Nov 21, 2024 49 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for November 21, 2024

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

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Politics

B.Javkhlan: We will look at the President's veto positively and work towards favorable changes

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The President of Mongolia, U.Khurelsukh, announced at 11:00 AM that he has vetoed the 2025 budget and the accompanying laws and regulations. The President emphasized the need to approve the 2025 budget without deficit and exercised the veto. Regarding the President's veto on the 2025 budget, Finance Minister B.Javkhlan provided information. Finance Minister B.Javkhlan stated: "The President believes that a budget without a deficit must be approved. This will require us to confront the need to cut budget investments and operating expenses. About 60-70 percent of the increased expenses in the 2025 budget are operating expenses that have increased according to the law. For example, the increase related to salary and pension price growth, expenses incurred by amendments to laws of law enforcement agencies, and expenses following the Education Package Law, among others, will be reconsidered. During the budget discussions, travel expenses and vouchers of the Ministry of Culture are a very small expense in terms of achieving a deficit-free budget. Therefore, the government will need to make significant cuts on its operational side to achieve a deficit-free budget." "As the trend towards approving a deficit-free budget has begun, the government is prepared. We are making calculations from the start. Starting tomorrow, the issue of accepting the President's veto will likely be discussed in the State Great Khural. We foresee that the veto will be accepted. Therefore, the government will positively accept the President's veto and work proactively on implementing favorable changes. No risks have been discussed regarding next year's budget revenue. The issues lie on the expense side, so we will first rank our investments and make cuts. Operating expenses are considered last. Thus, by making cuts on 2.1 trillion tugriks of investment and operating expenses, we will achieve a deficit-free budget. Of the 1.7 trillion tugriks of new investment planned for 2025, half will have to be cut. The remainder will be achieved by making equal cuts to the operating expenses of 34 general managers. On the other hand, investment cuts mean that planned large projects and macroeconomic targets may be delayed. Since it will be harder to fund major construction projects through the budget, there will be demands to attract multi-faceted investment sources and to work more actively in that direction. I saw that there was consensus at all levels on approving a deficit-free budget. Therefore, instead of amending the 2025 budget through a resolution from the State Great Khural, it would be more appropriate in terms of timing to accept the President's veto and proceed with discussions. Since the content of the State Great Khural's resolution and the President's veto are aligned, it seems likely that the veto will be accepted and discussed without legal issues."

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President's Veto Creates Anticipation in Society and Politics

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: news.mn

Since the election of the new 126-member parliament, they have managed to approve the budget twice. Unfortunately, both have been controversial. For instance, due to the formation of a coalition government, the 2024 budget of 27 trillion MNT had to be amended to 30 trillion MNT and was approved with majority support. During the autumn session, they managed to pass the 2025 budget within the legal deadline. Specifically, during its first autumn session, the 126-member parliament, despite heated debates, approved the 2025 budget for Mongolia, the 2025 budget for the National Wealth Fund, the 2025 budget for the Social Insurance Fund, and the 2025 budget for the Health Insurance Fund on the 8th of this month. They approved a budget with 35.8 trillion MNT expenditure for the coming year. There is no precedent in parliamentary history of discussing budget adjustments on the day the budget is approved. However, this happened with the current parliament, raising doubts among many. Whether this is a good omen or a bad one, only time will tell. The government members who faced opposition from the parliament from the moment the budget amendment was introduced found it challenging to get the next year's budget approved. Particularly, the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Economic Development had to argue strenuously, even clashing with colleagues, to defend the budget. In any case, they managed to get the 2025 budget for Mongolia approved without major changes from the submitted proposal. However, due to pressures from members who proposed reducing operational expenses by 3.6 trillion MNT, a decision was made to adjust the next year's budget within this year. Now, all eyes are on whether President U. Khurelsukh will exercise his right to veto the 2025 budget. According to the Parliamentary Procedures Law, the President's Office has been notified about the 2025 state budget law, the 2025 National Wealth Fund budget law, the 2025 Social Insurance Fund budget law, and the 2025 Health Insurance Fund budget law. From the time it reaches the President's Office, he has five working days to decide on a veto. "The final draft of the budget law was heard in the parliament on November 15, 2024. After the final draft is heard, it is delivered to the President's Office. Therefore, it was officially delivered this Monday (November 18, 2024) to the President's Office. The President has until the legal deadline, which is five days, to decide on whether to veto," stated B. Basandorj, the head of the Secretariat of the Parliament. Therefore, President U. Khurelsukh has two days left to contemplate whether to veto next year's budget. The President may also decide not to veto. If the President vetoes the 2025 budget, it will be discussed in the parliament. According to the Parliamentary Procedures Law, if the President vetoes a law, the parliament must discuss and decide on the veto within 14 working days during the parliamentary session or within 10 days from the start of an ordinary or extraordinary session if the veto was issued during a recess. The relevant standing committee and the Legal Standing Committee that initially discussed the issue are tasked with reviewing and producing an opinion on the President's veto. After members speak as per the Parliamentary Procedures Law, an open vote on whether to accept the President's veto is conducted. If the veto pertains to parts of the law, each section, part, and provision is voted on separately, and the results are presented, and the decision of the parliament regarding the veto is deemed finalized. If two-thirds of members present at the standing committee or full session do not accept the President's veto, the law remains in force. If the President's veto is accepted, the law or decree can be nullified in whole or in parts, and amendments or additional changes may be decided upon. In any event, there is significant anticipation in both social and political spheres about whether the President will veto next year's budget. The key interest is in what decision will be made and whether it will lead to gains or losses, akin to a strategic move in a chess game.

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Breaking news: President to Veto 2025 Budget

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: news.mn

The President of Mongolia, U. Khurelsukh, has decided to veto the 2025 budget under the powers granted to him. Therefore, an announcement about this is expected today. It is not yet clear whether the veto will be partial or apply to the entire budget. During the autumn session, the 2025 budget was passed within the legal timeframe. Specifically, the parliament, with 126 members, held its first autumn session which was contentious and filled with disputes, yet managed to pass on November 8, the laws regarding the 2025 state budget of Mongolia, the 2025 National Wealth Fund budget, the 2025 Social Insurance Fund budget, and the 2025 Health Insurance Fund budget. The final text was read at the State Great Khural and the budget was submitted to the President's Office last Monday. The President has five working days after the submission to issue a veto, and today is when he will make the announcement. If the President partially or thoroughly vetoes the 2025 budget, the parliament will discuss the veto within 14 working days. During this process, if two-thirds (66.6%) of the members of the State Great Khural reject the President's veto, the budget will be implemented. However, if the veto is accepted, changes will be made to the 2025 budget. According to the Law on Parliamentary Procedure, if the President of Mongolia vetoes a law or decree, the State Great Khural must review the veto within 14 working days during the session or 10 days after the start of the next regular or special session if the veto is issued during recess. The related Standing Committee and the Judicial Standing Committee, which initially discussed and made recommendations on the issue, will review the President's veto and provide their conclusions. After members have spoken according to clause 90.4 of the law, an open vote will be held on whether to accept the President's veto. If a veto is placed on certain articles or sections of a law or decree, voting will be conducted on each item, section, and provision separately, and the decision taken by the State Great Khural regarding the veto will be deemed adjudicated. If two-thirds of the members present at the Standing Committee and plenary session reject the President's veto, the law or decree remains valid. If the veto is accepted, the law or decree, in whole or in part, may be annulled, or if deemed necessary, appropriate amendments or changes can be deliberated and approved. The relevant Standing Committee will draft and submit the decision project for amendments or changes related to the acceptance of the President's veto to the plenary session and government and related organizations will not be required to give opinions on this project.

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Presidential Administration to Hold Briefing on 2025 Budget Proposal

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: isee.mn

The project for Mongolia's 2025 budget has attracted public attention and criticism, though it was approved by the State Great Khural (Parliament). The reason is that the expenditures are high and the deficit is 1.9 trillion MNT. Therefore, some members of parliament are demanding to cut the budget by over 3 trillion MNT. Subsequently, the 2025 budget proposal was promulgated and sent to the Presidential Administration. Hence, there is anticipation regarding whether the President will veto this budget proposal. Specifically, Article 33, Section 1 of the Constitution of Mongolia stipulates that "The President has the right to veto laws and other decisions approved by the State Great Khural either in whole or in part. If the President's veto is not accepted by two-thirds of all members participating in the session of the State Great Khural, the law or decision remains effective." Accordingly, due to the public expectations, a briefing on the 2025 budget will be held by the Presidential Administration today at 11:00.

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PHOTO: Citizens Protest at Parliament House Over Territorial Integrity Concerns

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Citizens identifying themselves as small business owners from Bayangol district staged a protest today by marching towards the eastern gate of the State Palace. A representative among them introduced himself as S. Mishig, the organizer of the protest, and explained the demonstration as follows. "We submitted a demand to meet with the Speaker of the Parliament and the Prime Minister by February 18, 2024, but received no response. It has been 48 hours since we declared a hunger strike due to the lack of response to our demand. To demand answers, we rallied today and attempted to march on the State Palace. Our main concern is the loss of the territorial integrity of Mongolia. Under the guise of licenses, 30-50% of the land in certain provinces has been given to foreign nationals. For instance, 115 thousand hectares in Khentii province, 250 thousand hectares in Dornod province, and over 100 thousand hectares in Sukhbaatar province have been allocated as licenses. We demand that the government disclose during which administration these licenses were issued." Warning: Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) must ensure to cite their source (ikon.mn) when using our information fully or partially in any form.

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The Government is discussing 28 issues in its meeting

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The regular meeting of the government began at the State Palace at 08:00. Today's government meeting is planned to discuss 28 issues. The topics to be discussed and decided include: - Reform, results, and pressing issues of the 'Erdenes Mongol' group
- Progress of work under the productivity revival of the state
- Progress of the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod cross-border rail link project
- Measures implemented regarding the 112th secondary school of the capital.
The decisions from the regular government meeting will be reported back.

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The Government Will Hold a Meeting

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: news.mn

The government has a scheduled meeting every Wednesday. Therefore, a meeting has been set at 08:00. In last week's government meeting, the draft law on state and local government-owned companies was finalized, and the State Secretary and the Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat, N. Uchral, was tasked to present it for government discussion. The working group announced that they are working on resolving issues related to state-owned legal entities, particularly in terms of strengthening financial discipline, increasing control and accountability, ensuring openness and transparency, developing corporate governance, clarifying the foundation and criteria for establishing state-owned companies, and reflecting regulations to expand private sector business activities. Additionally, the Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Ts. Tuvaan, introduced the government members to the negotiations regarding the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod cross-border railway. It is anticipated that the implementation of the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod border railway project will facilitate the execution of the Khangi-Mandal, Shiveekhuren-Sekhe, Bichigt-Zuunkhatawich railway projects and other initiatives, as well as create the opportunity to increase our national coal exports to 120 million tons and reach a per capita GDP of 10,000 USD. Therefore, on Monday of this week, the parties of the Mongolian People's Party (MPP) and the Democratic Party (DP) in the State Great Khural also met regarding this issue and agreed that it should be discussed in the State Great Khural's plenary session. We will update you on the matters discussed in today's government meeting.

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The Government and Parliament are expected to accept the veto and pass a balanced budget

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: news.mn

In relation to the veto placed on the law concerning the budget of Mongolia for 2025 and the accompanying laws submitted for approval, Finance Minister B. Javkhlan released information today. Finance Minister B. JAVKHLAN: - The President has announced that he will issue a veto. We must look at the veto process according to the legal procedures. I predict that Parliament will soon discuss and possibly accept the President's veto. Even during the government meetings, there is consensus on passing a balanced budget. It is necessary to accept the proposal to pass a budget without a deficit and further cut down on certain expenditures. Calculations indicate that a lot of activities would need to be reduced to achieve a balanced budget. This year, 60-70% of the budget increase is due to mandatory increments as per the law. For instance, salary and pension increases, and legal increments in the education sector are items that will need to be reviewed. Also, cutting expenses such as foreign travel expenses and voucher costs from the Ministry of Culture will be important, though small. The government requires trimming its operational costs, and Parliament is expected to accept, discuss, and make changes. The government's intent is to approach this positively, make the necessary changes, and move forward. The budget for next year is projected to increase by 5.3 trillion MNT, including 2.5 trillion MNT owing to automatic increases based on sector-specific laws. This too will be reconsidered, ensuring each MNT in the budget is used more effectively, affecting various sectors' ambitions. In total, a reduction of 1.2 trillion MNT is needed to achieve a balanced budget. Prioritizing and deferring investments can help reduce expenses. Going forward, achieving a deficit-free budget means investments traditionally covered by the budget will be postponed, and those in state-regional projects will be limited. We have completed research on these budget figures, and we are ready. The 2025 budget is heavily favoring private sector support. Every MNT is allocated to the private sector where possible. This implies a decrease in government-funded investments. Going forward, major investments funded from the budget will be constrained, and there will be a shift towards financing new investments through foreign loans, private sector, and public-private partnerships.

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B.Javkhlan: We perceive the President's veto positively and will work to make favorable changes

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The President of Mongolia, U.Khurelsukh, announced at 11:00 that he has vetoed the 2025 budget and the accompanying laws and regulations in their entirety. The President imposed the veto, emphasizing the need for the 2025 budget to be passed without a deficit. Finance Minister B.Javkhlan provided information related to the President's veto of the 2025 budget. Finance Minister B.Javkhlan said, "The President believes that the budget should be passed without a deficit. To achieve this, we will face the need to reduce budget investments and operating expenses. About 60-70% of the increasing expenses in the 2025 budget are due to legally mandated increases in operating costs. For instance, the increase related to the rise in prices of salaries and pensions, expenses resulting from legislative changes in law enforcement agencies, and costs associated with the Education Package Law. There will be a need to reevaluate these expenses. The travel expenses discussed during budget deliberations and the voucher of the Ministry of Culture are very minor expenses in terms of a deficit-free budget. Therefore, significant cuts will need to be made in government operations to achieve a deficit-free budget. Since there is an emerging trend towards adopting a deficit-free budget, the government is prepared. We are making calculations from the beginning. From tomorrow, the Parliament will likely discuss whether to accept the President's veto. We also expect it to be accepted. Therefore, the government will positively accept the President's veto and work actively to make favorable changes. No risks have been identified on the revenue side of next year's budget. Issues lie on the expense side, so we will first prioritize and cut investments. Operating expenses are addressed last. By reducing 2.1 trillion MNT in investment and operating expenses, a deficit-free budget will be adopted. In 2025, out of the 1.7 trillion MNT planned for new investments, half will have to be reduced. The rest will be reduced equally from the operating expenses of the 34 general governors in the budget. On the other side, reducing investment means that planned major projects and macroeconomic indicators will be delayed. Since the opportunity to undertake major project developments through the budget is decreasing, there will be a need to engage more actively in attracting multilateral investment sources in that direction. I see a consensus at all levels to adopt a deficit-free budget. Therefore, in terms of timing, accepting the President's veto and deliberating on it seems to be the right option rather than amending the budget in Parliament. Since the content of the Parliamentary resolution and the President's veto is the same, I expect that the veto will be accepted and deliberated without legal issues."

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The Cabinet is discussing 28 issues

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The regular meeting of the government started at the State Palace at 08:00. It is planned to discuss 28 issues at today's meeting of the government. They will address and decide on the reform, outcomes, and pressing issues of "Erdenes Mongol" company, the progress of work being done as part of the revival of state productivity, the progress of the cross-border railway connection project between Gashuunsukhait and Gantsmod, and the measures taken concerning the 112th general education school in the capital. The decisions made at the regular meeting of the government will be reported back.

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B.Javkhlan: We Will Positively View the President's Veto and Work to Make Favorable Changes

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The President of Mongolia, U.Khurelsukh, announced at 11:00 a.m. that he has imposed a veto on the 2025 budget and the associated laws and regulations that were approved alongside it. From the President's perspective, the 2025 budget must be passed without a deficit, which is why the veto was issued. In connection with the President's veto on the 2025 budget, Finance Minister B.Javkhlan provided information. Finance Minister B.Javkhlan stated that the President believes the budget should be adopted without a deficit. Within this framework, it is necessary to face the need to cut budgetary investments and current expenses. Of the increased expenses in the 2025 budget, 60-70% are current expenses increasing in accordance with the law. For example, there are expenses related to the price increase for salaries and pensions, expenses coming from independent legal changes in law enforcement agencies, and costs following the education package laws. These expenses need to be revisited. The travel expenses and the Ministry of Culture vouchers discussed during the budget discussions are relatively minor in terms of achieving a budget without a deficit. Therefore, it means that significant cuts on the part of the government's operations are required to adopt a budget without a deficit. As the tendency to adopt a budget without a deficit has begun to emerge, the government is prepared. Calculations are being made from the beginning. Tomorrow, the Parliament will discuss the matter of accepting the President's veto. The government believes it will be accepted. Therefore, the government will positively receive the President's veto and proactively work towards making favorable changes. No risks have been discussed on the revenue side of next year's budget. The issue lies on the expense side, so the government will first prioritize and cut investments. It comes down to current expenses in the end. Hence, a budget without a deficit will be approved by cutting 2.1 trillion MNT in investments and current expenses. From the planned 1.7 trillion MNT of new investments for 2025, half will be cut. The remaining will see equal cuts from the current expenses of the 34 general budget governors. On the flip side, cutting investments means that planned large projects and macroeconomic target indicators will be delayed. As the possibility of constructing large projects with the budget decreases, there will be a need to attract multi-source investment and work more in that direction. There is consensus at all levels to approve a budget without a deficit. Thus, recognizing and discussing the President's veto rather than modifying through a parliamentary resolution for the 2025 budget seems to be the right option in terms of timing. Since the content of the Parliamentary resolution and the President's veto are the same, it is believed the veto will be accepted and discussed without legal issues.

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B. Javkhlan: We View the President's Veto Positively and Will Work for Favorable Changes

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa announced at 11:00 AM that he has vetoed the entire 2025 budget and the related laws and regulations passed along with it. The President emphasized the need for the budget to be approved without a deficit and thus imposed the veto. In connection with the President's veto of the 2025 budget, Finance Minister B. Javkhlan provided information. Finance Minister B. Javkhlan stated that the President considers that a budget without a deficit must be approved. In this context, there is a need to reduce budget investment and current expenses. Currently, 60-70% of the increased expenses in the 2025 budget are due to mandatory increases in current expenses according to law. These include increases linked to salary and pension adjustments, expenses arising from changes in the independent laws of law enforcement agencies, and costs associated with the education package laws. It is necessary to review these expenses. Travel expenses discussed during budget discussions, as well as the cultural ministry's vouchers, are minimal expenses in terms of achieving a budget without a deficit. Therefore, the government needs to make significant cuts in its operations to achieve a deficit-free budget. Since the trend has begun to approve a deficit-free budget, the government is prepared. We are doing our calculations from the beginning. Tomorrow, the State Great Khural (parliament) is expected to discuss accepting the President's veto. We expect it to be accepted. Therefore, the government will proactively accept the President's veto and work on making favorable changes. There is no risk discussed regarding the revenue side of next year's budget. Since the issue lies on the expense side, we will first prioritize and cut investments. The last resort is to address current expenses. By doing so, we will pass a deficit-free budget by reducing the investment and current expenses by 2.1 trillion MNT. Out of the 1.7 trillion MNT planned as new investment in 2025, half will be cut. The remainder will be allocated by evenly reducing current expenses across 34 general budget directors. On the other hand, cutting investment means planned large projects and macroeconomic targets will be postponed. As the possibility of implementing major construction projects with the budget decreases, there will be a need to attract diversified investment sources and work more in that direction. I see that there is consensus at all levels on the approval of a deficit-free budget. Therefore, accepting the President's veto and proceeding with the discussion, rather than making amendments to the 2025 budget in the form of a resolution by the State Great Khural, seems like the right approach in terms of timing. As the content of the State Great Khural's resolution and the President's veto is the same, it is viewed as legally appropriate to accept and discuss the veto.

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Economy

Collaborating with Korea to Strengthen the Livestock Industry's Value Chain

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry and the Global Civic Sharing international organization of South Korea have signed a memorandum of cooperation. This agreement aims to improve the quality and productivity of production in our country by enhancing the skills of professionals and workers in the livestock sector, integrating scientific research into production, strengthening the value chain of livestock production, and supporting inclusive development. Since 2002, the Global Civic Sharing organization has been actively implementing long-term and medium-term projects and programs aimed at the development of livestock in Mongolia, such as the "Livestock Bank" loan program, "Hay and Feed Fund" aid program, "Training Local Leader Citizens" project, and "Increasing Household Income through Cooperatives' Governance Strengthening" project. In 2021, the organization began implementing the "Inclusive Livestock Project" with a grant of five million USD from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). The "Inclusive Livestock Project" is a long-term initiative planned for 2021-2035 to improve the policy environment for livestock production and support cooperative activities at the governance and operational levels. This project also aims to enhance production quality and productivity and strengthen the value chain by empowering livestock farmers, sector professionals, and government officials. The first phase of the project, which is running from 2021 to 2025, is now in its fourth year of implementation. Within the framework of the "Inclusive Livestock Project," a master plan for developing intensive dairy farming in the 21st khoroo of Songinokhairkhan district has been developed, and the initial version is ready. Ju Hyeon Joo, director of the Mongolian branch of the Global Civic Sharing international organization, stated, "Once the master plan is approved and implemented, it will enable the scientific and systematic development of intensive livestock in the capital city area, improve animal health, breeding records, production planning based on information, enhance the quality and output of livestock-derived food, and become a model of local specialty production and agricultural cluster." State Secretary T. Jambaltsuren of the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry emphasized, "We will support the effective implementation of the project, the development of value-added products in the livestock sector, and the empowerment of sector professionals." The Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry and the Global Civic Sharing international organization of South Korea have signed a memorandum of cooperation. This agreement aims to improve the quality and productivity of production in our country by enhancing the skills of professionals and workers in the livestock sector, integrating scientific research into production, strengthening the value chain of livestock production, and supporting inclusive development.

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B. Javkhlan: The Government to Review Calculations and Cut 2.2 Trillion from Current Expenses

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: isee.mn

President U. Khurelsukh has vetoed the entire budget proposal for 2025. In response to this, Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan provided information. He stated, "A meeting on whether to accept the President's veto will likely be held in the State Great Khural soon. The State Great Khural is expected to accept it. The government supports the approach of approving a deficit-free budget. To maintain a deficit-free budget, we will have to considerably reduce our activities and postpone investments. The government has presented a budget focused on 'infrastructure, infrastructure' to implement its program. Additionally, small investments have not been placed in constituencies for 2025. It is cutting back on expenses this time. If it is deemed that the budget should be deficit-free, the government will review its calculations. The 2025 budget shows a 2% deficit. However, during the COVID period, our budget had an 8.4% deficit. Over the past four years, it has gradually fallen to 2%. Sixty to seventy percent of this year’s increased budget consists of obligatory increases in current expenses. For example, salary and pension increases, growth in expenses for law enforcement agencies, and legal reform in the education sector, etc. There arises a situation to reconsider such growing expenses. Also, expenses like those for foreign assignments and vouchers from the Ministry of Culture make up a very small portion for approving a deficit-free budget. A substantial cut needs to be made to approve a deficit-free budget. The government is prepared for this matter and has made calculations. Tomorrow or the day after, the State Great Khural will likely discuss accepting the veto. I believe it will accept it. The reduction will start with investments. The budget for the coming year expects an increase of 5.7 trillion. Of this, 1.7 trillion is investment. The remaining 70% are expenses that grow directly according to changes in sector-specific laws. Finally, current expenses will be cut. By making approximately 2.2 trillion in expense cuts, it becomes possible to approve a deficit-free budget. We will evenly cut operations," he said.

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Khan Bank Raises $40 Million to Support Green Finance and SMEs

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: news.mn

Within the framework of supporting green finance and a sustainable economy in the country, Khan Bank has secured a long-term financing of $40 million from the German Development Bank, Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft ("DEG"), thereby expanding their partnership. This financing will be allocated to support SME clients, especially women-led businesses, and to fund environmentally friendly projects aimed at adapting to climate change. Furthermore, to effectively and efficiently utilize this resource, Khan Bank has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to implement the “develoPPP” program in cooperation with DEG bank, under the auspices of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. The consulting service provided by the DEG Impulse organization, a subsidiary of DEG bank, aims to provide real assistance in reducing greenhouse gas emissions affecting climate change and in promoting energy efficiency and green projects and activities. DEG bank has been an early partner to Khan Bank, previously investing in syndicated loan financing offered by the Netherlands Development Finance Company (FMO) to Khan Bank. This initial bilateral financing agreement not only further strengthens and expands cooperation but also plays a crucial role in increasing financial access for micro and small and medium enterprises, which are the driving force of Mongolia's economy, thereby enhancing economic capacity and supporting environmental sustainability. About DEG: Since its establishment, DEG has been providing financing and consulting services to private sector enterprises in developing countries for over 60 years. With an investment portfolio of around 10.3 billion euros, DEG is one of the major financiers investing in the development of the private sector. As an impact and climate investor, DEG collaborates with companies and organizations aiming to address climate change. DEG’s clients receive not only financial and consulting services tailored to their needs but also gain access to market knowledge, expertise, and international networks in impact and climate fields, allowing them to expand their businesses and operations. As a subsidiary of the German Development Bank (KfW), DEG contributes significantly to sustainable development goals by creating new jobs, sources of income, and adding value. For more information about the organization, you can find it here. About Khan Bank: Khan Bank offers comprehensive financial and non-financial services to micro, small, and medium enterprises. In addition to providing financial products and services tailored to the needs of customers to expand their business scale, Khan Bank regularly conducts classroom and online business advisory services and training through its SME Academy. In recent years, Khan Bank has undertaken major initiatives to align all levels of its operations with sustainable development goals and has been actively offering green or environmentally friendly products and services to its customers. For more detailed information, or to explore Khan Bank's Sustainability Report, click here. Harmonious Growth – Khan Bank.

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Moody's Upgrades Golomt Bank's Credit Rating to 'B2'

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Moody’s Ratings has upgraded the credit rating of Golomt Bank to 'B2' with a 'stable' outlook. This upgrade also applies to the bank’s 300 million USD bonds. The improved rating reflects Golomt Bank's consistent operational and financial growth in recent years and the upgrade in the credit rating of the Government of Mongolia. The international rating agencies are progressively raising the credit ratings of Mongolia and its banks, which positively impacts foreign investment and economic growth. Global Standard Mongolian Bank Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Websites) must credit the source (ikon.mn) when using our information, either in full or partially, in any format.

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The Government Meeting to Discuss the Reform and Outcomes of "Erdenes Mongol"

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The regular meeting of the government is ongoing at the State Palace. During the meeting, they are scheduled to discuss the reform, outcomes, and pressing issues of the "Erdenes Mongol" group, the progress of work under the framework of the state's productivity revival, the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod cross-border railway project, the measures taken regarding the 112th General Education School of the capital city, and other issues. A total of 28 issues are included in the meeting agenda.

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Bank of Mongolia Injects $87 Million into the Market at 3413 Tugrik per Dollar

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Bank of Mongolia organizes foreign currency auctions every Tuesday and Thursday of the week. During the regular foreign currency auction, $87 million was supplied at a rate of 3413 tugriks per dollar. Only banks that have an operating license and conduct business within the territory of Mongolia may participate in this auction. However, non-bank financial institutions, other enterprises, and individuals have the opportunity to partake in the auction through their respective partner banks.

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Green Loan Portfolio Increased by 2.3 Times in 4 Years

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Recently, with the energy transition, banks and financial institutions have become more active in providing green loans and issuing bonds. However, there is uncertainty about whether these loans and financing are being correctly used for green technology, as reported by international passive building consultant A. Amarbayer. Therefore, construction companies need to properly learn and build green technology according to standards. A loan of up to 160 million MNT is available at a 30% interest rate for constructing green single-family houses. According to the Bank of Mongolia, by the first quarter of 2024, the green loan portfolio reached 875.3 billion MNT, accounting for 3% of total loans. This is 2.3 times more than the previous year. The Bank of Mongolia has set a goal to increase the share of green loans in the total loan portfolio issued by the banking sector to 10% by 2030. Looking at the banks' loans directed towards green housing and energy transition, Golomt Bank is offering loans of up to 300 million MNT for purchasing green single-family houses, with a repayment period condition of 20 years. As for XacBank, it provides consumer green loans, which are at a 6% interest rate, up to 50 million MNT, and a period of 30 months. This loan can be used for purposes such as purchasing energy-efficient electric heaters or connecting private houses to engineering networks. Additionally, the first green apartment in Ulaanbaatar is scheduled to be operational by the end of this year. This apartment is located in the IX khoroo of Songinokhairkhan district and will comprise four blocks with a total of 110 apartments.

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Moody's Upgrades Capitron Bank's Credit Rating to 'B2/Stable'

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

International credit rating agency Moody’s upgraded Capitron Bank's credit rating from "B3/Stable" to "B2/Stable." With this upgrade in credit rating, there is potential for increased foreign investment and improved conditions for the bank's products and services, creating a favorable economic environment. Additionally, Moody’s report highlighted that the Government of Mongolia has steadily reduced its debt burden in recent years, thanks to prudent management and fiscal discipline, which has lowered the government's refinancing risks in the coming years. It also noted that the economy is growing steadily, with increased GDP and real growth. Toward a Smart Future – Capitron Bank Notice: Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must credit the source (ikon.mn) when using this information in any form, either fully or partially.

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Moody’s Upgrades Bogd Bank's Credit Rating to B2/Stable

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The international rating agency, Moody's, announced that it has upgraded Bogd Bank's credit rating from "B3" to "B2" with a stable outlook. This improvement in credit rating brings multiple benefits, such as increased potential for foreign investment in the bank and financial institutions, reduced interest rates on foreign financing, and overall better conditions for the bank's products. Furthermore, the agency mentions in its report that the factors influencing the upgrade of Mongolia's credit rating to “B2” with a “STABLE” outlook include the sustained decrease in the country's foreign debt burden, prudent debt management, improved fiscal discipline, a stabilized economy, and growth in the country's gross domestic product. Bogd Bank - Spreading Trust Notice: Media organizations (including Television, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) are reminded to cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, whether fully or partially.

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Diplomacy

EITOWER Partners with the European Chamber of Commerce

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

EITOWER has decided to collaborate with the European Chamber of Commerce. Situated at the heart of the city, in front of the Central Post Office, the international business center “Eco International Tower” offers tenants opportunities to expand their business by partnering with chambers of commerce from Asia, Europe, and America. The tower hosts operations of over 100 prestigious organizations, including Google Mongolia and Luxe TV. Tenants of "Eco International Tower" have the opportunity to join the European Chamber of Commerce and Industry as member organizations. The joint European-Mongolian Chamber of Commerce and Industry represents 48 countries in Europe and, operating in Mongolia, provides business opportunities for entrepreneurs and enterprises, significantly contributing to the socio-economic development of the country with over 200 member organizations. By becoming a member of the European Chamber of Commerce and Industry, you have the opportunity to attract foreign trade and investment, particularly to export products to international markets and expand your business. Representing 48 European countries, the Chambers of Commerce of Germany, France, and Great Britain work together with over 200 member organizations in Mongolia. EITOWER – Location Advantages Eco International Tower, located in the economic and international relations hub of Ulaanbaatar, in front of the Central Post Office, is conveniently situated near Sukhbaatar Square, Government Palace, and embassies, making it a strategic location to save valuable time in the city. Service Advantages Eco International Tower meets your comfort and needs with service establishments like the luxury IL FIORE Italian restaurant on the 25th floor, F CLUB on the 26th floor, and the Korean TOM N TOMS BLACK coffee shop on the ground floor. Additionally, tenants have convenient access to the business branch of Khan Bank. Office Advantages Eco International Tower ensures client comfort with comprehensive asset management services, including reception, security, surveillance, and maintenance of public areas inside and outside the building. Surrounded by gardens and green landscaping, the tower offers a welcoming lobby for greeting and seeing off guests. The management provides 24-hour security and surveillance for your safety, and tenants have access to open air parking and heated parking for vehicles. Shopping Centers On floors 1-6, Eco International Tower houses integrated shopping centers offering a wide selection of brand products, such as jewelry, eyewear, home goods, and ready-to-wear clothing. The tower invites you to experience luxury with the Swiss Life brand, and DANDY ATTELIER VIP Tailors offers bespoke services. Enjoy pampering at the HISTOLAB Beauty Salon and taste gourmet wines at the GRAND WINE store. Recognized by Bloomberg 2022 Awards as the "Best Building," Eco International Tower invites entrepreneurs to expand their business activities in the most ideal urban location. Address: In front of the Central Post Office, ECO INTERNATIONAL TOWER Facebook: Eco International Tower Website: www.eitower.mn Phone: 77116767, 99308080, 94942588 Warning: Media entities (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) must credit the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in full or part.

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Ulaanbaatar Honored as "Outstanding City with Friendly Relations with China"

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The “China International Friendship Cities Conference 2024” event was held in Kunming City, Yunnan Province, People's Republic of China, on November 18-19. The event was organized by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, led by Mr. Yang Wanming, the president of the association and the head of China's International Friendship Cities Society. During the event, Mr. Yang Wanming met with Deputy Mayor of Ulaanbaatar A. Amartuvshin to discuss cooperation between cities. The international conference included over 700 delegates from 120 provinces and cities across about 40 countries worldwide. Participants exchanged experiences during four main sessions: "Technological Innovation and Smart Cities", "Green Urban Development and Comfortable Living Environment", "Preservation of Urban History, Culture, and Heritage", and "Integrated Transportation Network and Urban Development Construction". During this time, Ulaanbaatar City was awarded the "Best City with Friendly Relations with China" award. Ulaanbaatar has been expanding mutually beneficial and friendly relations and cooperation with more than 10 cities in China, including Beijing, Tianjin, Hohhot, Chongqing, and Chengdu. Ulaanbaatar and Hohhot first signed a memorandum on establishing friendly relations in 1991, according to the Press and Public Relations Department of the Ulaanbaatar City Administration. Notice: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when fully or partially using this information in any form.

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South Korea to Increase the Number of Foreign Workers

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The South Korean government is intensifying efforts to attract foreign workers in various sectors due to a growing labor shortage, officials said Monday. The Ministry of Employment and Labor is discussing the extension of E-9 visa privileges to allow foreign workers to work as some types of bus drivers. The shortage of bus drivers prompted the Seoul city government to submit this proposal last month, according to a senior official from the Immigration Policy Division. “The transportation sector is one of the many industries that require more foreign labor during this labor shortage. For many months, we have been asking the central government to expand work permits,” an official told The Korea Times. Driving buses between maeul or village is seen as a step towards gaining employment in larger bus companies, which offer better salaries. In the latest proposal from the city government, it has requested the Ministry to include foreign bus drivers in the list of sectors eligible for an E-9 (non-professional employment) visa. Currently, the visa program includes manufacturing, fishing, agriculture, and a limited number of service sectors. The city government is also advocating for the extension of the working period for E-9 visa holders from the current three years to five years. Earlier this month, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport announced the extension of the E-7-3 visa to employ foreign workers in high-skilled positions, such as experts in concrete and steel railing installation. Currently, foreign workers are allowed to perform non-professional tasks such as cleaning and carrying building materials in the construction sector. According to a report published by the Construction Workers Mutual Aid Association, the average age of its workers is 51.8 years.

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Remarks at the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on the Implementation of Beijing+30

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

A delegation led by L. Munkhtushig, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, participated in the "Beijing+30" Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Implementation Issues, held in Bangkok, Kingdom of Thailand from November 19 to 21, and delivered a speech at the event. During the conference, State Secretary L. Munkhtushig participated in an event themed "Changing Discriminatory Social Norms to Empower Women: Actions Towards Beijing+30." This event was organized jointly by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), "IWFCI Mongolia", the Korean Women's Development Institute, and the Economic Cooperation and Development Organization. He expressed his views during this event as well. On the sidelines of the conference, State Secretary L. Munkhtushig met with A. Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of ESCAP, P. Smith, Director of the Asia-Pacific Region of the United Nations Population Fund, and delegates from several countries to discuss issues related to cooperation. The conference aims to discuss the regional implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and to reach a regional consensus on future actions. Relevant actions at the conference involve the participation of representatives from the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, the National Committee on Gender, and non-governmental organizations, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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How to Protect "Cyber Sovereignty"

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications has announced that it will hold the "Cyber Sovereignty" forum on the 25th of this month. According to officials from the ministry, "The concept of sovereignty is no longer measured solely by national borders, warfare, or maps. In today's world, which is heavily reliant on communications and information technology, protecting the sovereignty of a nation in cyberspace has emerged as a new challenge facing humanity. It is essential for all of us to come together and responsibly unite, strictly adhere to our laws and regulations, and ensure we have technology and software that meets global standards." According to an assessment of the information security of 67 government organizations conducted by the industry ministry, 70.59% are unable to assess their risk of cyberattacks. Additionally, 23% of local government-owned organizations have no information security regulations, and 50.33% do not follow standards to ensure this. Furthermore, the forum is being organized to discuss the urgent establishment of a system to ensure the cybersecurity of institutions with critical information infrastructure nationwide, due to the recent spread of malicious codes targeting healthcare institutions and the loss of sensitive and confidential citizen information.

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Society

Mongolian NGO Donates 15 Motorcycles to Bhutanese Rangers

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Mongol Ecology Center, a non-governmental organization, donated over 15 motorcycles to the Department of Forests and Parks in Bhutan as part of a rally for rangers initiative. Notably, in 2022, they also donated 15 motorcycles, marking the second time the Mongol Ecology Center has aided Bhutanese rangers. The executive director of the center, Badrar Yondon, initiated this campaign after visiting Mongolia’s natural protected areas and meeting a park ranger with a broken motorcycle. Additionally, due to the lack of state financing for appropriate equipment, park rangers had been using their personal bicycles. Inspired by this, Yondon and his team decided to fundraise in Mongolia’s national parks to donate motorcycles. "What began as a small idea to help one ranger quickly expanded. We raised funds and ultimately donated motorcycles to 15 rangers. From there, we extended our efforts to other countries such as Argentina, Nepal, Peru, Bhutan, and Namibia, realizing that rangers everywhere face similar challenges," said Badrar Yondon. Moreover, 15 donors contributed to purchasing motorcycles in Bhutan, offering them a unique opportunity to visit the national parks that received donations in 2022 and tour Bhutan by motorcycle before officially handing them over. Source: Akipress

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Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Today's event overview: - Government meeting will take place. - From 9:30 to 11:30: Cyber security training for journalists will be held on the 2nd floor of UB GRAND. Contacts: 9499-9598, 88004147. - 10:00: The parliamentary oversight hearing related to the protection of human rights and freedoms will be organized on the topic "Implementation of Human Rights Excluding Torture and Inhumane or Cruel Treatment." - 11:00: The President's Office will provide information on Mongolia's 2025 budget in the State Ceremony and Honor Hall "A." - 11:00: A press conference related to the vaccination against the Papillomavirus will be held at the Ministry of Health. Contacts: 91108333, 89119482, 96121060. - From 12:00 to 20:00: As part of the Cultural Creativity Month campaign, the "Cultural Expo" will be organized in the grand hall of the Ulaanbaatar Hotel. Contacts: 80027744, 91338999. Follow @montsame.mn

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Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), D. Sunjid, stated, "The oversight hearing on the implementation of human rights related to being free from torture, inhumane, or cruel treatment started this morning. The importance of this hearing organized by the State Great Khural is to: - Listen to and collect information, - Ensure the right to know for government and non-governmental organizations, and achieve a united understanding at the decision-making level, - Address issues and recommendations to the government and other relevant organizations regarding the elimination of violations and shortcomings in the activities of state agencies and officials," as introduced by hearing chairman P. Sainzorig, a member of Parliament. At the start of the meeting, NHRC Chairperson D. Sunjid presented on how our country investigates and resolves crimes related to torture. He stated, "The complaints related to torture crimes are registered and investigated by the General Prosecutor's Office, the General Police Department, the Anti-Corruption Agency, and the General Intelligence Agency. Out of the 500 complaints received, 300 are dismissed. Of these complaints, only about two on average are resolved in court each year. From 2016 to 2023, 14 torture crimes were resolved by the court, which is insufficient compared to the number of complaints and information received about torture crimes." In 2023-2024, a total of 108 complaints were received by the NHRC: - Related to police officers: 55 - Related to the Prosecutor's Office: 4 - Related to Anti-Corruption Agency investigators: 3 - Related to judges: 1 - Related to the Prison Administration: 45 Out of these, 34 complaints considered having potential attributes of crime or misdemeanor were transferred to the Anti-Corruption Agency, and 3 complaints to the General Police Department. Resolution: The Anti-Corruption Agency: - Refused to open a case for 17 complaints - Opened a case for 2 complaints - Transferred 5 complaints to the police department - Transferred 6 complaints to the Prosecutor’s Office As for complaints transferred to the police department, 2 were resolved by refusing to open a case. Additionally, the number of people serving sentences in prisons is increasing by 200-300 each year. A survey among prisoners showed that 22.8% reported violations of their right to personal security. Annually, 20-30% of complaints to the NHRC concern the violation of the right to a fair trial, the right to legal assistance, or being free from torture and defamation.

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D. Sünjid: Torture is evolving into psychological torment methods

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The parliamentary oversight hearing related to protecting human rights and freedoms is being organized under the theme "Implementation of the Right to be Free from Torture, Cruel, Inhuman Treatment." During this hearing, the Human Rights Commission presented findings on the current state of torture and inhumane treatment. Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission D. Sünjid stated that the commission received a total of 108 complaints related to torture in 2023 and 2024. Out of these: - 55 complaints were related to police officials - 4 to prosecutors - 3 to investigators from the Anti-Corruption Agency - 1 to a judge - 45 to officers of the enforcement agency 34 complaints that might be of a criminal nature were transferred to the Anti-Corruption Agency, and 3 complaints were sent to the General Police Department. A total of 11 complaints were transferred to the General Police Department and the Prosecutor's Office. Between 2016 and 2023, 14 criminal cases of torture were resolved in court, with an average of 2 cases resolved per year. Special attention should be paid to the issues surrounding cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment, particularly in prisons, detention facilities, military personnel relations, and the conditions of psychiatric centers. Our organization conducted a survey among 1200 prisoners, and in 2023, 22.8% reported that their right to be undisturbed was violated. Surveys among prisoners indicated that inhumane and cruel treatment was observed among fellow inmates. Human rights issues within prisons include: - Prison Capacity: The number of prisoners increases by 200-300 annually. Consequently, the children's educational center, Prison 405, and the Women's Prison are in facilities that do not meet standards, with inmate numbers exceeding standards by 2-48%. - Hygiene and Infrastructure: Sanitary facilities, toilets, and sewage disposal lack proper standards. - Medical Services: There are insufficient medical services and staff. - Food Supply and Nutrition: In a recommendation to the Minister of Finance in 2020, it was noted that 9.5 billion MNT was required annually to provide nutritious food. - Social and Psychological Services: One in two people entering prisons expresses a need for psychological services. - Communication and Complaints Rights: There are issues with visiting rights and processing complaints. - Inmate Employment: Limited opportunities for employment in closed prisons, and inadequate oversight on the proper accounting of wages for inmate labor. - Staff Working Rights: Approximately 200 outcomes are related to incidents arising from staff overload. The environment and training measures in detention facilities do not meet standard requirements. Laws and procedures need to be implemented, but budget, human resources, and transfer issues require resolution. In psychiatric centers, there is overcrowding, with 4-6 patients per room. It was concluded that there is inhumane and cruel treatment of patients, and improvements are necessary. A survey conducted among current and past military personnel indicated that one in five experienced some form of unofficial conduct. There has been no decrease in harm to military personnel's lives and health. Out of 565 interview rooms nationwide, 482 comply with camera standards. To enhance the legal framework for preventing torture and inhumane treatment, it is necessary to review and align approximately 10 laws with international standards. Despite the increase in complaints, the number of cases resolved in court remains relatively low, indicating a need to strengthen investigative capabilities. Torture and inhumane treatment have not ceased; rather, they have evolved from physical assault methods to psychological torment tactics. There is no possibility of ensuring conditions free from torture and inhumane treatment without improving budget, infrastructure, and environmental conditions. Effective protection for the victims of torture is necessary.

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Environment

Investments in Climate Change and Healthcare Improvement Projects

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Mongolia signed agreements on two projects aimed at intensifying climate investment and improving quality healthcare nationwide that meets citizens' income levels. The agreements were signed by the Minister of Finance of Mongolia, B. Javkhlan, and Shannon Cowlin, the ADB's Country Director for Mongolia. “These two projects are important steps towards making Mongolia’s development more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive,” said Shannon Cowlin, the resident representative. “By incorporating climate action into the national budget and plans, it becomes possible to mobilize climate financing from both the public and private sectors, facilitating the development of a low-carbon, inclusive, and resilient economy,” she elaborated. The Climate Investment Program (Subprogram 1), a $100 million policy loan, aims to strengthen Mongolia's capacity to achieve its climate goals under the "Nationally Determined Contributions" and "National Adaptation Plan," and will support gender-sensitive actions. Support will also be provided to enhance the institutional framework for climate action, investment planning, and budgetary systems. Policy measures to bolster investment in renewable energy production, increase energy-efficient usage in the construction sector, and promote climate-resilient agriculture, livestock, and food processing industries will be included. This program will improve climate finance mechanisms through green bonds, increasing the banking sector's portfolio of green loans. It aims to improve the sector's investment roadmap to support low-carbon, climate-resilient development, focusing on energy and agriculture. Urgent care equipment will be supplied to selected hospitals as part of the projects. The second phase of the healthcare investment program, a $82.2 million project, aims to enhance access to healthcare services for vulnerable populations by strengthening primary healthcare services in urban and rural areas, improving provincial and district hospital services, modernizing strategic purchasing models, and enhancing procurement and financial management capabilities. Within the project's framework, a new hospital will be built in Chingeltei district, and the existing hospital in Khovd province will be renovated and expanded using low-carbon solutions. Moreover, six new family hospitals will be constructed in the ger areas of Ulaanbaatar city with a focus on gender-sensitive design, along with a new health center in one soum. The project will supply selected hospitals with urgent care equipment, modernize primary healthcare financing, staffing, purchasing systems, and implement an integrated healthcare service model. Furthermore, the project aims to strengthen the autonomy of hospitals and improve the procurement and financial management capacities of the relevant government agencies in the healthcare sector. The ADB is committed to eradicating extreme poverty in the Asia-Pacific region while promoting inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development in the region. The bank, founded in 1966, has 69 member countries, 49 of which are located in the region.

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Mongolia to Establish a National Environmental Performance Index

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

With financing from the Climate Green Fund, the United Nations Development Programme is implementing a project called "Improving the Adaptive Capacity and Risk Management of Mongolian Rural Communities to Climate Change" in collaboration with Mongolia's Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry. They are working on developing a National Environmental Performance Index (NEPI) and the methodology for its calculation. Researchers and experts have adapted 58 indicators from the Environmental Performance Index developed by Yale and Columbia University in the USA to fit the specific characteristics and patterns of Mongolia, reducing them to 39 indicators. This index is a key measure that evaluates and quantifies the outcomes of countries' environmental policies and actions. It was developed by researchers from the two aforementioned universities and is traditionally updated annually by the World Economic Forum. In 2023, Mongolia ranked 155th out of 180 countries according to this index. Researchers emphasize that having a methodology for calculating the index at the national level will significantly contribute to improving environmental health, enhancing the resilience of ecosystems, and mitigating climate change.

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Innovation

Government agencies have spent 2 trillion tugriks on digital transformation over the past 10 years

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At yesterday's meeting of the Standing Committee on Innovation and Digital Policy of the State Great Khural, information on the implementation of the Law on Transparency of Public Information was heard. The State Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications, P. Altan-Od, presented the following information. He stated that, as a result of digital transformation efforts over the past years, Mongolia ranked 46th in the "E-Government Development Index" released every two years by the United Nations in 2024, moving up 28 places from the previous year. The digital development indices are also improving. For instance, the e-service index of government services increased from 0.53 in 2020 to 0.83. Four sets of laws supporting digital development have been enacted and implemented, and the related relationships regulated by the laws were introduced. He further explained the basic system of state information exchange "KHUR", the identification and authentication "DAN", and the "KHURDAN point" service of public services, providing detailed data and introducing the difficulties and solutions related to the implementation of the laws. For example, despite organizations transitioning to digital, they face the need to maintain paper formats in parallel, with digital transformation becoming a burden rather than an accelerator in some cases. In the health sector, although patient histories are entered into the digital system, doctors maintain them in parallel digitally. Permissions and reports are received digitally, but paper copies are requested. In cases where legal entities are established digitally, most steps are digitalized, but opening accounts digitally and registering until the registrant receives the original copies is not possible. To resolve these issues, it was noted that open information as stipulated by law should be regularly uploaded to the Shilen.gov.mn site, recommendations or conclusions should be obtained before creating a public information system in all government agencies, administrative systems connected to DocX should be used by government agencies, open data approved by list should be uploaded in a way convenient for users on the opendata.gov.mn site, digital signatures should become customary, and information stored digitally should not have paper copies. In connection with the information presented, the chairman of the standing committee and member of the State Great Khural J. Zoljargal asked whether 68 types of information are being made available as open information and requested clarification on the breakdown of the expenditure and the work being done to use funds efficiently, as 2 trillion tugriks were spent on digital transformation by government agencies between 2014 and 2024. Also, member of the State Great Khural B. Punsalmaa noted the risk of closing paper information between government entities and asked about the possibilities for improving digital signature solutions and how cybersecurity is being ensured. The Law on Transparency of Public Information stipulates that both paper and digital information are considered equally truthful. However, as the General Archival Authority regulates receiving and archiving information on paper, the issue needs to be reviewed. A citizen is only required to verify their digital signature in person once. The technology of digital signatures is being updated to undergo international auditing from next year, according to the task force. In response to the question from State Great Khural member J. Zoljargal, the task force stated that, according to the law, 68 types of information are posted transparently on the shilen.gov.mn site. A working group is working on the task of regulating the unified introduction of information collected by government agencies to ensure transparency and prevent corruption and conflicts of interest, the Press and Information Service of the State Great Khural reported. Reminder: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either fully or partially.

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Mongolia Ranks 84th out of 116 Countries in English Proficiency, Classified as 'Low Proficiency'

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The international educational organization Education First, operating from Switzerland, has been publishing the English Proficiency Index (EPI) report annually since 2011. This report evaluates the English proficiency of citizens from countries around the world. Recently, the organization announced its 2024 report, covering 2.1 million people from 116 non-native English-speaking countries. English proficiency was assessed with a maximum score of 800, while the global average was 477. Countries were divided into five levels based on their scores: Very High, High, Moderate, Low, and Very Low Proficiency. Mongolia ranked 84th out of 116 countries with a score of 464, placing it in the 'Low Proficiency' category. Regionally, it ranked 13th out of 23 countries in Asia. This year's score of 464 marks an 18-point decrease from last year's. Mongolia has been included in the EPI report since 2015. In 2015, the country scored 415, but the score gradually increased to 485 by 2022, which was the highest recorded. However, scores dropped to 482 in 2023 and further to 464 in 2024, indicating poor performance over the past two years. This year's list is topped by the Netherlands with 636 points, followed by Norway with 610 and Sweden with 608 points. At the bottom are Yemen with 394 points, and Somalia and Côte d'Ivoire, both scoring 399. Source: ef.com Warning: Media outlets (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, completely or in part.

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Contracts Signed with Digital Signatures Will Be Recognized Internationally

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

At the meeting of the Innovation and Electronic Policy Standing Committee of the State Great Khural, the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication reported on the implementation of the Public Information Transparency Law. In connection with this hearing, the members asked questions and received answers. MP B. Punsalmaa: I listened to information on how the exchange of information between government agencies is proceeding. It turns out that the requirement to authenticate with paper is the basis for exchanging paper information between ministries, and they are looking for a way to solve this. If paper information is completely abolished, the issue of information security will be acute. Recently, cyber security issues have arisen. Due to this risk, paper information is being transmitted. So I'd like to ask whether stopping this is the right solution. Secondly, our country has moved to electronic signatures. However, documents still need to be notarized in person with an electronic signature. What are the possibilities for resolving and improving this issue in the future? Thirdly, it's time we came up with a decisive solution for cyber security. As a land-locked country, we have an opportunity to strengthen our cyber security. What are the solutions to these issues? Director of the Digital Development Policy Implementation Department of the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication, B. Bat-Ulzii: First, one of the main principles of the Public Information Transparency Law states that no additional information should be requested from citizens and that paper and digital documents are considered equal. This principle has been legally enacted and is now being implemented. The main issue is that documents are still stored on paper due to the lack of an updated general procedure for official record keeping. This means printing, stamping, and storing documents. The primary solution we ask from you is to demand that the General Archives amend its general procedures to comply with the law. Secondly, the possibility of signing contracts with digital signatures has emerged. Contracts can now be made electronically after having the digital signature verified once in person. Electronic contracts save time and are considered more secure than paper contracts. The ministry plans to update digital signature technology next year and conduct an international audit. This will make digitally signed contracts recognized internationally. Director of the Cyber Security Council's Office, Ch. Zolbayar: In the Public Information Law, a subject responsible for handling and processing all information is specified. According to Article 6.2 of Chapter 6, the information handler is responsible for collecting, processing, utilizing, managing, organizing public information, ensuring information security, and taking other necessary measures within the framework of its statutory functions. Ministries and state agencies, as information handlers, must ensure the security of the data within their developed systems. According to the cyber security law, the responsibility for law enforcement lies with the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication. However, coordinating the implementation and regulating risks falls under the Office. Recently, the Cyber Security Council convened and issued a resolution that state and administrative bodies need to pay special attention to budget and structural arrangements and has communicated this to relevant organizations.

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Health

Misinformation about Vaccines Risks Many Lives

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The GoGo team is working to deliver information directly. The Ministry of Health is providing information regarding vaccination against the papilloma virus. Director of the National Cancer Center, N. Erdenekhuu states: The vaccine against the papilloma virus has been included in the immunization program. While countries around the world have declared themselves free of cervical cancer, Mongolia leads in this cancer in Asia. The human papilloma virus vaccine not only protects against cervical cancer but also against other diseases such as genital warts, penile cancer, and oral cancer. In Mongolia, 4,212 people have been diagnosed with cervical cancer. More than 160 people die from this cancer annually, and over 400 new cases are registered each year. Every year, more than 300 mothers in Mongolia die from cancer. In October 2023, amendments were made to the Immunization Law. These amendments included the addition of vaccines against hepatitis A and papilloma virus in the scheduled immunization. More than 300 mothers die from cancer every year in Mongolia. A total of 7,000 people have been lost. However, those opposing vaccines, what knowledge do they have about vaccines? What research have they done? One cannot believe the words of ignorant people. Vaccines work through a specific mechanism. In 2012, the Ministry of Health and the government failed against these people and stopped the vaccine. However, during this time, thousands of women could have been prevented from developing cervical cancer or precancerous conditions. Therefore, we urge citizens to trust scientifically founded information. Researcher Dr. Kh. Battogtokh from the Microbiology Institute of the Mongolian University of Medical Sciences notes: Some types of viruses have the potential to cause cancer. Among them, the papilloma virus has over 200 types, 50% of which are transmitted sexually. After contracting this virus, there are no symptoms initially. However, it has been established by world virologists and scientists that it causes cancer in organs of the respiratory system and gastrointestinal tract. In our country, 14 people die from cancer daily. Therefore, some cancers can be prevented. There are only two vaccines in the world that protect against cancer, which are the hepatitis B vaccine against liver cancer and the papilloma virus vaccine. Since starting vaccination in our country, we have managed to fully cure some diseases. For example, there is polio. Getting this infection could result in paralysis for life or even death, so early vaccination can prevent these risks in the future. We also urge citizens to get accurate information from reliable sources. Our country, with WHO certification, uses the GARDASIL-4 vaccine manufactured in the USA, with a single dose to immunize 11-year-old children.

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Despite many challenges, we have succeeded in including the CERVICAL CANCER vaccine in our schedule

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: ikon.mn

A press conference related to the prevention of cervical cancer, specifically regarding the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and vaccination efforts, was held today at the Ministry of Health to discuss preparations for introducing the HPV vaccine by the end of 2024, as announced by D. Bayarbold, head of the Ministry's Department of Communicable Diseases. The State Cancer Center's director, N. Erdenekhuu, provided the following information regarding cancer statistics and conditions: "This is a significant step that has the potential to offer a future with more hope to many families and young people. We have missed over a decade in terms of vaccination to prevent cancer. Our country currently leads in mortality due to cancer, including liver, stomach, cervical, esophagus, and lung cancer, which is regrettable. Almost no other country leads the world in cervical and liver cancer caused by viruses. We are witnessing a tragic picture of lives lost due to cancer caused by environmental factors. Our nation ranks first in the world for cancer deaths, and this has been the case for many years without signs of decline. It's essential to implement evidence-based measures, and immunization is one of these key actions." "The prevalence of cervical cancer in Mongolia is the highest in Asia," he continued. "Scholars and experts in the health sector have faced many obstacles in the past, but by overcoming them and enacting legislation, we are now able to introduce the HPV vaccine into the immunization schedule. While many countries are declaring themselves free of cervical cancer, Mongolia leads Asia in the prevalence of this type of cancer. Cervical cancer is in the top five cancers worldwide. Currently, 4,712 people are affected by cervical cancer in our country. Annually, 160 people die from this cancer, with 400-500 new cases emerging. Certain countries have successfully prevented cancer through the development of vaccines against pathogens like genital warts and others by maintaining a yearly vaccination regimen. These countries no longer need to discuss cervical cancer. It is projected that the disease's prevalence and mortality rates will fall in the coming years. By 2030, we aspire to achieve significant success in this regard. Many doctors, professionals, and scientists have persistently worked for public health, and I extend my gratitude to them," said N. Erdenekhuu, director of the State Cancer Center. Notice: Media organizations (television, radio, social networks, and websites) must credit the source (ikon.mn) when fully or partially utilizing this information.

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Over 150 Countries Have Included the HPV Vaccine in Their Immunization Programs

Published: 2024-11-20 | Translated from: news.mn

Starting from the 25th of this month, vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV) will be administered to 11-year-old children. However, various unsubstantiated claims about the negative effects of the HPV vaccine have been trending on social media. In response, the Ministry of Health and the National Cancer Center provided information about HPV. Worldwide, more than 200 strains of HPV have been identified. In both males and females, HPV is known to cause six types of cancer, including cancer of the vagina, vulva, penis, oral cavity, throat, and cervical cancer, in addition to causing genital warts. HPV is primarily spread through sexual contact, and 75% of cervical cancers are caused by HPV strains 16 and 18. Experts state that 80% of adults will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives. People can transmit HPV to others without being aware of their own infection. It is common for cancers to exhibit no symptoms until an advanced stage. In 2023, 425 women in Mongolia were diagnosed with cervical cancer, making it the fourth most diagnosed cancer in the country. In the same year, 160 women died from cervical cancer. As such, by 2030, a goal has been set globally to reduce and ultimately eliminate cervical cancer. The three main targets are: - Vaccinating 90% of girls by age 15 against HPV, - Screening 70% of women aged 35 and 45 using high-sensitivity tests, - Ensuring 90% of women with precancerous cervical conditions receive necessary treatment and care. Over 150 countries have incorporated the HPV vaccine into their immunization programs, and it is being organized based in schools to make the vaccine accessible to everyone and to bring immunization services closer to the population.

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