Mongolia News Summary for November 18, 2024
The following news articles are the opinions of their authors and publications. They are presented here as translations for informational purposes and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Mongolia Strategy Center or its members.
Today's Stories
Politics
- Complaints About Dismissal and Pressure on Civil Servants After Local Elections
- The National Human Rights Commission Addresses Officials with Appointment and Dismissal Authority
- Minister Ts.Baatarkhuu to Work at 11-11 Center Next Tuesday
- SELENGE: The new assembly of Citizen's Representatives in Sukhbaatar sum is participating in a training
Economy
- The average exchange rate of the tögrög against the US dollar is 3392 tögrögs
- Mortgage loans increase by 1.8 trillion MNT compared to 2023
- The average price per square meter of residential apartments is 3.3 million MNT
- Outstanding debt of non-performing loans decreased by 122.6 billion MNT from 2023
- State Bank Selected as a Top State-Owned Enterprise
Diplomacy
- Japan's Foreign Minister Visits Kyiv to Discuss North Korea Military Issue
- Visit #1, U.Khurelsukh: Did Our Ancestors Bother You?
Infrastructure
- Fire at Booroljuut Power Plant Delays Electricity Supply to Central Energy System
- Tuul Highway to be completed in 24-30 months
- K. Nyambaatar: Construction of Metro Stations and Transportation Infrastructure Will Take 160-200 Days
- The Tender for the Tuul Highway to Be Announced by December
- Plan to Reduce Traffic Congestion by Completing the Tuul Highway in Three Years
Society
- Dundgovi: 'Issues - Solutions' Open Discussion Held
- Opening of the "Sharavyn Choimaa Fund" to Take Place Next Wednesday
Sports
- 1xBet MESA Asia Series: How the Betting Company Supports eSports
- Mongolian Dota2 Team with Coach 'Cadis' Competes in 'IESF World Esports Championship 2024'
- The Mongolian Team Places 5th-8th at the CS2 World Championship
- UEFA to Investigate the Interruption of the Romania-Kosovo Match
Arts
Politics
Complaints About Dismissal and Pressure on Civil Servants After Local Elections
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Complaints about the dismissal and pressure on civil servants based on the results of local elections have been filed with the National Human Rights Commission. In response, the Commission issued a statement. The statement says: Complaints and information about the discrimination, dismissal, pressure, and coercion of genuine state civil servants based on their political beliefs following the results of the 2024 regular elections of the Provincial, Capital, Soum, and District Citizen Representatives' Khurals are being received by the National Human Rights Commission. In connection with these complaints and reports, we are warning the chairs of the Provincial, Capital, Soum, and District Citizen Representatives' Khurals, governors, and officials with the authority to appoint and dismiss in all levels of government. The fundamental principle of human rights, as affirmed by Article 14, Section 2 of the Constitution of Mongolia and Article 26 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, is not to discriminate against individuals based on social origin, status, or opinion. This principle is codified in Article 31.4 of the Law on Civil Service, which states, "The right to hold a genuine state civil service position meeting the requirements for that position shall not be discriminated against on the grounds of nationality, ethnicity, skin color, age, gender, social origin, status, wealth, occupation, position, religion, belief, political or other new affiliations." In addition, the right to hold public office on an equal basis, to not be discriminated against in labor relations, and to have protection against unemployment are guaranteed by Article 25(c) and Article 7 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Restricting the right to practice a genuine state civil service position based on opinion or membership in political parties or other public organizations is a human rights violation. Such actions undermine the professionalism, continuity, and productivity of the civil service, making it unstable, and ultimately leading to the erosion of democracy and hindering national development. We urge strict adherence to the fundamental principles of "democracy, justice, freedom, equality, national unity, and the rule of law," as enshrined in the second section of Article 1 of the Constitution of Mongolia, and warn against making decisions that violate human rights. In accordance with the provisions of Article 66.1.3 and Article 66.1.4 of the Law on Civil Service, which outline the powers and responsibilities of the Civil Service Council, and through complaints and reports from citizens, organizations, and employees, audits will be conducted on the selection and appointment of genuine state civil servants, with requirements to rectify identified violations and annul decisions that violate laws. The implementation of the right not to be discriminated against as a civil servant based on opinion or political party affiliation will be monitored under Articles 7 of the National Human Rights Commission Law, regarding policy and system oversight.
The National Human Rights Commission Addresses Officials with Appointment and Dismissal Authority
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: isee.mn
Based on the results of the 2024 regular elections of the Citizens' Representatives Khural across provinces, the capital, soums, and districts, complaints and information about political discrimination, dismissal, harassment, and pressure against civil servants are being increasingly reported to the National Human Rights Commission. In response to these complaints and information, the Human Rights Commission issues the following warning to heads of the Citizens' Representatives Khural, governors, and officials with the authority to appoint and dismiss at all levels of state institutions. The statement emphasizes that non-discrimination based on social origin, position, or political views is a fundamental human right enshrined in Article 14.2 of the Constitution of Mongolia and Article 26 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. This principle is legally defined in Article 31.4 of the Law on Civil Service, which states: "The opportunity to pursue a civil service career should not be restricted on the grounds of nationality, race, color, age, gender, social origin, wealth, occupation, position, religion, opinions, or affiliation with a political party or other public organizations." Additionally, the right to hold public office on an equal basis and not be discriminated against in labor relations, along with the right to protection against unemployment, is guaranteed by Article 25(c) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and Article 7 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. Discriminatory treatment based on opinions or party affiliation restricting the right to hold civil service positions constitutes a human rights violation. Such actions undermine the professionalism, continuity, and productivity of the civil service, resulting in its instability and potentially damaging democratic governance and national development. The Commission reiterates the fundamental principles codified in Article 1.2 of the Constitution of Mongolia, emphasizing adherence to democratic and just governance, liberty, equality, national unity, and rule of law. It warns against making decisions that violate human rights. Following complaints and reports from individuals, organizations, and officials, the State Service Council is responsible for auditing public servant recruitment and appointment processes to rectify any violations, invalidate unlawful decisions, and ensure merit-based principles as per Articles 66.1.3 and 66.1.4 of the Law on Civil Service. The implementation of non-discriminatory rights for civil servants, regardless of political party affiliation, will be monitored under Article 7 of the National Human Rights Commission Law.
Minister Ts.Baatarkhuu to Work at 11-11 Center Next Tuesday
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: isee.mn
The Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications, Ts.Baatarkhuu, will be working at the Government's center for communication with citizens and the public next Tuesday. Therefore, citizens and the public are encouraged to send their feedback, requests, and complaints related to e-government services and digital transformation to the 11-11 center, as invited by the Government's Citizens and Public Communication Center.
SELENGE: The new assembly of Citizen's Representatives in Sukhbaatar sum is participating in a training
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: montsame.mn
A training session was organized to provide knowledge and information to the new assembly of Citizen's Representatives in Sukhbaatar sum, the center of Selenge province. In this training session, D. Gantulga, Secretary of the Citizen's Representatives Khural (Council) in Sukhbaatar sum, provided information about the organizational structure of the Citizen's Representatives Khural, the Council, and Policy Committees, as well as laws, rules, regulations, and ethics guidelines that govern the activities of the Citizen's Representatives Khural, including the procedures of meetings. Information was also provided by the Land Relations, Construction and Urban Development Authority about the organization's strategic plan, land planning, and infrastructure urban planning. Additionally, the Provincial Tax Authority presented on the implementation of the Tax Law and local revenue generation. Furthermore, T. Odsuren, Head of Financial Control and Internal Audit, explained about the Budget Law and local government budgets. E. Enkhnamar, a senior specialist in the direction of the provincial Police Department, shared information on crime prevention activities. Each of these topics was covered in the training session.
Economy
The average exchange rate of the tögrög against the US dollar is 3392 tögrögs
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The average monthly exchange rate of the tögrög against the US dollar, announced by the Bank of Mongolia, was 3392.02 tögrögs in October 2024. This is 60.5 tögrögs stronger compared to 2023 and 11.1 tögrögs weaker than in September. The average monthly exchange rate of the tögrög against the euro was 3698.49 tögrögs in October. This is 52.1 tögrögs weaker than in 2023, but 55.3 tögrögs stronger than in September. The average monthly exchange rate of the tögrög against the ruble was 35.22 tögrögs in October. This is 0.4 tögrögs and 1.8 tögrögs stronger compared to 2023 and September, respectively. The average monthly exchange rate of the tögrög against the yuan was 478.55 tögrögs in October. This is 6.2 tögrögs weaker compared to 2023 and 0.9 tögrögs weaker than in September.
Mortgage loans increase by 1.8 trillion MNT compared to 2023
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The balance of mortgage loans issued to citizens by the Mongolian Mortgage Corporation and commercial banks reached 9 trillion MNT by the end of September 2024. This is an increase of 1.8 trillion MNT compared to 2023. Of the mortgage loan balance, 8.8 trillion MNT (97.7%) is performing loans, 120.6 billion MNT (1.3%) are loans requiring attention, and 87 billion MNT (1.0%) are non-performing loans.
The average price per square meter of residential apartments is 3.3 million MNT
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: montsame.mn
According to reports from 301 real estate brokerage organizations licensed by the Financial Regulatory Commission, the average price per square meter of residential apartments is 3.3 million MNT, while the average price for luxury apartments is 6.3 million MNT. The real estate brokerage organizations have submitted their Q3 2024 reports. Each organization employs an average of 1 broker and 4 agents. The number of brokers has decreased by 14 compared to the same period in 2023, while the number of agents has increased to 1,301. These organizations collectively possess total assets worth 212.5 billion MNT, of which 175.0 billion MNT (82.3%) are current assets, and 37.5 billion MNT (17.7%) are non-current assets. In terms of sources of funding, 164.5 billion MNT (77.4%) are liabilities, while 48 billion MNT (22.6%) are shareholders' equity. The assets of these organizations are concentrated, with 77.8% held by 15 companies and 94.7% by 60 companies. In the market, 97.6% of the assets belong to 109 organizations with assets over 90 million MNT, while 22 organizations with assets between 60 and 90 million MNT account for 0.8%, and 170 organizations with assets up to 60 million MNT make up 1.6%. The capital from 450 shareholders in licensed real estate brokerage organizations has reached 6.9 billion MNT. Shareholder composition consists of 93.5% individuals, 3.6% legal entities, and 2.9% joint ownership of individuals and legal entities. Regarding performance, 89 organizations made 15.6 billion MNT in profit, 120 organizations made 29.4 billion MNT, and 92 organizations neither made profit nor loss. In Ulaanbaatar, the distribution of licensed organizations is as follows: 32% are located in Sukhbaatar district, 26.6% in Khan-Uul district, 18.9% in Bayanzurkh district, 10.4% in Bayangol district, 10.8% in Chingeltei district, and 1.3% in Songinokhairkhan district. In rural areas, there are 4 organizations, which account for 1.3%. The report from the Financial Regulatory Commission also notes that 90.1% of the transactions were for residential properties, 6.5% were for land, and 0.2% were for industrial real estate. In terms of floor space sold, 51.6% of transactions were for land, 44.6% were for residential properties, and 0.7% were for industrial real estate. In terms of the total transaction value of sold real estate, 88.8% were residential, 2% was land, and 1% was industrial. The breakdown of sold properties by size is as follows: properties under 50 sq.m accounted for 22.4%, properties between 51-100 sq.m accounted for 49.6%, properties between 101-200 sq.m accounted for 18.2%, and properties over 201 sq.m accounted for 9.8%. For real estate leased and rented through brokerage, properties under 50 sq.m represented 21.4%, properties between 51-100 sq.m represented 38.7%, properties between 101-200 sq.m accounted for 22.0%, and properties over 201 sq.m accounted for 17.9%. From the beginning of this year, 8,955 transactions have transferred 1,303.5 thousand sq.m of real estate worth 2,003.8 billion MNT through mediation. The number of licensed real estate brokerages has decreased by 13 compared to the same period in 2023.
Outstanding debt of non-performing loans decreased by 122.6 billion MNT from 2023
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The total outstanding debt of loans provided to businesses, organizations, and individuals amounted to 35.4 trillion MNT by the end of October 2024. This figure exceeds that of the same period in 2023 by 9.1 trillion MNT. In terms of the composition of the outstanding loan debt: 60.4% belongs to individuals, 37.7% to private organizations, 0.8% to government organizations, and 1.1% to financial institutions. Normal loans account for 90.5% of the total outstanding loan debt. The outstanding debt of this type of loan reached 32.1 trillion MNT, which is an increase of 9.3 trillion MNT compared to 2023. The outstanding debt of loans under close scrutiny amounts to 1.3 trillion MNT, a decrease of 100.7 billion MNT from 2023. The outstanding debt of non-performing loans stands at 2.1 trillion MNT, which has decreased by 122.6 billion MNT compared to 2023.
State Bank Selected as a Top State-Owned Enterprise
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: itoim.mn
The State Bank, a supporter of green development, has been selected as a top state-owned enterprise on the eve of its 15th anniversary. The Government of Mongolia and the Mongolian Chamber of Commerce and Industry have jointly been selecting the best domestic companies for the past 24 years, and the State Bank has ranked fourth among the top state-owned companies. For 10 consecutive years, the bank has received the top enterprise award, leading others in contributions to the development and prosperity of the country, job creation, tax contributions to the state budget, and profitability. The State Bank, with over 500 branches nationwide, provides banking services to 2 million customers reliably and securely. In 2023, it reached a total asset amount of 5,368.3 trillion tögrög, meeting the prudential ratio requirements set by the Bank of Mongolia, including capital adequacy and liquidity indicators, while operating at a profit of 94.8 billion tögrög. Moreover, in anticipation of its 15th anniversary, the State Bank has started working with the goal of leading and pioneering sustainable development as a bank that supports green development. We express our gratitude to our valued customers, partner organizations, and shareholders for their trust. Confident Green Future
Diplomacy
Japan's Foreign Minister Visits Kyiv to Discuss North Korea Military Issue
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya visited Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, on Saturday without prior announcement. Arriving by train from Poland on Saturday morning, Minister Iwaya met with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha and declared, "Japan will continue its cooperation to implement Ukraine's efforts for a just and lasting peace." The two ministers also condemned North Korea's decision to send troops to Russia's western frontier, directly involving itself in the aggression. During this visit, both countries announced the signing of an agreement to exchange intelligence in the defense sector. This agreement appears to focus on sharing intelligence related to Russia-North Korea cooperation. According to intelligence agencies from the United States, South Korea, and Ukraine, about 12,000 North Korean troops are currently in Russia. Last week, Ukrainian troops reportedly engaged in a minor skirmish with North Korean soldiers in Russia's Kursk region, according to sources from Kyiv. Iwaya also met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reaffirming Japan's steadfast support for Ukraine's fight against Russian aggression. In January this year, Japan's former Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa also visited Kyiv. Iwaya, who took office last month as Japan's new foreign minister, is visiting Ukraine on his first foreign trip after attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Summit in Peru. Japan's previous Prime Minister Fumio Kishida had visited Kyiv in March last year. Source: Reuters Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must always cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, whether in whole or in part.
Visit #1, U.Khurelsukh: Did Our Ancestors Bother You?
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The President of Mongolia, U.Khurelsukh, visited Baku, Azerbaijan. This visit is related to COP29, the annual conference of world leaders on climate change issues. The President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, who is chairing this year's conference, also invited Mongolia’s president for an official visit. On November 11, they had a meeting to exchange views. - AZERBAIJAN DEPENDS HEAVILY ON MEAT IMPORTS - U.Khurelsukh stated, "Our country, with its 80 million livestock, can work mutually beneficially with Azerbaijan in the food and agriculture sectors." Ilham Aliyev responded, "We facilitate transit trade of goods from Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and China to the European Union and other countries through the Caspian Sea and our territory. We also invest and cooperate in the trade and economy of these countries. We can not only purchase your goods and products but also manage transit through the ports around the Caspian Sea." At the end of the discussions, Azerbaijan expressed a desire to visit Mongolia in the near future. Following the meeting, the director of the National Museum of History of Azerbaijan, Naile Vilakhli, invited the President of Mongolia and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, B.Battsetseg, to the museum for a discussion. It is common worldwide for a country to host the president of another state by inviting them to the national history museum, to showcase the power and scope of their history and culture. This event was similar, but for these two countries, it led to an "intimate discussion" based on their historical ties. Historically, Genghis Khan conducted four great conquests, one of which was the conquest of the Khwarezmian Empire. Khwarezm Shah, or Muhammad II, was an important figure at the crossroads of commerce from the West to the East, and from Russia to India. During the visit, the President viewed relics related to the Mongols at the museum, which included various artifacts including coins. As suggested by Western thought, when Genghis Khan offered peaceful trade with gifts, his envoy was killed. The Great Khan sent another envoy, only to repeat the same fate. Thus, in 1219, Genghis Khan began his campaign against Khwarezm, laying the foundations for the Ilkhanate until 1224. Genghis Khan's grandson Hülegü founded the Ilkhanate, one of the four khanates within the Mongol Empire. One administrative division of this khanate was Azerbaijan. NAILA VILAKHLI: WELCOME TO YOUR HOMELAND, MR. PRESIDENT. U.KHURELSUKH: DID OUR ANCESTORS BOTHER YOU? Following this exchange, the President's advisors joked among themselves, "If we had still owned this place, the world would call us 'Great Mongols.'" These exchanges naturally led to thoughts of, "If only we had maintained our unity," contemplating Western expansion. The Ilkhanate’s history lasted 76 years starting from 1256, with 9 total khan lineages occupying the throne until dissolution. Hülegü Khan (1256-1265, son of Tolui, youngest son born from Genghis Khan’s empress, Börte) Abkha Khan (1265-1282, son of Hülegü Khan) Ahmed Teküder (1282-1284, son of Hülegü Khan) Argun (1284-1291, son of Abkha Khan) Gaykhatu (3/1291-10/1295, son of Abkha Khan) Baydu (4-10, 1295, grandson of Hulagu) Mahmud Ghazan (1295-1304, son of Argun Khan) Oljeitu (1304-1316, son of Argun Khan) Abu Sa'id Bahadur (1316-1335, son of Oljeitu Khan) During this time, the Mongol Empire's other khanates, including the Chagatai Khanate in Central Asia and the Kipchak Khanate across Russia, were hostile. Furthermore, during Hülegü’s time, the Ilkhanate directly fought Mongols from Russian steppes in the Caucasus. When Abu Sa'id Khan died in 1335, the Ilkhanate fragmented. A sentiment stating, "We are nations with sibling bonds" reverberated throughout the museum visit. The President viewed relics of the Mongol Empire, signing the guest book, and then moved to Icherisheher Juma Mosque in Old Baku. Inscriptions on the mosque’s wall contain Ilkhan Oljeitu's decrees, which some link to current Azerbaijani development, according to the mayor of Old Baku. Inscription translations include: "I bow to the greatest, the truest supreme of you. Islamic padishah, the master of the four continents, leader of leaders may your reign be eternal. The greatest leader of nations, the great king, Arab and Ajam sovereign, Oljeitu Sultan Khudabande - may Allah make his rule everlasting. Based on the conqueror’s edicts, it was banned to levy gavel, oil, or tariffs upon provincial and city people. The Baku government declared anyone violating it shall be cursed until world's end." This is a decree prohibiting tax collection from Baku by Ilkhan Oljeitu. Regarding Oljeitu, noted for his deep diplomatic sensibility, scholar accounts emphasize his contributions to foreign relations before the Ilkhanate's collapse. An example is his 1305 letter to King Philip IV of France. Last summer, Mongolian relics from France were displayed at the National Chinggis Khan Museum. Featured was "Chinggis Khan: The Mongols Changed the World" exhibit. Among these was Oljeitu’s famous letter preserved in the Louvre, visiting Mongolia for the first time. In this Uighur-scripted Mongolian letter, Oljeitu writes to "Roi de France Sultan," highlighting historical kin friendship, stating intentions for future diplomatic alliance honoring previous agreements, despite past discord among family lines, advocating for joint strength. CITING THIS: renowned Mongolist scholar B. Kowalewski studied and released a 1933 French paper discussing Mongols' world peace initiation early 14th century; later translated by Ts. Shagdarsuren and published. Mongolian kings of XIII, XIV centuries are often depicted in terms of war only. Yet, the peaceful accords, world peace aspirations of Ilkhan Oljeitu rarely surface. Prominent Mongolist scholar V. Kowalewski said, "The high importance of the spring 1305 Oljeitu’s writings remained unacknowledged, and its intent undiscerned... Discussing relations towards independent neighbors, writings lack pressure to re-subjugate under Mongol rule; rather emphasize alliance benefits." Indeed, the message relayed sought European and Mongolian amity. 700 years later, this document’s wisdom "What could be greater than genuine accord?" reverberates strongly among Mongolia's few today, as highlighted by the late distinguished teacher, state laureate, and linguist fellow S. Choimaa. This letter exemplifies a unique precious heritage, great sovereignty tradition, and the marvel of Mongolian script, symbolizing Mongolia’s grand peace, recognized as an invaluable historical document. It's significant to mention this due to presidents’ discussions on future collaborations in education. According to the educational advisor to the president, Choimaagin Lodoi-Ravsala, "While still in negotiation, developing skilled manpower is essential. This means focusing on Mongolian-related historical resources for deep analysis. Thus bolstering, validating extant historical data,” shared informally. TASK: Report forthcoming on Mongolia's standing, potential influence at COP29 climate change summit in Baku, Azerbaijan. Expect further coverage of this event, along with reports surrounding Baku city. Previous coverages include: "Potential for Mongolian goods flow through Caspian Sea ports" B.Oyunsanaa: "Our nation will address climate change by reforestation, expansion" COP29: "Trillions, not billions in USD funding needed by countries" COP29: "Limited access to established funding by developing countries" Sandeep Sengupta: "Though developing, Mongolia's desertification is rapid"
Infrastructure
Fire at Booroljuut Power Plant Delays Electricity Supply to Central Energy System
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The construction of the Booroljuut power plant, located 120 km from Ulaanbaatar in Bayanjargalan soum of Tuv aimag, is planned to have four blocks with a total capacity of 600 MW, based on the Booroljuut brown coal deposit. The first 150 MW boiler was initially fired on October 5. However, "Tsetsens Mining and Energy" LLC, also known as “Booroljuut Power Plant,” issued a statement regarding an accident at the plant. The statement reads, "The initial firing of the 150 MW boiler, the first phase of the new 600 MW source of energy in Mongolia, was successfully conducted on October 5. Since then, all necessary technological tests and adjustments, such as water pressure testing for the boiler, liquid fuel firing, chemical cleaning of heating surfaces, coal firing and steam pipeline blowing, and turbine and generator settings, have been completed on time. Unfortunately, at 5:00 AM on the morning of November 17, a fire accident occurred at the S6 section of the coal conveyor facility. The fire was extinguished quickly, and professional organizations are working to determine the cause of the accident. We apologize for the delay in supplying electricity to the central energy system due to this incident. The engineers and technical staff of the client and Sinosteel, the main contractor, are working efficiently to repair the damages from the fire and restore normal operations in a short time." Tsetsens Mining and Energy LLC Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social media, and Websites) that use our information in any form, whether in full or in part, must cite the source (ikon.mn) carefully.
Tuul Highway to be completed in 24-30 months
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: news.mn
The Mayor of the Capital City and Governor of Ulaanbaatar, H. Nyambaatar, provided public information on the construction projects planned for the coming years under the '20-minute city' concept. To reduce congestion, it is planned to build the first city highway in the capital from 2024 to 2028. Specifically, a tender will be announced by December for a four-lane highway with a total length of 33 km, featuring a box girder structure. Regarding this, Mayor H. Nyambaatar said, “We have completed the engineering preparations over the past 30 days. We plan to use local companies' materials for building this road. In this context, we have met with representatives of businesses that manufacture construction materials, roads, cement, and rebar. We have set a tight deadline of 24-30 months for completing this road. If this highway is completed within the specified time, studies indicate that it will be possible to reduce traffic load in Ulaanbaatar by 38.6% in the west-east direction based on the current number of vehicles.”
K. Nyambaatar: Construction of Metro Stations and Transportation Infrastructure Will Take 160-200 Days
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The Mayor of the Capital, K. Nyambaatar, provided an open briefing to the public yesterday at the NEMA regarding the development work planned for the coming years within the framework of the '20 Minute City' objective. During this event, information about the metro, which will stretch a total of 17 km from Amgalan to Tolgoit, was shared. Mayor K. Nyambaatar stated, "According to the study conducted by the consulting service provider, the construction period in Mongolia generally takes about 160-200 days. It will take the same time to assemble metro stations and build road bridges and infrastructure. Therefore, the metro is designed to be underground, operating at a depth of approximately 25-35 meters." "It is planned to have 14 stations, each offering opportunities for commercial services. In other words, we are working to open the possibility for business operators to invest in station areas. Additionally, to reduce congestion, we are planning to modify the layout of large markets, supporting this policy by relocating the 'Da Khuree Auto Market' to the east side of the Tuul highway and the 'Naran Tuul Market' to the west side," he said. Source: Press and Public Relations Department of the Mayor's Office. Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Web pages) must credit their source (ikon.mn) when completely or partially using our information.
The Tender for the Tuul Highway to Be Announced by December
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The Mayor of the Capital City and Governor of Ulaanbaatar, Kh. Nyambaatar, provided open information to the public about the construction projects planned for the coming years under the "20 Minute City" concept. As part of the efforts to reduce congestion, it is planned to build the first city-level highway in the capital from 2024 to 2028. Specifically, the tender for a four-lane highway stretching a total of 33 km with box girders will be announced by December. In this regard, the city mayor Kh. Nyambaatar said, "We have completed the engineering preparations over the past 30 days. In particular, it is planned to use materials from domestic companies for this road construction. In this context, we have met with representatives of businesses involved in building, road construction, cement, and rebar production." A tight deadline of 24-30 months has been set to complete the construction of this road. If the highway is completed within this period, it is possible to reduce the traffic load by 38.6% on current road usage statistics with the flow from west to east in Ulaanbaatar, combined with other connecting roads.
Plan to Reduce Traffic Congestion by Completing the Tuul Highway in Three Years
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: isee.mn
The Governor of the Capital City and the Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, H. Nyambaatar, provided public information regarding the development projects planned for the coming years under the "20-Minute City" concept. As part of efforts to reduce traffic congestion, it is planned to construct the city's first inner expressway in 2024-2028. Specifically, a tender will be announced by December for the construction of a 33 km long, four-lane expressway with a box girder design. Mayor H. Nyambaatar stated, "We have completed the engineering preparation work over the past 30 days. Specifically, it is planned to use materials from domestic companies for the construction of this road. In this regard, we have met with representatives of enterprises engaged in construction, road, cement, and rebar production. A tight schedule has been set to complete the construction of the road within 24-30 months. If the expressway is completed within this period, it is estimated that it could reduce traffic load by 38.6% when connected with other link roads, based on the current number of vehicles traveling from west to east in Ulaanbaatar city."
Society
Dundgovi: 'Issues - Solutions' Open Discussion Held
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The Governor's Office of Dundgovi Province organized an open discussion named "Issues - Solutions". The purpose of the discussion was to gather input on the draft governor's action plan for 2024-2028 and the draft budget for 2025. Over 200 citizens participated, and 21,100 people received information online. During the discussion, the Governor's Office introduced the draft action plan for 2024-2028 and the draft budget for 2025. Within the framework of the action plan, 130 projects and activities are planned across five main policies: 1) Regional Development - Dundgovi Revival Policy, 2) Human Development Revival Policy, 3) Economic Revival Policy, 4) Governance that Respects Human Rights Revival Policy, 5) Environmental Revival Policy. During the discussion, citizens expressed their opinions on various local development policies and planning issues, as well as urgent matters that need to be addressed. These included resolving issues regarding mid and high school students' lunches in the local area, focusing on civic education, improving the attitudes and behaviors of school students, reducing bad habits, developing them into responsible individuals, allowing 1-2 year-old children to attend kindergarten, improving food safety, enhancing the quality of trade and services, and addressing land disputes. A total of 27 questions and opinions were submitted in writing, 79 online, and 13 in-person regarding the action plan and the 2025 budget draft. The collected suggestions will be incorporated into the governor's action plan and will be discussed and approved by the Provincial Citizens' Representatives Assembly.
Opening of the "Sharavyn Choimaa Fund" to Take Place Next Wednesday
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: isee.mn
The opening of the "Sharavyn Choimaa Fund," named in honor of People's Teacher Sh. Choimaa, will be held next Wednesday, November 20, 2024. The event will take place in the academic hall of the first building of the Mongolian National University. People's Teacher Sh. Choimaa was born in the Sharga district of Gobi-Altai province in 1951 and passed away in 2022. She taught at the Mongolian National University for nearly forty years and was awarded the title of People's Teacher of Mongolia in 2017, as well as being recognized as a State Awarded and Honored Teacher.
Sports
1xBet MESA Asia Series: How the Betting Company Supports eSports
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: news.mn
Even though countries with highly developed eSports like South Korea and China are in Asia, Mongolia holds a powerful and significant position in this field. The reason is the government's support for eSports, and the backing of MESA, the Mongolian eSports Association, in organizing tournaments and competitions. However, it is challenging to organize international large-scale events without a prestigious sponsor. Therefore, the international bookmaker 1xBet is collaborating with MESA to initiate a series of tournaments. MESA Tournaments The Mongolian eSports Association was established in 2003. Initially, MESA focused on representing the country in international sports association competitions as well as gaining government support. After achieving their initial goals, they began to focus on organizing regional competitions and tournaments. At first, they organized the first season of the MESA CS:GO League in Ulaanbaatar in 2019, where 12 teams competed. Soon after, they introduced the MESA Nomadic Masters and MESA Pro Series, and in 2023, they organized the RMR competition in the Asia-Pacific region, which awarded two slots for the Paris Major. In the spring of 2022, MESA signed a contract with the international bookmaker 1xBet. The sponsorship and support have broadened MESA's capabilities, allowing them to organize major tournaments and even serve as a bridge to connect with ESL, one of the world's largest tournament organizers. 1xBet sponsored and supported Mongolian eSports organizations like The MongolZ and IHC Esports. With 1xBet's support, The MongolZ team ranked fifth in the world according to Valve's ratings, becoming the only team from Asia in the top 20, a considerable achievement. 1xBet MESA Asian Series MESA and 1xBet have initiated a brand-new series of tournaments. They plan to organize four series tournaments between 2024 and 2025. - 1xBet MESA Asia Series #1 (Online prize pool of $10,000)
- 1xBet MESA Asia Series #2 (Online prize pool of $10,000)
- 1xBet MESA Asia Series #3 (Online prize pool of $10,000)
- 1xBet MESA Asia Series Finals (Online prize pool of $25,000)
The first tournament of the 1xBet MESA Asian Series was successfully organized from November 5 to 8, where eight teams competed. - IHC Esports (Pro Series: Fall 2024)
- Gods Reign (Invited)
- GR Gaming (Invited)
- DEWA United (Asian Qualifier #1)
- NOVA Esports (Asian Qualifier #2)
- The Huns Esports (Mongolian Qualifier)
- Chinggis Warriors (Mongolian Qualifier)
- Clutch Gaming (Mongolian Qualifier)
IHC Esports was named the main favorite team for the first tournament. They reached the finals but faced tough competition from GR Gaming and were defeated. The first game between the two teams on Inferno went into double overtime, finishing with a score of 22-19. In the second game on Ancient, the two teams were evenly matched in the first half, but GR Gaming dominated in the second half, winning 13-7. As a result, the GR Gaming team won, earning $7,500 and 10 points, while IHC Esports received $2,500 and 8 points. Meanwhile, Chinggis Warriors and The Huns teams each received 4 points, and DEWA United and Clutch Gaming teams each received 2 points. Final Tournament and Prize Pool Teams accumulate points from each series tournament and must qualify for the final tournament at the end of the season. The four teams with the highest points at the end of the series will qualify for the final tournament, which will compete for a prize of $25,000. Naturally, the winning team will go down in history as the first winner of the 1xBet MESA Asian Series. The schedule and information of other tournaments will soon be revealed, so stay tuned. By launching a new series of tournaments, 1xBet provides significant support to eSports in Mongolia and Asia. With the company's help, Mongolian teams and players are establishing their positions internationally and upholding the reputation of their country.
Mongolian Dota2 Team with Coach 'Cadis' Competes in 'IESF World Esports Championship 2024'
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: isee.mn
The world championship for Dota 2 national teams is starting today in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where the Mongolian Dota 2 team, coached by 'Cadis', will be participating in the 'IESF World Esports Championship 2024'. Representing the Mongolian national team, players including Dashzeveg's "Se" Tugstur, Batsooj's "11" Munkh-Erdene, "Osocle", Dashdelger's "Tsukimoto" Munkhbat, and "Mudi" will compete under the leadership of coach 'Cadis'. Meanwhile, A. Bilguun "423" and B. Munkhjin "semimei" will be playing for Team Secret, while R. Narmandakh's team was eliminated from BetBoom Dacha Belgrade without a single win. Furthermore, the Mongolian team, having changed their 2023 champion lineup, will play in Group B against teams from Australia, Turkey, and the USA, with their first match against the USA scheduled for 20:30. Additionally, two teams from each group will advance to the playoffs, with positions above eighth place receiving cash prizes and the first-place team being awarded $70,000.
The Mongolian Team Places 5th-8th at the CS2 World Championship
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: gogo.mn
CS2, the "IESF World Esports Championship 2024," saw the Mongolian team end their campaign after losing to Sweden, earning a $12,500 prize. The International Esports Federation (IESF) organizes the Counter Strike 2 World Championship for national teams, which is currently taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The tournament offers a prize pool of $240,000. Representing the Mongolian national team, players from "The Huns Esports" participated in the "IESF World Esports Championship 2024." In Group D, the Mongolian team won against Slovakia, South Africa, and Argentina, but lost to Serbia and the Czech Republic, finishing in second place in their group to qualify for the playoffs. Ultimately, they ended their participation by losing to the Swedish team with scores of 2-0 (13-8, 13-5) in the playoffs. The CS2 World Championship for national teams starts today. Additionally, the preliminary stage of the Shanghai Major, involving 6 Mongolian players and 2 coaches, begins today. The MongolZ secured a victory in the "Thunderpick World Championship," earning $500,000. Led by captain Gantulga "nin9" Yesontumur, the Mongolian team tied with Poland for 5th-8th place, receiving a $12,500 prize. In 2023, the Mongolian team did not advance past the group stage, but this year they have improved their performance.
UEFA to Investigate the Interruption of the Romania-Kosovo Match
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: montsame.mn
UEFA, the Union of European Football Associations, has initiated disciplinary proceedings against the national teams of Romania and Kosovo. This is due to inappropriate actions by supporters and the unexpected stoppage of a Nations League group stage match. On Friday in Bucharest, during the Nations League's C Division II group match between Romania and Kosovo's national teams, the game was interrupted in the added time of the second half, with the score at 0:0. The interruption was caused by supporters chanting "Serbia, Serbia," prompting the Kosovarian footballers to express their protest by leaving the field. An hour later, the referee officially stopped the match. Subsequently, the Kosovo Football Association released a statement blaming the interruption on "irresponsible and discriminatory behavior" by Romanian supporters and approached UEFA about the incident. In contrast, the Romanian Football Association stated that "discriminatory chants based on ethnicity were not shouted by the supporters during the match, and it was unfortunate that the guest team left the field." Previously, in September 2023, a European Championship qualifier match between Kosovo and Romania was interrupted for an hour due to Romanian supporters displaying a banner reading "Kosovo is Serbia." Additionally, in October of this year, UEFA's special committee decided to impose a fine of 51,000 euros on the Kosovo Football Association. This resulted from an incident during a Nations League match between Kosovo and Romania, where the home team's supporters invaded the pitch, threw objects, shouted during the national anthem, and blocked access to spectator seating areas.
Arts
The musical "Sunjidmaa" was presented to the audience in concert form
Published: 2024-11-17 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The musical "Sunjidmaa" was performed in concert form on November 14, 2024, at 19:00 on the stage of the National Academic Drama Theatre. Inspired by a folk legend song called "Sunjidmaa", the musical "Sunjidmaa" was first staged in 1980 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the State Song and Dance Ensemble, now known as the National Academic Drama Theatre. Since its first performance, the musical "Sunjidmaa" has been revived and staged several times, with the last revival occurring in 2013, directed by Y. Tserendolgor, who invited contemporary artists to bring the musical to the stage once again. This time, the National Academic Drama Theatre artists collaborated with students from the vocal department of the Conservatory of Mongolia and City University to present the musical to the audience in concert form. The role of Sunjidmaa was sung by Honored Artist of Mongolia D. Amgalan, along with Meritorious Artists of Mongolia Ts. Gantuya and D. Dugarmaa. The role of Myangan was performed by Honored Artist of Mongolia B. Batmend, Meritorious Artist of Mongolia G. Altanhundaga, and B. Byambadorj. The character of Mother Badmaanyambuu was played by Leading Artist D. Saizanmaa, while Meritorious Artist of Mongolia I. Khishigzayaa portrayed the role of Dejid, and Nawan was performed by Meritorious Artists of Mongolia E. Chinchuluun and B. Chingbaatar. In previous productions, the role of Sunjidmaa was played by singers V. Otgon and D. Ariunaa. For Myangan, State Honored Artist D. Banzragch and singer G. Borkhuu were featured. The role of Dejid had been performed by Enkhtuvshin, Sh. Namsraijav, State Honored Artist D. Sambuu, and J. Erdenegombo, while long-song singers People's Artist N. Norovbanzad and State Honored Artist S. Sukhlegmaa have also performed in earlier revivals.
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