Mongolia News Summary for July 10, 2024

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

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene Introduces Ministers for the Coalition Government

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene is introducing the ministers who will work in his cabinet to the Governing Council of the Mongolian People's Party. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene has extended an offer to form a coalition government to the Democratic Party and the People's Party, which have seats in the State Great Khural (Parliament), and these parties have decided to collaborate. According to this collaboration, the Mongolian People's Party will have 12 ministerial positions, the Democratic Party 8, and the People's Party 2. There will be a total of 22 ministers working across 16 ministries.

Mongolian People's Party:

• Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan
• Minister of Road and Transport B. Delgersaikhan
• Minister of Tourism, Culture, Sports and Youth Ch. Nomin
• Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg
• Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan
• Minister of Energy B. Choijilsuren
• Minister of Defense S. Byambatsogt
• Minister of Family and Social Protection L. Enkh-Amgalan
• Head of the Government Cabinet Secretariat N. Uchral
• Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry J. Enkhbayar
• Minister of State and Chairman of the National Committee for Port Revival B. Tulga
• Minister of Health T. Munkhsaikhan

Democratic Party:

• First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development L. Gantomor
• Minister of State and Chairman of the National Evaluation Committee E. Odbayar
• Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Ts. Tuvaan
• Minister of Urban Development and Housing J. Batsuuri
• Minister of State and Chairman of the National Committee for the 20-minute City Project R. Erdeneburin
• Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs O. Altangerel
• Minister of Environment and Climate Change S. Odontuya
• Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Communications Ts. Baatarkhuu

People's Party:

• Deputy Prime Minister T. Dorjkhand (responsible for Procurement and Investment)
• The People's Party is nominating and introducing P. Naranbayr for the Ministry of Education

After receiving support from the Governing Council of the Mongolian People's Party, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene will consult with the President of Mongolia, U. Khurelsukh, and introduce the ministers to the State Great Khural. Following the introduction to the Parliament, the new ministers will take their oath and assume their full powers. It has been decided that instead of each minister reading the oath individually, it will be read collectively.

Translated from: https://itoim.mn/a/2024/07/09/government/xab

12 ministers from MPP, 8 from DP, and 2 from KhUN party to work in Coalition Government

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

The Prime Minister is presenting the structure of the Government and the names of ministers to work in the coalition Government to the Governing Council of the Mongolian People's Party (MPP).

The Prime Minister will work with 16 ministries and 22 ministers, with MPP taking 12, Democratic Party (DP) 8, and KhUN party two ministerial seats. Specifically,

FROM THE MONGOLIAN PEOPLE'S PARTY:

1. Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia S.Amarsaikhan
2. Minister of Road and Transport B.Delgersaikhan
3. Minister of Tourism, Culture, Sports and Youth Ch.Nomin
4. Minister of Foreign Affairs B.Battsetseg
5. Minister of Finance B.Javkhlan
6. Minister of Energy B.Choijilsuren
7. Minister of Defense S.Byambatsogт
8. Minister of Family and Social Protection L.Enkh-Amgalan
9. Head of the Cabinet Secretariat N.Uchral
10. Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry J.Enkhbayar
11. Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Committee for Port Revival B.Tulga
12. Minister of Health T.Munkhsaikhan

FROM THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY:

1. First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development L.Gantumir
2. Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Monitoring and Evaluation Committee E.Odbayar
3. Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Ts.Tuvaan
4. Minister of Urban Development and Housing J.Batsuur
5. Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Committee for the 20-minute City Project R.Erdeneburen
6. Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs O.Altangerel
7. Minister of Environment and Climate Change S.Odontuya
8. Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Communications Ts.Baatarkhuu

FROM THE KhUN PARTY:

1. Deputy Prime Minister T.Dorjkhand (responsible for procurement and investment)
2. Minister of Education P.Naranbayar

After this, the Prime Minister will consult and then present to the State Great Khural (Parliament), after which the ministers will take their oath.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/no1lm

Parliament: The structure and composition of the Government have been approved

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

The parliamentary session is continuing.

The parliamentary session has temporarily adjourned after moving the draft law on the structure and composition of the Government to its final discussion.

Now the Standing Committee on State Structure will convene.

In connection with the issue under discussion, members of the Democratic Party asked questions and made statements.

However, the Speaker of Parliament D. Amarbayasgalan and Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene are absent from the parliamentary session hall, and the session is being chaired by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Kh. Bulgantuyaa.

MP O. Amgalanbaatar: When your Prime Minister and party leader are bringing in the structure and composition of the Government, quite a few MPP members are commenting. It was the same at the Standing Committee. To advise you in a friendly manner, even a soum Citizens' Representative Khural doesn't do this. You bring in issues compressed like squeezed cheese.

Democratic Party faction leader O. Tsogtgerel: There are questions to ask the Prime Minister, but he is not in the hall. The session chair is also absent.

The parliamentary session is continuing.

The final discussion of the law on the structure and composition of the Government will be held during the parliamentary session, followed by the introduction of Government members.

Translated from: https://ikon.mn/n/36ts

MEET: The Newly Formed Government Members

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

The Parliament is discussing the draft law on the structure and composition of the Government. After this, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene will introduce his cabinet ministers to the Parliament. Once the Prime Minister introduces the composition of the Government, the ministers will take the oath.

The composition of the joint Government of the Mongolian People's Party (MPP), Democratic Party (DP), and Khun Party is being introduced. As seen from the list below, the Mongolian People's Party has received 12 ministerial positions in addition to the Prime Minister, the Democratic Party 8, and the Khun Party 2 ministerial seats.

Also, during the first reading of the draft law on the structure and composition of the Government, some members proposed to remove the word "Justice" from the name "Ministry of Justice, Law and Internal Affairs," and this proposal was supported.

According to the draft submitted by Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene, the Government will have 16 ministries and 22 ministers.

Prime Minister of Mongolia L. Oyun-Erdene

1. First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development L. Gantumur /DP/
2. Deputy Prime Minister (in charge of emergency situations) S. Amarsaikhan /MPP/
3. Deputy Prime Minister (in charge of competition) T. Dorjkhand /Khun/
4. Minister of Mongolia, Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat N. Uchral /MPP/
5. Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Committee for Monitoring and Evaluation E. Odbayar /DP/
6. Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Committee for 20-minute City R. Erdenebuuren /DP/
7. Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Committee for Port Revival B. Tulga /MPP/
8. Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg /MPP/
9. Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan /MPP/
10. Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs O. Altangerel /DP/
11. Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Ts. Tuvaan /DP/
12. Minister of Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth Ch. Nomin /MPP/
13. Minister of Defense S. Byambatsogt /MPP/
14. Minister of Environment and Climate Change S. Odontuya /DP/
15. Minister of Education P. Naranbayar /Khun/
16. Minister of Family, Labor and Social Protection L. Enkh-Amgalan /MPP/
17. Minister of Road and Transport B. Delgersaikhan /MPP/
18. Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing J. Batsuur /DP/
19. Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry J. Enkhbayar /MPP/
20. Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Communication Ts. Baatarkhuu /DP/
21. Minister of Energy B. Choijilsuren /MPP/
22. Minister of Health T. Munkhsaikhan /MPP/

Government Structure:

1. Ministry of Economy and Development;
2. Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
3. Ministry of Finance;
4. Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs;
5. Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources;
6. Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth;
7. Ministry of Defense;
8. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change;
9. Ministry of Education;
10. Ministry of Family and Human Development;
11. Ministry of Road and Transport Development;
12. Ministry of Urban Development, Construction and Housing;
13. Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry;
14. Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Communication;
15. Ministry of Energy;
16. Ministry of Health

Translated from: https://ikon.mn/n/36tt

Meet: Ministers of L. Oyun-Erdene's Government

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

The Governing Council of the Mongolian People's Party will meet at the Government Palace. At this meeting, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene will introduce the ministers of the coalition government.

Mongolian People's Party:

• Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia S. Amarsaikhan
• Minister of Road and Transport B. Delgersaikhan
• Minister of Tourism, Culture, Sports and Youth Ch. Nomin
• Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg
• Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan
• Minister of Energy B. Choijilsuren
• Minister of Defense S. Byambatsogt
• Minister of Family and Social Protection L. Enkh-Amgalan
• Head of the Government's Office N. Uchral
• Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry J. Enkhbayar
• Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Port Revival Committee B. Tulga
• Minister of Health T. Munkhsaikhan

Democratic Party:

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development L. Gantomor

• Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Monitoring and Evaluation Committee E. Odbayar
• Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Committee for the 20-minute City Project R. Erdeneburin
• Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Ts. Tuvaan
• Minister of Urban Development and Housing J. Batsuurj
• Minister of Justice and Home Affairs O. Altangerel
• Minister of Environment and Climate Change S. Odontuya
• Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Communications Ts. Baatarkhuu

People's Party:

Deputy Prime Minister T. Dorjkhand (in charge of procurement and investment)

• Minister of Education P. Naranbayar

Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2738152/

SESSION: The Democratic Party will lead the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

At the afternoon plenary session of the State Great Hural (Parliament), MP O. Nominchimeg introduced to the parliamentary session the issue of amending the draft resolution discussed at today's meeting of the Standing Committee on State Structure.

According to Article 27, Section 3 of the Law on Parliamentary Procedures, which states that the State Great Hural shall approve the procedure for members of the Government to take the oath, a draft resolution to amend the procedure for taking the oath of members of the Government of Mongolia, approved in 2020, was submitted.

The draft proposes to change the regulation so that "Members of the Government shall take the oath together, with the oldest member reading the oath and other members repeating it. However, if appointed as a replacement, they may read the oath individually."

When a vote was taken on whether to support this issue, the majority of the members present at the meeting supported it, and the draft resolution was approved.

The plenary session of the State Great Hural was then temporarily adjourned for the Council under the Chairman of the State Great Hural to convene.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/57yx8

A New Legal Framework for Developing Public-Private Partnerships Has Been Established

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

The government and private sector cooperate in many areas. Within this, the concept of public-private partnership is a well-established, carefully regulated tool used internationally to implement major infrastructure and public service projects.

For example, according to a World Bank study, in 2022, a total of $91.7 billion in private investment was attracted to implement 263 projects. In this sense, the Government of Mongolia has developed and the Parliament has approved the Law on Public-Private Partnership, which is in line with international standards and will be implemented from this year. The Ministry of Economy and Development is the central state administrative body responsible for implementing this law on partnerships, and we have completed all the preparatory work over the past year and have begun receiving and evaluating projects. The purpose of this law is to create a legal environment for implementing public-private partnership projects in the public infrastructure and public service sectors, supporting private sector participation and investment, enabling the public and private sectors to work together effectively in the long term based on optimal risk management under partnership agreements, and implementing sound financial and budgetary management.

As our state budget is limited, we have established a new legal environment to develop public-private partnerships to attract private investment and implement major infrastructure projects. Our ministry has been organizing training and information sessions on the new law in stages, ensuring coordination and organization between relevant agencies. By implementing partnership projects, we are working to deliver high-quality public infrastructure and public services to the general public with private sector participation. It's worth mentioning that under this law, the private sector also has the opportunity to initiate projects, which is regulated in detail in the law.

Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2737859/

Long-term Sustainable Investment Needed in Banking Sector

Published: Fri, 05 Jul 2024

This news article seems to be incomplete. It contains only a headline repeated twice, without any body text or additional content. There is not enough information to provide a meaningful translation or summary of the article's content.

Translated from: https://www.unuudur.mn/a/269684

Reminder of Traffic Restrictions

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

Their Majesties King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck of the Kingdom of Bhutan, along with their family, are on a state visit to Mongolia from July 8-15, 2024. In connection with the visit, there will be short-term traffic restrictions and regulations when the guests and delegates are traveling.

Therefore, the Traffic Police Department reminds citizens to be respectful to others, to follow traffic rules without getting irritated, and to participate in traffic in a cultured manner.

Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2737894/

List of Emergency Hospital Contact Numbers

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

On Naadam festival days, you can contact the following numbers if you need urgent medical assistance.

List of PHONE NUMBERS for health centers and necessary hospitals:

• Ministry of Health - 323002 (24 hours)
• First Central Hospital 99463372 Second Central Hospital - 99082426
• Third Central Hospital - 88095848
• National Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics - 70180136
• National Center for Cancer - 70162529
• National Center for Communicable Diseases - 450491
• National Center for Dermatology - 93086486
• National Center for Mental Health - 98983630
• National Center for Transfusiology - 70136504
• National Center for Zoonotic Diseases - 70282853
• Ulaanbaatar Health Department - 320981
• For the list of Family Health Center phone numbers, please visit www.ubhealth.mn. They will be open from 10 AM to 4 PM.
• Bayanzurkh District General Hospital - 11-454004 24 hours
• Songinokhairkhan District General Hospital - 11-631108
• Sukhbaatar District General Hospital - 11-350790
• Khan-Uul District General Hospital - 11-379258
• Chingeltei District General Hospital - 11-314587
• Ulaanbaatar Emergency Center 103 Children - 103 70110103, 24 hours
• Dental and Maxillofacial Center 325731 is open from 10 AM to 4 PM.

Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2737912/

CLARIFICATION: Implementing Afforestation Projects is Highly Important During Climate Change

Published: Fri, 05 Jul 2024

This news article appears to be incomplete. It contains only a headline and some metadata, but lacks the main body text of the article. Without more substantial content to translate, I cannot provide a full translation of the article.

Translated from: https://www.unuudur.mn/a/269683

Emphasized the importance of enriching the achievements of political visits with economic relations

Published: Thu, 16 May 2024

A scientific conference on "Mongolia-Germany relations, cooperation, current status and future prospects" is being held today at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Federal Republic of Germany.

The purpose of this conference is to evaluate the achievements of the two countries' peoples in the fields of politics, trade, economy, science, education, culture, environmental protection, and development cooperation, based on the historical traditions of Mongolia-Germany relations, as well as to determine the future prospects and trends of cooperation in the coming years.

B. Sanjaajav, Research Fellow at the Institute of International Studies of the Mongolian Academy of Sciences, said that this conference has become a regular event held every 5 and 10 years. He emphasized that it is important to enrich the achievements of political visits between the two countries, which have become regular within the framework of the third neighbor policy, with economic and trade relations. In particular, he stressed the need to focus on implementing the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Mining Sector, which was signed during the visit of Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel to Mongolia in 2011.

Dr. M. Müller, Executive Director of the German-Mongolian Business Association, said, "In addition to active political and diplomatic visits between the two countries, economic delegations are also coming to Mongolia. For example, last week a team of 16 people visited Mongolia to explore opportunities for cooperation in trade and economic sectors. Economic relations develop in two directions: investment and trade. If activities in the trade sector are successful, investment follows. Imports from Germany to Mongolia are at a good level. However, there is a need to increase the volume of exports from Mongolia to Germany and further to the European Union. We need to discuss not only mining and minerals but also what products from other sectors should be exported."

N. Ankhbayar, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, and Udo Weber, Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy, attended the opening of the scientific conference and delivered welcoming speeches. The conference is discussing a total of 8 main reports, with participants presenting their opinions and conclusions related to the reports.

Mongolia and the Federal Republic of Germany established diplomatic relations on January 31, 1974. This relationship has strengthened in many sectors of the two countries over the past 50 years and has reached the level of Strategic Partnership. Specifically, during the state visit of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Mongolia this year at the invitation of Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, the two sides elevated their relationship to the level of Strategic Partnership.

Translated from: https://www.montsame.mn/mn/read/344027

National Great Festival Program

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

On July 9, the "Deel-clad Mongolian Festival" will be organized in the central square, while on July 10, two-year-old horses will race at Khui Doloon Khudag.

We are presenting the program for the National Great Festival, celebrating the 2233rd anniversary of the First Mongolian State, the 818th anniversary of the Great Mongol Empire, the 113th anniversary of the restoration of national freedom and independence, and the 103rd anniversary of the People's Revolution.

The official holiday for the festival will continue from July 10 to 16.

Warning

Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) must always cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, in whole or in part!

Translated from: https://ikon.mn/n/36jp

Cooperation in Education, Animal Husbandry, and Culture Sectors

Published: Fri, 05 Jul 2024

The state visit of His Majesty the King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of the Kingdom of Bhutan, who arrived at the invitation of the President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, continues.

During the visit, the parties signed documents to develop cooperation in agriculture, animal husbandry, culture, education, health, and media sectors.

These include:

• "Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry of Mongolia and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock of the Kingdom of Bhutan on cooperation in highland animal husbandry and pasture development"

They will develop cooperation to improve livestock genetics, introduce advanced technologies in the sector, and increase livestock productivity through embryo exchange.

In this framework, they will work together to increase the genetic capacity of yak, horse, and sheep herds, develop livestock products, and increase economic opportunities by diversifying dairy products based on market demand. They will also exchange experiences in improving and restoring pastures to build pasture resources and ecosystems.

• "Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Education and Science of Mongolia and the Ministry of Education of the Kingdom of Bhutan on cooperation in the education sector"

They will develop bilateral cooperation, especially in the areas of traditional medicine, handicrafts, traditional culture and arts, with student exchanges.

They will organize international conferences and meetings in education and science.

• "Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Culture of Mongolia and the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Kingdom of Bhutan on cooperation in the cultural sector"

They laid the foundation for cooperation to expand and develop cultural relations, support the preservation and protection of cultural heritage, and promote museum training and cultural exchanges. They agreed to develop cooperation with the Culture and Language Agency under the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Kingdom of Bhutan in the fields of tradition, religious studies, and linguistics.

• "Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Health of Mongolia and the Ministry of Health of the Kingdom of Bhutan on cooperation in the traditional medicine sector"

They will exchange and train traditional medicine doctors and professionals, exchange knowledge and good practices on disease prevention and traditional medicine production.

• "Memorandum of Understanding between the Mongolian National Public Radio and Television (MNB) and the Bhutan Broadcasting Service Corporation (BBSC) on cooperation in television and radio broadcasting"

They will exchange content and best practices, co-create works, and share information in the information technology sector. The exchange of information aims to increase citizens' knowledge about the respective countries and educate them, thereby strengthening and developing relations not only between the two countries but also between the citizens.

Within the framework of His Majesty's first state visit, documents were signed to strengthen the legal basis of relations and cooperation, and they agreed to develop mutually beneficial sectors of common interest for both countries, such as agriculture, animal husbandry, traditional medicine, culture and customs, and national costume art.

Translated from: https://www.unuudur.mn/a/269682

PHOTO: The structure and composition of the Government introduced by the Prime Minister to be discussed at the State Great Hural session

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

At today's meeting of the State Structure Standing Committee of the State Great Hural, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene introduced draft laws and resolutions.

The structure and composition of the newly organized Government have been determined to work with the Prime Minister, 22 ministers, and 16 ministries.

The concept of the draft law includes the following structure and composition of the Government.

Government structure:

• Ministry of Economy and Development;
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
• Ministry of Finance;
• Ministry of Justice, Law and Internal Affairs;
• Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources;
• Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth;
• Ministry of Defense;
• Ministry of Environment and Climate Change;
• Ministry of Education;
• Ministry of Family and Human Development;
• Ministry of Road and Transport Development;
• Ministry of Urban Development, Construction and Housing;
• Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry;
• Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Communications;
• Ministry of Energy;
• Ministry of Health.

Government composition:

• Prime Minister of Mongolia
• First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development;
• Deputy Prime Minister (in charge of emergency situations);
• Deputy Prime Minister (in charge of competition issues);
• Minister of Mongolia, Chief of the Government Cabinet Secretariat;
• Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Committee for Monitoring and Evaluation;
• Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Committee for 20-minute city;
• Minister of Mongolia, Chairman of the National Committee for Port Revival;
• Minister of Foreign Affairs;
• Minister of Finance;
• Minister of Justice, Law and Internal Affairs;
• Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources;
• Minister of Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth;
• Minister of Defense;
• Minister of Environment and Climate Change;
• Minister of Education;
• Minister of Family and Human Development;
• Minister of Road and Transport Development;
• Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing;
• Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry;
• Minister of Digital Development, Innovation and Communications;
• Minister of Energy;
• Minister of Health.

During the meeting, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene explained that in restructuring the Government, they based it on the government structure of the past 30 years, determining the general trend to be similar to countries with parliamentary systems similar to ours, such as England, Germany, and Singapore.

He clarified that the Ministry of Social Protection and Labor has been redirected towards family and human development, focusing the basic concept on the comprehensive notion of human development.

He also stated that combining youth with culture, sports, and tourism is a common international practice, and they planned to establish the Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth, believing that when young people actively connect with the entertainment and creative industries, it fosters a sense of hope for the future and patriotism.

The Prime Minister explained that the mining sector should not be understood as just an excavation industry, but should move towards an advanced technology-based, industrialized direction, which is why the Ministry of Industry cannot be separated from mining.

He emphasized that the issues of law and internal affairs have been brought into the concept of "justice," stating that we should not only enforce the law but also establish justice in society, ensure equal application of the law, and consider human rights issues together.

The Ministry of Economic Development is a policy planning ministry, and in this context, the Academy of Sciences has been brought under the Ministry of Economic Development, he said.

In connection with the Prime Minister's presentation, members of the State Great Hural asked questions and made comments. The majority of the members participating in the meeting considered it appropriate to discuss the draft laws, according to the Press and Public Relations Department of the State Great Hural.

Translated from: https://ikon.mn/n/36tb

Speaker of Parliament's Promise

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

The second day of the Economic Forum was opened by the Speaker of Parliament D. Amarbayasgalan. He introduced the policies he will pursue in the economic environment over the next four years as the Speaker of Parliament.

Speaker of Parliament D. Amarbayasgalan said, "When passing laws and resolutions, the Parliament will always obtain and incorporate opinions from professional organizations in the relevant sector. It is important to listen to the voice of the sector. We will protect investors' property and reduce bureaucracy. We will fix ambiguous and unclear provisions in the laws. Decisions should not be made based on personal influence or discretion. We will focus on reducing the burden on the business environment and decreasing the number of state-owned enterprises. We will create a legal environment that supports the private sector. As the prices of flour and cement have been set by only a few companies, we have eliminated import tariffs on these products."

The second day of the Economic Forum was opened by the Speaker of Parliament D. Amarbayasgalan. He introduced the policies he will pursue in the economic environment over the next four years as the Speaker of Parliament.

Speaker of Parliament D. Amarbayasgalan said, "When passing laws and resolutions, the Parliament will always obtain and incorporate opinions from professional organizations in the relevant sector. It is important to listen to the voice of the sector. We will protect investors' property and reduce bureaucracy. We will fix ambiguous and unclear provisions in the laws. Decisions should not be made based on personal influence or discretion. We will focus on reducing the burden on the business environment and decreasing the number of state-owned enterprises. We will create a legal environment that supports the private sector. As the prices of flour and cement have been set by only a few companies, we have eliminated import tariffs on these products."

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/mwg05

S. Bayartsogt: I am confident that the coalition government will revive the economy

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

The National Wealth Fund was discussed at the final meeting of the Economic Forum.

S. Bayartsogt, First Deputy Chairman of the Democratic Party, participated in this meeting and expressed his position. He said, "I am participating in this meeting as an economist. Over the past 15 years, we have established many funds such as the Human Development Fund, Future Heritage Fund, and Stabilization Fund. When I was the Minister of Finance, I studied the good practices of Arab, Norwegian, and Singaporean funds. It's a good thing that the National Wealth Fund law has been passed.

According to this law, three different funds will be established. One is for current citizens, one is for future citizens, and one will finance mega projects. Each fund has a different purpose. The Bank of Mongolia will manage the Wealth Fund until 2030, after which a professional team with fund management experience will take over. The main organization to finance or generate income for these funds is 'Erdenes Mongol'. There was a decision to develop this company based on Singapore's TEMASEK model, but it hasn't been implemented. If this company's shares are openly traded domestically and internationally, its governance will naturally improve."

O. Batnairamda, former Deputy Minister of Mining and Heavy Industry, was a member of the team that drafted the National Wealth Fund law. He said that while passing this law was a good thing, the law is too brief, and it's risky that the government is authorized to approve regulations as stated in the law. This is because the parliament won't review the regulations approved by the government, which could pose a risk in properly distributing and spending the returns from mineral resources.

The sectoral meeting was led by A. Undral, CEO of Tengertelevision. She asked S. Bayartsogt about the Oyu Tolgoi agreement. In response, S. Bayartsogt said, "The Oyu Tolgoi agreement was signed 15 years ago. It has become very politicized, so people have different understandings. According to the Minerals Law, the state owns 34% of strategic deposits, so the government owns 34% of this company. This can be exchanged for a special royalty.

This way, we can receive dividends without waiting for Oyu Tolgoi LLC to become profitable. We have gone to arbitration twice due to tax disputes. This is because there is a misunderstanding between the government and Oyu Tolgoi. One side considers the tax to be stabilized, while the other considers the tax environment to be stabilized. By going to arbitration, we have sent the wrong signal to other investors. They will see it as the Mongolian government arguing with a major investor. Therefore, we need to resolve the tax dispute ourselves.

There are two main agreements for Oyu Tolgoi and 13 accompanying agreements. People think there's only one agreement. One agreement has been invalidated. Mongolia will receive 53% of the benefits from this project. Successive governments should confirm this arrangement and aim to increase it. The governments of U. Khurelsukh and L. Oyun-Erdene have worked very well in this direction and have zeroed out the loan. This will increase our profit by one billion US dollars. Our state has a very poor memory when it comes to Oyu Tolgoi. Regardless of who leads the government, new leaders should know very well what decisions previous authorities made and why. Instead, we have been negating previous governments until now. We should learn from the past and move forward. Oyu Tolgoi will operate for another 60-70 years. Therefore, both parties should negotiate and resolve the tax dispute themselves."

Then, Mr. S. Bayartsogt answered questions from journalists.

- A coalition government has been formed. What position will you hold? - I am unable to answer this question.

- Some voters are very disappointed with the formation of the coalition government. - Many people think that the opposition should fulfill its oversight role better. The Mongolian People's Party and the Democratic Party have a history of forming four joint, coalition governments before. After the 2008 election, although the Mongolian People's Party had a majority, there was a need to form a coalition government after five people lost their lives on July 1. Soon after, the global economic crisis began.

Although our economy went into negative growth, the coalition government brought economic growth to 17% after two years. I was working as the Minister of Finance at that time, and we signed the Oyu Tolgoi agreement. This agreement had failed twice before. After that, there was another coalition government in 2012. It was a time when the world's largest mining companies were opening branches here, and many foreigners were walking the streets of the capital.

As for why we cooperated this time, we need to look at the external conditions. Our northern neighbor is at war, our southern neighbor is in a trade war, and the Taiwan issue is tense. In such times, Mongolia, as a democratic country, needs to be politically and economically stable. Considering this, the Mongolian People's Party may have invited two parties with center-right ideologies. I can confidently tell foreign investors that Mongolia is on the right path.

I have great hopes for the new government. There are many pressing issues to resolve, such as energy reform. However, any reform depends 50% on its leader. When the Democratic Party worked in the government before, they made bold decisions that were beneficial for the country, even if they were detrimental to their reputation.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/9ny8g

L.Oyun-Erdene: Judges should stop sitting in the State Palace and behind rooms of members

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

Prime Minister of Mongolia L.Oyun-Erdene has submitted draft laws on the Structure of the Government and the Composition of the Government. This draft law is being discussed at the meeting of the Standing Committee on State Structure.

Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene is answering questions from members of the standing committee regarding the concept of the draft law.

T.Dorjkhand, Chairman of the People's Party, supports the policy of not increasing the number of ministries in the composition of the government and its inclusion in the draft law. He supports the principle that the civil service should be lean and competent in the future.

B.Batbaatar, Chairman of the Reform Party, stated that the Reform Party issued a resolution on June 19 that it will not work in the composition of the Government and will maintain the position of the opposition. The Democratic Party faction should renounce its status as the opposition and minority by collaborating with the Government. This is a political issue.

MP S.Zulpkhar said that it is important to establish a law on family. Having worked at the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection for four years, including the word "Labor" in the name is important for international relations and mutual understanding.

There is an International Labor Organization. He suggested that it would be appropriate to include the word "Labor" in the name for solving issues related to employment, such as tripartite agreements on labor and social partnership. The draft includes the name of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection as the Ministry of Family and Human Development.

Several members expressed their opinion that it would be appropriate to include the word "labor" in the name, as the draft includes the name of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection as the Ministry of Family and Human Development.

MP E.Bolormaa expressed gratitude for not expanding the structure of the Government. MP O.Nominchimeg suggested removing the word "justice" from the name of the Ministry of Justice and Law Enforcement in the draft law.

Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene said that the Government is submitting the draft law according to its own concept. It is within the authority of the members to make any changes. The Cabinet Secretariat and other professional organizations have worked on this. Regarding the naming, it might be possible to include the word "Labor", but it will make the name longer. The main content is that the ministry should not lose its ability to work comprehensively on functions such as human development, family, and social protection due to its name.

The Ministry of Justice and Law Enforcement can remain under its old name. What H.Temuujin and O.Nominchimeg are saying is not wrong. However, if we don't make the public understand exactly what the functions of the court and prosecutor are, there is a lot of confusion in between.

For example, when an issue related to the court is discussed in parliament, it always creates a sensation in society. I have come to sense this well. I have come to understand the method. Then there's a commotion, and during the commotion, members are lobbied. As a result, a few people say "The Anti-Corruption Court is wrong" and that issue is dropped and then forgotten. These kinds of issues happen a lot.

From Batdelger to many people within the court spread such confusion. Judges should stop sitting in the State Palace and behind rooms of members. The judicial branch should remain as the judicial branch. I am critical of the court. I have not met with any judge specifically since I was appointed as Prime Minister. This is a separate concept of power. That's why we thought it was appropriate to include the word "Justice" to preserve this ideology. The court should also have a palace of justice.

In addition, within 30 days after the formation of the Government, the Government's action plan must be developed. The plan will be developed following the common practices of countries with parliamentary governance and proportional election systems like Germany and New Zealand, with the collaborating Government. Once this agreement is made, we will work holding onto and taking responsibility for the issues included in that agreement. I believe it is important for parties to include their representatives in the agreement-making process, to take the issues seriously, and to solve the pressing issues of the country.

After the members received answers to their questions and expressed their opinions, the draft law on the Structure of the Government and the Composition of the Government and the draft laws submitted together were decided to be presented to the plenary session of the parliament with the support of the majority of the members present at the meeting.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/mw7w5

MP B. Batbaatar: There is no majority or minority, 118 members have become one group

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

During the plenary session of the State Great Khural (Parliament), MP B. Batbaatar criticized the rejection of proposals from independent members.

He said, "The Parliamentary Secretariat is ignoring our members' requests. Parliament consists of 126 members. Both the Constitution and the Parliamentary Law define parliament as 126 members. Yet they keep talking about majority and minority groups. Others are treated as if they're not parliamentary members, as if they're not part of the composition. Going forward, activities like subcommittees and Mongolian parliamentary groups shouldn't be conducted based on majority and minority.

Parliament has representatives from five parties and coalitions. Even at the recent State Structure Standing Committee meeting, the perspective was majority and minority. There's essentially no majority or minority anymore. It's becoming one large majority. Out of 126 members, 118 are collaborating as one group. So I want to alert the Parliamentary Secretariat. They should accept proposals from members of parties without groups. I tried to discuss this issue with you twice but couldn't enter your office. The State Special Protection officers treat us as if we need to hand over our phones and be searched."

Speaker of Parliament D. Amarbayasgalan instructed the Parliamentary Secretariat to thoroughly introduce the newly approved procedures, stating "Political parties with groups in parliament should approach issues through their groups, while those without groups should do so individually or by request. The Parliamentary Secretariat should pay special attention to delivering unified notices to MPs. On the other hand, I request members to be attentive and communicate through their assistants and advisors. We will fulfill MP B. Batbaatar's request."

MP B. Batbaatar is the chairman of the Civil Will Green Party and one of the four members representing the party in parliament.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/eledd

L.Erkhembayar: A person who understands livestock and rural life should be appointed as Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry

Published: Mon, 08 Jul 2024

An afternoon session of the Economic Forum held a meeting on the topic "New Cooperatives, Rural Development". During this time, L.Erkhembayar, head of the Mongolian Veterinarians, expressed his position.

He said, "The ice is melting between our sector and government agencies, and there is mutual understanding. A person who understands livestock and rural life should be appointed as Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry. Recent ministers were changed just as they were learning. The mindset of herders needs to change. Times have changed a lot, but herders say we've been herding like this for hundreds of years. When told to protect pastures, they ask what we're talking about. They don't know how to prepare seven bales of hay per sheep to survive the winter.

To increase meat exports, the government must first negotiate with China. They are very negligent in this work. Actually, our southern neighbor wants to buy, and they're forced to buy live animals from us. They said they would build a large leather and hide complex in Darkhan, but it's all mixed up.

The new cooperative movement is very good, but its beginning is wrong. Seven people from one family say they are one cooperative and take out a loan of 50 million tugriks. The state is giving loans with eyes closed. Out of the total 500 billion tugriks to be provided this year, 230 billion have been given. With such a great opportunity, cooperatives need to start projects like producing cosmetics from mare's milk and making probiotic milk. One member of the cooperative should be required to be a business person."

Participants in the meeting said that until now, there have been no financial products supporting herders in our country. Herder loans are provided by Khan Bank and state banks. However, this is a consumer loan. Along with cooperative loans, NGOs in this sector should be strengthened. It was also suggested that exemplary cooperatives should be introduced and promoted nationwide to support cooperatives.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/4dexv

Traffic Police: Traffic will be temporarily restricted from July 8-15 due to the visit

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

The King and Queen of Bhutan, His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Her Majesty Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck, along with their family, are making a state visit to Mongolia from July 8-15, 2024.

In connection with the visit, traffic will be temporarily restricted for short periods when the guests and delegates are traveling.

The Traffic Police Department urges citizens to be respectful of others, to follow traffic rules without frustration, and to participate in traffic in a cultured manner.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/w1ex5

No Need to Travel to District or Provincial Centers to Receive Government Services

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

"KHURDAN" (FAST) points have been established in all khoroos of the capital city and in rural areas to provide government services to citizens. Currently, there are 111 locations in the capital and 173 locations in rural areas providing services.

As a result, the hassle of building large facilities to provide government services, making citizens run from window to window, paying fees, and requiring multiple visits for signatures has been eliminated. Now, citizens can receive all necessary services from the nearest "KHURDAN" point without having to travel to provincial centers or districts.

In addition to providing government services, the service staff at "KHURDAN" points also give instructions and advice to citizens on how to use the E-Mongolia application. This has resulted in an increase of 600,000 users of the E-Mongolia application, according to a study.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/1ejww

SCHEDULE for markets, shopping centers, and chain stores operating during Naadam

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

According to law, there will be a national holiday from July 10-15 for the National Great Naadam Festival. In connection with this, the Office of the Mayor of Ulaanbaatar City has approved and issued a schedule for the operating hours of trade and service organizations during the holiday festivities, which we are sharing here.

The Office of the Mayor of Ulaanbaatar City has approved and issued a schedule for the operating hours of trade and service organizations during the Naadam festival holidays, which we are sharing here.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/xv9vv

Khan Bank Raises First Social Bond Financing in Mongolia

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

Khan Bank has successfully organized the issuance of Mongolia's first Social Bond in the international market through investment from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group. With the proceeds from this bond, Khan Bank aims to support programs such as health, education, food and agriculture, infrastructure, and affordable housing programs, as well as support the country's sustainable development policy. The bank also intends to expand its portfolio of social financing and specifically support job creation in micro, small, and medium enterprises, particularly those led by women.

The three-year, $130 million Social Bond, offered privately to international investors, includes an investment of up to $100 million from IFC, Khan Bank's long-term partner. IFC also assisted in developing the "Social Bond Framework" (SBF) document in line with the International Capital Market Association (ICMA)'s "Social Bond Principles". This document has been reviewed and certified by Sustainable Fitch, a subsidiary of Fitch Ratings, to ensure compliance with social bond principles requirements.

According to the "Social Bond Framework", the bank will use the bond's proceeds to finance potential projects and initiatives that positively impact the resolution of social issues in Mongolia, including projects in education, healthcare, affordable housing construction, essential infrastructure development, food production, and agricultural projects. The target groups for financing include herders, farmers, rural residents with limited access to services, micro and small and medium-sized business employers, and women entrepreneurs. Additionally, IFC will provide 12 months of advisory support to improve the bank's capacity to manage the social financing loan portfolio.

"This bond investment is a historic event not only for our bank but for the Mongolian banking sector. By issuing Mongolia's first Social Bond, we will specifically support important projects and programs that will create positive changes and benefits for society. As the country's largest bank, we are pleased to set an example in creating a positive impact by increasing financial access to target sectors, strengthening economic capacity, and supporting environmental sustainability," said R. Munkhtuyaa, CEO of Khan Bank.

"As one of the first issuers of social securities and a leader in developing such financial instruments, IFC is pleased to have provided the necessary support for Khan Bank to issue its first Social Bond. Through this investment, IFC is providing Khan Bank, a market leader, with the opportunity to attract financing for qualified social projects, while also laying the foundation for Social Bonds to become a new type of long-term financing in the Mongolian capital market," said Mr. Rufat Alimardanov, IFC's Resident Representative in Mongolia.

In March 2023, IFC, along with the Dutch development bank (FMO) and US-based MicroVest, invested a total of $60 million in Mongolia's first green bond issued by Khan Bank in the international market. The bank has fully utilized the proceeds from this bond, increasing its green loan portfolio from 105 billion MNT in 2022 to 377.4 billion MNT in 2023, achieving a 257% growth within a year. Currently, Khan Bank accounts for 47% of all green loans issued in the market and is actively working to introduce green and sustainable financing solutions to its customers.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/novom

G.Luvsanjamts: The public transport system should be developed with many options and accessibility

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

MP G.Luvsanjamts is providing information from the Economic Forum. He emphasized that Ulaanbaatar's public transport should be developed in a way that offers many options and accessibility.

He said, "The urban development sector takes a long time. So it's better to talk about optimal solutions rather than quick fixes. First, Mongolia's urban planning system has become distorted. In other words, it has too many top-down administrative planning systems.

Therefore, we need to do urban development planning that incorporates bottom-up approaches, including citizen participation, their opinions, discussing what issues are facing them, and planning accordingly.

Some khoroos (districts) don't have bus stops, kindergartens, or family health centers. Major policy documents are created, but implementation documents or partial general plans need to address infrastructure like society, economy, schools, kindergartens, as well as solve issues like green spaces.

The main purpose of dividing Ulaanbaatar into 14 cities is to solve the overlapping issues at the khoroo and district levels. This will allow citizens to elect their own mayor. It means they will have the opportunity to solve issues directly affecting their lives.

To solve the traffic congestion problem, we need to develop a public transport system with many options and accessibility. First, we will build and solve the metro line. By 2040-2050, as Ulaanbaatar's population grows, 2-3 more high-capacity public transport vehicles will be needed. At that time, we plan to put the second metro line network into operation. We need to start planning for this now."

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/gn4nd

Mobile "KHURDAN" point provides government services in the resort area

Published: Mon, 08 Jul 2024

As part of the "20-minute city" concept implemented by the Government of Mongolia, the "KHURDAN" point is enabling citizens to receive government services within 20 minutes from their place of residence.

The State Digital Service Regulatory Agency, under the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications, is providing government services through the mobile "KHURDAN" point to citizens living in remote areas and those who have gone to their summer houses, in connection with the start of the holiday season.

The mobile "KHURDAN" point is notable for its ability to provide over 478 certificates, verifications, and information from 43 government organizations in one place. These include services such as reissuing national ID cards, property ownership inquiries, medical appointment scheduling, detailed legal entity inquiries, and unemployment benefit applications.

The Government of Mongolia is implementing the "20-minute city" concept through the "KHURDAN" point, allowing citizens to access government services within 20 minutes from their place of residence.

The State Digital Service Regulatory Agency, under the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications, is delivering government services through the mobile "KHURDAN" point to citizens living in remote areas and those who have gone to their summer houses, in connection with the start of the holiday season.

The mobile "KHURDAN" point is unique in its ability to provide over 478 certificates, verifications, and information from 43 government organizations in one place. These include services such as reissuing national ID cards, property ownership inquiries, medical appointment scheduling, detailed legal entity inquiries, and unemployment benefit applications.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/nov2e

P.Batbaatar: The Department of Public Electronic Services in the Provinces is Supporting Mongolia's Digital Transition

Published: Mon, 08 Jul 2024

The Department of Public Electronic Services Regulation is organizing measures to accelerate digital transition, increase the quality and accessibility of public electronic services, and improve public-private partnerships in the information technology sector.

We asked P.Batbaatar, Head of the Department of Public Electronic Services Regulation, about the work being implemented related to digital transition.

• What work is the Department of Public Electronic Services Regulation implementing regarding digital transition in local areas?
• Although the Department of Public Electronic Services Regulation was established only a short time ago, it is successfully organizing measures to accelerate digital transition nationwide, increase the quality and accessibility of public electronic services, improve digital skills of the general public, and enhance public-private partnerships in the information technology sector. For example:

• To provide equal, accessible, and prompt public services to citizens who do not have smartphones, internet, or printing devices, or are unable to use mobile phones due to certain circumstances in today's society, we have established "FAST" points for public electronic services at 282 locations nationwide, providing about 800,000 services to citizens.

• As part of public-private cooperation to increase access to public services, we are gradually introducing kiosk devices in the capital and local areas. We are also establishing mobile "FAST" points to provide public services to citizens in markets and shopping centers with high population concentration.

• Although the Government of Mongolia, the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications, and government agencies are introducing relevant systems and software to provide public services electronically to citizens and increase accessibility, due to insufficient digital skills and knowledge of citizens, there are many cases of becoming victims of cybercrime. Therefore, the Department of Public Electronic Services Regulation is organizing training to provide and improve digital skills for the general public in the capital and local areas to increase the skills, knowledge, and understanding of digital usage among citizens, and has involved over 70,000 civil servants, citizens, and high school students.

• Also, within the framework of the "5S" operation being implemented by the Government of Mongolia, the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications is responsible for the "Glass" operation. According to this work, our organization is working to monitor the enrichment of information to be open to citizens on shilen.gov.mn by other agencies and the Governor's Office of 21 provinces, and to ensure normal operations.

• The "Get Used to Digital" event was organized in 21 provinces. Can you please explain the main purpose and significance of organizing this event?
• First, let me start with the basis and organization for organizing the "Get Used to Digital" event. In June 2023, the "Digital Province" policy recommendation was approved by order of the Minister of Digital Development and Communications. From August to October of the same year, a working group was established to introduce the "Digital Province" policy recommendation, training, research, and evaluation, and develop a model policy document, which worked in 21 provinces. This working group conducted several activities and surveys over 2 months. For example:

Assessment of knowledge and understanding of digital transition, leadership level, and readiness for digital transition from provincial leaders;

Assessment of proper use of official software and systems, proper provision of public services, and citizen satisfaction from civil servants;

Assessment of software and systems used in the province from IT workers and officials;

Survey on projects and programs related to digital transition implemented in local areas, their results and implementation from citizens.

These were compiled and processed, and the "Digital Province" policy recommendation was introduced to local areas. We also developed the 2023 Digital Transition Report for provinces in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications. The next phase of the "Digital Province" policy recommendation, training, research, and evaluation event, namely the "Get Used to Digital" event, was organized in 21 provinces from March to May 2024 by a working group led by J.Erkhembayar, Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Communications.

The feature of this event was to provide advice and information to relevant government agencies on providing and improving digital skills for local citizens, organizing digital transition acceleration in provinces, and creating an integrated system as a result. Also, through public-private partnerships, all organizations in the communications and information technology sector jointly promoted their activities and services to local citizens.

We adhered to the policy that the state should not duplicate and recreate the technology, systems, and mobile devices created by the private sector, but only provide policy support, and our member organizations of the Mongolian Software Industry Association signed contracts and memorandums of understanding with provincial leaders and business owners to a certain extent. The Ministry of Digital Development and Communications, the Department of Public Electronic Services Regulation, and the Department of Public Electronic Services in 21 provinces worked as the main organizers of the "Get Used to Digital" event, collaborating with public and private organizations to organize an event over 2 months to promote and introduce the results and opportunities of accelerating digital transition to a total of over 40,000 citizens, civil servants, small and medium business owners, high school students, and decision-making level officials of the respective provinces.

This event was a unique event with broad participation, with full support from sector organizations such as the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications, the Department of Public Electronic Services Regulation, "E-Mongolia Academy" SOE, "National Data Center" SOE, Communications Regulatory Commission, Mongol Post JSC, Mongolian Telecom JSC, "National Radio and Television Network" SOE, "National IT Park" SOE, and member organizations of the Mongolian Software Industry Association NGO from the private sector. The main issue in implementing the "Digital Province" recommendation in local areas lies in providing the right organization, correct management, and proper policy support to the respective province.

Through our digital transition acceleration measures, we considered the specifics of the provinces and introduced the local opportunities, possibilities, and solutions to the provincial leaders. We did not create this study ourselves, but analyzed relevant similar studies and derived it using a comparative method based on international smart city standards. A smart city refers to the complex activities and interconnections that comprise clean green spaces, energy and water management, smart housing, smart camera systems and lighting, digitized all public services, and smart waste management solutions. Therefore, we are providing a certain level of support to provincial leaders in this regard.

The Department of Public Electronic Services Regulation is organizing training to provide and improve digital skills for citizens residing in 9 districts of the capital and 330 soums of 21 provinces nationwide. Also, we have established "FAST" points for public electronic services in Ulaanbaatar city, local areas, border crossings, and abroad, providing 478 services from 43 government organizations to citizens in operator mode at 282 locations as of today.

Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/887wg

Joint project to plant "One Hundred Million Fruit Trees" to be explored

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

President U. Khurelsukh of Mongolia and His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of the Kingdom of Bhutan held an official meeting at the State Palace on July 9, 2024.

At the beginning of the meeting, President U. Khurelsukh expressed his confidence that the first state visit of His Majesty the King of Bhutan would give an important impetus to expanding and developing friendly relations based on common values for heritage, peace, development and prosperity, and strengthening friendship and cooperation between the peoples.

His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan expressed his sincere gratitude to the government and people of Mongolia for the warm and cordial reception of the Bhutanese King's family and delegation.

He highly appreciated that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2012, relations and cooperation between the two countries have been developing steadily, and political dialogue has intensified.

The parties agreed that the state visit of His Majesty the King of Bhutan to Mongolia is important in determining the future prospects and directions of relations and cooperation.

They emphasized that although the two countries are geographically distant, they have deep connections in terms of history, religion, and intangible cultural heritage, and expressed confidence that this state visit will open a new historical page in relations, advancing the achievements of the past period.

As landlocked developing countries, they affirmed their commitment to work together to overcome this disadvantage, develop unity, mutual understanding and partnership cooperation, overcome common socio-economic challenges and difficulties, and achieve sustainable development.

They also agreed to support the activities of the International Think Tank for Landlocked Developing Countries and work together to develop policies for landlocked developing countries.

They expressed confidence that the Joint Statement issued as a result of this visit will serve as a roadmap for developing sectors such as politics, economy, education, culture, health, science, agriculture, animal husbandry, environment, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges, and will make a real contribution to expanding cooperation.

They decided to turn the abundant potential for expanding cooperation in the education and cultural sectors into action, and to include students in mutual scholarship programs.

In order to expand people-to-people exchanges, it was decided to link the national brand "Go Mongolia" with the national brand "Bhutan Believe".

The heads of state agreed to cooperate in contributing to the global efforts to combat climate change and desertification, protect the environment, and explore the possibility of implementing joint projects and programs within the framework of the "Billion Trees" national movement and His Majesty's initiative to plant "One Hundred Million Fruit Trees".

The heads of state of the two countries reaffirmed that they have been actively supporting and cooperating with each other on the regional and international stage, and mutually affirmed their commitment to further deepen cooperation within the framework of the UN and other international organizations.

As a result of the meeting, a joint statement between Mongolia and the Kingdom of Bhutan, as well as documents aimed at strengthening the legal environment of relations between the two countries, were signed.

Translated from: https://ikon.mn/n/36su

D.Bat-Erdene: Last year's festival saw eight people die from water accidents, a bitter lesson

Published: Tue, 09 Jul 2024

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) held a press conference to provide information on the weather conditions and situation during the holiday and rest days.

During the conference, they advised on preventing water accidents. Since the beginning of this year, 40 people have died from water accidents. Nine of these were young children.

Regarding this, Colonel D.Bat-Erdene, Head of the Prevention Department at NEMA, said, "Since the beginning of this year, 40 people have lost their lives in water accidents. During the festival holiday, people take several days off, and there is a risk of water accidents.

For instance: * 14 during the 2019 festival * 17 in 2020 * 26 in 2021 * 20 in 2022 * There is a bitter lesson that eight people lost their lives due to water accidents during the 2023 festival holidays.

We are not prohibiting citizens from traveling and resting, but we are warning them to ensure their safety and spend time responsibly.

Over the past holidays, five people nationwide, and yesterday, Monday, one person in the capital, one in Sukhbaatar province, and one in Uvs province tragically lost their lives in water accidents.

People are losing their lives while trying to cross rivers on horses, motorcycles, vehicles, or while swimming.

There are cases where people think they can swim in rivers and streams after learning to swim in pools and end up losing their lives. Many who know how to swim are drowning.

Children are drowning due to lack of supervision.

Herders settling near riverbanks and dry riverbeds are suffering losses of lives, livestock, and property when floods occur. Two days ago in Arkhangai province, heavy rain caused over 200 livestock of a family camping in a dry riverbed to perish. In Khentii province, a family camping on a river island was flooded, and while five people were rescued, it was impossible to save the livestock.

There are cases of people dying while working on bridge construction near rivers and water bodies.

When citizens travel for rest and recreation, they should not enter any rivers or lakes they encounter and should rest far from rivers.

We advise herders to camp far from riverbanks and dry riverbeds, and to keep children under constant supervision.

Avoiding swimming or camping near water while under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating beverages will protect against risks," he advised.

He emphasized that tourist camps are often located along riverbanks. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the safety of vacationers and provide advice and warnings.

Translated from: https://ikon.mn/n/36st