy and safe environment." Since the number of signatures reached the legal threshold, the Parliament decided to organize a general oversight hearing on air pollution, which was supported by the majority of members during the Environmental, Food, and Agriculture Standing Committee meeting on December 19, 2024. Following this, a 22-member working group was created with MP J. Chinchuren as its leader and hearing chairman to ensure the preparation and organization of the hearing. Due to the limited opportunity to inform the public in just two days of the general hearing, sub-discussions will be held to incorporate public and academic perspectives. The first discussion focuses on air pollution and health. The second discussion will take place next Wednesday, focusing on "standards control," including issues related to fuels, stoves, and associated technologies. The third discussion, scheduled for January 29, will cover the legal environment, implementation of resolutions, expenditures, outcomes, and monitoring. Today's sub-discussion is chaired by MP S. Erdenebold, head of the Human Rights Subcommittee. During this discussion, we will present much information based on proof and research. The participants in the discussion include 22 MPs: - J. Bat-Erdene - B. Bat-Erdene - P. Batchimeg - G. Ganbaatar - M. Gankhulug - S. Zamira - S. Lundeg - M. Mandhai - L. Munkhbayasgalan - Z. Mendsaikhan - B. Naidalaa - A. Undraa - B. Uyanga - J. Chinchuren - J. Zoljargal - O. Saranchuluun - A. Ganbaatar - Kh. Baasanjargal - B. Bayarbaatar - Ts. Baatarkhuu - S. Erdenebold - D. Tsogtbaatar Today's discussion also includes policymakers and decision-makers from relevant government organizations and 44 researchers. Registration of citizens was open last week, with 43 citizens expressing interest in participating, and 38 confirming their ability to attend. In accordance with Article 15 of the Law on Procedures, to ensure accessibility for people with speech and hearing impairments, the general hearing is also being broadcast with sign language interpretation on public television. The Standing Committee’s resolution has scheduled the general hearing for February 3-4, 2025. Furthermore, based on Article 120, Section 120.3 of the Parliamentary Procedures Law, a working group led by MP J. Chinchuren was established to organize the hearing.

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Inspection of Stoves and Heating Safety in Ger District Households

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

In an effort to reduce air pollution in Ulaanbaatar, inspections of the safety of stoves, fireplaces, carbon monoxide detectors, and heating devices in ger district households and businesses will be conducted. Alongside these inspections, advice and recommendations will be provided, and data will be gathered citywide. Specifically, over 9,000 staff and officials from the central and district administrations will conduct these inspections. In connection with this work, a joint meeting of the Emergency Commission's Rapid Response Headquarters of the city and districts was organized. During this meeting, discussions were held regarding the organization of the inspections and data-gathering activities. The Emergency Commission provided relevant instructions and directives.

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By 2040, Traffic and Air Pollution in Ulaanbaatar to be Reduced by 40% and 68% Respectively

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The Standing Committee on State Structure of the Parliament discussed whether to discuss the draft resolution of the Parliament on approving the "General Development Plan of the Capital Ulaanbaatar City until 2040". The concept of the resolution was introduced by the Minister of Construction and Urban Development, J. Batsuuri. The plan aims to develop Ulaanbaatar into a livable, people-centered smart city, structured with three main clauses and four sub-clauses. It is planned to reduce traffic congestion by 40% and air pollution by 68% by 2040. The committee decided to establish a working group, proposing that members elected from the capital and professional city planners be included in the working group. Additionally, Member of Parliament G. Luuvsanjamts, being a professional, suggested leading the working group. Members asked questions and received answers related to the introduction. Member of Parliament U. Shijir stated that the implementation of the 2002 general plan was reported to be at 29%. The reason was said to be the excessive exercise of authority by the then land administration office and the chief architect of the capital. He inquired whether accountability was sought from the head of the land administration office and the chief architect of Ulaanbaatar at that time. Did Ulaanbaatar file a complaint? Today, there is no school with a full sports field left in Ulaanbaatar. All have become buildings, sold. Two buildings have been constructed up to the entrance of the 84th school. Ulaanbaatar has been turned into an oversized village. The Governor of the Capital, Kh. Nyambaatar, said that he was not sure if previous leaders had approached legal institutions. He mentioned filing a complaint with legal organizations concerning complaints related to Celmeg, who served as the head of the capital's land administration and chief architect. He noted that a criminal investigation has been initiated. An assessment of the previous general plan's implementation showed a result of 29.6%. The failure to implement the general plan was attributed to the inability to define the boundaries of the settlement expansion zone and the lack of accessibility to the road network. It was also concluded that officials had excessively exercised their power in allocating land. Since 1984, no thermal power plant has been built in Ulaanbaatar, and it has been 41 years.

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AQI: Tolgoit, 1st District area has air pollution

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The air quality information of the capital city indicates that there is air pollution around Tolgoit, 1st District, and Mongol gazar, while other areas are reported to have low pollution and normal air quality. Source: agaar.mn

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Distributing 32,000 Stoves is More About Reducing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning than Pollution

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Environment, Food and Agriculture has established a working group responsible for preparing and organizing a general oversight hearing on air pollution and smoke issues. Today, this working group is organizing a discussion in the "Great Chinggis Khaan Hall" of the State Palace under the theme "Air Pollution and Public Health" (the right to live and the right to live in a healthy environment). Participant G. Ganbat noted, "It is clearly written that 56% of air pollution originates from ger districts. So why are we planning to distribute 32,000 coal stoves there? When there are 50,000 1kW electric heaters available for heating homes, why is this not being considered? Don't falsely claim that electricity can't reach there. It's only during peak hours that it can't reach. During off-peak nighttime, there's excess electricity available. Why can't we heat the ger districts with electricity?" he asked. In response, Deputy Mayor A. Amartuvshin, responsible for social sector, green development, and air pollution of the capital, replied, "The capital has announced a tender to acquire 32,000 stoves. The main reason for this initiative is not solely to reduce air pollution but to decrease the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning incidents of residents burning coal. The policy is to establish a green zone, followed by a yellow zone. Households in the yellow zone will use stoves. With the commissioning of the Booroljuut Power Plant, the issue of power cuts for this winter has been resolved. Additionally, work is being carried out to increase the voltage for 46,000 households."

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Innovation

The E-Mongolia System Received 7 Million Visits from Abroad in a Month

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In Ulaanbaatar, the Standing Committee on Innovation and Digital Policy of the State Great Khural discussed the use of the E-Mongolia system for state electronic services accessible to Mongolian citizens abroad and the opportunity for them to participate in elections electronically. They listened to presentations by the Chairperson of the General Election Commission, and the directors of the National Data Center and the E-Mongolia Academy. Chairperson of the General Election Commission, P. Delgernaran, explained how votes from citizens working and living abroad have been collected and what measures are planned for future implementation. For the 2024 elections, 75% of the 187,000 eligible voters abroad cast their votes. With the digitalization of voter registration, voters have begun to come in person on the voting day. Following him, the director of the E-Mongolia Academy, B. Myagmaranaran, presented options and solutions to make the E-Mongolia state electronic services accessible to citizens working and living abroad. He noted that currently, 87 organizations offer 1,263 services to citizens. Nearly 7 million visits have been received from abroad in one month. The system offers three types of access. For citizens abroad, they use internet banking login and their own registered phone operator's number. Among these, accessing with a digital signature is considered the most suitable option. Additionally, Director of the National Data Center, M. Battulga, provided information related to the discussed issue. He stated that as of today, Mongolian citizens residing abroad can access 816 types of state services electronically. In 2018, registration started using a one-time code sent to the mobile phone number registered on the citizen's ID. In 2020, bank access and digital signatures were newly introduced. Then, in 2024, infrastructure clusters were reorganized and system architecture was revamped. This year, the web-based system was developed into an application-based system, featuring multiple solutions to identify citizens residing abroad as an independent system.

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Registration for "IT EXPERT-Future" Intensive 4-Month Programs Is Ongoing!

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Registration for the last 5 students of the iCode Academy's intensive 4-month program, aimed at young people aspiring to become internationally recognized skilled developers, is ongoing. Advantages of the program: - 80% Project-Based Program: The most effective solution for students. From the beginning of classes, students learn programming languages and immediately start working on small projects, allowing each student to apply and reinforce their acquired knowledge in practice. - Special Canadian Program: Internationally recognized certification. iCode Academy has introduced a special Canadian program into its Mobile App Developer class. Students will graduate with both an iCode Academy certificate and a Canadian certificate. - Two Teachers Per Class: Program that allows teachers to engage with each student. Each class will be taught by a Master and Assistant teacher, ensuring that no student is left behind. The Master Teacher has over 15 years of experience in the IT field both domestically and internationally. - Real Practice: Each student will complete 2-3 projects. Students will start from basic knowledge and by graduation will complete 2-3 fully functioning websites if in the Web track, or 2 mobile applications if in the App Developer track. - Comfortable learning environment and flexible payment conditions. We continuously work to provide the most comfortable environment for our students, with clean and modern classrooms, the latest iMac computers, independent study rooms, and relaxation areas. Students can join the highest quality training at reasonable fees, with payments split into 2-3 installments. Types of programs: - 4-month intensive Front End Web Developer program starts on 1/27 (Schedule: Mon, Wed, Fri - 15:00-18:00) - 4-month intensive Mobile App Developer program starts on 1/28 (Schedule: Tue, Thu - 18:30-21:30, Sat - 9:30-12:30) How to register for the program? For more information about our programs and to register, please contact us through the following channels: - Website: https://icode.mn/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iCode.Academy.mn - Phone: 9400-9229, 7575-7515 - Address: MN Tower 1011, in front of the Tengis Cinema Registration for the last 5 students of the iCode Academy's intensive 4-month program, aimed at young people aspiring to become internationally recognized skilled developers, is ongoing.

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"Great Wall" Scholarship Program Announced

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: gogo.mn

A "Great Wall" scholarship program has been announced, jointly organized by UNESCO and the Government of China. It aims to develop international exchange in education, culture, communication, science, and technology, while promoting relations and cooperation between peoples. This program offers opportunities for scholars to study for one year and for students to pursue master's and doctoral degrees at Chinese universities. The UNESCO National Commission of Mongolia will select and nominate two students from Mongolia to join this scholarship program. Interested applicants who meet the following criteria are invited to submit their applications and other required documents to the commission at natcom@unesco.mn by 12:00 PM on February 5, 2025. STUDY DIRECTION Please use the following link to select your field of study and university:
https://www.campuschina.org/universities/index.html REQUIREMENTS - For one-year research students: should have a high school diploma and be under 45 years old.

For master's level students: should have a bachelor's degree and be under 35 years old.
For doctoral level students: should have a master's degree and be under 40 years old.
Language requirements: Applicants must submit documents according to the language requirements of their chosen university.
Must be mentally and physically healthy.
Must meet additional requirements set by the selected university.
Having a letter of acceptance for the 2025 academic year from the host university will be an advantage. REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Create an online application at https://www.campuschina.org/.
Copy of a valid passport.
Notarized and certified translation of the high school diploma, bachelor's, and master's degree certificates into English or Chinese.
Transcripts of records with notarized and certified translation into English or Chinese.
Certificate from the currently attending school, with notarized and certified translation into English or Chinese.
Recommendation letters from two individuals, in English.
Study plan or research proposal in English, with a minimum of 500 words.
Health report certified with a doctor's stamp and signature.
IELTS or TOEFL score certificate, if applying for an English-language program, valid for up to 2 years.
HSK 3 or higher score certificate, if applying for a Chinese-language program.
Certificate of no criminal record, in English.
Certificate of admission from the chosen university and invitation for research from a professor.
For applicants in music or fine arts, attach a CD with a portfolio (for fine arts: 2 black and white drawings, 2 color/oil/watercolor paintings, etc.).
For applicants under 18, include documents of the guardian residing in China. For more detailed information, click HERE. This program serves to promote international cooperation and exchange in education, culture, science, and technology sectors, enhancing relations and collaboration between nations. It is jointly organized by UNESCO and the Government of China to provide opportunities for scholars and students to study at Chinese universities for a period of one year, at master's and doctoral levels. The UNESCO National Commission of Mongolia will select and nominate two students from Mongolia for this scholarship. Applicants who meet the following criteria are invited to submit their applications and required documents to the commission at natcom@unesco.mn by 12:00 PM on February 5, 2025.

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Health

B. Ganzorig: Coal Usage Affects Not Only Lung Cancer But Also Liver Cancer

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The working group for organizing the "Smoke Hearing" decided to hold a sub-discussion every Wednesday. Today, the discussion is being held under the topic "Air Pollution and Health." During this time, B. Ganzorig, a thoracic surgery doctor at the National Cancer Center of Mongolia, presented a lecture called "Air Pollution as a Cancer Causer." He stated that while Mongolia ranks 52nd in the world for overall cancer incidence, it ranks first in cancer mortality rates. It has been established that air pollution causes lung cancer. In terms of lung cancer incidence, Mongolia ranks 64th globally, but ranks 87th in mortality. Furthermore, a collaborative international study found that in addition to liver B and C viral infections and alcohol as risk factors, a substance called dimethyl sulfoxide, which is produced from coal combustion, affects the development of liver cancer in Mongolians. A study on the molecular characteristics of 379 liver cancer cells collected from Mongolia and Western European countries revealed a new mutation caused by dimethyl sulfoxide from coal combustion in 179 samples submitted from Mongolia. The study's findings have been published in a research article.

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Air Pollution Affects Health, According to Discussion

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Air pollution affects 18% of pneumonia cases, 13.3% of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and 31% of cerebrovascular diseases. In preparation for the general oversight hearing on air pollution and smoke, the working committee decided to hold three discussions. The first discussion on "Air Pollution-Population Health (Living in a Healthy and Safe Environment)" is being held today in the "Great Khan Chinggis Room" of the State Palace. Participants include members of the State Great Khural such as Kh. Baasanjargal, P. Batchimeg, B. Bayarbaatar, B. Bat-Erdene, and others, as well as government officials, academics, citizens, and representatives from non-governmental organizations, totaling over 80 people. The discussion was opened by J. Chingburenthen, Head of the Working Committee and member of the State Great Khural, who stated that the electronic public petition regarding the oversight hearing on smoke reached the required number under the relevant law, prompting the Mongolian State Great Khural to consider it. The Environment, Food and Agriculture Standing Committee supported holding a hearing during its meeting. The Working Committee with 22 members was established, with J. Chingburenthen himself appointed as the Chairman and Hearing Leader. Furthermore, it was decided at a meeting of the Environment, Food and Agricultural Standing Committee to hold the general oversight hearing on "Policies and Implementation for Reducing Smoke within Air Pollution Reduction." The session was chaired by S. Erdenebold, a member of the State Great Khural and Chair of the Human Rights Subcommittee, who introduced the procedure and program for holding discussions under the State Great Khural's rules. The purpose of the discussion is to gather information, ensure the public's right to know, listen to opinions, and reach a common understanding at the decision-making level, aiming to address detected discrepancies in government activities and guide the government and related agencies. At the beginning, D. Ochirbat, Secretary of Health, presented "Current Policies and Implementation for Protecting Public Health from Air Pollution and Future Plans.” He highlighted that air pollution is responsible for 18% of pneumonia, 13.3% of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 31% of cerebrovascular, and 31.4% of ischemic heart diseases. Short-term measures include improving the indoor environments of schools, kindergartens, and health institutions by installing air purifiers, filters, and new ventilation systems, focusing on vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly. This requires intersectoral collaboration for health improvements, raising public awareness, and engaging citizens to improve air quality. Measures include promoting mask usage, handwashing, and providing sanitizers, establishing greenery in Ger Districts, eliminating latrines, and organizing waste disposal, highlighting the roles of the ministries. E. Battulga, Secretary of Environment and Climate Change, presented on: "Air Pollution in Urban Areas of Mongolia: Sources, Inventories, and Future Policies." Comparing air quality measurements, PM10, PM2.5, and SO2 have decreased, while NO2 increased. Nationwide, air quality is monitored continuously at 21 points with six indicators in Ulaanbaatar and Orkhon aimag. He also discussed legal reforms, technological transitions, and funding sources for future pollution reduction efforts. Continuing, D. Sünjid, Chair of the Human Rights National Commission, presented "Air Pollution: Guaranteeing the Right to Live in a Safe Environment," stressing the need for a National Index of Human Rights. Countries' sustainable policies on environmental issues are ranked in an Environmental Index by Yale and Columbia Universities, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum. Mongolia scored 29.6, ranking 155th globally out of 180 and 19th in Asia-Pacific out of 25. Low scorers prioritize economic growth over sustainability or face civil unrest. The commission's recommendations to parliament and the government include addressing overlapping laws and standards with human rights criteria, evaluating the "National Program for Reducing Air and Environmental Pollution," developing policies against air, water, and soil pollution, establishing structures for national-level accountability, promoting partnerships and innovation, supporting private sectors with tax credits, and ensuring transparency in indoor air quality assessments and public access to health guidelines. The discussion continued with presentations by medical doctor A. Enkhjargal, associate professor and consultant physician B. Jargalsaikhan, and professor and advisor physician B. Ganzorig. Note: Media (TV, Radio, Social, Web) must credit the source (ikon.mn) when using this information in any form.

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Discussion on Whether Smoke Violates the Right to Life

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Gogo team is working to deliver information directly. An Operational Group was established by the Standing Committee on Environment, Food and Agriculture of the State Great Hural to prepare and organize a general oversight hearing on the issues of air pollution and smoke. Today, this working group is organizing a discussion at the “Grand Chinggis Khaan” hall in the State Palace under the theme “Air Pollution and Public Health” (The right to life, the right to live in a healthy environment). The aim of the discussion is to listen to and gather information.

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News Guide: Discussion on Air Pollution and Health to be Held

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: news.mn

The News Agency presents a summary of events happening on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. 09:00 AM: An international theoretical and practical conference on "Improving the Legal Environment of Civil Court Decision Enforcement" will be held at the State Palace in the Great Chinggis Khaan Hall. 10:00 AM: The Standing Committee on Economic Affairs of the State Great Khural will hold a closed meeting to prepare a report on the hearings related to the appointment of candidates for the positions of the Chairperson and non-full-time members of the Financial Regulatory Commission, the Chairperson and members of the Supervisory Board of the Financial Regulatory Commission, non-full-time members of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Mongolia, the Chairperson and members of the Supervisory Board of the Bank of Mongolia, and members of the National Statistical Committee. 12:00 PM: The Standing Committee on Security and Foreign Policy of the State Great Khural will hold a closed meeting. 01:00 PM: The Standing Committee on State Structure of the State Great Khural will hold a meeting. 02:00 PM: A discussion on Air Pollution: Public Health / The Right to Live in a Safe and Healthy Environment / will be held. 02:00 PM: The Standing Committee on Legal Affairs will hold a meeting. 04:00 PM: The Standing Committee on Industrialization will hold a meeting.

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"Smoke and Health" Sub-discussion to be Held Today

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: isee.mn

The working group responsible for preparing and organizing the public hearing on air pollution and smoke issues met and announced that they have set the date for a sub-discussion to be held before the main hearing. One of these is the "Smoke and Health" sub-discussion, which will be chaired by S. Erdenebold, a member of parliament and chair of the Human Rights Subcommittee. Citizens can submit their requests and participate in the discussion, and officials explained that concrete research and information will be presented. Moreover, summaries made by Mongolian scientists will be delivered. Information regarding whether air pollution is primarily affecting fetal development, causing premature births and underdevelopment, and whether it creates conditions that lead to cancer in the long term will be discussed.

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Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The World Bank demanded 1.7 million USD from the government of Mongolia, which had been transferred and paid to the bank by the Republic of Korea, according to a report by the Anti-Corruption Agency on work done last year. Specifically, the "E-Health" project, funded by the World Bank, was rated unsatisfactory by an audit, leading the bank to stop the project and demand the funds from Mongolia. Investigators from the Anti-Corruption Agency cooperated with foreign institutions to determine that "Taihan Cable & Solution" from South Korea won the bid by submitting falsified documents and mismanaged the project's funds, causing significant damage. They succeeded in having the company reimburse the 1.7 million USD to Mongolia and halted the payment of loan interest from the state budget. In 2015, the Mongolian government negotiated with the World Bank to implement the "E-Health" project among healthcare institutions, developing a platform for information exchange and opening an international tender. The project was funded with 19.5 million USD from the World Bank and lasted six years with no results. In March 2023, the government issued a resolution regarding the financing measures for the "E-Health Project," prompting the Anti-Corruption Agency to launch a detailed investigation. Former Minister of Health S. Enkhbold, his relative B. Esbold, and the owner of "Axis Systems" LLC, J. Mungunsukh, are being investigated. S. Enkhbold has been charged under Article 22.1-3 of the Criminal Code for abusing his power as a high-ranking official. "Axis Systems" LLC, where J. Mungunsukh and Ya. Enkhchuluun are investors, played a key role in the project aimed at enhancing healthcare services by improving data integration and utilizing digital solutions. During the investigation, Ya. Enkhchuluun left the country while under investigation for acquiring "Erdenet Medipass" hospital for free during his association with "Erdenet Factory." The investigation department of the Anti-Corruption Agency has sought assistance from Japanese law enforcement regarding Ya. Enkhchuluun, who resides in Japan, and is awaiting a response. If Japan responds favorably, it may accelerate the resolution of the case involving former Minister of Health S. Enkhbold and others, ensuring that those responsible repay the interest on the 1.7 million USD from taxpayer funds, thereby reducing the state's losses.

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Cancer Targeted Therapy to Align with International Standards

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: news.mn

In Mongolia, cancer ranks among the top 5 causes of death and is considered a major issue in the healthcare sector. To contribute to solving this problem, "AsiaPharma" Group has become the official distributor in Mongolia for biosimilar drugs from "Celltrion, Inc.", a South Korean leader in biotechnology with 22 years of experience. They are introducing Vegzelma (Bevacizumab) and Herzuma (Trastuzumab) into cancer targeted therapy. Biosimilar monoclonal antibody drugs are designed to be equivalent to original cancer targeted therapy drugs, representing an advanced technological product. These biosimilars are also more affordable, reducing the financial burden on patients and their families, and allowing for optimal allocation of funding from health insurance and the healthcare sector's budget in Mongolia. Currently, 67 biosimilar drugs are fully integrated into treatments worldwide and are being used daily. As part of these activities, "AsiaPharma" Group successfully organized a conference titled "Introducing New Innovations into Cancer Targeted Therapy" with oncologists and presented the international research results, interactions, usage methods, and insights into cancer treatments of Vegzelma and Herzuma. By familiarizing doctors with the rapidly advancing trends and innovations in modern cancer treatment worldwide, Mongolia is taking a significant step towards aligning its cancer targeted therapy with international standards, thereby improving the quality, efficacy, and accessibility of treatment for cancer patients. Vegzelma and Herzuma, widely used biosimilar monoclonal antibody drugs for cancer targeted therapy, are recognized for their effectiveness and safety, comparable to the original products, in highly developed countries including the USA, EU member states, Japan, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. Notably, in Scandinavian countries such as Norway, Denmark, and Finland, biosimilars account for 88-96% of the infliximab market, indicating their rapidly increasing usage. Since its establishment in 2002, Celltrion, Inc. has quickly become a leading global manufacturer of biopharmaceuticals, operating supply networks across more than 90 countries outside the USA and Europe, with manufacturing facilities in 11 countries and sales centers in 17 countries. Currently, Celltrion, Inc. has three factories in South Korea, which were the first in Asia to receive cGMP certification from the US Food and Drug Administration. 27.6% of Celltrion, Inc.'s employees are research staff, and the company invests 15.7% of its total revenue in research and development.

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Health Insurance Premium Increases to 15,840 MNT per Month

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The rate of health insurance premiums has been revised and approved. Individuals who pay their premiums themselves, instead of through any organization, will pay a rate calculated at two percent of the minimum wage. Specifically, the minimum wage is being increased to 792,000 MNT as of April 1st. In connection with this, citizens are expected to pay their health insurance premium at a rate of 13,200 MNT until March 1st. However, starting April 1st, the monthly premium will increase to 15,840 MNT. Additionally, due to the changes in health insurance premium rates, the Ebarimt application and the Ebarimt.mn website are being updated. As a result, there may be temporary downtime, as informed by the General Department of Health Insurance. In the meantime, individuals can use the 'I-Mongolia' application to pay their premiums electronically.

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Cervical cancer can be completely cured

Published: 2025-01-15 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The National Cancer Center (NCC) designates January as Cervical Cancer Prevention Information Month, aiming to provide the public with advice and information about this disease. It is believed that if people have accurate information, participate in early detection screenings, and identify this cancer in a timely manner, it can be completely cured. Since cervical cancer is preventable through vaccination, it should not be a cause of death for women, according to doctors. Specifically, the main cause of cervical cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Out of the over 200 types of this virus, some present a high risk of causing cervical cancer. Therefore, the primary preventive measure is immunization against it, which is globally recognized. Our country is one of the 144 countries worldwide that have included the HPV vaccine in their national immunization program. As part of this, the vaccine to prevent cervical cancer is scheduled, and 11-year-old girls and boys are included. Additionally, in line with WHO's objectives, our country aims to involve 70% of women in early detection and fully treat 90% of them.

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Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Politics

The Government has established Regional Councils and ordered the organization of conferences within this quarter

Working Groups That Don't Work!

Economy

It's Important to Create a Fair Tax Environment for Everyone

The Reserve Requirement Ratios for Tugrik and Foreign Currency Will Be Increased by Two Units

Housing Prices Increase by 14.6% Compared to the Previous Year

"Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi" to Invest 600 Billion Tugriks in District Heating Fuel

Bank of Mongolia Signals Continued Tight Monetary Policy Despite Unchanged Interest Rate

By reducing taxes, the competitiveness of domestic enterprises will improve

Diplomacy

The President of Mongolia Embarks on a State Visit to the Republic of Turkey After 20 Years

TODAY: President U.Khurelsukh to Depart on a State Visit to Turkey

State Visit of President Khurelsukh to Turkey Begins

Temporary Closure of Nine Mongolia-China Border Checkpoints on January 29-31

Mongolia and China Border Crossings Temporarily Closed from the 29th to 31st of This Month

Socio-economic Indicators of the Republic of Turkey During President Khurelsukh's State Visit

Ambassador Atul Malhari Gotsurve Received

Embassy in Prague Warns of Organized Crime Involving Money Laundering

Infrastructure

C. Tuvaan: If the Dornogovi Oil Refinery Becomes Operational, It Will Supply 55% of the Domestic Market with Euro-5 Compliant Fuel

"Ulaanbaatar Railway" JSC Sets New Record by Transporting 33.4 Million Tons of Cargo in 2024

The Construction of Kharkhorum City Requires 26.4 Billion Dollars

Possible Electricity Outage Locations in Ulaanbaatar Today

Will Darkhan-Uul Become the Next Ulaanbaatar?

Zavkhan: The Uliastai Thermal Power Plant Project is 41% Complete

Society

D. Sünjid: The Labor Rights and Safety of Employees at Tavantolgoi Fuel's Western Center are Being Violated

Protesters to Declare Hunger Strike

Environment

Only factual and research-based information will be discussed in the air pollution hearing

Inspection of Stoves and Heating Safety in Ger District Households

By 2040, Traffic and Air Pollution in Ulaanbaatar to be Reduced by 40% and 68% Respectively

AQI: Tolgoit, 1st District area has air pollution

Distributing 32,000 Stoves is More About Reducing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning than Pollution

Innovation

The E-Mongolia System Received 7 Million Visits from Abroad in a Month

Registration for "IT EXPERT-Future" Intensive 4-Month Programs Is Ongoing!

"Great Wall" Scholarship Program Announced

Health

B. Ganzorig: Coal Usage Affects Not Only Lung Cancer But Also Liver Cancer

Air Pollution Affects Health, According to Discussion

Discussion on Whether Smoke Violates the Right to Life

News Guide: Discussion on Air Pollution and Health to be Held

"Smoke and Health" Sub-discussion to be Held Today

Former Minister of Health S. Enkhbold and Others Requested Assistance from Japan in Related Case

Cancer Targeted Therapy to Align with International Standards

Health Insurance Premium Increases to 15,840 MNT per Month

Cervical cancer can be completely cured

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