Mar 22, 2025 58 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for March 22, 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.

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Politics

Enshrining the Right to Protect Sources in Law is Crucial for Exposing Corruption

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Members of the National Network for Freedom of Expression have explained to the public some articles and provisions included in the revised draft of the Law on Media Freedom. L. Galbaatar, a member of the network, emphasized that enshrining the right of journalists to protect their sources in law is crucial for exposing issues of corruption and conflicts of interest. He stated that it is important to immediately pass the law on the legal status of whistleblowers and to draft a law that is in line with Article 33 of the Anti-Corruption Convention, conforms to international standards, and ensures participation from all parties. Familiarize yourself with the revised draft of the Law on Media Freedom.

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Official Visit and Position: Speaker of the British House of Commons Highly Values Mongolian Parliamentary Democracy

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: isee.mn

Members of the State Great Khural of Mongolia, who are part of the official delegation led by Speaker D. Amarbaysgalan on his official visit to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, as well as the Ambassador of Mongolia to the UK, B. Enkhsukh, expressed their positions regarding the outcomes of the visit. Member of Parliament J. Bat-Erdene stated that the Speaker of the British House of Commons highly values Mongolian parliamentary democracy. Despite being a landlocked country between two major powers, Mongolia has managed to stabilize and strengthen its democracy in a short period, a feat praised by the British Parliament. While the UK has a thousand-year history of democracy, Mongolia has quickly risen to a leading level in Asia and globally, particularly in terms of parliamentary democracy and women's participation in parliament, as noted by the Speaker of the British House of Commons. Mongolian Ambassador to the UK, B. Enkhsukh, highlighted the significance of this visit as the first official visit of the Speaker of Mongolia’s State Great Khural by official invitation. This visit is noteworthy for Mongolia as it aims to strengthen parliamentary democracy, enhance relations and cooperation, and maintain dialogue and visits at the parliamentary leadership level. Member of Parliament J. Bayarmaa acknowledged that improved inter-parliamentary cooperation leads to enhanced political, social, and economic collaboration. This visit is part of a series of high-level visits between the two nations and focuses on improving legal cooperation and examining possible future measures. During the visit, they met with the Speaker of the UK Parliament and the group leader of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in the country, discussing the establishment of a Friendship Group, which is expected to significantly boost bilateral cooperation. Member of Parliament Kh. Temuujin remarked that the visit provided an opportunity to learn about the rich traditions of parliamentary democracy and how it can be sustained and function effectively. Since parliamentary democracy is the cornerstone of Mongolia’s democracy, the visit emphasized improving legislative oversight and has proven to be fruitful. Member of Parliament J. Zoljargal noted the potential for learning about digitalizing parliamentary operations from a country with a thousand-year history of parliamentary democracy. In 2022, Mongolia introduced the D-Parliament platform for online public participation, informed by the UK Parliament’s online petition and consultation systems. Additionally, cyber security has become critically important, and during the visit, they engaged with UK experts, attended conferences, and arranged to collaborate actively by sharing experiences and seeking support.

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"Prohibition on Selling Property at a Discount" Law by Kh. Nyambaatar to be Discussed by Constitutional Court on April 1

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: isee.mn

Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar has drafted the "Law on Reducing Traffic Congestion in Ulaanbaatar City and Conversion of Ger Areas into Apartments," which was adopted by the parliament chaired by G. Zandanshatar. In conjunction with this law, the "Draft Law on Amendments and Changes to the Law on State Registration of Property Rights" was also adopted. This added a provision that significantly infringes on citizens' property rights by preventing them from selling their properties. Specifically, Article 9 of this draft law includes provision 9.3, stating: "Except as provided in this law under 9.1.5, the price stated in articles 9.1.3 and 9.1.4 shall not be registered at a price below the most recently registered price." However, this provision potentially violates sections 1.2, 5.2, and 16.3 of the Constitution, prompting certain citizens to file a complaint with the Constitutional Court and initiating a dispute. This dispute was initially set to be discussed at the Constitutional Court's mid-size hearing, but it has been postponed. An expert is also being appointed to review the matter. This law prohibits citizens from selling their real estate properties, such as land and apartments, at a price lower than the price at which they initially acquired it. This is a common practice in emergency situations when people desperately need money. However, the provision now restricts such transactions, allowing sales only at the purchase price. If a citizen does not sell a property at the initial price, the transfer of ownership will be blocked in the state registry.

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Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: gogo.mn

P. Batchuluun was involved in the crime of "Fraudulently obtaining human organs and tissues." According to the prosecutor's office of Bayangol district, while working as the head of the department that regulates the activities related to organ transplants at the Center for Health Development, P. Batchuluun was accused of a crime. He was accused of taking organs and tissues from person A, who had been involved in a traffic accident and brought to the National Center for Traumatology and Orthopedics for surgery, and was diagnosed with brain death, without obtaining consent from their family. This act exceeded the agreed organs. A charge was drawn up under Article 15.3, Section 2 of the Special Part of the Criminal Code, and the case was transferred to the court. The primary court found the defendant P. Batchuluun guilty of the crime "Fraudulently obtaining human organs and tissues," sentencing him to 2 years and 6 months in prison, to be served in an open prison facility. The criminal appeal court of Ulaanbaatar reviewed the case related to defendant P. Batchuluun based on the appeal complaints submitted by the defendant and his lawyers G. Oyuntsetseg, B. Tsenguun, B. Bayaraa, and E. Ganbat. The court found that the initial court's conclusion of P. Batchuluun being guilty of the crime of "Fraudulently obtaining human organs and tissues" was well-founded, correctly interpreting and applying the Criminal Code, and therefore the criminal responsibility imposed on him matched the nature of the crime committed. The initial court's sentencing order was upheld. Deception is understood as misleading others by disguising the truth through words or actions. In this case, P. Batchuluun explained to the family members of victim A that "liver, kidney, and the related veins" would be taken. At the time of obtaining the family's consent by signing the "Deceased Donor Family Member Consent Form," he left the section for listing the organs to be taken blank, filling it in with "liver, kidney, and tendons" after they signed, subsequently removing tendons and associated attachment areas such as semimembranosus tendon along with the head of the fibula, two lower femoral condyles, Achilles tendon, peroneus longus tendon, tibialis anterior tendon, and human organ such as the gallbladder from the donor's body. The appeals court concluded that this met the characteristics of the crime specified under Article 15.3, Section 2 of the Special Part of the Criminal Code. Summary prepared by: Judge L. Darisuren of the Ulaanbaatar Criminal Appeal Court. Decision number: No.326 Status of decision: Not yet in force. Notice: “This summary does not replace the court's decision and is intended to provide information to the public.”

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Z. Sanjdorj and others accused of treason to be tried

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: news.mn

The preliminary hearing for the case involving defendants Z. Sanjdorj and D. Byambajav, who are accused of treason and collaborating with foreign intelligence agencies, is scheduled for today. The case was transferred to the Sukhbaatar District Court of the capital by the prosecutor's office on September 27, 2024, as reported by the legal authorities. To clarify, in March of last year, the General Intelligence Agency announced the arrest and detention of a foreign national engaged in espionage in Mongolia, along with citizens accused of treason. They have been charged under Article 19.4.1 of the Criminal Procedure Code. Article 19.4.1 of the Criminal Law pertains to the illegal collaboration with foreign intelligence services, agencies, or individuals. It states that if a Mongolian citizen has agreed to collaborate, has collaborated with a foreign intelligence service, or attempted to transfer state secrets or documents, artifacts belonging to state secrets by stealing, collecting, storing, or transmitting them for the purpose of handing them over to a foreign organization or individual, they are subject to imprisonment for a term of 8 to 15 years.

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The Process to Dissolve the US Department of Education Has Begun

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: montsame.mn

President Donald Trump signed an order on Thursday to initiate the process of dissolving the US Department of Education. He stated that the decision to dismantle the educational institution was prepared in advance and that "everyone knows this is the right decision, even the Democrats know it." Although 45 years have passed since the establishment of the Department of Education, the US spends more per student compared to other countries around the world, yet we rank at the bottom in terms of educational achievement, President Trump said. The decision by Trump was met with discontent by the union of the Department of Education's employees. “By issuing this order to destroy this small but powerful organization, Trump is undermining our education system and harming future generations,” stated Everett Kelley, the president of the American Federation of Government Employees. Dismantling the Department of Education is one of Trump's main promises given during the election campaign. Now, to permanently close the department, Congress must pass the relevant legislation.

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Economy

Mongolia Reaches Agreement on Temporary Free Trade Agreement with EAEU

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The Eurasian Economic Commission's trade bloc has announced that the remaining issues in the project for a temporary free trade agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Mongolia have been resolved. The announcement from the Eurasian Economic Commission followed a meeting between the Commission's Minister of Trade, Andrey Slepnev, and Mongolia's Minister of Economic Development, L. Gantumur. In the announcement, Slepnev emphasized, "We have conducted fruitful discussions and carefully negotiated all the remaining issues of the temporary free trade agreement project between the Eurasian Economic Union and Mongolia. We reaffirm our commitment to developing further cooperation, considering Mongolia as a close neighbor and friendly partner." Negotiations to establish a temporary free trade agreement between the EAEU and Mongolia are being conducted in accordance with the decision of the Eurasian Economic Supreme Council on May 8, 2024. According to previous reports, this agreement is expected to last for three years, during which both parties will grant customs tariff reductions on 375 types of goods each. Source: Eurasian Economic Commission

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Next year's economic growth will also be five percent

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Ministry of Economy and Development organized a public discussion on the draft law regarding the 2026 unified state budget framework statement and the 2027-2028 budget projection. Participants in the discussion included the Fiscal Stability Council, the National Audit Office, the Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Mongolia, the International Monetary Fund, JICA, sector experts, scholars, citizens, and representatives of civil society organizations. The Fiscal Stability Council stated that next year's economic growth will also remain low, at about 5 percent. Additionally, representatives of relevant organizations presented reports on the economic situation, macroeconomic key indicators, forecasts of the condition, inflation, the current state of government debt, and medium-term policy strategies. The Ministry of Economy and Development is tasked with developing the medium-term budget framework statement project based on the macroeconomic key indicators and condition forecasts submitted by the Fiscal Stability Council. It is also stipulated by the Budget Law that the draft of the medium-term budget framework statement will be publicly discussed.

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KHAN Bank to Provide Concessional Loans to Support Sustainable Agriculture

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: isee.mn

KHAN Bank offers new opportunities for green financing to herders, cooperatives, and producers with the aim of supporting local development, sustainable agriculture, and cluster development. In this scope, favorable loan products are being offered to herders, cooperatives, and producers who implement the following standards certified by organizations such as the Mongolian Pasture Users' Association, the Mongolian Wool and Cashmere Association, and the Sustainable Fibers Alliance. These include: - Responsible Nomad Standard (MNS 6891:2020)
- Good Practice Certificate from the Sustainable Fibers Alliance (SFA)
- Textile Sustainable Production Standard from the Mongolian Wool and Cashmere Association (MNS 6926:2021)
KHAN Bank provides the following financing to herders, cooperatives, and producers who implement these standards. Green Loan for Responsible Herders: This is provided with the aim of increasing livestock productivity and supporting activities to reduce pasture degradation and desertification. For more information, click HERE. Loan to Support Sustainable Wool and Cashmere Supply: This is aimed at financing the working capital of cooperatives that purchase raw materials from herders who have implemented good practices. For more information, click HERE. Loan to Support Wool and Cashmere Processing Industry: Provided under concessional conditions to support the wool, cashmere, and leather processing industries as part of the "White Gold" program initiated by the President of Mongolia. For more information, click HERE. Through collaborating to provide concessional loans and financing under favorable conditions to participants in the agricultural product production cluster network, KHAN Bank aims to contribute to Mongolia's sustainable development and climate change goals in the long run, while also providing tangible support to businesses operating in the agricultural sector and taking a major step towards enhancing the possibility of exporting products according to international standards. Growth Together - KHAN Bank

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"Badrakh Energy" Company Awarded as Best Investor

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: gogo.mn

On March 18, during the "Management Forum," "Badrakh Energy" company was selected as the Best Investor. The award was received by the director of "Badrakh Energy," Mark Meleard. He emphasized during his acceptance speech that the investment in the Zuuvch-Ovoo project will be fully undertaken by the investor Orano Group, and the project will create 1600 new jobs. The "Management Forum" is a gathering where wealth creators and business entrepreneurs share and exchange experiences and skills. Over 250 representatives from 150 major private enterprises in our country participated in the forum to discuss economic risks, labor force crises and shortages, as well as artificial intelligence and its applications. During the forum, B. Lkhagvasuren, President of the Mongol Bank, presented the economic risks and projections for 2025-2026 for Mongolia. Meanwhile, Member of the Mongolian Parliament P. Sainzorig gave a presentation on solutions related to Mongolia's labor force shortages and human resource issues. The investment agreement for the Zuuvch-Ovoo project, implemented by "Badrakh Energy," was signed on January 17 between the Government of Mongolia and the investor party. This marks the second investment agreement with third-party investor involvement for our country. According to the investment agreement, the majority of the project's revenues will be centralized through taxes, fees, and dividends, with construction works beginning this year.

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Tugrik Deposits Increase, Foreign Currency Deposits Decrease

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The tugrik deposits reached 22.2 trillion tugriks by the end of February this year, increasing by 4.6 trillion tugriks (26 percent) compared to the same period last year, and by 520.2 billion tugriks (2.4 percent) compared to the previous month. Of the tugrik deposits, 19.2 trillion tugriks (86.7 percent) belong to individuals, while 3 trillion tugriks (13.3 percent) belong to business entities and organizations. In contrast, foreign currency deposits decreased to 4.4 trillion tugriks, down by 1.2 trillion tugriks (21.6 percent) from the same period last year, and by 76.8 billion tugriks (1.7 percent) from the previous month.

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No Distribution of 'Erdenes Tavantolgoi' Shares to Citizens Born After January 1, 2024

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: itoim.mn

If previously Mongolia's sole cash cow was the "Erdenet Mining Corporation," it has now for some time been "Erdenes Tavantolgoi.” In addition to financing all major projects implemented in Mongolia, this company has been funding the fuel subsidies for households in the city's ger districts. The government has assigned it the responsibility of continuing this funding until 2027. Moreover, because the company has been profitable in recent years, it has been distributing dividends to its shareholders. Currently, around 73% of "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" JSC is owned by the "Erdenes Mongol" conglomerate, roughly 26.94% by 3.4 million Mongolian citizens, and 0.06% by 487 national businesses. However, many citizens do not own the 1,072 shares of "Erdenes Tavantolgoi." Therefore, Parliament approved a resolution granting the 1,072 shares to citizens born after April 11, 2012. According to this resolution, citizens born between April 11, 2012, and December 31, 2023, have been given 1,072 shares each. However, citizens born after January 1, 2024, will not receive these shares. In addition, elderly and disabled citizens who previously held shares sold their 1,072 shares to the government for one million tugriks, while students used them for tuition payments. During Ch. Saikhanbileg’s government, citizens sold a portion of their shares. Although “Erdenes Tavantolgoi” JSC is profitable and distributing dividends to its shareholders, there is currently no regulation addressing issues such as selling, inheriting shares, or awarding shares to newly born citizens. According to Article 3.7 of the Company Law, an open joint-stock company is defined as one whose investor contributions are divided into shares, registered at a securities trading organization, and freely traded publicly. Since "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" JSC is a closed joint-stock company, its shares currently cannot be publicly traded. However, once the company is registered on the Stock Exchange, it will have the right to trade its shares publicly. Although D. Sumiyabazar, when serving as the Minister of Mining, indicated that "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" would be listed on the Stock Exchange, this has not yet materialized. Thus, there remains a continued need for clear answers to questions regarding issuing shares to newly born citizens, inheriting shares for deceased citizens, and whether citizens who sold their shares to the government can repurchase them.

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O.Tserendondog: Steel Production Declines as Coal Demand Falls

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: news.mn

With the decline of China's real estate market, a mainstay of the economy, the demand in the construction sector has decreased, leading to reduced consumption of steel and cement. As a result, steel production and the associated coke plants have been operating at a loss. Therefore, China has announced a 10% reduction in steel production. The demand for coking coal used in steelmaking and the demand for thermal coal used in construction materials have both decreased. As the demand for coal in production starts to fall, the provinces near Mongolia, which are coal producers, have increased production to meet their plans. This has also affected the increase in demand. O.Tserendondog, Head of Sales, Marketing, and Transportation of "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" JSC, in an interview with Tenger Television stated that "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" JSC will sell 3 million tons of beneficiated coal in 2025. The coal beneficiation plant became operational in 2024. The main feature of the plant is to produce quality products. In terms of the Chinese market, the demand for beneficiated coal is high. Therefore, we have planned to wash 5 million tons of raw coal and sell 3 million tons of beneficiated coal in 2025.

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Meat, Cement, and Flour Production Decreased by 10-30% in January-February Compared to the Same Period Last Year

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Liquid milk production increased by the highest margin of 28.4%. The manufacturing sector's production reached one trillion MNT in the first two months of the year, showing a 14% increase compared to the same period last year. Total sales during the reporting period amounted to 1.2 trillion MNT, a growth of about 20% from the previous year. Among the main industrial products, meat and cement production decreased by the highest margins, dropping by 23-30%. During the same period, 29,600 tons of flour were produced, which is a 9.4% decrease compared to the same period last year. The severe winter last year led to the loss of over nine million livestock, affecting meat supply this year. In addition, the government's exemption of customs duties on flour, wheat, and animal feed has led to a decline in domestic production, causing some businesses to close, according to the sector minister. Within the manufacturing industry, liquid milk production increased the most, by 28.4%. In January, more than 2,000 herders and farmers supplied 3.7 million liters of milk to dairy factories, receiving a total of 3.7 billion MNT in incentives, as reported by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry. This year, a total of 20 billion MNT is planned to be allocated for incentives for milk and dairy products in the budget. In addition, the production of cashmere knitwear, water, beverages, combed cashmere, and briquettes increased by 3-14% compared to the same period last year.

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Announcement of Regular Meeting of Shareholders of XacBank JSC

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Notice to all media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites): When using our information in any form, either fully or partially, it is mandatory to cite the source (ikon.mn).

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Although the Volume of Coal Traded Has Increased, Revenue Has Dropped Threefold

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The executive director of the Mongolian Stock Exchange, B. Dölgoon, reported that revenue from coal traded on the Mongolian Stock Exchange has decreased threefold compared to the same period last year. Coal worth two trillion tögrögs was sold on the stock exchange, whereas this year, sales totaled 630-640 billion tögrögs. In contrast, the volume of exported coal increased by 400,000 tons compared to last year in the first three months of this year, reaching 11.3 million tons. Although the percentage of coal traded on the stock exchange has risen, revenue has declined due to the drop in prices of mining products. Over the past year or so, coal prices have fallen by 44 percent. Additionally, the Mongolian Stock Exchange has sold 5,000 tons of copper and around two million tons of iron ore since the beginning of this year.

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Diplomacy

Foreign Press: Remaining Issues of Mongolia's Accession to the Eurasian Economic Union Resolved

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: isee.mn

Ch. Khurelbaatar, during his tenure as Minister of Economic Development in 2022, conducted a "free trade provisional agreement" with Russia. This agreement was the beginning of Mongolia's accession to the Eurasian Economic Union, with L. Gantomor and S. Amarsaikhan continuing efforts to temporarily join Mongolia to the union, which faced opposition from businesses and members of parliament last December. The most serious issue was that the government had secretly started the work of temporarily joining the Eurasian Economic Union two years earlier, and now that it has come to light, it has upset the public. Specifically, it was planned to sign the accession agreement to the union in Moscow on December 21, 2024. However, realizing they could not overcome public outrage and parliamentary opposition, the government's meeting officially postponed the accession. The Eurasian Economic Commission's trade bloc announced that the remaining issues of the provisional free trade agreement project between the Eurasian Economic Union and Mongolia have been resolved. Notably, Andrey Slepnev, Minister of Trade of the Eurasian Economic Commission, and L. Gantomor, Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Economic Development of Mongolia, met in Russia. According to the country's eec.eaeunion.org website, "We held effective talks during which we discussed all the remaining issues regarding the project of the provisional trade agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and Mongolia in detail. We confirm our commitment to further developing cooperation as the nearest neighbor and friendly country with Mongolia, with whom we have a traditionally warm relationship." The most concerning issue is that President U. Khurelsukh might be pressuring the temporary accession to the Eurasian Economic Union. On September 4 of last year, Russian President V. Putin visited our country. During the visit, he held talks with President U. Khurelsukh and signed cooperation documents. During this time, V. Putin stated, "It is important to further develop Mongolia's relationship with the Eurasian Economic Union to continue increasing export and import turnover. Russia supports the initiative to establish a trade agreement between Mongolia and the Eurasian Economic Union" and explicitly pressured our country to join the union. Our side also expressed the intention to join the union during his visit, which officials say the pressure is to fulfill the verbal commitment. Therefore, the Ministry of Economic Development and Minister L. Gantomor are expediting the work of temporary accession. At the very least, it may materialize during the union's meeting in December 2025. The Ministry of Economic Development has drafted the provisional agreement, which is obliged to be discussed and ratified by the Parliament. Members of Parliament, business operators, and economists oppose the agreement because of the threat that it may prevent the development of small and medium-sized enterprises in construction, food, and agriculture that produce similar goods and products. Notably, most agricultural products (all meat, meat products, dairy, wheat, flour, vegetables, water, drinks, etc.) will be supplied to Mongolia without import or special taxes and without any quota regulation. There is no substantial basis for suspicion other than the concern that Russia, unable to sell its low-quality goods due to international sanctions, intends to push these into Mongolia. In return, Mongolia will export only a few products, such as meat and woolen goods.

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Fourth Meeting of the Mongolia-Italy Intergovernmental Mixed Commission on Economic and Technical Cooperation Held

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The fourth meeting of the Mongolia-Italy Intergovernmental Mixed Commission on Economic and Technical Cooperation was held in Ulaanbaatar. The meeting was chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, B. Battsetseg, and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, Maria Tripodi. During the meeting, both sides expressed their satisfaction with the active expansion of cooperation between Mongolia and Italy, which have centuries-old historical relations, in recent years. They also exchanged comprehensive views on further deepening cooperation in sectors such as trade, economy, transportation, agriculture, light industry, technology, culture, education, sports, and tourism, as well as expanding relations through the implementation of joint projects in sectors of mutual interest. Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg presented Mongolia’s long-term and medium-term development policies and major goals outlined in the government’s action program, and expressed the possibility of working effectively with Italy to successfully implement these objectives. She also noted the importance of the “Air Transport Agreement” signed to commemorate the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Republic of Italy this year. This agreement is important for enhancing people-to-people exchanges, increasing trade turnover between the two countries, and supporting business development. The parties agreed to continue working to ensure the implementation of the agreement. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mongolia and the Republic of Italy established diplomatic relations on June 29, 1970, and Italy is an important trade partner of Mongolia within the European Union.

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A. Tsydenov: We will be pleased to collaborate with Ulaanbaatar

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: ikon.mn

A delegation headed by Alexey Sambuyevich Tsydenov, Head of the Republic of Buryatia, has arrived in Mongolia. They were received by H. Nyambaatar, Mayor of Ulaanbaatar city and Governor of the capital. The parties discussed expanding their future cooperation and implementing new projects and programs, as well as cooperating in the fields of construction, road development, education, science, economy, culture, and tourism. During the meeting, H. Nyambaatar expressed that the traditional friendly relations and comprehensive strategic partnership between Mongolia and Russia are expanding and developing in all sectors. He stated that it is especially pleasant to strengthen multidimensional cooperation between Ulaanbaatar city and Ulan-Ude city. He also introduced the start of 24 mega projects for the new phase of Ulaanbaatar’s development. Alexey Sambuyevich Tsydenov expressed that it would be pleasant to exchange development experiences between the two countries and effectively cooperate with Ulaanbaatar city. Voicing agreement were Deputy Head of the Government of the Republic of Buryatia and Minister of Economy Ekaterina Nikolaevna Kochetova, Minister of Health Evgenia Yuryevna Ludupova, Minister for Relations with Mongolia Chiriipov Daba-Jalsan Shagzhievich, Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs representative in Ulan-Ude, Alexandra Ivanovna Ponomareva, Mayor of Ulan-Ude Igor Yuryevich Shutenkov, Chairman of the Ulan-Ude City Council Chimiti Valeryevich Baljinimaev, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Buryatia Vladimir Vladimirovich Radnaev, who attended the meeting. In 2022, an agreement was signed between the Governor's Office of the Capital City of Ulaanbaatar and the Government of the Republic of Buryatia to collaborate in trade, economy, science, technology, social, and humanitarian fields. Source: Capital City Mayor's Office of Public Relations

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Macron Says Peacekeepers May Be Sent to Ukraine if Peace Deal is Reached with Russia

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: isee.mn

The leaders of the coalition of countries supporting Ukraine will meet in Paris next Thursday, where they will discuss the potential deployment of peacekeepers to Kyiv and provide security assurances if a peace deal with Russia is reached, announced French President Emmanuel Macron. Earlier, Bloomberg reported that European leaders will gather in the French capital next week to discuss a joint position on the Ukrainian peace talks. Furthermore, Macron stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will be present at the upcoming coalition meeting to be held in Paris. Source: BBC

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Response from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding South Korean visa application issues

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: news.mn

Citizens of Mongolia have reported numerous difficulties and delays when applying for South Korean visas, with the process often being cumbersome and unclear. In response to these issues, lawyer R. Bulgamaa has emphasized the need for attention from both the public and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Specifically, "Altan Gerege" law firm lawyer R. Bulgamaa has filed a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission regarding the challenges faced by applicants and has also sent an official letter to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, B. Battsetseg. Bulgamaa highlighted that when applying for a visa to South Korea, passports are confiscated for about 30-40 days, limiting the freedom of movement. If one retrieves their passport for unavoidable reasons, the visa application is canceled and the fee is not refunded, causing additional loss. Visa application rejections often cite "unclear intentions" as a reason, which restricts the applicant's right to know how to improve their application or what documents are needed. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sent a response to this official letter, which, according to lawyer R. Bulgamaa, lacks empathy for Mongolian citizens. The following response was sent by the Ministry's Consular Department.

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Political Consultative Meeting Between Mongolian and Italian Ministries of Foreign Affairs Held

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The fourth political consultative meeting between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Italy was held in Ulaanbaatar on March 21. The consultative meeting was led by the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, L. Munkhtushig, and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, Maria Tripodi. During the meeting, the parties exchanged detailed views on the current political, social, and economic situation and development policies of both countries, as well as the objectives set in these areas. Additionally, they discussed plans to meaningfully and effectively celebrate the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Republic of Italy, which occurs this year. They also confirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation within the United Nations and other international organizations and discussed several international issues, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Infrastructure

The President visited the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa visited the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine yesterday. The Oyu Tolgoi company opened its underground mine in 2022. Last year's extraction was 50% higher than the previous year's, with an increase in the production of copper concentrate. It is planned to produce an average of 500,000 tons of copper annually from both the underground and open-pit mines in 2028-2030. This aims to make it the fourth largest copper mine in the world. Over 20,000 people work at Oyu Tolgoi, 97% of whom are Mongolian. 25% of them are residents of Ömnögovi province. Currently, 23% of the total workforce at the mine are women, and it is planned to increase this figure to 50% over the next 10 years. Furthermore, from 2014 to 2024, Oyu Tolgoi is projected to account for 17% of the country's export income, 20% of mineral product exports, and 44% of foreign currency reserves. From 2024 to 2051, the benefits from this project for the country are estimated at 11.9 billion USD. The company has established a Southern Gobi underground mining institute, preparing nationally and internationally competitive specialists in the mining sector.

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Aleksey Tsydenov: Ready to Establish Russia-Mongolia-China Trilateral Transport Corridor

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Russia is ready to organize a transport and logistics corridor towards China via Mongolia, and the parties are gathering data on freight transportation, according to Aleksey Tsydenov, Head of the Republic of Buryatia, during his meeting with the Deputy Speaker of the Mongolian State Great Khural, B. Purevdorj. He stated, "The Republic of Buryatia is engaged with Mongolia in various directions. The first is freight transportation from Russia to Mongolia, focusing on accelerating the Russia-Mongolia-China trilateral logistics and transport. We are ready to organize a transport and logistics corridor, and the parties are gathering information on regional Russian freight data." Tsydenov also noted that they are discussing organizing the Erenhot-Ulaanbaatar-Ulan-Ude international auto corridor. They are studying the demand for transporting goods to China and Russia together with local businessmen. In order to increase interstate freight, the Khiagt transport logistics terminal is actively operating in Buryatia.

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Will the City Council Change its Decision to Triple Vehicle Taxes?

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: news.mn

Residents of the capital are waiting with anticipation to see when the City Council will reconsider its decision to increase vehicle taxes threefold and road usage fees fivefold. The government has postponed its decision to increase the heating price by 85 percent from May and directed state and local self-governing bodies not to increase taxes or fees. Additionally, the head of the Government Administration, N. Uchral, expressed his position that "The City Council should reconsider its decision to triple vehicle taxes." Last year, during discussions of the 2025 city budget, the City Council increased vehicle taxes and road usage fees as follows. This decision took effect on January 1, 2025. Vehicle tax rates are: - "Prius": 36,000 to 108,000 MNT - "Lexus 570": 188,100 to 564,300 MNT - "Porter": 30,000 to 75,000 MNT - "Land Cruiser 200": 151,800 to 455,400 MNT Road usage fees are: - Vehicles with engine capacities up to 2000 cc: 20,000 to 100,000 MNT - Vehicles with engine capacities from 2001 to 3000 cc: 30,000 to 150,000 MNT - Vehicles with engine capacities above 4001 cc: 50,000 to 250,000 MNT To clarify, last year a "Prius" owner would pay 36,000 MNT for vehicle tax, which has now risen to 108,000 MNT. Residents have highlighted that the sharp increase in vehicle taxes is burdensome. Previously, the City Council justified the 3-5 fold increase in vehicle and road usage taxes by stating: "For 14 years, these types of taxes have not been adjusted and were consistently applied. Continuing the old tariffs would make road renewal and maintenance impossible." The implementation of the 2025 budget law proposal included projections that increasing these two types of taxes 3-5 fold would increase road fund revenue by 151.5 billion MNT. Therefore, if the City Council decides to reduce these two types of taxes and fees, the revenue for the road fund will decrease. However, reducing to the previous year's level is doubtful, even though it is proposed to reduce the "Prius" vehicle tax to 72,000 MNT. On the other side, many state that if the city is persistent in working with traffic police to address non-paying drivers, who do not pay their taxes on time, there is potential to significantly increase revenues. As of December 2024, the Traffic Police Department noted the following number of registered vehicles in Ulaanbaatar that have not paid taxes or fines: - Not attended technical inspection: 99,229 vehicles - Not paid taxes: 231,397 vehicles - Not paid fines: 355,300 vehicles From vehicles registered in local areas: - Not attended technical inspection: 59,809 vehicles - Not paid taxes: 177,287 vehicles - Not paid fines: 96,130 vehicles At the end of the new year, the Traffic Police Department announced it would take action against drivers who have not paid their taxes and fines under the Violations Law and actively worked to rectify violations for a period. It is now unclear if work in this direction is ongoing. The habit of Mongolians being lackadaisical about paying taxes and fees means they only pay when pushed. Therefore, without a consistent effort to ensure timely payment of taxes, fees, and fines, no progress will be made. It is thus a reminder that reducing the tripled vehicle taxes aligns better with practical management policies.

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Feasibility Study for Park Garden Ropeway Transport Being Developed

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: news.mn

Within the framework of the concept of Ulaanbaatar city's general development plan up to the year 2040 and the policy documents such as the operational program of the Mayor of the capital, a project to implement ropeway transport in the capital has been decided. Considering the heavily congested areas where it is not possible to build roads, the ropeway transport project is planned to be constructed in two directions in the capital. Construction has begun on the first line from Yarmag and Artsat to Önör Neighborhood. Meanwhile, for the second line, which will run from the National Cultural Park to the National Garden Park, a feasibility study and design work are currently being developed, according to officials. The rationale for implementing the ropeway transport project includes: - The population of Ulaanbaatar city has increased 2.7 times in the last 30 years.

The number of cars has exceeded the capacity of the roads by 8-10 times.
78% of the city streets are congested, and due to the traffic load, the speed of public transport has decreased to 8-15 km per hour. These are the main reasons.

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Power Outage Households and Businesses During Power Line Maintenance Today

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: ikon.mn

As part of the scheduled maintenance on the power lines for this month, there will be power outages today in certain areas of the districts of Bayanzurkh, Bayangol, Songinokhairkhan, and Nalaikh in the capital city, as well as in Altanbulag and Bayan-Önjüül sums in the Tuv province. The maintenance is carried out only after fully disconnecting the equipment from the power supply, so citizens are asked to be patient. The power outage schedule is as follows: Maintenance work will not be conducted on weekends, and if there are any changes to the schedule, notifications will be sent to the phone numbers registered with the contracts of citizens and businesses, according to "UBCTS" JSC. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web Pages) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either fully or partially.

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Society

Last year, South Korea sent the most tourists with 180,000 visitors

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Last year, 180,000 Korean tourists visited our country, making South Korea the leader in the number of tourists. Meanwhile, many of our citizens go to South Korea for medical treatment. Until 2026, South Korean tourists can travel to our country without a visa for 90 days. This decision has increased the number of tourists. They typically stay in our country for an average of five days. D. Ünenbat, director of “Mandora” Co., Ltd., stated, “Koreans travel a lot to Khuvsgul Lake, the Gobi region, and Khongor Sand Dunes, as well as come to Mongolia to stargaze. Each tourist spends at least 3.4 million tugriks. Most tourists are young people. Last year, the visit of South Korea’s cultural and entertainment stars to Mongolia, where they prepared shows, had a great impact. Senior tourists tend to relax in Ulaanbaatar and Terelj before returning. However, Koreans' interests may change quickly. Therefore, if our country continues its tourism policy steadily and participates constantly in exhibitions held in South Korea, the number of tourists will increase. We might expect more than 180,000 tourists this year. The first tourists arrive from May and continue until September. South Korean tourists are pure tourists. Citizens of our two neighboring countries enter under tourist visas but sometimes come through transit or other purposes. South Korean tourists come solely for vacation since there are no wide open fields there. Korean tourists sleep in Mongolian gers, sled on sand dunes, and ride horses. The first group of tourists from the country left satisfied.

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Environment

U.Khurelsukh: It's Time to Implement the 'Blue Gold' Program to Preserve and Protect Our Water

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: news.mn

At the initiative of the President of Mongolia, the second national congress "Blue Gold" is being held at the Government Palace under the slogan "Let's Protect Our Glaciers and Snowcaps." The congress discusses issues of integrated water resource management in adapting to climate change, solutions for equitable distribution of water resources, the status, melting, and future trends of glaciers, snowcaps, and permafrost, as well as the cooperation and future goals of the government, private sector, and professional organizations in the water sector. The President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, opened the congress with a speech. He stated that climate change has intensified droughts, floods, and glacier melting, negatively impacting water resources, and that limited water supply, usage, and pollution have become pressing issues. For instance, the area covered by perpetual snow and glaciers at the Altai Mountains has decreased by about 40% since 1940. Therefore, the President emphasized the need to protect perpetual snow and glaciers, accumulate meltwater, calculate possible future lakes, adopt technologies to preserve ice without melting, reduce water pollution, and introduce systems for purifying and reusing wastewater. He also stressed the importance of cooperation and mutual understanding among officials, initiatives, leadership in the public, government, private sector, and international organizations in successfully implementing the water sector's objectives, projects, and programs. With the aim of creating conditions for citizens to live in a healthy and safe environment, movements such as "Billion Trees," "Food Revolution," "Healthy Mongolian," and "White Gold" are being implemented. The President expressed the belief that now the "Blue Gold" program should be implemented in the water sector. Moreover, he reminded major mining enterprises of the importance of intensively planting and growing the trees they pledged to plant within the framework of the "Billion Trees" national movement. The "Blue Gold" second national congress will also discuss issues such as implementing the "One Lake, One Soum-333 Lakes" and "Every Drop" appeals nationwide, and will issue recommendations. More than 1,200 people from government and private sectors, international organizations, and civil society organizations in the water sector are participating in the congress.

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21 Wildfires Have Occurred Since the Beginning of the Year

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Since the beginning of the year, 21 wildfires have occurred. Except for the fire in Khalkhgol, all are directly related to human activities. Regarding the forest, steppe, and dry grass fires' situation, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Capital City Emergency Management Agency (CCEMA) provided information. Deputy Colonel P. Soronzonbold, Chief of the Fire Fighting Department of NEMA, stated, "Since 2025, in 17 soums of Arkhangai, Dundgovi, Tuv, Dornod, Sukhbaatar, and Khentii provinces, 21 forest and steppe fires have been reported, and with the cooperation of the emergency services, border troops, local professional units, and citizens, they have been completely extinguished." Due to the onset of fire risk and dry season, seven mobile groups are working in the Dadal, Binder, Delgerkhaan, Bayan-Ovoo soums of Khentii province, the Dariganga soum of Sukhbaatar province, and the Matad soum of Dornod province where there are no local emergency units to prevent and extinguish fires and to train and practice the citizens. These groups have delivered fire safety information to more than 2,500 citizens in 680 households and have given fire safety instructions to 259 vehicles. However, on the 18th day, a fire was reported in Erdenetsagaan of Sukhbaatar province, on the 19th in Asgat, and yesterday, the 20th, in Erdene and Mungunmorit soums of Tuv province, where the emergency service workers completely extinguished them. Fires have been caused by carelessly discarded ashes, garbage burning in gullies, careless disposal of cigarette butts, religious ritual-related incense and candles left unattended, and the lighting of lamps. The fire in Khalkhgol was a natural phenomenon caused by lightning. However, all other fires are directly related to human activities. Therefore, with the onset of the warm season and increased movement of citizens within the countryside, ensure to maintain fire safety carefully. Also, ensure your technical safety," he advised. Since the beginning of the year, forest fires have occurred in the Khairkhan of Arkhangai province, Khalkhgol, Kherlen, Bayan-Uul, Bulgan, Tsagaan-Ovoo, Dashbalbar, and Choibalsan of Dornod province, Sukhbaatar, Asgat, and Erdenetsagaan of Sukhbaatar province, Bayan-Ovoo, Batshireet, Dadal of Khentii province, Undurshil of Dundgovi province, and Erdene and Mungunmorit of Tuv province, totaling 21 forest and steppe fires in 17 soums of six provinces. The preliminary impact of these steppe fires includes 840 hectares of forest, 1,388,237 hectares of pastureland, 39 gers (traditional yurts), 15 residential cabins, containers, 6 vehicles, 11 motorcycles, 75 livestock fences, 27 winter shelters, 40 spring camps, 6,937 small livestock, 569 large livestock, 7,230 bales of hay, and 80 bags of fodder. Warning Media organizations (TV, radio, Social and Web pages) must credit the original source (ikon.mn) if they reproduce or partially use this information in any format.

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NEMA: Mobile Patrols to Prevent Wildfires

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: news.mn

NEMA provided an update on the current situation of forest and steppe fires as well as dry grass fires. Lieutenant Colonel P. Soronzonbold, the head of the Fire Fighting Department at NEMA, stated: "As of today, a total of 21 incidents of forest and steppe fires have been recorded in 17 soums across six aimags. These include Khairhan of Arkhangai aimag; Khalhgol, Kherlen, Bayan-Uul, Bulgan, Tsagaan-Ovoo, Dashbalbar, and Choibalsan of Dornod aimag; Sukhbaatar, Asgat, and Erdenetsagaan of Sukhbaatar aimag; Bayanz-Ovoo, Batshireet, and Dadal of Khentii aimag; Undurshil of Dundgovi aimag; and Erdene and Mungunmorit of Tuv aimag. Preliminary reports indicate that these fires have affected 840 hectares of forest, 1,388,237 hectares of steppe, 39 gers, 15 houses, containers, 6 cars, 11 motorcycles, 75 animal enclosures, 27 wintering camps, 40 spring camps, 6,937 small livestock, 569 large livestock, 7,230 bundles of hay, and 80 bags of feed. "To prevent and extinguish forest and steppe fires, seven mobile crews consisting of 52 officers are currently operating in Dadal, Bayanz-Ovoo, Galshar, Delgerkhaan, and Binder soums of Khentii aimag; Matad soum of Dornod aimag; and Dariganga soum of Sukhbaatar aimag, covering seven soums in total across three aimags," he added. Leader of the Disaster Prevention Department at the Ulaanbaatar City Emergency Management Agency, Lieutenant Colonel D. Khadbaatar, reported: "Since the beginning of the year, no forest or steppe fire calls have been registered in the capital city, but there have been 16 calls for dry grass fires. In an effort to intensify prevention measures against the dangers of forest, steppe, and dry grass fires, a joint mobile patrol led by UBEMA, the General Police Department, the Environmental Management Department, and the Traffic Police Department has been operating in the green zone of the capital since March 20. "The joint patrol team will operate in three directions across the green zones of the city’s five districts, working to prevent forest, steppe, and dry grass fires and ensuring safety during their patrol," he said.

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Khurelsukh: "Blue Gold" Program to be Implemented in the Water Sector

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Under the patronage of the President of Mongolia, the second national "Blue Gold" conference was organized today under the motto "Protect Our Glaciers." The conference was attended by 1200 people, including state and private sector representatives, international organizations, and civil society organizations. During the event, the President of Mongolia, U. Khurelsukh, stated, "Currently, four national movements, namely 'One Billion Trees', 'Food Revolution', 'Healthy Mongolian', and 'White Gold', are being implemented nationwide with the goal of creating conditions for the health and safety of our citizens. Now it is time to implement the 'Blue Gold' program in the water sector. Any project or program implemented to protect our country's natural and water resources will be a real contribution by us Mongolians to the worldwide efforts of countries to protect regional and global water resources." He also emphasized the importance of proposals, initiatives, leadership from the sector, as well as cooperation and mutual understanding between the government, private sector, and international organizations to successfully implement the goals, projects, and programs of Mongolia's water sector. In addition, he called on the government and the public to work together with one heart for goals that ensure the balance of the country's environment and ecosystem, implement sustainable development goals, strengthen national security, and adapt to climate change without water scarcity. During the conference, Minister of Environment and Climate S. Odontuya expressed the ministry's support for every initiative related to water. She mentioned that rainwater seeps into the soil through the roofs of 150,000 houses in Ulaanbaatar, causing floods. If each household collects 200 liters of water, approximately 30 thousand tons—equivalent to 6000 cisterns of water from a single rain—could be collected for household greenery and road cleaning. In other words, households will have a significant role in water resources, accessibility, and use, which are vital to the nation's security. The Minister for the sector noted that 2025 has been declared as the "International Year for the Protection of Glaciers." Among the 14 mega projects proposed by the government, the Eg River Hydroelectric Power Project, Orkhon-Onge, and Kherlen Toonot projects are considered major works in the history of Mongolia's water sector. To implement these ecological projects, a Water Projects Unit will be established to improve legal frameworks, coordinate actions, and ensure intersectoral coordination. Implementing these projects will not only provide a reliable water supply source for the population, livestock, and agriculture of the Gobi region but will also support the President's "One Billion Trees" national program by providing water sources to arid regions where growing trees is challenging. Z. Batbayar, head of the Water Authority, remarked, "Water is not only crucial for human health but also a driving force for the social and economic development of any country. Therefore, it is not an issue for any one person or country to address alone. Given the current situation, where glacier areas are shrinking yearly due to climate change, the amount of melting glacier exceeds our country's underground water reserves by four times. Retaining and storing water is the key solution to this phenomenon. Once ice melts, it flows, and once it flows, the need to retain it becomes inevitable. The main point is that households need to collect rain and snow water, even in small amounts," he advised. The conference issued a unified recommendation to improve water law and governance, protect water resources from depletion and pollution, collect precipitation and surface water, improve water supply accessibility, and create favorable conditions for the ecosystem by implementing the 'One Lake', 'One Sum-333 Lakes', and 'Every Drop Counts' initiatives nationwide. It also outlined activities in the direction of enhancing financing mechanisms, providing conditions for mutually beneficial cooperation with the private sector, increasing human resources, and improving community cooperation. According to the resolution of the United Nations General Assembly in 1992, March 22nd is designated annually as "World Water Day." This year, World Water Day is celebrated under the theme "Protect Our Glaciers."

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Implementing the "One Lake, One District-333 Lakes" Initiative

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: gogo.mn

At the initiative of the President, and coinciding with World Water Day, the second national "Blue Gold" water conference was held under the slogan "Protect Our Glaciers and Ice Rivers." During the conference, discussions were held on the pressing issues of integrated water resource management to adapt to climate change in Mongolia, solutions for equitable distribution of water resources, the state, melting, changes, and future trends of Mongolia's glacial regions, ice rivers, and permafrost. The cooperation between the public and private sectors and professional organizations in the water sector was also discussed, setting goals for the future. In his speech at the conference, President U.Khurelsukh highlighted that due to climate change and warming, the frequency of droughts is increasing. Glaciers and ice sheets, which form 70% of the world's freshwater reserves, are melting, and permafrost loss is accelerating. This poses significant risks to sustainable development goals, decreases the availability of drinking water, and affects 3.6 billion people worldwide, suffering from water scarcity. This number is expected to reach 5 billion by 2050, putting 40% of the world's population at risk of clean water shortages, according to research findings. Without water, humanity, animals, and nature cannot exist. As the impact of climate change and warming increases drought frequency, rivers, lakes, and springs dry up, glaciers and ice sheets melt, special attention is required to protect, restore, and accumulate water resources. The conference aimed for open, realistic outcomes by discussing solutions in this area. To improve water laws and governance, protect water resources from depletion and pollution, accumulate precipitation and surface water, improve water supply, and create favorable conditions for ecosystems, initiatives like "One Lake, One District-333 Lakes" and "Every Drop" will be implemented nationwide. A unified recommendation was made to define financial mechanisms, create mutually beneficial cooperation conditions with the private sector, enhance human resources, and improve public cooperation. More than 1,200 representatives from the public and private sectors, international organizations, and civil society organizations in the water sector attended the conference.

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Innovation

D. Sündi: Mongolia Needs a National Strategy to Establish an AI Ecosystem and a Law on Data

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: ikon.mn

"MANAGEMENT FORUM-2025" brought together leaders of Mongolia's leading companies to share experiences and study the best trends in international management. Netcapital Financial Group attended the event, with D. Sündi, the founder and President of the Group, participating as a panelist in a session on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications. He discussed significant issues such as AI's impact on business development, the importance of technological advancements, and future development trends. Netcapital Financial Group aims to create a customer-centered AI-based ecosystem that includes not only financial services but also other related services on an integrated platform. D. Sündi emphasized the goal of automating data-driven decision-making, demonstrating an aspiration to utilize technological advancements to provide faster, easier, and more personalized services to customers. During the panel discussion, he highlighted the following ideas: 1. AI and big data technology have started to become the main drivers of economic growth since 2023. They positively impact the automation of business processes, increase efficiency, and enable data-driven decisions. Researchers suggest that AI is set to revolutionize organizational productivity based on three pillars: information processing, automation, and workflow transformation. By 2050, Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and Artificial Superintelligence (ASI) are expected to develop. The proper utilization of AI in the future will be a key factor in business competitiveness. 2. In Netcapital Financial Group's "AI Driven Organization" presentation, it was noted that AI can perform many tasks that humans do, faster and with higher accuracy, and without cognitive errors. This supports human decision-making and can, in some cases, make independent decisions. For example, AI can make processes such as responding to customer queries, detecting suspicious transactions, and providing investment advice faster and more efficiently. 3. Research shows that effective AI implementation can increase productivity by reducing costs by 50% and increasing revenue by 60%. However, viewing AI merely as automation is narrow-minded; it is about smarter planning, optimal decision-making, and cost reduction. 4. To become a new-generation AI-based company, two main conditions or transitions are necessary. Quality data and data management are essential for AI to be effective. Additionally, updating workflows and structures is required to transition to a model where AI agents perform specific tasks. 5. For developing an AI-based business model, it is crucial to train and re-skill employees and make the necessary investments. In summary, if an AI-based vision is implemented, as Elon Musk stated, "small companies can create big competition." Even with 500 employees, a company can compete on the same level as a company with 50,000 employees using AI. Consequently, as companies grow, they will no longer face traditional disadvantages like slow decision-making and overly centralized data, which are typical of large corporations. Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either completely or in part.

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Question: Is there a workforce for the 14 'M' project?!

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: news.mn

Only three months are left until the Naadam festival. In these three months, specifically in April, May, and June, construction activities occur in Mongolia. After the Naadam, centenary celebrations of provinces and districts, vacations, and wedding ceremonies commence, leaving almost no one to work until autumn when school resumes. Ideally, by this time, roads and construction projects should be well defined, and private sectors should have planned which infrastructure projects they will undertake. However, today, except for the reconstruction of the Zaisan Bridge with a budget of 26 billion, there is no significant development. Of the 14 mega-projects announced by the government, how many have already started their construction work this spring or plan to? The question is pressing, and another concern is about who will carry out the construction work for these projects and whom to hire? Four years from now, the 14 mega projects are supposed to increase Mongolia's GDP to 132.3 trillion MNT, and GDP per capita to reach 10,000 USD. However, so far, these projects have not moved beyond government ministers' talks and paperwork. In theory, the 14 'M' projects are already in operation and generating returns. But reality differs from dreams. Eight months have passed since the Coalition Government started talking about the '14 M' project intended to develop the economy courageously and rapidly. To remind again, the coalition government’s 14 mega projects include: - The "Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod", "Khanga-Mandal", "Shiveekhuren-Sekhee" border crossing railway project
- The Tavantolgoi thermal power plant project
- The Erdeneburen hydropower plant project
- The Egiin Gol hydropower plant project
- Renewable energy and distributed source development project
- The "Kherlen-Toonot", "Orkhon-Ongi" water transmission pipeline project
- The "Ereentsav-Choibalsan-Bichigt" vertical railway project
- The joint Mongolia-France Uranium project
- Coal-chemicals and coke-chemical complex project
- Copper processing complex project
- Steel complex project
- Oil processing complex project
- Gold refining plant project
- National satellite project
Among these, the Erdeneburen hydropower plant project will be implemented by Chinese state-owned companies, and the Gashuunsukhait railway border connection will be handled by China Energy. Additionally, the State Great Khural approved the investment agreement with France's state-owned "Orano Mining" to extract uranium from the "Zuun Ovoo" deposit. These 14 mega-projects have stalled at the stage of paperwork, agreements, and contracts, which is a bitter truth. While Mongolians are preoccupied with paperwork, summer will come, and they will spend the six months of summer vacationing. Thus, these projects might become futile. Furthermore, Mongolians have not learned to work properly. The term "lazy Mongol" actually implies "lazy," not "talented." Therefore, firstly, it's crucial to prepare the workforce for the 14 mega projects announced by the government. Mongolians generally aren't accustomed to work; they tend to take their salaries and then disappear in a bout of drinking, which is almost an unwritten law. Educated Mongolians with higher education struggled for eight years with nose to the ground to complete the Darkhan road. For the implementation of these mega projects, a workforce is a critical factor. Last autumn session, two law proposals for recruiting external workforce-specialists were submitted, but, as D. Byambasuren noted, our dog suddenly disrupted the meeting. Meanwhile, he himself imports cheap Chinese labor. It’s just another tall tale like how narrow gauge railways from China will bring in soldiers and tanks. Did MP Kh. Battulga fear politics and not want to fail politically, or was it obvious that the "P. Sainzorig, N. Batsumberel" duo retracted their law proposal on not setting the number and percentage of foreign workers allowed in Mongolia until December 31, 2026, except for the mining and oil extraction sectors, and exempting employers from paying foreign workers’ workplace fees? Family and Labor Minister L. Enkh-Amgalan submitted a similar amendment to the Labor Mobility Act to the Speaker. However, it's unclear whether it will be discussed in the spring session or appears on the list of laws to be considered by the parliament. To turn 14 'M' projects into real developments, importing effective and productive workers from abroad might yield better results. Yet, the never-ending manipulation by Kh. Battulga towards Mongolians won’t cease, nor will Mongolians stop being misled by "Jenco."

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A Possibility to "Save" the Workforce

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

It is time to look at and focus on the care sector. Dr. B. Otgontugs, a lecturer at the Department of Economics at the National University of Mongolia, mentioned that the most pressing issue in the Mongolian economy is the shortage of human resources. This was highlighted during the 55th World Economic Forum held in Davos, Switzerland at the end of January. The second most important issue was ranked as energy. In our country, there is a shortage of human resources in every sector, and a labor shortage has emerged. Experts and specialists are now saying that care labor has as much impact on the economy as construction and mining. We all contribute to the care economy in one way or another. Raising children and taking care of parents are care jobs. However, the burden is mostly borne by women. According to studies, women spend twice as much time as men on unpaid work. The Minister of Labor and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, said, "The care economy is a relatively new concept. Mongolian women spend 3.2 times more time on unpaid care work than men. In Asia and the Pacific countries, this figure is four times." In the meantime, as of 2023, men in our country spend 1.6 times more time on paid work than women. Therefore, it is necessary to support women's employment and improve their social security. This need has been growing for a long time and has even reached an explosive level. Specifically, caregivers for the elderly and children with disabilities are living in impossible conditions to work. They either stay home "unemployed" to take care of those in need of care, or they face the harsh truth of locking them at home, entrusting them to someone, or outright neglect and working. Although they want to work, earn income, and expand their business by getting a salary for those in need, such opportunities are scarce in Mongolia. In other words, there is no workforce in our country to look after the elderly, bedridden, or people with disabilities. Out of 2.1 million working-age people in Mongolia, only 1.2 million are employed. Why aren't the rest working? Maybe they have no opportunity for paid work because they stay home caring for young children, people with disabilities, or elderly parents. The leverage to get these workforces into society is to prepare care workers. Economists and researchers indicate that this can create double jobs. However, the supply of labor has been declining in Mongolia over the past decade, according to the World Bank. In particular, the supply of female labor has decreased by six percent. We can work when we put our children in kindergartens. Kindergarten teachers and staff perform care work for pay. In addition, one can hire staff from service organizations to entrust people in need of care. Unfortunately, people are rarely found to work in this sector, and they do not work stably even with high salaries. E. Sundari, who has been caring for her grandmother with Alzheimer's for many years and continues to care for her mother and child, shared on her social media that it is challenging to find someone to do care work. She said, "When hiring someone from outside, I pay 2-2.5 million MNT a month, but I cannot find anyone to work. Some don’t keep their promises, and it’s a waste of time. I had found someone, taught them, and when they started working, they would suddenly leave and disconnect their phone. I have lived this way for many years. In Mongolia, there is no one who is willing to care for and look after elderly, sick, or people requiring care for a salary, so we need to bring in labor from outside." Upon further inquiry, she said, "I cared for my grandmother with Alzheimer's for many years. Then my mother had a stroke and became bedridden. I am currently caring for my mother and my autistic child. For the last 10 years, I have been looking for and hiring caregivers. Comprehensive care is essential for the elderly and disabled. Someone from the family must be with them to feed, medicate, and ensure safety. Nowadays, there is no society where one sacrifices for someone else. It’s not out of cruelty but because people live in small family units due to life circumstances. There is demand, but there are no professional caregivers. Mostly retired nurses are working in this sector, or people with no understanding of care are doing this work. Although the government supports caring for young children and provides opportunities for parents with disabled children to work, there is no one to replace them. There is a common perception that people with money hire nannies for their children. But even middle-income people want to hire caregivers for their children. In particular, children with disabilities need care until 18 years old and beyond. However, due to the lack of human resources in our country, people are hard to find. People without professional skills and, at least, knowledge in rehabilitation are doing paid care work. Now, even inexperienced people can't be found. In other countries, care work has developed into a profession. For example, in Japan, this sector is well developed. People study and have guaranteed jobs from a young age. However, there is a superstition in our country that taking care of a sick person deteriorates one's life. Companies bringing in workers from abroad for the service sector say they cannot "supply" many due to tax burdens." Additionally, she emphasized that the focus should be on preparing the domestic labor market for the mining and construction sectors, while for the care of the elderly and disabled, who fall under social protection, hiring workers from abroad is acceptable. Although the state grants care allowances, it's not enough to buy care services. Therefore, providing opportunities for people engaged in care work to earn a living is crucial. Also, elderly people in need of care, bedridden patients, the disabled, and children are most vulnerable to neglect and abuse. Families face stress, economic crises, or express anger on caretakers, according to statistics. The National Human Rights Commission reported that 47% of our elderly are physically abused, 65% psychologically, and 30% experience neglect. One in ten Mongolians is elderly. According to statistics, in 30 years, one in five people will be elders. From now on, focusing on the elderly and disabled issues is beneficial for everyone in the future. Specialists say that one person unpaid leads to economic harm for households and the national economy. In our country, there are over 387,000 seniors and 111,000 people with disabilities. Behind them, an equal number of people do unpaid work. Not even the opportunity to find someone to look after young children in an emergency and get down to business is available. Ads seeking people to look after children, elderly, and others spread across social media. Finding someone with love and a caring heart according to these ads is not easy. Therefore, it is imperative to create a legal environment for care services in Mongolia. Some members of the Parliament have focused on this issue and developed a draft law to improve the legal environment for care services. In addition, under Dr. B. Otgontugs's leadership, faculty members of the Department of Economics at the National University of Mongolia have initiated a research project to assess and calculate the valuation of unpaid care work. The Canadian Academy of Sciences selected Mongolia as one of three Asian countries for this project. If this sector is ignored, female employment will not increase, further affecting population growth and development negatively, according to Professor B. Otgontugs. Furthermore, he said, "If we calculate one hour of unpaid female labor at 20,000 MNT, a lot of money would emerge. In Canada, which finances our project, care labor is calculated differently by province. The lowest pay for babysitting is 30 Canadian dollars per hour. It is a highly developed and large economy country. If our country does not measure the care economy and implement sound policy, caring for the elderly will become more challenging in the future. Caregivers should receive the minimum wage monthly for caring for disabled and elderly household members. This is not only an issue for people needing care, but for all citizens." Many countries around the world have "made unpaid care work valuable." For example, Norway and Denmark spend considerable amounts on child and elder care. Caregivers in these countries are highly paid, with good working conditions. In Germany, care homes provide quality service and have a robust childcare system. In Asia, Japan's home and professional care services are highly developed. They have expanded care services using robots and technology. These countries have "saved" their workforce by developing the care economy through state policy.

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E. Battulga: Mongolia Will Upgrade Technology to Detect Disasters

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring organized a scientific conference entitled "Let's Solve the Challenges in Glacier and Icecap Preservation and Early Warning Systems Together" in observance of "World Water Day" and "Weather Day." This year, "World Water Day" is celebrated under the theme "Preservation and Protection of Glaciers and Icecaps." Meanwhile, "World Weather Day" is marked under the theme of "Let's Solve the Challenges in the Early Warning Systems Together." The aim of this theme is to scientifically and using modern technology protect the quickly melting glaciers and icecaps due to the effects of climate change, and to overcome the obstacles in early warnings of increasingly frequent and intense meteorological disasters, ensuring timely warnings reach everyone. On this matter, the head of the Meteorological and Environmental Research Agency, E. Battulga, stated, "Global climate change is accelerating. 2024 was the warmest year on record globally. Consequently, the frequency and number of disasters increased. To prevent disasters, information must be delivered to citizens promptly. For Mongolia, there will be a major technological upgrade to detect incoming disasters. Starting this year, the latest computers will be used in meteorological activities. Additionally, information previously delivered through e-Mongolia and banking applications will now be directly communicated to local users in cooperation with the company 'Ddesh.' This marks a significant advancement in early warning systems." During this scientific conference, experts presented three main reports. Particularly notable was the discussion on the rapid melting of permanent ice fields and glaciers in recent years. The rapid melting of the permanent ice fields and glaciers is causing water shortages, pasture degradation, and accelerating desertification, impacting agriculture, animal husbandry, and the lives of people in the western regions. Therefore, plans have been made to study the causes of glacier melting, determine responsible actions, create conditions for warning and protection, collect surface water from 42 ponds, and build artificial lakes in the western region. Researchers emphasized the importance of improving ground and satellite observation, monitoring, analysis, and predictive modeling during the conference. In this direction, the Meteorological Agency plans to install a new supercomputer with the UN Development Program's ADAPT project. The introduction of the new supercomputer system will increase the lead time for disaster forecasts, improve spatial accuracy, and increase the quality and availability of socio-economic services. As a note, by 2024, 108 countries have developed specific capacities for early warning systems against various types of disasters, doubling since 2015.

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Chairman of the Industry and Innovation Policy Standing Committee S. Ganbaatar exchanged views with Korean Development Institute researchers

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: montsame.mn

On March 21, 2025, in Ulaanbaatar, Chairman of the Industry and Innovation Policy Standing Committee of the State Great Hural (Parliament) of Mongolia, S. Ganbaatar, met with the senior advisor of the Korea Development Institute (KDI), Han Hong, and researchers of the Knowledge Sharing Program (KSP) on March 20. Within the framework of this program, the Korea Development Institute is collaborating with the Ministry of Industry and Mining to implement a research project for developing a policy document for the development of heavy industry in Mongolia. Previously, a study titled "Strategy for Developing Manufacturing and Technology Parks in Mongolia - Focus on Heavy Industry" was conducted between 2022 and 2023, and policy recommendations were formulated. These recommendations were considered in the drafting of the "Regional Development Concept of Mongolia" approved by the State Great Hural in 2024. Standing committee chairman S. Ganbaatar highlighted the vital support of the Korean people in helping Mongolian citizens secure employment and improve their living conditions as the country navigates through challenging times, expressing gratitude for their assistance. He noted that while there is a strong need for Mongolian business owners and industrial entrepreneurs to study methodologies and enter foreign markets, it is essential to devise solutions and prepare human resources by learning from Korean management, technology, and know-how. He suggested that with solutions in place, it would be less challenging to attract investment and financing. Additionally, he pointed out the importance of jointly working towards learning from Korea's experience in implementing digital systems for public procurement and tenders. He stressed that enhancing the results of bilateral cooperation and increasing the benefits of projects and programs requires mutual attention and cooperation, engaging in open and honest discussions with researchers. Senior advisor Han Hong of the Korea Development Institute introduced the activities of the institute and the Knowledge Sharing Program, providing updates that the report for the research project to develop a policy document for the development of heavy industry in Mongolia is planned to be released in September this year. Beyond the projects executed through KDI, he stated his commitment to reviewing the outcomes and lessons from all past Mongolian-Korean cooperation projects and programs to make future collaborations more fruitful. The meeting was attended by S. Sukhbat, head of the Industrial Policy Department of the Ministry of Industry and Mining, as well as project managers Song Yong Kwang, Ha Jin Hyuk, Na Do Seong, and other officials from the Korea Development Institute.

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Health

Minister S. Byambatsogt's Team Tested Positive for Tropical Infectious Disease and Were Isolated after Visiting South Sudan

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Minister of Defense S. Byambatsogt recently returned from an official visit to the Republic of South Sudan. It has been reported that members of the delegation accompanying Minister S. Byambatsogt were diagnosed with a tropical infectious disease and are receiving treatment at the National Center for Communicable Diseases. As a result, the delegates who traveled to the country have been isolated. However, Minister S. Byambatsogt himself has not been isolated and participated in the parliament's plenary session on Monday. Director Ankhbayar of the NCCD commented when asked about this matter, "I have no information about this. I am currently on duty in Zavkhan province." Sources have indicated that information regarding this issue is being kept highly confidential.

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Unvaccinated individuals at high risk for measles

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: news.mn

The National Center for Infectious Diseases provided routine information regarding respiratory infectious diseases. N. Suvdmaa, head of the department of NCID, said: As of today, 66 cases of measles have been confirmed nationwide. Among these, five cases are imported, and the rest are domestic infections. Of the total cases, 23 patients have recovered and been discharged from the hospital. There are contacts of five initial cases whose incubation periods have ended, meaning they are no longer under full surveillance. Looking at the first imported and confirmed case, there has been an increase in the spread from March 14 onwards. This is because the incubation period of the disease is 14-21 days. Considering the days of the Tsagaan Sar celebrations, the spread of the disease increased after the incubation period ended. Most cases have been registered in Ulaanbaatar. From Bulgan province, two suspected cases have been tested, and one was confirmed. Also, in Dundgovi and Umnugovi provinces, the disease has been confirmed. It is important to note that individuals who have come into contact with a confirmed case, have never contracted measles before, and have not been vaccinated are all at risk of contracting the disease.

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Emergency Trauma Care to Be Provided at Mongolian-Japanese Hospital

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Emergency trauma care will be provided at the Mongolian-Japanese Hospital, which is affiliated with the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, on a 24-hour basis, regardless of affiliation. The hospital has agreed to work in collaboration with the National Trauma and Orthopedic Research Center (NTORC) in specialized fields. Specifically, Director E. Galbadrakh of NTORC and Director M. Adilsaykhan of the Mongolian-Japanese Hospital signed a cooperative agreement. With the start of emergency trauma care at the Mongolian-Japanese Hospital, it is expected to reduce the burden and congestion of the national referral-level hospital, while improving the quality and accessibility of services. To note, the emergency department of NTORC serves about 500 people daily. On the 18th of this month alone, 505 people were served, out of which 215 were children.

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Performing the 400th Kidney Transplant Surgery

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar. Our country is about to perform its 400th kidney transplant surgery since starting successfully. The first kidney transplant surgery was performed unsuccessfully in 1996, but after a decade of preparing equipment, manpower, and laboratories, successful surgeries have been performed steadily from 2006 until now. The kidney transplant team performed surgeries on two patients each year from 2008 to 2018, 11 patients in 2019, 6 in 2020, 8 in 2021, 4 in 2022, 4 in 2023, and 10 in 2024 using organs from brain-dead donors. In our center, 318 patients have undergone kidney transplants in Mongolia, and 184 patients abroad, who are currently under medical supervision and receiving free medication. The State First Central Hospital plans to perform kidney transplant surgeries on 60 patients this year. In the past, out of approximately 400 kidney transplant recipients, 57 received organs from brain-dead donors, while there are currently 700 people waiting for organs from deceased donors for surgeries. By the end of last year, 262 people in Mongolia were on kidney replacement therapy machines, and 2988 patients were undergoing hemodialysis treatment. Of those undergoing hemodialysis, there are 49 children aged 0-19, 832 people aged 20-44, 1481 people aged 45-64, 457 people aged 65-74, and 169 people over 74 years old living dependent on dialysis machines. Unfortunately, in 2024, the number of people newly entering end-stage chronic kidney failure and on dialysis machines increased by 607 within the year. Last year, 167 people diagnosed with this condition died and were deregistered from the treatment, while 50 people received a kidney transplant surgery and were discharged from treatment. Currently, the ward can accommodate patients on 3 beds, which means they are able to perform surgeries on 6 patients per month, according to the leader of the national kidney transplant team, M. Erdenesaihan.

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N. Suvdmaa: Most of the confirmed cases of measles are either unvaccinated or have only received one dose

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The National Center for Communicable Diseases held a briefing on the response measures against measles and information on World Tuberculosis Day. N. Suvdmaa, head of a unit at the center, stated, "Regarding the situation of measles, there were 62 cases yesterday, with four new cases confirmed. Two were in Ulaanbaatar, and two were in Dundgovi province. Nationwide, there are a total of 66 cases, of which five were imported, and the rest are local infections. Out of these, 23 cases have recovered. Looking at the measles situation, there's been an increase in reported cases since March 14. The disease remains latent for 14-21 days. Due to increased movement of people related to the Lunar New Year celebrations, the number of infections increased after 14 days. Most of the infections have been confirmed in Ulaanbaatar. In addition, cases have been confirmed in Dundgovi, Umnogovi, and Bulgan provinces. When examining the cases by age and gender, they are generally equal by gender, but most cases occur among those aged 10-14. Focusing on the clusters, it's noticeable that there are cases in 12 schools in the capital and in schools in Dundgovi and Umnogovi provinces. The majority of these children have not been vaccinated or have received only one dose of the vaccine. Therefore, vaccination is being encouraged. In Tuv province, a suspected case was reported but later ruled out. Being a respiratory disease, response measures are promptly implemented whenever a suspected case is reported," she said. Notice to the media When using our information, in whole or in part, the media outlets (Television, Radio, Social media, and Web pages) must credit the source (ikon.mn).

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Surgery services provided to 3,121 people, 120 of whom are from other provinces

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The operational report of the Province's Regional Diagnostic and Treatment Center for 2024 was discussed at the Governor's council meeting. The hospital has four clinics, 34 departments and units, employing 119 general practitioners, 201 primary and auxiliary nurses, 19 midwives, 27 medical professionals, 7 pharmacists, and 108 other staff. The RDTC focuses on providing specialized regional services and introducing new trauma and surgical treatments. Last year, angiographic services were provided to 413 people, endoscopic surgeries to 454 individuals, head and neck tumor surgeries to 136, and trauma services to 470. Additionally, procedures such as thyroid biopsy, soft lens implantation surgery, cervical PCR tests, abdominal surgery, EEG for children, and neonatal screening have been introduced. In 2024, emergency services were provided to 958 people at the regional level, and 4,100 individuals participated in early detection screenings. A total of 212,307 people visited outpatient clinics, 12,706 were hospitalized, and 3,121 received surgical services, out of which 120 were from other provinces. A survey among residents and clients indicated that most people book outpatient appointments by phone, the availability of hand sanitizers is inadequate, and the average waiting time to see an outpatient doctor is 30-60 minutes. The focus will be on increasing the number of specialized services and types of care in alignment with the policy to reduce congestion.

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Sports

"Selenge Bodons" team to be sponsored by China's Sinotruk for two billion tugriks

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: isee.mn

The "Selenge Bodons" team, which has qualified to compete in the semi-finals of the Mongolian National Basketball League, will be sponsored by China's heavy machinery and equipment manufacturer "Sinotruk" for two billion tugriks over the next two years. The owner of the "Selenge Bodons" team, L. Naranbaatar, and representatives of the company signed the agreement yesterday. They plan to promote the "Howo" brand electrical equipment in the Mongolian market, while also aiming to ensure the sustainable operation of the "Selenge Bodons" club. Furthermore, the parties aim to work towards developing the sport of basketball in Mongolia and producing athletes and coaches who can compete internationally in a phased manner.

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The Draft Law on Sports, Betting Games, and Lotteries to be Discussed Next Week by Standing Committee

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: isee.mn

Members of Parliament P. Sainzorig and N. Altanshagai have completed the drafting of the "Horse Racing Betting Law" and the "Betting Games and Lottery Law." Subsequently, the laws are slated for discussion by the Standing Committee of the Parliament next week, according to P. Sainzorig, a member of Parliament and head of the working group for the bill. The drafters of the law cited their reasons for proposing these laws stating that "286,000 tourists visited in 2022, and 651,000 tourists in 2023. Approximately 70% of tourists coming to Mongolia arrive during the second and third quarters, between April and September. Notably, the number of tourists visiting Mongolia in July increases comparatively, with around 100,000 tourists attending festivals, with most visiting Ulaanbaatar and the provinces to watch the celebrations. Additionally, approximately 10,000 tourists order tickets to watch the Naadam opening every year. From this data, it's evident that the majority of tourists visiting Mongolia are drawn to witness Mongolia's cultural heritage through events like the national wrestling matches, traditional horse races, and archery, which are part of the Naadam festival. Conversely, Mongolia's extreme weather and the underdeveloped winter tourism affect the number of tourists arriving during the winter. Additionally, despite setting a maximum height standard for racehorses, there are ongoing disputes regarding its enforcement during the National Naadam and "Ikh Khurd" races, as well as during regional provincial races. Therefore, to implement the objectives outlined in the said policy document and to preserve cultural and historical traditions without violating the rights of child jockeys, there is a need to attract tourists through culture and tradition. Furthermore, there's a necessity to provide opportunities for horse owners and trainers to race their horses in any season, and to enable horses that cannot participate in the National Naadam to compete elsewhere, as well as to establish an international standard horse-track and thus create a legal framework for organizing betting horse races. The draft law's seventh chapter, section 20.1, states "An operator of sports, betting games, or lotteries may maintain a list of individuals prohibited from participating in sports, betting, and lotteries. If requested by the participant or their family member to support responsible play, they may be included in the exclusion list." Section 20.2 adds, "To prevent the negative impact of sports betting and lotteries, a participant's family member may file a legal request with the court to limit the participant's civil legal capacity if they are addicted." Such regulations are included in the draft law being discussed by the session of the Parliament's Standing Committee and submitted for the regular spring session.

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Arts

Collaborating with the USA and Japan to Study Rock Burial Discovered in Shinejinst District

Published: 2025-03-21 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

A team of researchers and archaeologists from the Department of History, Culture, and Tourism at the School of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mongolian University of Science and Technology, has conducted rescue excavation and research of a rock burial in Bulgan Province’s Shinejinst District in the spring of 2023. The information about this find was initially provided by local residents, and archaeologists Y. Boldbaatar, S. Bat-Erdene, and their research team conducted excavations on site with participation from the management and scientific staff of the Bulgan Local History Museum. The restoration of the mummified rock burial uncovered there is currently being managed by the National Center for Cultural Heritage, while osteometry analysis is being conducted by the archaeology and anthropology specialists at the National University of Mongolia, and research on clothing and fabric materials is being performed by researchers from the Mongolian University of Life Sciences. Meanwhile, paint analysis is being conducted in Japan, and the chronological research is being carried out in the United States. Some results of these studies are already becoming clear, as noted by the researchers. Professor Takashi Gakuhari and Hisashi Fujita from the Institute of Cultural Heritage Studies at Kanazawa University, Japan, along with Dr. R. Odongoo, recently inspected the find and agreed to conduct DNA and other genetic analyses.

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Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Sports

Arts

Politics

Enshrining the Right to Protect Sources in Law is Crucial for Exposing Corruption

Official Visit and Position: Speaker of the British House of Commons Highly Values Mongolian Parliamentary Democracy

"Prohibition on Selling Property at a Discount" Law by Kh. Nyambaatar to be Discussed by Constitutional Court on April 1

Criminal Liability for Organ Removal Without Legal Consent

Z. Sanjdorj and others accused of treason to be tried

The Process to Dissolve the US Department of Education Has Begun

Economy

Mongolia Reaches Agreement on Temporary Free Trade Agreement with EAEU

Next year's economic growth will also be five percent

KHAN Bank to Provide Concessional Loans to Support Sustainable Agriculture

"Badrakh Energy" Company Awarded as Best Investor

Tugrik Deposits Increase, Foreign Currency Deposits Decrease

No Distribution of 'Erdenes Tavantolgoi' Shares to Citizens Born After January 1, 2024

O.Tserendondog: Steel Production Declines as Coal Demand Falls

Meat, Cement, and Flour Production Decreased by 10-30% in January-February Compared to the Same Period Last Year

Announcement of Regular Meeting of Shareholders of XacBank JSC

Although the Volume of Coal Traded Has Increased, Revenue Has Dropped Threefold

Diplomacy

Foreign Press: Remaining Issues of Mongolia's Accession to the Eurasian Economic Union Resolved

Fourth Meeting of the Mongolia-Italy Intergovernmental Mixed Commission on Economic and Technical Cooperation Held

A. Tsydenov: We will be pleased to collaborate with Ulaanbaatar

Macron Says Peacekeepers May Be Sent to Ukraine if Peace Deal is Reached with Russia

Response from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding South Korean visa application issues

Political Consultative Meeting Between Mongolian and Italian Ministries of Foreign Affairs Held

Infrastructure

The President visited the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine

Aleksey Tsydenov: Ready to Establish Russia-Mongolia-China Trilateral Transport Corridor

Will the City Council Change its Decision to Triple Vehicle Taxes?

Feasibility Study for Park Garden Ropeway Transport Being Developed

Power Outage Households and Businesses During Power Line Maintenance Today

Society

Last year, South Korea sent the most tourists with 180,000 visitors

Environment

U.Khurelsukh: It's Time to Implement the 'Blue Gold' Program to Preserve and Protect Our Water

21 Wildfires Have Occurred Since the Beginning of the Year

NEMA: Mobile Patrols to Prevent Wildfires

Khurelsukh: "Blue Gold" Program to be Implemented in the Water Sector

Implementing the "One Lake, One District-333 Lakes" Initiative

Innovation

D. Sündi: Mongolia Needs a National Strategy to Establish an AI Ecosystem and a Law on Data

Question: Is there a workforce for the 14 'M' project?!

A Possibility to "Save" the Workforce

E. Battulga: Mongolia Will Upgrade Technology to Detect Disasters

Chairman of the Industry and Innovation Policy Standing Committee S. Ganbaatar exchanged views with Korean Development Institute researchers

Health

Minister S. Byambatsogt's Team Tested Positive for Tropical Infectious Disease and Were Isolated after Visiting South Sudan

Unvaccinated individuals at high risk for measles

Emergency Trauma Care to Be Provided at Mongolian-Japanese Hospital

Performing the 400th Kidney Transplant Surgery

N. Suvdmaa: Most of the confirmed cases of measles are either unvaccinated or have only received one dose

Surgery services provided to 3,121 people, 120 of whom are from other provinces

Sports

"Selenge Bodons" team to be sponsored by China's Sinotruk for two billion tugriks

The Draft Law on Sports, Betting Games, and Lotteries to be Discussed Next Week by Standing Committee

Arts

Collaborating with the USA and Japan to Study Rock Burial Discovered in Shinejinst District

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