Nov 24, 2024 49 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for November 24, 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

A Legal Provision Allowing Tax Authorities to Publicly Announce Individuals as Offenders Without Court Ruling Deemed Unconstitutional

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

On November 22, 2024, the Constitutional Court of Mongolia held a session to review the claim made by citizen Ch. Lodoysambuu and others regarding certain provisions of the General Tax Law potentially violating relevant provisions of the Constitution of Mongolia. During this session, the Constitutional Court determined that the provision in Article 13, Section 13.4 of the General Tax Law, stating that "If a taxpayer violates tax laws and fails to rectify the violation within the period specified by law, has committed the same violation three times or more, or is being searched for, the tax authority may inform the public about the taxpayer without their consent," violates Article 16, Section 13 of the Constitution of Mongolia. This constitutional provision states, "[Everyone shall have the right to privacy and the freedom to do as they choose.] Except as lawfully justified and procedurally established otherwise, no one shall be subjected to arbitrary restriction of liberty." Consequently, the Court decided to suspend the provision starting November 22, 2024, and issued Recommendation No. 04 for 2024. Furthermore, the Court ruled that the provisions in Article 34, Sections 34.4.1 and 34.4.3 of the General Tax Law, which pertain to the disclosure of taxpayers' account information and the details related to the account holder upon request by the tax authority, as well as the provision of transaction information in writing or electronically by the tax authority's request, do not violate Article 16, Section 13 of the Constitution.

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Did E. Lkhagva Spend 1.2 billion on Advertising for Soup to Celebrate Constitution Day as "Proclamation of State" Day?

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

Mongolia adopted the first Constitution of the Mongolian People's Republic on November 26, 1924, transitioning from a monarchical regime to a republic. The 100th anniversary of this day falls on the coming Tuesday (11/26/2024), and it will be celebrated as a public holiday. However, there is a widespread misconception that this day marks the day Mongolia declared its independence. Yet, Mongolia is a country with a history of 2233 years since the establishment of its first state and 818 years since the founding of the Great Mongol Empire. Therefore, historians argue that commemorating only the last 100 years and calling it the "Proclamation of State" day is incorrect. It would be more accurate to recognize November 26 as the day when the first Constitution was adopted. The State Great Khural (Parliament) passed a resolution in 2023 to commemorate the 100th anniversary, establishing a working group to organize the celebration. The working group was tasked with scientifically studying the historical significance of the first Constitution, organizing academic conferences, making historical research and public education works accessible, educating citizens about the sanctity of the Constitution, and planning and conducting state ceremonial events. Various activities are planned for the 100th anniversary, including academic conferences and exhibitions, but the most controversial activity has been the proposal to make "soup" the main dish of the celebration. E. Lkhagva, Deputy Secretary-General of the parliamentary secretariat, has even urged all students to make and consume soup at home, with advertisements supporting this initiative already aired. The now-infamous soup advertisement depicts families celebrating the Lunar New Year with large portions of traditional food and eating soup together as part of commemorating the day when the first Constitution was adopted. Critics have derided the advertisement as "clearly money was wasted on its production" and have been angered by the 1.2 billion tugrug spent on this awkward marketing campaign, which sources claim was allocated by the government. The working group responsible for promoting Constitutional Day awareness among the public included representatives from the Ministry of Education, Parliamentary Secretariat, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the National Archives, led by E. Lkhagva, Deputy Secretary-General of the parliamentary secretariat. Regarding the decision to make soup the celebratory dish, E. Lkhagva stated, "The government is not forcing people to eat this particular food. This is merely a suggestion. The Ministry of Culture and the Mongolian Food Producers Association supported the suggestion to make soup the celebratory dish. Based on surveys, young people show 78% and 83% recognition and approval for Lunar New Year and Naadam Festival, respectively, but they do not fully understand the significance of the Proclamation Day or Independence Day celebrations compared to other notable days. We aim to create a festive atmosphere by encouraging families to gather around the table to eat together. The soup recipe has been disseminated in cooperation with the Mongolian Food Producers Association." Nevertheless, E. Lkhagva's comment misrepresents the day, which is not "Proclamation Day." It marks the adoption of the first Constitution and the shift from monarchy to a republic. It's misleading to suggest that Mongolia has a history of only 100 years when it ratified its Great Law over 800 years ago to form the Great Mongol Empire. It's accurate to refer to November 26 as the historical day of adopting the first Constitution.

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Discussion: Citizens Can Congregate and Rally Freely Without a Time Limit

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs held an open discussion about the newly revised draft of the Law on the Organization of Rallies and Gatherings, as well as draft laws on amendments and changes related to ensuring human rights and freedoms. The discussion included more than 60 participants, comprising representatives from the General Police Department, the Bar Association, the Legal Assistance Center, the National Human Rights Commission, relevant officials from the capital and district institutions, non-governmental organizations focused on human rights, and representatives of citizens, who expressed opinions and suggestions regarding the legal revisions and changes. As part of the draft law, one of the changes mentioned was altering the existing specification in the current law on organizing rallies and gatherings concerning issues "related to politics, society, economy, human rights, and freedoms" to open the possibility for rallies and gatherings on any issue. Additionally, authorization for receiving notification, responding, and forcibly dispersing unlawful rallies and gatherings is being transferred to be implemented by police authorities instead of individual officials, with an effort to reduce as much as possible unnecessary restrictions and limitations, and banning administrative orders that seek to restrict or prohibit these rights from being established and enforced. During the discussion, Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs O. Altangerel stated, "In the government’s 2024-2028 action program, we plan to submit the following draft laws during the regular session of the Parliament this fall, aiming to ensure human rights and freedoms, especially guaranteeing the citizens' rights to express opinions, to speak, to publish, and to organize rallies and gatherings, with the goal of strengthening state policies respecting human rights and devoid of corruption." On the other hand, citizen N. Damdinsuren expressed the view that "the revised draft of the Law on the Organization of Rallies and Gatherings, highlights changes and innovations starting from its name itself, and that citizens should be allowed to freely unite, rally, and gather without being restricted by time." The next discussion on the legal draft will also be announced to the public as open.

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Youth Discuss and Approve Policies and Goals

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: news.mn

The Central Organization of UBTZ Youth held its IV conference in Ulaanbaatar. According to the fundamental rules of the Central Organization of Youth, a unified conference is organized every two years to elect a new structure and composition, evaluate the work of the past two years, hear recommendations from the Supervisory Board, and allow candidates for the new leadership to compete with their policies and goals to be implemented in the upcoming two years. This conference is of high importance for increasing the social activity and participation of the young railway workers, supporting training and development, and ensuring stability. Therefore, the leadership of the railway has given high importance and support to this event, participating as honorary guests, wishing success, and expressing their commitment to continuously support the aspirations of the youth in the future. Among the honorable guests were the First Deputy Mayor of Ulaanbaatar M. Davaadalai, the Chairman of the UBTZ Veterans Association Yu. Iderchuluun, the Vice President of JCI-Mongolia B. Onon, and the Secretary-General of the Mongolian Social Democratic Youth Association B. Galsan, who conveyed congratulatory messages. Representatives from youth organizations such as the "Civil Aviation Youth Association," "Mongolian Road Youth Association," and large organizations in the transport sector including "Mongolian Railway," "Tavantolgoi Railway," "Bodi International," and "Incon" attended to wish success. The organization, which was restructured eight years ago, faced many challenges such as empowering the youth organization, preparing and training human resources, and stabilizing operations. However, with the support of the UBTZ leadership and the unified goals of the youth, they managed to reach this level, which was highlighted in the conference. It was also emphasized by the leadership team that creating sufficient unity to stabilize the organization's activities has been achieved, and further growth and strengthening are crucial. In addition, 68.8% of the participants in this conference were new youths elected as delegates for the first time, and they expressed their desire for new methods, innovative solutions, and development centered on their participation rather than top-down management. For the period of 2024-2026, A. Enkh-Amgalan will lead the UBTZ Central Youth Organization with 10 deputy leaders and the Supervisory Board, working to implement plans and goals directed towards the youth.

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Weekly Summary: Budget Vetoed, Syphilis Cases Increased

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: gogo.mn

During the past week, notable events unfolded across the nation. POWERLIFTING ATHLETE S. MUNKHZUL BECOMES WORLD CHAMPION The World Powerlifting Championships for adults took place in the Republic of Iceland. Under the leadership of Mongolia's MPNH president and merited coach D. Battulga, three male and three female athletes competed, earning Mongolia one gold, one silver, and three bronze medals. On the last day of the competition, S. Munkhzul lifted 227.5 kg in the women's 84 kg deadlift category to win the gold medal. S. Munkhzul also became the masters' world champion last year, winning a gold medal at the Asia-Pacific and Africa Championships, receiving the title of best athlete. HEARING: "POLICE BRUTALITY TO COERCE CONFESSIONS" A monitoring hearing on the implementation of "freedom from torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment" was held. Representatives from legal institutions and citizens whose rights were violated participated and expressed their grievances. During this hearing, citizen N. Badamzul spoke about being surveilled and beaten by police officers to force a confession. PRESIDENT VETOES THE 2025 BUDGET LAW IN ITS ENTIRETY The President of Mongolia vetoed the entire law on the State Budget for 2025. In relation to the President's veto, Finance Minister B. Javkhlan answered journalists' questions, stating, "I believe the Parliament will discuss whether to accept the veto soon. I think they may accept it. We briefly discussed this during the government meeting. The government accepts the President's veto favorably." PRESIDENT'S VETO ACCEPTED The President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh vetoed the 2025 State Budget Law and all related laws submitted and adopted together. The President urged the government to reduce its budget deficit and adhere to the principle of rule of law. Today, the Parliament's regular session accepted the President's veto with 77.7% of votes. "BELIEVE IN SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION ABOUT VACCINES" The Ministry of Health provided official information regarding the immunization against the papilloma virus. Director of the National Cancer Center N. Erdenekhuu stated, "In 2012, the Ministry of Health and the government lost to these people, leading to the stopping of this vaccine. In that time, thousands of women could have avoided cervical cancer or precancerous conditions. Thus, we urge the public to believe in scientifically-based information." SYPHILIS CASES INCREASED BY 154 OVER THE YEAR By the end of 2023, 10,245 cases of sexually transmitted infectious diseases were registered nationwide in Mongolia, representing 25% of all infectious diseases, as reported by the National Health Information Center. Among these, 4,206 cases (41.1%) were syphilis, 3,579 cases (34.9%) were gonorrhea, and 2,437 cases (23.8%) were trichomoniasis. Compared to the same period last year, syphilis cases increased by 154. MONGOLIA WINS FIRST-EVER DARTS GOLD MEDAL AND TROPHY Athletes who won Mongolia's first-ever gold medal in darts provided information after their achievement. They stated, "Mongolian Classic Darts Association athletes participated in the 20th Asia-Pacific Championship held in Taipei, Taiwan, from November 3-6. From the competition, the 13-member Mongolian national team achieved their first trophy and gold medal."

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Economy

Road Usage Tax in Ulaanbaatar to Increase Fourfold

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

Ulaanbaatar's road usage tax is set to increase fourfold, with discussions to collect 192,000 MNT for vehicles with engines up to 2001 cc and 324,000 MNT for those with engines up to 3001 cc. According to the Constitution of Mongolia, a citizen has the right to "own immovable property, manage and use it, and travel freely in their homeland while enjoying these rights with full assurance." The state, in turn, is obliged to ensure the right of citizens to live in a healthy and safe environment. Specifically, a car is considered movable property of citizens, and it is understood that the state must allow citizens to freely travel on their land, which is considered a basic duty of the state. However, Mayor H. Nyambaatar of Ulaanbaatar has implemented a decision to limit the issuance of vehicle registration numbers in the capital, imposing a daily fee of 5,000 MNT for any provincial vehicle registered outside the city that stays in Ulaanbaatar for more than 48 hours, which many citizens criticize as a violation of the Constitution. Moreover, there are plans to increase the tax rate imposed on motor transport and self-propelled vehicles within Ulaanbaatar. For example, the tax for vehicles with an engine capacity of up to 2001 cc, which was calculated at 24 MNT per cm3 resulting in a total of 48,000 MNT, is now being proposed to increase to 96 MNT, making the total tax 192,000 MNT. Additionally, the tax for vehicles with engine capacities between 2001-3001 cc, previously set at 27 MNT per cm3 resulting in 81,000 MNT, is now suggested to increase to 108 MNT, totaling 324,000 MNT. Meanwhile, the tax for vehicles with engines over 3001 cc, previously at 33 MNT per cm3, is planned to increase to 132 MNT. It is intriguing that Mayor H. Nyambaatar might propose this suggestion for final approval by the City Council of Ulaanbaatar. In the 2024 Ulaanbaatar City Council elections, the MPP won an overwhelming majority with 33 seats. The fee for road usage is expected to be revised. For instance, a Lexus 570 with a 5700 cc engine will need to pay a tax of 752,400 MNT, while a Prius with a 2000 cc engine would pay 196,000 MNT. After collecting taxes and fees, there is hope that the roads will be properly maintained.

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Submitted the draft budget of the capital city for 2025

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: news.mn

In accordance with the Budget Law of Mongolia, Deputy Mayor of the capital city T. Davaadalai submitted the draft budget for 2025 to Chairman A. Bayart of the Citizen's Representative Khural of the capital city. Along with the resolution on approving the capital's 2025 budget, drafts of resolutions were submitted to renew the rates of vehicle and self-driving equipment taxes, to update the road usage fees, and to revise the unit tariffs for waste management at the central landfill. The draft budget for 2025 is based on the following key directions and policies. These include: - Activating public-private partnerships and implementing policies to expand the city’s economy. - Transforming ger districts into residential areas to reduce air and environmental pollution. - Expanding the connecting roads of Ulaanbaatar city and implementing comprehensive reforms in the public transport sector to reduce road congestion. - Completing investments started in previous years to increase access to basic social services. Next year, within the framework of state policies, plans were made to align the concept of regional development with taxation policies, simplify the tax environment for businesses, increase tax coverage, improve registration and control to reduce the informal economy, and expand the tax base. The draft budget is directed towards implementing the five main policies outlined in the 2024-2028 operational program of the Mayor of the capital city and Governor of Ulaanbaatar city. These policies include regional development, human development, economic policy, green development policy, and governance policy. In this context, funding for major projects such as "Metro" for high-capacity public transport, the Tuul highway, the new Zuunmod city development, and comprehensive residential complex in the Selbe sub-center, including land acquisition costs, were reflected. Furthermore, it is planned to implement a total of 164 projects and measures in engineering structures, roads, urban utility services, education, health, and green facilities of Ulaanbaatar city.

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Suffered 10 Billion Tugriks in Losses Due to Telegram Fraud

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The MPA agency used the photograph with special permission. "Jobs by the hour or jobs completing tasks to increase money" - such advertisements have prompted many to deposit money and, subsequently, fall victim to fraud. The police department has issued a warning to prevent such crimes. Complaints of this type have increased, with 619 cases registered and investigated over the past four months. It is reported that 10 billion tugriks in losses have been incurred due to Telegram fraud. Specifically, filling the advertisement "Work online hourly and increase money" resulted in connecting to the fraudsters. Through 13 transactions aimed at making money working online, individuals transferred 22 million tugriks. Also, connecting with the advertisement "Complete tasks through Telegram to increase money" led to seven transactions totaling 22.3 million tugriks being scammed. Therefore, people are reminded not to join unknown Telegram groups, not to transfer money under any circumstances, and to immediately report to the police if they fall victim to fraudulent crimes. Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social media, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, entirely or partially, without fail.

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Alert: Beware of Fraudulent Job Offers Promising to Grow Your Money

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

The police are warning the public to be cautious of fraudulent activities involving advertisements that promise to "make money grow by completing tasks or part-time jobs." Many people have been victims of scams after depositing money based on such ads. Over the past four months, 619 criminal cases of this nature have been registered and are under investigation. Victims have lost over 10 billion tugriks through schemes on Telegram. One such scam involves victims being approached under the pretense of "earning money online through part-time jobs," with individuals being defrauded out of 12.2 million tugriks after 13 transactions. Another case involved people being lured by ads saying "complete tasks via Telegram to grow money," resulting in 22.3 million tugriks being lost over seven transactions. As a precaution, citizens are advised not to join unknown Telegram groups and under no circumstances transfer money. If victimized by such fraudulent activity, it is urgent to report the matter to the police immediately.

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VIDEO: The Truth About 'Achit Ikht' Materials

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

Before the Parliamentary elections in June, the operation of "Achit Ikht" LLC, established on the secondary pile of "Erdenet Plant," was halted and a task force was set up to transfer 34% of it to the state. In our "Perspective of the Issue" section, we highlight information on how this decision affected the activities of the company, which pays significant taxes to the state, and what the current situation is. In meetings of the "State Commission on Mineral Reserves" in 1972 and 1991, it was decided to remove the secondary pile, which had low economic viability and poor ore content, from the balance sheet of "Erdenet Plant." However, this pile, having lain exposed to the elements for 30-40 years, oxidized and absorbed rainwater, causing acid solutions to seep into the ground, resulting in heavy metal-laden green acidic water polluting the environment and negatively impacting humans and animals. The "Achit Ikht" company, using hydrometallurgical technology employed by over 20% of the world's copper production, began leaching this secondary pile, which does not fit "Erdenet Plant's" technology and was off-balance due to its poor quality, with a weak acid solution to extract copper. The result is high-grade copper that meets the "A-Grade" standard of the London Metal Exchange, achieving 99.999% purity. Following the commissioning of "Achit Ikht"'s cathode copper plant, the acid solution that had been negatively affecting the environment ceased to flow completely. In short, immediate utilization of these "Erdenet Plant" piles to refine the acidic green solution containing heavy metals was necessary to prevent severe harm to the environment, humans, and animals. Nonetheless, a sudden decision to halt "Achit Ikht"'s production posed risks of disruptions in technical processes, changes in solution properties, and potential leakage back into the environment due to heavy rains filling pools in Orkhon province. A task force from "Erdenet Plant" urgently reviewed the condition of "Achit Ikht"’s pools, discovering fill levels of 44-110%, amounting to an average of 97% capacity, raising risk levels as solutions threatened to spill over. Conclusions were drawn that "Achit Ikht" must resume its production activities urgently to stabilize technical processes and mitigate risks. Subsequently, during a Government session, measures were mandated, within the relevant legal frameworks, concerning the situation at "Achit Ikht"’s cathode copper plant. Twenty days later, the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources directed "Erdenet Plant" to ensure normal operations of "Achit Ikht"'s cathode copper processing plant, averting significant environmental risk from sulfuric acid solution spills. "Achit Ikht"'s cathode copper plant, a Mongolian national company, was created without any financial support from the state budget or "Erdenet Plant," relying instead on commercial loans from domestic and foreign banks and investors. In 2010, a contract was signed to refine the secondary pile, misaligned with Erdenet's technology and of low ore content, with the agreement that "Erdenet Plant" would acquire a 34% stake once the plant became operational, with "Achit Ikht" retaining 66%. By 2014, the cathode copper plant started operations, leading "Achit Ikht" to propose transferring "Erdenet Plant"’s 34% stake into state registration and adding two members to "Achit Ikht"’s Board of Directors. However, an "Erdenet Plant" delegation deemed the hydrometallurgical plant a high-risk and poor project economically, recommending a civil agreement with "Achit Ikht" instead of shared risks. By 2015, "Achit Ikht"'s 2010 contract transformed to secure payments from "Achit Ikht"’s sales revenue rather than transferring 34% ownership, avoiding tax risks and potential loss sharing. Over the 2015-2024 period, without assuming liabilities or the 34% stake, "Erdenet Plant" benefited from "Achit Ikht"'s unsought "passive profit" from their product sales. Despite 12 offers to grant this stake for free, spanning from 2014 to 2024, "Erdenet Plant" did not accept it. Frustrated by the silence to their free stake proposal, "Achit Ikht" took the matter up with Mongolia’s President, Cabinet Secretariat, Minister of Mining, and the State Property Policy and Coordination Agency without eliciting any response. Since processing discarded piles of poor ore content, "Achit Ikht" has paid over 500 billion MNT in taxes to the state. This includes 29 billion MNT to "Erdenet Plant" for product sales royalties and eight different taxes paid to the state, including the Social Insurance, Personal Income Tax, Corporate Tax, VAT, and Customs Duties, contributing 37 billion MNT to local government budgets. Additionally, by bringing this second ore pile into economic circulation and registering it under the state reserves in 2017, "Achit Ikht" became a licensed special permit holder for exploiting residual deposits, paying a royalty fee of 36 billion MNT, a recovery fund contribution of 7.5 billion MNT, a land fee of 3.1 billion MNT, and a water usage fee of 2.8 billion MNT.

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Diplomacy

Choi Jin Won: By Returning with the Issued Visa Type and Validity, the Mutual Trust Between the Two Countries Will Strengthen Further

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) introduced the "Responsible Travel-II" information campaign. This campaign aims to facilitate the travel conditions of Mongolian citizens abroad, ensuring the dissemination of correct information by advising people to obtain official information about U.S. and South Korean visas from official sources, reducing the spread of fraud and intentional misinformation in U.S. and South Korean visa applications, and educating the public about illegal visa brokers and document forgers. During the event, South Korean Ambassador to Mongolia, Choi Jin Won, stated, "Since the establishment of relations in 1990, Mongolia and South Korea have continuously developed friendly relations and cooperation. The interactions between our citizens form the foundation of this friendly relationship. Last year, approximately 140,000 South Korean citizens traveled to Mongolia. Similarly, a comparable number of Mongolian citizens traveled to South Korea, setting a historical record for mutual travel. To further increase the flow of citizens between our two countries, besides the cooperation between governments, the participation and effort of our citizens are critically important. When citizens from both countries travel, respecting the laws, regulations, and culture of the respective countries with responsibility and trust can further expand the opportunities. Citizens traveling to South Korea will strengthen mutual trust between the two countries by returning within the issued visa type and validity period. Responsible travel by individuals does not only impact the person but also affects their families and society, continuing the healthy relationship between South Korea and Mongolia. The Government of South Korea is particularly attentive and dedicated to ensuring that Mongolian citizens traveling to South Korea can enjoy their stay in accordance with their visa classification and valid period. We hope that the citizens of Mongolia will also travel in large numbers to our country and pay special attention to the friendly relations between the two countries. Your responsible travel will be the foundation of bilateral cooperation." Warning: Media outlets (television, radio, social media, and websites) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either fully or partially.

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Putin: Russia Will Continue Testing New Missile

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: news.mn

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russia will continue testing a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile, following its launch towards Ukraine. The missile is called "Oreshnik," which translates to "hazel tree" in English. According to experts, the speed of this missile makes it impossible to intercept. Putin met with representatives from the Ministry of Defense and related sectors and congratulated them on the successful execution of the missile test. During the meeting, Putin stated, "Depending on the nature of the situation and threats facing Russia, we will proceed with these tests even during combat operations. Especially with the material resources available to manufacture these missiles. Russia is the only country in the world with such high-speed weaponry." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the missile launch, describing Russia as irrational and an international criminal actor. Zelensky indicated that security officials have begun taking countermeasures in response. He said, "The Ukrainian Minister of Defense has already started meetings with our partners regarding new systems for air defense, which will protect human lives from new risks." Zelensky also urged the global community to collaborate until Putin is deterred from the war. SOURCE: NHK

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Infrastructure

Uvorhangai: 11,832 households and 1,163 organizations use electricity in Arvaikheer

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: montsame.mn

"This month, the electricity price will be calculated using both new and old tariffs," said the Sales Department of the Uvorhangai branch of the Power Distribution Company. This is because the Energy Regulatory Commission has decided to increase the electricity tariffs for consumers from November 15, 2024. Therefore, the consumption for the first 15 days of the month will be calculated at the old prices. The Uvorhangai branch of the Power Distribution Company serves approximately 21,000 consumers in Uvorhangai, Bayan Khongor's seven soums, Mandal-Ovoo in Umnugovi, and Saikhan-Ovoo in Dundgovi, of which 18,000 are households, and the rest are business entities. In Arvaikheer soum alone, there are 11,832 households and 1,163 official organizations and enterprises using electricity and energy. The new revised energy price tariff will increase in three levels depending on household consumption. Specifically: - Usage of 0-150 kWh will be calculated at 175 MNT, up from 140 MNT. - Usage of 150-300 kWh will be calculated at 256 MNT. - Usage over 300 kWh will be calculated at 285 MNT. As a result, if citizens use energy efficiently, it will be charged at a lower price, while the cost will increase with higher consumption. Additionally, the base tariff increased from 2,200 MNT to 3,200 MNT. This means that the monthly electricity bill of a household that used to be 25,000 MNT will become 35,000 MNT, according to D. Oyunsuren, a billing engineer. Meanwhile, the electricity price for businesses has been increased by 30%, with 1 kWh averaging around 280 MNT. The electricity price includes not only the consumption cost but also about 10 other charges, including the base fee, renewable energy fee, the National Public Radio and Television fee, waste charge, VAT, and notification fees.

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Society

105 People Participate in the Constitutional Awareness Trainer Program

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The "Trainer Program to Promote the Constitution" started with the aim of disseminating awareness about the Constitution. A total of 105 trainers selected from provinces and local areas are participating. Professor S. Bat-Orshikh, a doctor of legal sciences from the National University of Mongolia (NUM), conducted a training session on "Understanding the Constitution," while Professor Selenge Kh., also a doctor of legal sciences, presented on the "Constitutions of the Mongolian People's Republic." Professor S. Bat-Orshikh introduced the classification of constitutions, the concept of constitutionalism, its origins, development, and the principle of the rule of law. After the presentation, participants expressed their views on the understanding and ideology of the Constitution. J. Erdenebayar, head of the parliamentary publicity department of the Parliament Secretariat, introduced the "Parliamentary Education Program," noting its aim is to educate students of general education and higher education about parliament and its functions. The program covers democracy, its values, constitutional knowledge, human rights and freedoms, voting rights, parliamentary history, and legislative activities. In 2021, 2022, and 2023, a total of 90 and 150 students respectively participated. This year, 663 applications were received, from which 126 students will be selected. NUM lecturer and master's degree holder in legal sciences E. Tuulakhuy presented on "The 1992 Constitution and Human Rights," covering the significance of human rights, the universal nature of rights, and how the 1992 Constitution guarantees human rights. The 1992 Constitution includes a special chapter on ensuring human rights and proclaims equal rights regardless of language, culture, or ethnic origin. This right also applies to foreign citizens residing in Mongolia. The provisions were based on international human rights treaties to which Mongolia is a party, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The trainer program for disseminating constitutional knowledge spans four days, including lessons on teaching methodology, communication, skills development, and personal development such as leadership. The 105 trainers participating come from 21 provinces and 9 city districts, organized in cooperation with the Parliament Secretariat and the National University of Mongolia's Institute of Constitutional Law.

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Contemporary Issues in Child Development III Conference Held

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: news.mn

Since 2018, the Ulaanbaatar City Office and the Mongolian Children’s Palace have collaborated to organize the "Contemporary Issues in Child Development" international scientific conference every three years. The "Contemporary Issues in Child Development III" international scientific conference took place this month. The conference was attended by ministries, government agencies, universities, the UN, and experts and researchers from Switzerland, Japan, China, and Mongolia. A total of 62 scientific articles and presentations by both foreign and Mongolian researchers were submitted to the international scientific conference, with 24 presentations being discussed in the main and breakout sessions. The opening ceremony was attended by Amartuvshin A., the Deputy Governor of the capital, and Evariste Kouassi Komlan, the representative of UNICEF in Mongolia. In the main session of the conference, the following topics were presented: - “The Current State of Child Rights and Development Protection” by Azjargal Kh., an expert in child rights legislation, policy, and planning from the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Protection. - “Issues in Modern Early Childhood Education” by Tsendsuren T., a preschool education specialist and doctor at UNICEF Mongolia. - “The Importance of Oral Health Education for a Healthy Smile of Mongolian Children” by Gabriella Schmidt-Corsitto, the founder and executive director of the Smile Children Foundation, Switzerland. - “The Primary Art Forms Influencing Child Development as One of the Core Areas of Mongolia’s Children’s Palace” by Tsergelmaa B., director of the Mongolian Children's Palace and doctor of linguistics. - “The Role and Importance of Speech Development in Child Development” by Dorjdorj D., an employee responsible for foreign training at the National Council of Language Policy under the President, and a PhD candidate at the Kaiserslautern-Landau University, Germany. - “Health Check-Up for 5-Year-Old Children in Japan - Pre-School Support and Preparation for School” by Hiromi Takai, an employee of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Additionally, the conference discussed research papers and presentations under three themes: “Implementation of State Policy, Child Development, Participation, and Protection Issues”, “Child Development, Social and Psychological Issues”, and “Environment and Activities that Support Child Development, and Future Areas of Focus”. The recommendations from the conference will be forwarded to government and public organizations to guide policies and activities focused on children based on scientific research and evidence.

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This Week's Featured Interviews

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: news.mn

"NEWS" agency presents this week's featured interviews. L. Gantomor: If you're afraid of everyone’s criticisms and gossip, you'll remain poor. - Was it really unexpected for you that the Democratic Party's rating was quite low? - It was only at 6 percent. However, we participated in the election without splitting the party in two. It seems that we need to change the electoral system to escape the dominance of one party. Also, by amending the Constitution, we can reduce the powers vested in a single member, which was agreed upon by the leaders of the three parties in the former parliament with seats. The Constitution was amended to include multiparty, multi-sectoral, and diverse views in parliament. The Democratic Party led in constitutional change and electoral reform. As a result, the Democratic Party’s rating reached 35 percent, and we gained 42 seats in the State Great Khural. This is a considerable achievement. Moving forward, the Democratic Party needs to establish itself as an institution and we will strive to achieve that. Although the Democratic Party often has a bad reputation, when it governs alone or in coalition, Mongolia's business environment improves. Major projects are energized, and new and innovative reforms are carried out. While those four years can be spent performing ostensibly brilliant political games outside the government, the lives of the people will not improve, the economy won't advance, and major projects won't progress. This is not the political ambition of myself or my party. We aim to collaborate in government, expand our economy, increase the income and benefits of our citizens, advance major projects, and reduce our dependency on foreign countries. To achieve this, the Democratic Party needs to participate in government and employ our capable and skilled people in state positions. There is no external Mongolia of the Democratic Party and Mongolia of the MPP. There is one Mongolia. The fate and responsibility to guide Mongolia has been passed to our generation. I am Mongolian and must prioritize the nation's interests. Therefore, why refuse the invitation to develop this nation together? If so, tell me why. I am candidly discussing this because the political parties have already chosen to collaborate, made their decision, and decided to move forward together. Hence, it's time to be open and frank in our discussions. - After 27 years of cautious deliberation, this is not a hasty decision. - Uranium is not an entirely new concept for Mongolians. Compared to before, we have become informed of both the positive and negative aspects of what we call yellowcake uranium. How many companies and entities are operating in Mongolia focusing on uranium exploration and extraction? - 2 percent of the world's total uranium reserves are in Mongolia. Specifically, out of more than 190,000 thousand tons of global uranium reserves, over 200,000 tons are in Mongolia. There are 4-5 projects in collaboration with Russia, China, the Czech Republic, and Kazakhstan. Meanwhile, the project with France involves about 60 percent of the total uranium reserves. There are three major deposits: Zuun Ovoo, Dulaaan Uul, and Umnuud. Once the projects collaborated between Mongolia and France move forward, subsequent projects will advance. The initial negotiations for cooperation with France in the field of uranium were commenced in 1997. It has been 27 years since then. However, Kazakhstan, which started on the same footing as us, is now a world leader in uranium production and is talking about building nuclear power plants. Meanwhile, we continue to debate about whether or not to extract uranium. Therefore, this issue must be resolved quickly. The market will not wait for us. Major deposits are being discovered elsewhere in the world. Countries like Canada and Australia have vast reserves. Consequently, we are missing opportunities to utilize our potential in this sector. To attract foreign investors and create a favorable investment climate, these amendments are being made. Basically, since 2009, we haven’t made any substantial changes to the Nuclear Energy Law despite uranium being considered dangerous. We're trying to correct this mistake in a short time. "Teenagers feel like adults" - How should parents communicate with their adolescents during puberty, and what are common mistakes they make? - Parents say that since their kids reached middle school, they have become silent and prefer to be alone. They don’t respond or engage when asked questions. This has become a headache for parents. The biggest mistake parents make is not recognizing that their child is maturing into an adult. They see their child as still young. They don’t accept the physical changes in their child, thinking they will remain a child. However, the child perceives themselves as "I am" an adult and is beginning to identify as a grown-up. Parents not accepting these characteristics leads to conflicts. In other words, the child feels adult and starts to engage in social relations, broadening their circles. Yet, parents view them as a child, intervening in everything, and not listening to or understanding their interests, creating misunderstandings. As a result, the child may leave the house, choose the wrong friends, and be misled by others, leading to negative consequences. Parents must understand that the child is trying to establish their individuality and persona while navigating social relationships for the first time. Most parents don’t trust their children and impose too much control. Children cannot accept this, viewing it as an invasion of their personal space. "Reducing unnecessary expenses like furniture and foreign trips is crucial" - Next year’s budget is approved with a deficit of 1.9 trillion MNT. However, the President instructed for the budget to be approved without a deficit. Meanwhile, you and other members proposed reducing operational expenses by 3.6 trillion MNT. Do you believe it’s enough for the budget to be approved without a deficit? - I don’t think approving the budget with a deficit of 1.9 trillion MNT is enough. As previously mentioned, there is a full possibility to save 3.6 trillion MNT. To name just two examples, there is almost 2 trillion MNT in expenses under the name “Other services to be performed by others.” And there is also 1 trillion MNT budgeted as “Other goods and materials.” It is unclear and vague under these labels what expenses are covered. Just these two types of expenses form a total of 3 trillion MNT. If we cut back expenses like furniture, equipment, and foreign trips costing around 100 to 200 billion MNT, it can result in savings of 3.6 trillion MNT, bringing it to the level of 2024. This discussion is focused only on issues related to operational expenses. "Two students from the same class diagnosed with brain cancer" - Medical professionals note that the age of people diagnosed with cancer is getting younger. What is the youngest documented case of someone diagnosed with cancer? - There is no study conducted on this specifically. However, we observe real-life cases diagnosed with cancer. Last year, for instance, two students from the same class were diagnosed with the same type of brain cancer. The reasons for why these cancers are increasing must be addressed. Specifically, cases of lung cancer have particularly increased alongside stomach and cervical cancer. We are losing young lives to cancer at ages 21, 23, 25, and 29. Therefore, the Ministry of Health needs to urgently update the Tobacco Control Law. Although marketed as an alternative to regular cigarettes, electronic cigarettes with up to 5 percent nicotine should be legally restricted and taxed accordingly. Developed nations around the world are banning electronic cigarettes. South Korea, for example, does not allow the sale of electronic cigarettes with more than 1 percent nicotine. The Parliament with its 126 members provides the opportunity for any member from the health sector elected to the State Great Khural to propose increasing taxes on alcohol and tobacco, which contribute to cancer, and utilize the additional funds in the health sector.

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Starting Next Tuesday, Households Will Reverently Display the Constitution at Home

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

During the session of the State Great Khural, the resolution project on reverently displaying the Constitution was finally approved. As a result, the project to reverently display the Constitution will commence starting next Tuesday on the historic 100th anniversary of the adoption of the First Constitution. Specifically, the resolution project includes the following instructions: All government agencies and diplomatic missions of Mongolia abroad are to reverently display the Constitution. The Government and other relevant state organizations are tasked with incorporating and disseminating the spirit of the Constitution, concepts of national sovereignty, state independence, human rights, and freedoms into the educational content at all levels of educational institutions and to explain and promote these ideas. Each citizen is encouraged to study and know their Constitution, and every household is to reverently display the Constitution. Media organizations are urged to disseminate, explain, and promote the spirit of the Constitution, national sovereignty, state independence, human rights, and freedoms. The Secretary-General of the State Great Khural of Mongolia is tasked with providing professional and methodological support in implementing the resolution, and it is stipulated that the resolution be enforced from November 26, 2024.

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Environment

Warning of Snowstorm in Most Areas of Övörkhangai Tonight

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: montsame.mn

It is warned that snow will fall and a snowstorm will occur in the areas of Arvaikheer, Bayangol, Tügrög, Bayan-Öndör, Ölziit, Sant, Züünbayan-Ulaan, Yesönzuil, Burd, and Kharkhorin sums tonight. The snow currently falling in the western provinces will move to the central and Gobi provinces tonight and tomorrow, with wind speeds averaging 10 m/s and visibility reducing to 2000 m, causing a snowstorm lasting over three hours and creating conditions for hazardous weather phenomena, according to the meteorological agency. The province center and Gobi sums, which have experienced temperatures above freezing during the whole month of November, will see a sharp drop, reaching -12 degrees during the day and -18 degrees at night. On the 26th and 28th of this month, snowfall will occur again, reaching -26 degrees in the northern parts of the area, with wind speeds intensifying to 14-16 m/s, but temperatures are expected to slightly rise from the last day of this month.

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C. Gantigmaa: Imported ants are spreading and settling in apartments

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

A case of ants spreading extensively in an apartment in the Bayanzurkh district of the capital city has been recorded. Dr. C. Gantigmaa, head and researcher of the Laboratory of Ornithology and Entomology at the Academy of Sciences, explains further: There are numerous types of insects that live around us. Common examples include cockroaches, bedbugs, lice, flies, ants, mosquitoes, and beetles that are often found in housing. In recent years, the rapid development of international transportation has expanded freight operations between countries. As a result, various insects have been transported and settled in new areas in a short time. Most recently, a case was recorded in 2024 in Bayanzurkh district, where a type of ant spread extensively in an apartment. This ant, known as the Pharaoh ant (Latin name Monomorium pharaonis), originally spread in central and southern Africa. In recent decades, it has been noted that this species has rapidly spread worldwide. Researchers have documented its spread not only in northern Africa but also in southwestern Europe, some countries in South and North America, the Middle East and Southeast Asia, the Korean Peninsula, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. The Pharaoh ant is not native to Mongolia's natural ecosystem. It is suspected that they were transported with goods or products and spread in our country, settling in new environments such as apartments. The presence of this insect in urban and residential areas has been identified to pose certain challenges. What measures need to be taken going forward? First of all, we need to clarify the concept of the term 'alien species.' If a species is spreading and settling in a region or ecosystem where it has not previously existed, it is called an alien species. It may have been introduced to a new area by humans for a specific purpose, but if that species causes significant environmental damage, or adversely affects human or animal health, it is classified as an alien species. In recent years, the issue of alien species has become quite controversial. Countries are starting to pay considerable attention to creating lists of alien species that spread within their territories and how to manage them. No specific steps have been taken in our country regarding this issue. Furthermore, we are not yet able to talk about specific measures to be taken in the future. It is necessary to scientifically identify the name and characteristics of this species that has started to establish itself in new areas, and study its biological development traits, reproduction behavior, and the negative consequences it may pose to the environment. We identified the species at the request of a resident of the district and confirmed that it is a newly introduced species in Mongolia. How long does it take for Pharaoh ants to adapt to a new environment? This species lives mostly in nature in its native habitat but can inhabit nearby residential areas, nesting in spaces like house walls, ceilings, floors, attics, and dining on other insects. In temperate regions, these ants are able to inhabit heated homes and warehouses. The time it takes a species to adapt to a new environment varies depending on the peculiarities of the species. Ants are communal, so it's possible they are transported in large numbers. If the new environment offers suitable nesting places, abundant food resources, and favorable living conditions, they can adapt quickly and multiply rapidly. Can they be eradicated? Initially, a thorough study is necessary. We need to ascertain the extent of their spread, the rate of their reproduction, what environments favor their growth, whether they have caused negative effects on humans, the degree to which they have been studied in other countries, and the feasibility of controlling their numbers before devising a detailed plan. Some studies in other countries suggest that these ants can feed on the carcasses of animals inhabiting buildings, as well as the eggs and larvae of flies and mosquitoes, thereby contributing to their elimination. However, as they have the capacity to grow into millions, they can create an uncomfortable coexistence with humans. Therefore, a specific and targeted study is urgently needed.

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KHOVD: Next Year Will Focus on Improving Waste Management

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Currently, the centralized landfill in Khovd province covers an area of 278 hectares. Additionally, waste has been dumped outside the centralized landfill, creating the potential for a new dumping ground. Therefore, the local authorities of Khovd province have expressed their commitment to improve waste management by reducing the scattered waste areas, covering and burying waste, and decreasing the current 278-hectare landfill area by 4-5 times. Moreover, before discussing the 2025 budget proposal, they have instructed the relevant organizations to conduct a study and present the grounds for improving waste management.

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Warning of Cold Weather from Tomorrow in Most Areas

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: gogo.mn

In Ulaanbaatar, the temperature today is around 0 degrees Celsius during the day. It will be cloudy but no snow is expected. The wind is blowing from the southwest at 6-11 meters per second. Weather Forecast for the next 5 days: Starting today, a significant amount of snow will fall in the southern part of Khovd, and most areas of Govi-Altai. A snowstorm will also affect Zavkhan, Govi-Altai, Bayankhongor, Arkhangai, Bulgan, and the northern part of Uvurkhangai. On November 24, snow will fall in the eastern half of the country and a snowstorm will limit visibility, creating slippery conditions on roads, passes, and hills. A special warning is being issued for the expected cold weather. Weather forecast from November 24 to 28: On November 24, snow will fall in the eastern part of the western provinces, most areas of the central and eastern provinces, and some parts of the Gobi provinces. On November 25, snow and snowstorms will affect some areas of the central and Gobi provinces and most areas of the eastern provinces. On November 26, light snow is expected in some areas of the central, Gobi, and eastern provinces, with slight snowfalls in the eastern part on the 27th. The wind will blow at 6-11 meters per second generally, and will intensify to 14-16 meters per second in the Gobi, steppe, and plain areas from the 24th to the 27th. Temperatures will drop significantly across most areas. Night temperatures will range from -30 to -35 degrees Celsius at the source of the Zavkhan River and around Khurenbelchir, with day temperatures between -16 and -21 degrees. In the Darkhad Depression, Altai, Khangai, Khuvsgul, Khentii mountainous regions, and the valleys of Ider, Tes, Khar, Yeroo, Tuul, and Terelj Rivers, night temperatures will be -23 to -28 degrees and day temperatures will be -13 to -18 degrees. In the southern parts of the Gobi region, night temperatures will be -12 to -17 degrees, with day temperatures between -2 and -7 degrees. In other regions, night temperatures will be -17 to -22 degrees and day temperatures will be -8 to -13 degrees. On the 26th and 27th, the intense cold in the western part will slightly weaken during the day. Source: National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring of Mongolia (NAMEM)

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Roads and Passes Will Be Icy, Cold Weather Expected in Most Areas

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Attention to herders, citizens, and transporters: Heavy snowfall is expected on the 23rd in the southern part of Khovd and most of Govi-Altai regions, with snowstorms in Zavkhan, Govi-Altai, Bayankhongor, Arkhangai, Bulgan lands, and the northern part of Uvurkhangai. On the 24th, snow will fall in the eastern half of the country, leading to snowstorms with reduced visibility and icy roads and passes. The temperature will drop significantly in most areas. Special caution is advised. Weather forecast from 8 PM on November 22 to 8 PM on November 23: Precipitation: It will be cloudy in the western half of the country, while other areas will be partly cloudy. At night, snow will fall in most parts of the western aimags and the northwestern part of the central aimags, with snowstorms during the day in most parts of the western aimags and in the western and northern parts of the central aimags. Wind: In the western half, the wind will shift from southwest to northwest, reaching 6-11 meters per second, occasionally increasing to 14-16 meters per second. Air temperature: At night, temperatures will range from -24 to -29 degrees in the headwaters of the Zavkhan River and around Khurenbelchir, -15 to -20 degrees in the valleys of the Darkhad Depression, Khangai, Khuvsgul, Khentii mountainous regions, and Ider, Tes, Eg, Uur, Yeroo, Tuul, Terelj, and Kherlen rivers. Temperatures will be -3 to -8 degrees in the Great Lakes Basin and the southern part of the Gobi region, and -8 to -13 degrees in other areas. During the day, temperatures will be -14 to -19 degrees in the headwaters of the Zavkhan River and around Khurenbelchir, -8 to -13 degrees in the Mongolian Altai mountainous region and the Uvs Lake Basin, -3 to -8 degrees in the Altai, Khangai, and Khuvsgul mountainous regions and Ider, Tes river basins, +2 to +7 degrees in the Gobi region and eastern steppes, and -3 to +2 degrees in other areas. Around Ulaanbaatar City: It will be partly cloudy at night, cloudy during the day, with no snow expected. The wind will be from the southwest at 6-11 meters per second. Nighttime temperatures will be -14 to -16 degrees around Yaarmag-Songino, and -8 to -10 degrees in other parts, with daytime temperatures around 0 to +2 degrees. Around Baganuur: It will be partly cloudy at night, cloudy during the day, with no snow expected. The wind will be from the southwest at 7-12 meters per second. Nighttime temperatures will be -16 to -18 degrees, with daytime temperatures around 0 degrees. Around Terelj: It will be partly cloudy at night, cloudy during the day, with no snow expected. The wind will be from the southwest at 6-11 meters per second. Nighttime temperatures will be -16 to -18 degrees, with daytime temperatures around 0 degrees. Forecast from November 24 to November 28: On the 24th, snow will fall in the eastern parts of western aimags and in most parts of central and eastern aimags, as well as in some areas of the Gobi aimags. On the 25th, snow is expected in some areas of the central and Gobi aimags and in most parts of the eastern aimags. On the 26th, snow will fall in some areas of the central, Gobi, and eastern aimags, with light snow in the eastern parts on the 27th. The wind will mostly be 6-11 meters per second, increasing to 14-16 meters per second between the 24th and 27th in the Gobi, steppe, and plain regions. Cold weather will prevail in most areas with nighttime temperatures of -30 to -35 degrees in the headwaters of the Zavkhan River and around Khurenbelchir, with daytime temperatures of -16 to -21 degrees. In the valleys of the Darkhad Depression, Altai, Khangai, Khuvsgul, Khentii mountainous regions, and Ider, Tes, Kharza, Yeroo, Tuul, and Terelj rivers, nighttime temperatures will be -23 to -28 degrees, with daytime temperatures of -13 to -18 degrees. In the southern part of the Gobi region, temperatures will be -12 to -17 degrees at night, with daytime temperatures of -2 to -7 degrees, and in other areas, nighttime temperatures will be -17 to -22 degrees, with daytime temperatures of -8 to -13 degrees. On the 26th and 27th, the cold will slightly ease during the day in the western regions.

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Snow and Wind Weather Forecast for Mongolia

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

Snow is expected in the regions of Zavkhan, Govi-Altai, Bayankhongor, Arkhangai, Bulgan, and Övörkhangai. In Ulaanbaatar today, the temperature is 0 degrees Celsius. Significant snowfall is expected in the southern parts of Khovd and most areas of Govi-Altai, with snowy weather moving through Zavkhan, Govi-Altai, Bayankhongor, Arkhangai, Bulgan regions, and the northern part of Övörkhangai. This may severely limit visibility and cause slippery conditions on roads, passes, and hills. In the western half of the country, it will be cloudy, with variable cloudiness in other areas. Snow and snowstorms will affect most areas of western provinces and the western and northern parts of central provinces. The wind will shift from southwest to northwest in the western half and will blow from southwest at 6-11 meters per second elsewhere, reaching up to 14-16 meters per second at times in parts of the western half. In the source of the Zavkhan river and Khurenbelchir area, temperatures will range from -15 to -20 degrees Celsius. In the mountainous regions of Mongol-Altai and in the Uvs Lake Basin, temperatures will be -9 to -14 degrees. In the Altai, Khangai, Khuvsgul mountains, and the Ider, Tes river valleys, temperatures will be -3 to -8 degrees. In the Gobi region and the Dornod-Dariganga steppe, temperatures will range from +3 to +8 degrees, while in other areas, it will be -3 to +2 degrees. Ulaanbaatar will be cloudy but without snow. Winds from the southwest will blow at 6-11 meters per second. The temperature during the day will be around 0 degrees, as reported by the National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring.

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Health

URGENT: Heads of Bayanzurkh District Health Center and Finance Department Charged with 'Corruption Case'

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

The head of the Bayanzurkh District Health Center and the head of finance have been implicated in a corruption case involving abuse of office, according to sources. Specifically, the head of the Bayanzurkh District Health Center, I. Batzaya, and the head of finance, R. Tsend-Ayush, are being investigated by the Anti-Corruption Agency. Sources state that they have been charged as suspects under Article 22.1 of the Criminal Code for committing a corruption offense, and the investigation is ongoing. Article 22.1 (Abuse of Power and Official Capacity) states: "If a public official abuses their official duties, authority, or position to create undue advantage for themselves or others by neglecting to perform official duties, they may be deprived of the right to hold public office for a period of two to five years or be restricted from movement for a period of one to five years, or be sentenced to imprisonment for a period of one to five years." It is suspected that the head of the Bayanzurkh District Health Center and the head of finance may have accepted bribes to create undue advantages for others. As a result, relevant authorities recently searched their homes and workplaces and reportedly confiscated the necessary evidence. Meanwhile, the prosecution has approached the court to take preventive measures against these officials. We will provide further updates on this matter.

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24 Hospitals Receive New Vehicles Through World Bank Funding

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: gogo.mn

With funding from the World Bank, 24 ambulances fully equipped for medical purposes were handed over to the health centers of districts by Minister of Health T. Munkhsaikhan as part of the "Mongolia COVID-19 Prevention, Response, and Preparedness" project. The project plans to deliver a total of 75 vehicles, the first batch of 20 having been delivered last October. This time, keys were handed over to the management of health centers in Bayankhongor, Bulgan, Govi-Altai, Dornod, Dundgovi, Zavkhan, Selenge, Khentii, and Umnugovi aimags. During this event, Minister of Health T. Munkhsaikhan mentioned the importance of ambulances specially equipped for emergency medical response in elevating the emergency response system nationwide. He announced that the plan is to ensure all district health centers are equipped with medical-purpose vehicles equipped with portable ventilators, defibrillators, and oxygen tanks. Jose Diaz Sanchez, Deputy Country Director of the World Bank, highlighted that these vehicles are designed to handle tough conditions, being specifically equipped for Mongolia’s harsh climate. It is planned to deliver the remaining third batch of vehicles to other remote districts’ health centers by the end of this year. Source: Ministry of Health

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Sports

The wrestler who wins the 100th anniversary wrestling tournament of the First Constitution tomorrow will receive 10 million tugrik

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

This year marks the historic 100th anniversary of the adoption of the First Constitution and the proclamation of the Republic. In honor of the anniversary, a wrestling competition featuring 128 powerful wrestlers holding national, provincial, military, and district titles will take place at the Mongolian Wrestling Palace on Tuesday, November 26, at 13:30. The winner of the competition will receive a commemorative silver coin depicting the state emblems from after the 1924 adoption of the Constitution and its subsequent refinements, a collection of "Constitution"-related items, and a prize of 10 million tugrik. Additionally, the Speaker of the Parliament will traditionally present a special award for "Up-and-coming wrestler." Wrestlers wishing to participate can register online on November 24 and 25 from 10:00 to 17:00.

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T. Nyamjargal to Have His First UFC Fight Today

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: isee.mn

T. Nyamjargal, the second Mongolian fighter to sign a contract with the professional mixed martial arts organization UFC, has joined the league. Today marks his first fight in the UFC. T. Nyamjargal, who is currently 26 years old, had initially scheduled his debut fight against Andre Lima on June 1 of this year, but it was canceled due to certain reasons. However, his debut fight has been rescheduled, and tomorrow, on the 23rd of this month, he will face Carlos Hernandez. His opponent, Carlos Hernandez from the United States, is currently 30 years old and has lost three out of his five UFC bouts.

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UFC: The Day to Shine for T.Nyamjargal

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: news.mn

The debut fight of the second Mongolian fighter to compete in the octagon of UFC, the world's premier mixed martial arts organization, will take place today at 19:00. At 26 years old, T. Nyamjargal's first fight was initially scheduled for June 1 against Andre Lima but was canceled due to unspecified reasons. Now, his debut match has been rescheduled, and he will face Carlos Hernandez. The UFC is expanding its market to Asia and aims to promote the best fighters from the region. Consequently, the upcoming event will be held in Macau. T. Nyamjargal will have his debut fight as part of this event. His opponent, American fighter Carlos Hernandez, is 30 years old and has lost three of his five fights in the UFC. Most recently, on June 29 this year, he was defeated by Japan's Rei Tsuruya at UFC 303. It is said that Carlos Hernandez must secure a victory in Macau or face being dismissed from the UFC. As for T. Nyamjargal, if he has set his sights on major achievements, he must defeat each of his opponents from the outset. He currently boasts an impressive record of eight victories without a single defeat in his professional fighting career. The main event of the day in Macau will feature a fight between Petr Yan and Deiveson Figueiredo. Naturally, given the location, Chinese fighters will also dominate the event.

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Arts

“My Network” Store to Host the 8th European Fruit Festival

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Leading the market with fresh fruits and vegetables, the "My Network" store will hold the "European Fruit Festival" for the 8th year. "My Store" LLC, the pioneer in implementing the Discounters format in Mongolia in the retail sector, has been offering the market’s lowest prices by importing fresh fruits and vegetables 100% from over 70 countries worldwide, including more than 30 European countries. The taste, smell, and quality of the fruits and vegetables sold at the "My Network" store stand out from what is available in the market. This is because the favorable climate, soil characteristics, cultivation standards, advanced storage and transport technology, and control system of the European regions from which they are imported form the foundation for quality fruits and vegetables. To deliver premium varieties of fruits and vegetables, we import from at least 8000 km away, depending on where in the world the best harvest is gathered. We aim to deliver more quality, fresh fruits and vegetables from around the globe from the farmer’s field directly to our consumers' hands, striving to provide them with healthy, quality food. Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and contain essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber necessary for the human body, making regular consumption beneficial for health. To acquaint our customers with the benefits and uses of fruits and vegetables, "My Store" LLC will organize the "European Fruit Birthday" festival on 2024.11.23 at 13:00 at its Narny Zam branch. At this event, we will present unusual fruits and vegetables not commonly available in the market, along with taste testing and advice from professional chefs on how to use them in meals. The first 100 visitors will receive a gift bag of European fruits, so we invite distinguished users who are fond of fruits and vegetables. Notice: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, fully or partially.

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PHOTO: From the "Future to be Proclaimed" Photo and Archive Exhibition

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The opening of the "Future to be Proclaimed" photo and archive exhibition, organized to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic and the adoption of the first Constitution, was held today at the National Museum of Mongolia. This exhibition, jointly organized by the General Archives Authority and the National Museum of Mongolia, will continue from the 23rd to the 30th of this month. The "Future to be Proclaimed" exhibition, which features documents regarding the Constitutions of 1924, 1940, 1960, and 1992 from the National Central Archives collection, is uniquely organized with new and creative curation combined with modern artworks by contemporary artists, according to information from the Parliament's Media Office. Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must mention their source (ikon.mn) when fully or partially using our information in any form.

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Poetry of D. Tsendjav

Published: 2024-11-23 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

D. Tsendjav's poems are characterized by a delicate sensitivity, unexpected artistic detours, unique craftsmanship, thought-provoking themes, a critical edge, a gentle lyricism, and a breeze of emotion. Despite being simple elements that one would not typically seek in the mundane lives of Mongolian people, his imagery and ideas form a vivid picture of Mongolian life, customs, and traditions, merging into an artistic expression with metaphor, allegory, and narrative that captivates every reader with its artistic ingenuity and thematic focus. This is the distinguishing feature of the poet's skill and talent. The Three Daughters of the Daichin Beis The three daughters of Darih guai
Elegant enough to sway in the wind
When you glance at them intoxicatedly
They are marvelously mirrored in the moon
Running fast on horses with high steps
Their beauty completed with apricot flowers
Stirrup marks engraved
Stamping as if they were alone
With the bravery of fifty gold
Tightly secured at the knees
Their exchange of a few words
Is like the chirp of the steppe sparrows
Unable to tell who is the eldest
When the identical three sisters
Laugh shyly they sink in
Avoiding mischievous words
They leap like fish
The three daughters of the Daichin Beis
When they intoxicate the crowd
Double-folded tents
Flutter as if they were flying
The jeweled hats
Made into bows, yet lose their charm
Even the light of countless stars
Falls a little short
The three elegant girls
Swaggered through the slopes
Flipping wrestling and horse racing
They disappeared without a trace
In the hometown of maidens
Next year's festival
The girls you won't meet
To drink with the wine
The three daughters of the Daichin Beis
Late Autumn A horse with hobbles
Has moved far over the ridge
Recently there is no grass
Unable to stay outside anymore
The late autumn frost
Has fallen on the yurt's cover
Through the sleeve of the coat
The wind of the steppe whistles
The feeble tips of the reeds
Bow to the Yellow Sands
In the distant mirage
Camels and livestock flicker
The last two cranes
Separated from their flock
Behind the caravan
Though eyes peer, it's empty
The laughter leading to the well
Fades like old footprints
When sighing and looking up to the sky
The gray color bestowed upon me...
The Wolf Shifting the fierce blue sky
Across its back
Running the cold of seven rivers
Through its half-open chest
Battling the black wild wind
Sharpening its feet
Eating with even a single white reed
Escaped from the kings' horses
Until it became a black hobble
Used its body to test
The enemy's first arrows
Howls at the half-moon
Says it's himself
Catches shooting stars
On its tongue
When it howls
Even the mountains wince
The wolf hasn't turned from its destiny, hasn't been bored
A wolf named wolf
The only thing it fears
Fire...fire...fire...
Not because it's good
But because it's honed by the wind
In warmth... in scorching heat...
Its fate never slumbers
Though it doesn't know pity
In its den, it hasn't seen blood
Silently stealing is not learned
It howls as if asking
While investigating foreign stones
It recognizes them immediately
In the trap of its warm homeland
It is caught and imprisoned
The last tear of blackness
Falls into its beloved rocks
Kindled to the spirit of man
It's picked up on the saddle
The wolf hasn't turned from its destiny, hasn't been bored
A wolf named wolf... The Colonel The glowing stone of Sulinkheer
The blue mountains like a stretching wolf
Were alike with my brother
Going on like horses recognizing each other
When the frost-laden streets echoed with waltzes
Patrolling the border with a heart alike to a clock's ticking
When girls in striped dresses swirled and swayed
In the ancient land of dinosaurs, they walked and faded
On the outpost where even birds don't come and go
In the gobi, where nothing but the mail truck appears
Forgotten both greed and fame
Under the alertness of the storm, they walked as if loaded
Clinking glasses with a few rough and tumble men
Dancing to Georgian tunes as they drank
Back and forth to the same western front
Without switching saddles, crawling back to duty
This good old yellow lady said she was like life itself
Almost praising without tears, mildly drunken
Indeed, like the paired buttons of two coats
Pulling dawn's starlight down, they opened and closed duty together
Like getting the title of Lion by storming the green field
An army colonel isn't given by bowing down
The snowy morning when the flakes glittered
My brother with the gray papaha is dismounting from his car
Not even a wolf has run before and survived
The colonel who's not yet old is handing over his post
The glorious years walked with in a charging pace have passed
Anyway, my brother, go ahead and relax with your sheathed saber
My colonel
My old soldier...
Epic of the Great One Walking down the university street
The great mountain passes by
Young robust boys
Almost topple the great mountain
Yet knowing none
With an armful of books
They can't guess there is a hole in front
Crossing the street
Almost dropping their shoes
Behind the car door
A beloved pupil, minister passes
Though approached eighty
Always going to the university
Even receiving pain
Goes to the same university
The marshal's statue sometimes
Revives forgotten memories
Recalls being put in check by theory
It never went on like this, the grand mountain
Saying "This won't progress,"
Almost being driven far away
Inside the round hall
Swimming freely like a fish
The student years laughed long ago...
Its equal partner
Departed to the far sky...
The great mountain walks
Down the university street
The great mountain
Is called excessive elderly
Neatly leather bag
Hole-y professor
Being caught by his student coming behind
Not by the book, no, no
Perhaps by the book...
Not even joking, one morning
He gets his loop card from his student
In the newly silent university street
The great mountain becomes silent
The name that disappeared
Will vanish from the textbook.
Not to peep for
His loyal student's name is visible
A nameless one on the rock, never mind
But the one without a name in the cover is unfortunate...
There once was a great mountain
You couldn't see it with the naked eye?
Beyond the valley the rain recedes
I miss thinking of you
I think of the river silently flowing under the moon
When standing with elbows on the wooden bridge
I remember your mulberry eyes moistening at the eyelashes
Beyond the valley rain moves away
I remember the light shining through your terleg's lapels
The rainbow of fading rain clinging to its hair
Remembering the cuckoo singing in the back mountain
When wearing the short hem of your chiseled terleg
Running in the chill evening rain
With the sound of your shanz discovering the bright numbers
I remember the gate I reached through the wormwood
Moving away through the glade of wind-laid branches
Remembering you not coming back like autumn birds
The taut body akin to a kneeling deer
Seeing you pure as a moon dipping in the pond
On the path of long journeys, never meeting you
I think of stopping quivering like handkerchiefs waving
I think even without beard it's marred by the wind my eighteen-year-old self
Meeting you unintentionally not to dissipate I think...
Guntee's The quiet stream
Silently flowing is Guntee's
The cuckoo's call
Lonely chirping is Guntee's
The tune of Khuur-shanz
Flowing to the heart is Guntee's
The chestnut terleg
Naturally falling apart is Guntee's
Beyond the trees
The smoke spiraling is Guntee's
The mulberry eyes
Shining in the water is Guntee's
The seventh month
Engulfed in flowers is Guntee's
Individually
Being unceremonious is Guntee's...
The butterfly circling
Mistakenly landing is Guntee's
The teacher and rock ledge
Breathing deeply is Guntee's
The Cupbearer Every cupbearer
Has a lovely and playful nature
With eyes glistening
Chilling even to the gaze
Bright purple lips
Alluring
Even before the Khan
Attentive
Or for the Queen
Resolute
In front of the warrior
Presenting
Towards the enemy
With wine
The palace cupbearer
Knows when stars come out
Hears the swish of the curtain
On the golden seal with lions
The palm's pattern is all that remains
Inside is with serpent's venom
The deadly black wine
For the seven wolves
One who could make them lick clean
The supple lovely cupbearer
Evasive before others
The sin-accruing
Her eyes are like that of a gazelle
Just eighteen
A charming girl
Without visible gem riches
Flying around the palace
As long as porcelain doesn't break
The nation breaking doesn't matter
Moon blush-worthy
Beautiful girl
Hoping for luck from within her cup
All the world's cupbearers
Are uniquely lovely creatures
That night
The haystacks smelt of dew
Morning was nearing but yet not arrived
With bare feet and loose terleg
You came lightly skipping
The tents of the students were still awake
When the guitar played its forlorn melody
It was like descending from the stars
Only to fall on Ochir guai's tractor

Back to Table of Contents

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Health

Sports

Arts

Politics

A Legal Provision Allowing Tax Authorities to Publicly Announce Individuals as Offenders Without Court Ruling Deemed Unconstitutional

Did E. Lkhagva Spend 1.2 billion on Advertising for Soup to Celebrate Constitution Day as "Proclamation of State" Day?

Discussion: Citizens Can Congregate and Rally Freely Without a Time Limit

Youth Discuss and Approve Policies and Goals

Weekly Summary: Budget Vetoed, Syphilis Cases Increased

Economy

Road Usage Tax in Ulaanbaatar to Increase Fourfold

Submitted the draft budget of the capital city for 2025

Suffered 10 Billion Tugriks in Losses Due to Telegram Fraud

Alert: Beware of Fraudulent Job Offers Promising to Grow Your Money

VIDEO: The Truth About 'Achit Ikht' Materials

Diplomacy

Choi Jin Won: By Returning with the Issued Visa Type and Validity, the Mutual Trust Between the Two Countries Will Strengthen Further

Putin: Russia Will Continue Testing New Missile

Infrastructure

Uvorhangai: 11,832 households and 1,163 organizations use electricity in Arvaikheer

Society

105 People Participate in the Constitutional Awareness Trainer Program

Contemporary Issues in Child Development III Conference Held

This Week's Featured Interviews

Starting Next Tuesday, Households Will Reverently Display the Constitution at Home

Environment

Warning of Snowstorm in Most Areas of Övörkhangai Tonight

C. Gantigmaa: Imported ants are spreading and settling in apartments

KHOVD: Next Year Will Focus on Improving Waste Management

Warning of Cold Weather from Tomorrow in Most Areas

Roads and Passes Will Be Icy, Cold Weather Expected in Most Areas

Snow and Wind Weather Forecast for Mongolia

Health

URGENT: Heads of Bayanzurkh District Health Center and Finance Department Charged with 'Corruption Case'

24 Hospitals Receive New Vehicles Through World Bank Funding

Sports

The wrestler who wins the 100th anniversary wrestling tournament of the First Constitution tomorrow will receive 10 million tugrik

T. Nyamjargal to Have His First UFC Fight Today

UFC: The Day to Shine for T.Nyamjargal

Arts

“My Network” Store to Host the 8th European Fruit Festival

PHOTO: From the "Future to be Proclaimed" Photo and Archive Exhibition

Poetry of D. Tsendjav

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