Oct 30, 2024 74 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for October 30, 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

If the Uranium Project Is Supported by Party Groups, It Will Be Discussed by the National Security Council Tomorrow

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

The State Great Khural will urgently discuss amendments to the Law on Nuclear Energy this week. To advance the uranium project in collaboration with France, changes will be made to this law to prepare the legal environment. Subsequently, when the working group's information about the amendments to the Law on Nuclear Energy was presented to the MPP and DP factions in the State Great Khural yesterday, the group members supported it and decided that it aligns with Mongolia's National Security Concept. Tomorrow, the National Security Council will meet to discuss the uranium project. Specifically, they will discuss whether this project impacts Mongolia's national security and make a decision. The uranium project is planned to be implemented at the Zuuvch-Ovoo deposit in Dornogovi Province for a period of 34 years, with all types of taxes being collected to ensure it benefits Mongolia, according to the working group.

Back to Table of Contents

Key Lever for Uranium Project Initiation - Amendments in Nuclear Energy Law

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

The proposed amendment to the Nuclear Energy Law has been specified to "Not hold a stake, but receive royalties, and up to 19% of the Special License Fee over a 34-year period," as a key lever to initiate the uranium project. One year ago, President U. Khurelsukh visited the French Republic and signed a protocol to establish a working group for the "Uranium Utilization Investment Agreement" with the French "Orano Mining" group. Members of the MPP and DP factions in Parliament stated that "implementing the uranium project with France does not contradict our national security policy." Since the financial principles were defined at a high level, both parties have been placing great importance on moving the uranium project forward. A working group was actively formed, led by D. Amarbaysgalan, who was the Chief of Staff of the Cabinet Secretariat on the Mongolian side. However, the agreement negotiations have slowed since March of the previous year due to unresolved issues with the other party concerning "not altering the Mongolian Tax Law for the next 40 years, owning concurrent deposits, water payments, and management of radioactive waste," among others. During his visit to support the team and athletes at the Olympic Games this summer, President U. Khurelsukh met with high-level officials in Paris and discussed accelerating the uranium mining project, leading to a renewed focus, with the joint government now actively working on it. They aim to finalize the agreement by 2024 with this dedication. A working group led by Cabinet Secretariat Chief N. Uchral submitted a draft with amendments to the Nuclear Energy Law to Parliament last Friday to move the $1.6 billion uranium project forward with France. This implies amending the law like two sides of a coin to initiate the uranium project and implementing it in line with the amended law. Consequently, the working group for the uranium project presented and extensively exchanged views on their project with the MPP, DP factions in Parliament, and the HUN Party yesterday. According to a source, none of the members from these factions opposed or criticized the project but rather expressed that it is necessary to implement it to gain economic benefits. "France is one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council. Also, it was the first EU country to open an Embassy in Mongolia, enjoying high-level diplomatic relations. Therefore, implementing the uranium project with a powerful nation like France does not conflict with Mongolia's National Security Policy," it was stressed in the faction meetings. Some members of Parliament criticized the provision in the Nuclear Energy Law amendments that requires "preplacing reclamation fees." The proposed amendments to the Nuclear Energy Law, planned to be urgently discussed and approved by Parliament, include the following: - While the Mineral Law governs issues related to determining the state's equity share in strategic deposits forming the source of national wealth funds and imposing specific fees for using mineral resources, these provisions were undefined in the Nuclear Energy Law, now clarified by this law. - Prohibit the import and transit of radioactive waste and nuclear fuel through Mongolian territory. - Considering economic benefits for Mongolia, the special fee for using the mineral resource reserves and share types of state ownership of strategic deposits, including investment inserted by or to be inserted by the state, can be established differently by Parliament as proposed by the Government. - The license holder must place financial resources for mine and plant closure, reclamation, and post-closure maintenance in a government account, with related regulations approved by the Government. - Change the investment agreement term from up to 10 to up to 20 years. - The fee for using radioactive mineral resource reserves will be 5% of the sales valuation of the respective uranium ore concentrate. - With consideration of market price increases for radioactive mineral resources, adjust the fee for using mineral resource reserves from 0 to 130 USD, increasing to up to 9%. - Parliament may set the special fee for using radioactive mineral resource reserves, considering the specific characteristics of the field and market price levels of the minerals, as proposed by the Government. During the presentation, some members proposed removing the provision on preplacing reclamation fees, stating that preplaced fees might be exploited like social insurance contributions, and emphasized the need for trust in mega-project agreements. The working group explained the above amendments to the law: Activities related to radioactive minerals will ensure radiation protection, safety, prevent potential accidents, and safeguard human health, society, and the environment from the negative effects of ionizing radiation. Securely receiving stable and growing royalties over the long term, similar to the 34% in the Oyu Tolgoi project, refraining from taking a share but receiving up to a 19% Special License Fee over 34 years. Newly reflecting payment regulation considering market price increases for mineral resources, strategic mineral reserve use fee provisions, ensuring the legal basis to implement Article 6, Paragraph 2 of Mongolia's Constitution - "When using strategic mineral deposits, the national wealth shall be under the control of the people, with most benefits accruing to the people," without further budget costs to the state. By 2030, global uranium demand is expected to reach 120,000 tons, according to research. Globally, 32% of uranium is used by the USA, 19% by China, 15% by France. Yet, France, a major user, has no uranium deposits. France meets its uranium demand by importing unenriched uranium from Niger and Russia. In 2021, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Niger supplied 66.94% of the European Union's uranium. Now, with Russia under European sanctions, France seeks alternative sources, considering Mongolia as a fuel supplier. Notably, Kazakhstan extracts 46% of global uranium, Canada 10%, Australia 9%, and Russia 5%. Mongolia ranks in the top 20 globally for uranium reserves and top 10 in Asia, with 180,000 tons discovered by 2022. Researchers highlight rising reserves yearly. Mongolia can potentially supply up to 5% of global uranium consumption. Current global consumption stands at 80,000 tons, projected to continuously grow to 120,000 tons by 2030. Mongolia projects benefiting financially as uranium prices potentially reach $1,000 per kg, according to estimates.

Back to Table of Contents

Tomorrow the National Security Council will meet on the uranium issue

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: news.mn

The decision on whether the long-discussed uranium project will advance has become a topic of public attention in recent days. During the mutual visits of the President of Mongolia and the President of France last year, the two governments and state leaders expressed their active initiative to advance investment in the uranium sector and signed a protocol for an investment agreement to cooperate with France in the uranium sector. However, the main agreement had not yet been finalized. There was an expectation to finalize the agreement at the beginning of this year, but it was explained by working group members that it was important to achieve mutual understanding on many issues to make legal changes and innovations and ensure long-term, mutually beneficial cooperation. In any case, the bill to amend the Nuclear Energy Law, initiated and drafted by the government, and other related bills were submitted to the State Great Khural by N. Uchral, Minister and Head of the Cabinet Secretariat of the Government of Mongolia, and Ts. Tuvaan, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources. Additionally, most members participating in Friday's plenary session supported the urgent discussion of the bill in the unified session of the State Great Khural. During this time, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Ts. Tuvaan emphasized, "In the 2024-2028 operational program of the Government of Mongolia, 14 mega projects are planned to be implemented. In this respect, the Investment Agreement related to the French 'Orano Mining' company has been submitted to the State Great Khural along with the bill to amend the Nuclear Energy Law." Therefore, during this week's unified session of the State Great Khural, the bill to amend the Nuclear Energy Law and other submitted bills will be discussed. Hence, the National Security Council is scheduled to meet tomorrow to discuss uranium issues. Advancing investment in uranium is not a matter considered yesterday and decided today. The "Orano" group is operating in Mongolia through the joint "Badrakh Energy" company, which it founded with the Mongolian government, and has been conducting exploration for over 20 years, resulting in special licenses for the Zuuvch Ovoo site and uranium deposits in the Dulaan Uul area. It is planned to break ground at the uranium Zuuvch-Ovoo site, located in the southwestern part of Mongolia, in 2024 and start mining operations in 2028, as announced by Claude Imauven, head of the French "Orano" group. The French government believes that the Zuuvch-Ovoo project, invested in by the "Orano" group, could contribute 4% to the world's uranium production in the future. Zuuvch-Ovoo has been regarded as the largest uranium deposit discovered globally in the last decade. If the project is successfully implemented, it is expected to generate 95.5 million USD annually in Mongolia, totaling 3.2 billion USD in tax revenue. Specifically, the royalty income is projected at 47 million USD annually and 1,550 million USD in total. Based on uranium prices calculated at 64-74 USD per pound, it is estimated to bring in approximately 367 million USD annually from sales, totaling 12.1 billion USD in revenue, with an overall net profit forecast of 4.3 billion USD. According to preliminary estimates, the Zuuvch Ovoo project will run for 47 years, with production preparation from 2024-2027, product manufacturing from 2028-2060, and mine reclamation from 2061-2070. In essence, both parties are striving to responsibly manage the long-term investment agreement expected to last around 50 years. Therefore, the Mongolian government, as the shareholder, will not assume any investment or financial obligations and will forego a 34% stake in favor of holding a 10% preferential share at no cost. This option is supported by the sector as holding a 34% stake would require Mongolia to make equivalent investments. This choice is seen as advantageous to avoid repeating past mistakes. In yesterday's party caucus meetings, the concept and discussions regarding the bill to amend the Nuclear Energy Law and other submitted bills were presented. Politically, parties are expressing a united stance on moving forward foreign investments and uranium projects, which have faced years of impasse. However, some scientists and researchers warn that the stipulation to deposit approximately 300 million USD for future reclamation of the project after its completion in 40-50 years into the state treasury carries the risk of further delaying the project's timeline according to the investors' perspective. It is noted that in world history, it's rare to deposit monetary amounts in cash for post-project mine reclamation. Several methods exist, such as obtaining guarantees from foreign banks. Ultimately, investment is about working together for mutual benefit. With the Joint Government formed by representatives from the MPP, DP, and HUN parties following the latest regular elections of the State Great Khural, and Mongolia's 126-member parliament, the world is closely observing whether they can advance the uranium project and attract third neighbor investments to the country. This is not solely a Mongolian-French project but a Mongolia-France joint project. Moreover, it is a project of economic, energy, and geopolitical significance between Asia and Europe, and globally.

Back to Table of Contents

Gaining Experience from Foreign Experts to Reclaim Illicit Assets

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The General Prosecutor's Office of the country and the United States Department of Justice's Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development Assistance and Training (OPDAT) have launched a program dedicated to prosecutors on the topic of "Corruption Crimes and Asset Forfeiture Procedures." The training sessions have commenced. As part of the program, Ms. Jennifer Wallis, a prosecutor from the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section of the Criminal Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, will mentor prosecutors. She will train instructors in the areas of combating corruption and money laundering crimes, and provide guidance on successful mutual legal assistance processes. This training and program, which facilitates connecting Mongolian prosecutors with foreign experts specialized in prosecuting corruption and money laundering crimes and in asset recovery, aims to share their experiences and knowledge. It will last for six months. The collaboration is executed within the framework of ongoing cooperation between the General Prosecutor's Office of the country and the United States Department of Justice's Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development Assistance and Training (OPDAT).

Back to Table of Contents

Preliminary Hearing on the Case of Z. Sanzhdorj and D. Byambajav, Accused of Collaborating with Foreign Intelligence, to Be Held Today Behind Closed Doors

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

The preliminary hearing for the case involving Z. Sanzhdorj and D. Byambajav, who are accused of collaborating with foreign intelligence, will take place today behind closed doors. We previously reported that Z. Sanzhdorj and D. Byambajav have been charged by the prosecutor with offenses that could result in a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, and the case has been transferred to the Sukhbaatar District Criminal Court. The preliminary hearing for this case will be held today at the Sukhbaatar District Criminal Court. The prosecutor has charged the aforementioned individuals under Article 19.4 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to illegal collaboration with foreign intelligence services, organizations, or individuals. Article 19.4, section 1, of the Criminal Code stipulates that a citizen of Mongolia who agrees to collaborate with a foreign intelligence agency, or collaborates in such a way as to steal, collect, store, or transmit state secrets to a foreign organization or individual, can be sentenced to imprisonment for a term of eight to fifteen years.

Back to Table of Contents

Economy

Received Representatives of French Business Movement

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene received a delegation of business representatives led by Claude Imoven, head of the Mongolian-French Business Council under the French Business Movement. During the meeting, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene highlighted the active development of relations between Mongolia and France in recent years and noted the importance of direct engagement and effective cooperation between businesses of the two countries in expanding and developing these relations. In this context, he expressed confidence that the meeting of business representatives from the two countries, to be jointly organized by the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Mongolia and the French Business Movement, will be successful and contribute to expanding trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene provided information about the Government's new action program, the mega projects included in it, and policies and activities aimed at attracting foreign investment and improving the business environment. He also exchanged views on joint projects between Mongolia and France and emphasized the Government's special attention to environmental issues within the framework of the uranium extraction project. The meeting discussed the possibilities of enriching bilateral cooperation with economic content and expanding it to various sectors such as food, agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, and information technology. The participation of representatives from businesses implementing joint Mongolian-French projects from the French side was significant in the meeting.

Back to Table of Contents

Mongolia Agrees to Export Wool, Cashmere, and Leather Goods to Kazakhstan

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At the invitation of the President of Mongolia, Khurelsukh U., the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Kemeluly Tokayev, paid a state visit to Mongolia. During the visit, the two sides agreed that deepening the traditional friendly relations based on the principles of respect for mutual independence, sovereignty, equality, territorial integrity, and other internationally recognized legal principles as outlined by the UN Charter, is important not only for the two nations but also for the promotion of peace and sustainable development in Central Asia and globally. As a result, they decided to advance their bilateral relations to a "Strategic Partnership" level. The two sides agreed to expand and deepen cooperation in five key areas based on their "Strategic Partnership" relationship: politics, security, and defense; trade and economy; education, culture, science, and technology; transport, logistics, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges; and regional and international cooperation. Politics, Security, and Defense: The heads of state of both countries agreed to regularize high-level visits and dialogue mechanisms, strengthen the close relationship between their leaders, and enhance political trust. They also emphasized increasing cooperation between their legislative bodies, national security councils, law enforcement, and security agencies to bolster mutual trust and understanding at the regional level. The two sides also agreed to expand and develop their cooperation in defense and security, including establishing a consultation mechanism between their defense ministries, appointing military attaches, and organizing joint military exercises. Furthermore, they expressed readiness to closely coordinate in combating international terrorism, religious extremism, drug trafficking, illegal weapons trade, transnational organized crime, nuclear material smuggling, and illegal migration. To this end, the two sides agreed to support and strengthen relations between their prosecutor's offices, courts, law enforcement, border agencies, and special services. They also committed to intensifying their efforts in nuclear weapon disarmament and non-proliferation, recognizing their active roles in these areas. Trade and Economy: The two sides agreed to expand economic cooperation by leveraging modern technology, agricultural and light industrial advantages, and Mongolia's abundant natural resources to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. They also agreed to cooperate within the framework of Mongolia's long-term development policy "Vision-2050." Regular meetings of the intergovernmental commission on trade, economic, scientific, technical, and cultural cooperation will be organized to strengthen dialogue on trade, investment, and economic cooperation. They will also establish specific bilateral working groups as necessary. The legal and regulatory framework for trade and economic cooperation will be strengthened to expand cooperation. The two countries appreciated the roadmap for enhancing trade and economic cooperation for 2025-2027 and agreed to accelerate the establishment of an "Agreement on Mutual Promotion and Protection of Investments" to create a favorable investment environment. As part of their trade cooperation goals, they agreed to export wool, cashmere, and leather products from Mongolia to the Kazakhstani market and increase the import of fruits, berries, and vegetables from Kazakhstan to the Mongolian market. The two countries agreed to expand cooperation in livestock, agriculture, light industry, and small and medium enterprises based on their abundant agricultural resources. They will actively collaborate on large-scale joint agricultural projects by effectively utilizing Mongolia's vast steppe and pasture resources. To facilitate export and import activities, they agreed to enhance cooperation between their veterinary and quarantine organizations, establish an integrated information system, and increase the number of veterinary certificates for food products. They agreed to continue collaboration on animal health and vaccination, following international standards set by the "World Organisation for Animal Health" (WOAH). The two sides appreciated the signing of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the light industry between Mongolia's Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry and Kazakhstan's Ministry of Agriculture. They also appreciated the signing of a memorandum of understanding on veterinary and quarantine cooperation between Mongolia's General Authority for Veterinary Services and the Veterinary Control Committee of Kazakhstan's Ministry of Agriculture. The creation of a Business Council under the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Mongolia and the International Chamber of Commerce of Kazakhstan was noted, with emphasis on facilitating business delegations, organizing participation in trade shows, and regularly and effectively organizing bilateral business forums. Education, Culture, Science, and Technology: The heads of state agreed to strengthen cooperation in future-oriented sectors such as education, science, digital technology, information and communication technologies, and cultural ties to promote nomadic culture globally. Mongolia spoke highly of the scholarships provided by Kazakhstan's government for Mongolian students to study in Kazakh universities. They agreed to enhance cooperation in educational and human resource development sectors by strengthening higher education capabilities and implementing scholarship programs. They expressed mutual support for the development of Mongolian and Kazakh studies and agreed to support the training of teachers, experts, and researchers in language and culture from both countries. They will also collaborate on promoting Mongolian language education in Kazakhstan and training Mongolian language specialists. Both sides expressed a desire to create opportunities for the mutual training of Mongolian and Kazakh language teachers. They agreed to elevate cooperation between scientific and strategic research institutions, exchange best practices, and conduct joint research and archaeological studies on historical and archaeological findings to promote the global recognition of felt-yurt and nomadic cultural traditions. Mongolia expressed interest in establishing and developing relations at the scientific institutional level with the Turkic Studies Academy. They noted the potential for cooperation in historical research. The two countries appreciated the ongoing cooperation in information technology, digital governance, space technology, and communication sectors and agreed to implement joint projects, enhance digital infrastructure and governance, and support sector development through information technology. They committed to experience sharing and jointly working on digital infrastructure optimization and advanced technologies. A memorandum of understanding on cooperation in information and communication technology was signed between Mongolia's Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications and Kazakhstan's Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry. The two countries noted their deep historical, cultural, and traditional nomadic connections and agreed to implement joint cultural programs and conduct research on cultural heritage and extraordinary historical sources. They also agreed to develop Mongolian and Kazakh studies and expand cooperation among museums, emphasizing the potential for development of intangible cultural heritage. In expanding cultural cooperation, they agreed to develop relations between cultural and arts organizations, establish joint working groups, and actively support programs on youth exchange, sports, and creative industries. The signing of a memorandum of understanding for cooperation in culture between Mongolia's Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth and Kazakhstan's Ministry of Culture and Information was appreciated. The recognition of valuable archaeological discoveries made by scholars from both countries in Bulgan, Arkhangai, and Khentii aimags highlighting the economy, religion, and culture of Central Asian nomads was acknowledged, with a commitment to long-term sustained research on specific topics. Transport, Logistics, Tourism, and People-to-People Exchange: The two sides highlighted the importance of enhancing aviation and transport connections, establishing direct Ulaanbaatar-Astana flights, creating new transport and logistics routes, and expanding tourism cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. Mutual appreciation was expressed for the expansion of Mongolia-Kazakhstan road transport, including direct air and road transportation, which plays a significant role in increasing economic and tourism exchanges. They agreed to continue exploring solutions to existing challenges in the rail, road, and air transport sectors in cooperation with regional countries. Memorandums of understanding for cooperation in transport and aviation search and rescue were signed between Mongolia's Ministry of Transport and Kazakhstan's Ministry of Transport. They agreed to enhance regional connectivity, including cooperation within the "Trans-Caspian International Transport Route" (Middle Corridor) framework. The two sides agreed to explore the possibility of increasing and regularizing direct flights between Ulaanbaatar and Astana. The significance of the tourism sector in the cooperation between the two countries was noted, with plans to enhance institutional cooperation in tourism, organize joint events and promotional activities, and develop tourism based on nomadic culture and traditions. Both sides agreed to increase investment in the tourism sector and develop tourism infrastructure and facilities. A memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the tourism sector was signed between Mongolia's Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth and Kazakhstan's Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The signing of a social security cooperation agreement between the governments of Mongolia and Kazakhstan was acknowledged. Regional and International Cooperation: The heads of state agreed to enhance cooperation in the regional and international arenas, including deepening cooperation within the UN and other international organizations. The active collaboration between Mongolia and Kazakhstan within the UN, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and other international organizations was praised, as was their mutual support in international organizational elections. Both countries noted their common stance on important international and regional issues and expressed their commitment to continue supporting each other's initiatives within the UN, the World Trade Organization, the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and other international and regional organizations. The two sides agreed to contribute to global climate change mitigation efforts and actively work with the international community in combating climate change, desertification, and environmental protection. Mongolia will host the 17th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in 2026, and Kazakhstan will host a regional summit on climate issues under UN auspices, with high-level participation from both countries. The mutual goal of achieving carbon neutrality was acknowledged, with both countries agreeing to pursue diverse methods to realize this goal. The importance of private sector collaboration in energy sector projects was noted, as was progress in energy cooperation between the two countries. Kazakhstan has consistently supported Mongolia's "Ulaanbaatar Dialogue on Northeast Asian Security" initiative, and both countries affirmed their continued active collaboration within this initiative. They agreed to ensure coordination of their regional security efforts and expand cooperation. The importance of implementing the "Sustainable Development 2030 Agenda" and deepening tangible cooperation to reduce poverty, ensure food security, combat climate change, and support green development was expressed. The implementation of Mongolia's "Billion Trees" initiative and Kazakhstan's "Two Billion Trees" initiative, aimed at combating climate change and desertification and contributing to restoration and reforestation, was agreed upon. Mongolia's signing of the "Multilateral Agreement on the Establishment of the International Research Center for Landlocked Developing Countries" was highly praised and seen as a positive step in this area. Mongolia acknowledged Kazakhstan's initiative to establish a multilateral organization known as the International Agency for Biological Safety (IABS). The state visit of the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to Mongolia marked an important milestone in advancing traditional friendly relations to a "Strategic Partnership" level and opening a new historical chapter in bilateral relations. President Tokayev expressed gratitude for the warm and friendly reception by President Khurelsukh and the people of Mongolia, and extended an invitation to President Khurelsukh to make a state visit to Kazakhstan at a convenient time.

Back to Table of Contents

The Bank of Mongolia Signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The Bank of Mongolia and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly implement the "WE Finance Code" initiative in Mongolia. Empowering female entrepreneurs is key to strengthening Mongolia's economy, and with the help of the WE Finance Code, the parties will collaborate in the financial sector to provide equal opportunities for entrepreneurs. This initiative strengthens shared efforts to enhance financial inclusion and create an equitable future. In the framework of the "We-Fi" (Women's Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative) program, which is implemented in collaboration with international financial institutions other than the World Bank, the EBRD launched the "WE-Fi Code" initiative aimed at collecting statistical data related to women's entrepreneurship and supporting women's entrepreneurship through policy based on quantitative data. Initially successfully launched in the United Kingdom, this initiative has now been joined by 14 countries worldwide. By signing the memorandum, the Bank of Mongolia will take a leading role in implementing the above initiative in Mongolia, and the parties will work together to improve the frequency and quality of quantitative data and statistical reports on women's entrepreneurship, and provide policy and financial support based on that data to support women's entrepreneurship.

Back to Table of Contents

Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev: Increasing Bilateral Trade to 500 Million USD

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

At the invitation of Mongolian President U. Khurelsukh, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev, is making a state visit. The heads of state of the two countries held official talks and, along with a signing ceremony of documents, provided information to media representatives. Mongolian President U. Khurelsukh said, "I sincerely thank you, esteemed President, for accepting my invitation to visit our land of eternal blue sky with its ancient history - our beautiful country, on a state visit. We have decided to elevate the cooperation between Mongolia and Kazakhstan to the level of a strategic partnership. I am pleased to state that Kazakhstan is becoming our country's first strategic partner in the Central Asian region. We have held talks to expand our cooperation in all fields." Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev expressed his gratitude, "I thank the citizens of Mongolia and esteemed President U. Khurelsukh for the warm welcome. I attach special importance to this visit. Mongolia is an important neighbor in our region. We wish each other well. We share a common history as well as spiritual and cultural values. Strong, harmonious, partnership-based cooperation is reaching a strategic partnership level. I hope this will give an impetus to beneficial cooperation in many sectors. Last year, bilateral trade between our countries approached 150 million USD. We aim to increase this to 500 million USD in the coming years. The Kazakh citizens in Mongolia are a golden bridge of our strong friendship. I extend my gratitude to the leaders and people of Mongolia for caring for them."

Back to Table of Contents

Cooperation with Kazakhstan in Uranium Mining, Licensing, and Radiation Safety

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

The state visit of the Republic of Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Kemeluly Tokayev, at the invitation of Mongolia's President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, is ongoing. During the visit, the parties signed several documents related to bilateral relations and cooperation. 1. Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Culture between the Ministry of Culture, Sport, Tourism, and Youth of Mongolia and the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan: Signed by Mongolia's Minister of Culture, Sport, Tourism, and Youth Chinbat Nomin and Kazakhstan's Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balaeva, the memorandum focuses on organizing joint cultural exhibitions, art performances, and film screenings. It also emphasizes the protection and restoration of cultural heritage, particularly intangible cultural heritage, and aims to increase cultural exchanges between the two countries. Additionally, the memorandum outlines plans to implement cultural programs, study and establish sources related to the unique cultural heritage of Mongolia and Kazakhstan, and develop cultural studies. Opportunities for joint research on intangible cultural heritage and expanding cooperation between museums are also highlighted. 2. Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Tourism between the Ministry of Culture, Sport, Tourism, and Youth of Mongolia and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan: Signed by Mongolia's Minister Chinbat Nomin and Kazakhstan's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Mongolia, Gabit Koishibayev, the memorandum aims to strengthen inter-institutional cooperation in tourism, jointly organize tourism events and activities, and promote mutual recognition of the countries. It further proposes to support the development of tourism based on nomadic culture and traditions and to increase investment in the tourism sector for infrastructure and facility development. 3. Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Light Industry and Veterinary and Quarantine Services between the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry of Mongolia and the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan: Signed by Mongolia's Minister Jadamba Enkhbayar and Kazakhstan's Minister Aidarbek Saparov, the memorandum focuses on developing leather and wool processing industries, preparing engineers, technicians, and relevant specialists from both government and business sectors, attracting investment for deep processing of leather and wool, and transferring technology. Both parties agreed to provide mutual support in improving control systems, standards, and laboratory facilities for processing animal hides and wool. There is also potential for joint projects and programs that may symbolize the bilateral relationship. In veterinary and quarantine services, cooperation will be intensified by creating a unified information system, increasing the number of veterinary certificates for food products, and exchanging information in this sector. There are possibilities for supporting trade in livestock, animals, and their derived raw materials and products by mutually agreeing on international veterinary certificates and quarantine and sanitary requirements. 4. Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Information and Communication Technology between the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications of Mongolia and the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan: Signed by Mongolia's Minister Tsendiin Baatarkhuu and Kazakhstan's Minister Zhaslan Madiyev, the memorandum involves the use of information and communication technology to identify, analyze, and resolve nationally significant problems by sharing experience. It also focuses on attracting investment to support SMEs, startups, and innovation in this sector, as well as a mutual examination of AI-based solutions supplied to state organizations. The two nations will work together to embrace the digital age and leverage new-generation technology and science for national development. 5. Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Nuclear Energy between the Commission of Nuclear Energy of Mongolia and the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan: Signed by Mongolia's Secretary and Head of the Office of the Commission of Nuclear Energy Gun-Aajav Manlaijav and Kazakhstan's Ambassador Gabit Koishibayev, this memorandum focuses on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, including uranium mining, licensing, and radiation safety. It encourages the exchange of experience, cooperation, and professional development through joint theoretical and practical training, seminars, and meetings.

Back to Table of Contents

Presented Investment Opportunities and Major Projects

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

At the "IMARC 2024" international minerals conference held in Sydney, Australia from October 29 to 31, Minister of Mining and Heavy Industry Ts. Tuvdaar is participating, introducing Mongolia's investment opportunities, legal environment, and projects. The conference, which is in its 11th year, welcomes over 300 leaders from the global mining industry, including more than 90 mining companies and over 9000 delegates, to discuss the latest innovations and developments, fostering dialogue about sector growth and strengthening partnerships. The opening discussions of the conference revolved around the topic "Building Value Chains for Critical Minerals", emphasizing the need to create sustainable and reliable supply chains of essential minerals to accelerate green technology and energy transition. According to information from the Ministry of Mining and Heavy Industry (MMHI), by actively participating in "IMARC 2024", our country is expressing its ambition to develop international partnerships and strengthen its position in the global mining sector.

Back to Table of Contents

The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the uranium mining project in a meeting with representatives of French enterprises

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

Mongolian Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene received a delegation led by Claude Imoven, head of the Mongolia-France Business Council under the Movement of French Enterprises. During the meeting, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene emphasized the active development of Mongolia-France relations in recent years and noted the significant role of direct communication and effective cooperation between the business owners of the two countries in expanding and developing mutual collaboration. In this context, he expressed confidence that a meeting of business owners from both countries, jointly organized by the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Movement of French Enterprises on the 30th of this month, will be successful and will contribute to expanding trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene provided information on the newly established government's action program, including mega projects, policies and actions aimed at attracting foreign investment and improving the business environment. He also exchanged views on projects jointly implemented by Mongolia and France, expressing the government's particular attention to environmental issues within the framework of the uranium mining project. The meeting also involved discussions on enriching bilateral cooperation with economic content and expanding opportunities in various fields such as food, agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, and information technology. The participation of representatives from French enterprises involved in joint Mongolian-French projects added significance to the meeting.

Back to Table of Contents

A Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Nuclear Energy Sector was Signed with Kazakhstan

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: gogo.mn

In the context of the visit by the President of Kazakhstan, the Presidents of Mongolia and Kazakhstan signed a "Joint Declaration on Strategic Cooperation." The state leaders announced the elevation of the traditional friendly relations between Mongolia and Kazakhstan to the level of a "Strategic Partnership." Mongolia has agreed to expand its cooperation with its important partner in Central Asia, the Republic of Kazakhstan, based on this "Strategic Partnership." This cooperation will cover a variety of sectors, including politics, security, trade, economy, education, culture, science, information technology, transport, logistics, tourism, and civic exchanges, as well as cooperation in regional and international matters. Other agreements that were made include: 1. An intergovernmental agreement between Mongolia and Kazakhstan on cooperation in pension-related matters. Both countries will account for work periods completed on each other's territories when establishing pensions, ensuring reciprocal pension transfers. This agreement is significant for the over 3,000 Mongolian citizens currently working officially in Kazakhstan, providing them with future social security. This agreement was finalized after 17 rounds of negotiations since starting in 2018. 2. A roadmap for 2025-2027 to activate the trade and economic cooperation between the two countries, including measures in trade, economy, transport, logistics, food, agriculture, tourism, and other sectors. 3. An intergovernmental agreement between Mongolia and Kazakhstan on cooperation in the search and rescue sector. The aim is to enhance cooperation between search and rescue organizations and to quickly share information and provide assistance for citizens in distress within both nations' territories. 4. A memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Roads and Transport Development of Mongolia and the Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan. The aim is to enhance the efficiency of highway relations by organizing international and transit transport for passengers and goods. 5. A cooperation plan between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs for 2025-2027 to further the strategic partnership, including increasing the frequency of political dialogues and organizing mutual visits. 6. A memorandum of understanding in the field of culture to organize joint exhibitions, performances, and film screenings, and to increase cultural exchanges. 7. A memorandum of understanding in tourism to enhance cooperation between tourism organizations and to support tourism development based on nomadic culture. 8. Memorandums of understanding in the light industry sector and veterinary and quarantine sectors to develop leather and wool processing industries and to enhance the regulatory and laboratory infrastructure for processing animal hides and wool. 9. A memorandum of understanding in information and communication technology to address national issues through technology, sharing experience in small and medium-sized enterprise innovation, and supporting startups. 10. A memorandum of understanding in the nuclear energy sector for peaceful purposes including uranium mining, special permits, and radiation safety, with joint theoretical and practical training and seminars to exchange experiences.

Back to Table of Contents

The First Meeting of the Business Council Presented the Khorgos Free Zone

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar. During the state visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan K. Tokayev to our country, the Business Council, a permanent platform for business between the two countries, was established and held its first meeting. During the meeting, the Kazakh side, represented by D.Ye. Kadyrov, Deputy Chairman of the Board of "Khorgos", introduced the activities of the international center for cross-border cooperation "Khorgos". This center is a free zone successfully operating on the initiative of Kazakhstan and China. Established in 2005, it initially functioned on 560 hectares on each side of Kazakhstan and China's borders as per intergovernmental agreements. Over the past 10 years, the Khorgos free zone has developed intensively and has become a model center for business, trade, and investment, encompassing 764 hectares of transborder land where passengers, vehicles, and goods are exchanged freely. Significant construction projects have been implemented on both the Kazakhstani and Chinese territories, establishing numerous trade and service centers and planning many investment projects. The territory is interconnected by roads, offers tax-free, simplified border and employment regimes, and allows daily movement of up to 4,000 people from Kazakhstan and up to 7,000 from China between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM. Following the presentation, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the management company of Mongolia's Zamiin-Uud free zone and the Kazakhstan "Khorgos" international cross-border cooperation center at the Mongolia-Kazakhstan business meeting. During the meeting, the Kazakhstani delegation provided an overview of other business sectors. Specifically, Kazakh Minister of Digital Development Zh.Kh. Madiev reported that Kazakhstan ranks 24th globally in e-government. He stated, "We have established 'Astana Hub', the biggest technical center in Central Asia, offering a wide range of services for all kinds of products. Over 1,500 regular participants from 436 countries are involved. Our main goal is to bring entrepreneurs and startup technologies to the Central Asian market. We are open to collaborating with Mongolia in developing IT and e-technology, and we are interested in including Mongolian startups in our system and training them. This cooperation will facilitate a better understanding of the market specifics of both countries and enable innovation technology integration." M.R. Karimzhanov, Chairman of the Foreign Trade Chamber of Kazakhstan, stated: "The start of our cooperation during the state visit of the President of Kazakhstan to Mongolia opens significant opportunities for economic development between our two countries. The National Chamber of Kazakhstan represents and defends the rights of enterprises with government and international organizations and abroad. We adhere to an open-door policy for foreign investment, maintain a stable, predictable tax system, improve the judicial system to create a fair business environment, and, in cooperation with the government, have developed a National Electronic Investment Platform to attract foreign investment and facilitate interaction with them. This platform aids enterprises in attracting investors, developing business, and finding foreign partners. On September 13 this year, we officially established the Kazakhstan-Mongolia business council online. This marks an important phase in the relationship between our two countries, opening opportunities for mutual cooperation among business people and formalizing bilateral economic cooperation." During the meeting, discussions and agreements were made to deepen and expand trade, economic, and investment cooperation between the businesses of the two countries, with the signing of memorandums of understanding. Over 10 companies from Kazakhstan in sectors such as agriculture, food, foreign trade, and light industry organized B2B meetings with Mongolian enterprises to expand multi-faceted business cooperation.

Back to Table of Contents

Visit: Aiming to Increase Bilateral Trade to $500 Million

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: news.mn

At the invitation of the President of Mongolia, U. Khurelsukh, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev, is making a state visit to Mongolia on October 28-29, 2024. The presidents of the two countries made a joint statement. During this time, the President of Mongolia, U. Khurelsukh, stated: - The President of the Republic of Kazakhstan is visiting Mongolia after 16 years since 2008. I am confident that this visit will make a valuable contribution to strengthening the friendship and fraternity between the peoples of the two countries and expanding the relations between the two nations. Our two countries have historically had brotherly relations and belong to the family of nomadic nations. Within the framework of this visit, we have made a historic decision to elevate our traditional relations to a new strategic level. We consider this a special historical moment that marks the beginning of a new era in our bilateral relations. I am pleased to emphasize that Kazakhstan is becoming Mongolia's first strategic partner in the Central Asian region. Over the coming years, we have productively exchanged views on enriching the relations between the two countries with new content and expanding and developing cooperation in all fields. We have outlined the long-term roadmap of cooperation, identified the priorities, and set the future directions. Within this state visit, we have strengthened the legal basis for Mongolian-Kazakh relations and signed documents between governments and institutions to expand cooperation in important areas such as transportation logistics, agriculture, veterinary medicine, information technology, culture, and tourism. Moreover, we aim to intensively and broadly develop our mutually beneficial economic cooperation. We agreed on the significance of transportation logistics for developing roads, agriculture, and light industry, and to resolve the existing obstacles in the transportation sector and to develop new transportation routes within the framework of bilateral and multilateral legal mechanisms. We also agreed to increase the number of flights and routes. To further expand and develop the trade and economic cooperation between the two countries, a roadmap for 2025-2027 was established to intensify efforts. We expressed our gratitude for the initiation of multifaceted cooperation and agreed to increase bilateral trade to $500 million, to expand trade in the agricultural sector, and to mutually supply agricultural products to Kazakhstan, as well as to study projects of mutual interest that serve as symbols of the two nations. President Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev of the Republic of Kazakhstan said: - He attaches special importance to this visit. Mongolia is an important neighbor in this region. In recent years, the relations between our two countries have been actively developing. Our cooperation, based on strong unity, has reached a strategic partnership. The joint declarations we signed will further strengthen the friendship between the two countries and provide new impetus for developing new connections in various fields. As part of the visit, we have agreed to revive economic relations. Mongolia and Kazakhstan are considered major countries in Asia. Therefore, we aim to increase trade turnover. Last year, the trade turnover reached $150 million. We aim to reach $500 million in the near future. To do this, it is necessary to increase the range of goods in circulation. We also need to remove obstacles hindering economic cooperation. Therefore, the governments of both countries need to take concrete actions. There is potential for producing vaccines against animal-borne diseases in Kazakhstan, and we agreed to establish a vaccine production plant in Mongolia. Additionally, we focused on new technology, shared mineral resources, raw materials processing, and discussed investments. We discussed solutions to many issues together. The Kazakh community in Mongolia serves as a golden bridge of strong friendship between the two countries. In this regard, I express my gratitude to the President and the people of Mongolia for paying attention to our compatriots. In the future, special attention will be paid to education, science, mining, and cultural humanitarian fields.

Back to Table of Contents

Diplomacy

President Khurelsukh and President Tokayev to Hold Official Talks

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

At the invitation of President Khurelsukh, Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, arrived in Mongolia last night for a state visit. President Tokayev was received at "Buyant-Ukhaa" Airport by Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Mongolia, G. B. Koishybayev, and other officials. As part of the visit, the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, and the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, will hold official talks. The two sides will review the successes and achievements of more than 30 years of relations, discuss elevating the traditional friendly relationship to a new level, enhance cooperation economically, and exchange views on deepening cooperation on international and regional platforms. The two heads of state plan to inform representatives of the media about the results of their official talks. During the visit, documents aimed at strengthening the legal foundations of bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in sectors such as transport, logistics, agriculture, veterinary services, information technology, culture, and tourism will be signed by relevant officials. President Tokayev's state visit is the first at the level of head of state of the Republic of Kazakhstan since the visit in 2008, 16 years ago. Mongolia and the Republic of Kazakhstan established diplomatic relations on January 22, 1992.

Back to Table of Contents

Kazakhstan becomes our country's first 'Strategic Partner' in Central Asia

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Prime Minister of Mongolia, L. Oyun-Erdene, received the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, K. Tokayev, who is on a state visit to Mongolia. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene emphasized the importance of relations and cooperation that Mongolia is developing with Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, and expressed his commitment to expanding mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation with this country. He noted that this state visit, which is taking place at the presidential level of Kazakhstan after 16 years, will make a valuable contribution to expanding and strengthening the relations and cooperation between the two countries. During the visit, it was highlighted that the level of relations between the two countries was elevated to a "Strategic Partnership," which is significant in the history of cooperation. He stated that Kazakhstan is becoming Mongolia's first "Strategic Partner" in Central Asia and expressed a commitment to working closely with the Government of Kazakhstan to realize the initiatives agreed upon by the heads of state of both countries and further develop the "Strategic Partnership" between Mongolia and Kazakhstan. President K. Tokayev praised the "Vision-2050" long-term development policy being implemented by the Government of Mongolia and mentioned the potential to implement mutually beneficial and economically significant projects and programs that could become a hallmark of relations between the two countries. Both parties expressed approval of their agreement to work together to enrich bilateral relations with substantive economic content, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, remove barriers in transportation and logistics, create new shortcut routes, and expand air relations to increase tourism and people-to-people exchanges. The Kazakh side expressed gratitude for the humanitarian assistance of 200,000 USD provided by the Government of Mongolia in response to the significant material damage caused by the floods in Kazakhstan this April.

Back to Table of Contents

Mongolian and Kazakh Presidents Announce Elevation of Traditional Friendly Relations to Strategic Partnership

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia – At the invitation of Mongolian President U. Khurelsukh, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of the Republic of Kazakhstan is on an official state visit to Mongolia on October 28-29. The two heads of state informed representatives of the media about the results of their official talks. Mongolian President U. Khurelsukh: "Honorable Kassym-Jomart Kemelyevich Tokayev, Esteemed members of the press gathered here, I extend you greetings on this day. Esteemed President, I express my heartfelt gratitude for accepting my invitation and visiting our beautiful country, which is a land of eternal blue sky and ancient history, on a state visit. This historic visit by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan is being realized 16 years after 2008 and I am confident it will greatly contribute to strengthening the friendship and cooperation between our two peoples, expanding and deepening the relations and cooperation between our two countries. Our two countries have historically been closely linked by deep ties of history, culture, and traditions, sharing a brotherly relationship as nomadic peoples. This state visit by Your Excellency has enabled us to enhance and develop the traditional friendly relations of our countries in contemporary times, elevating Mongolia-Kazakhstan relations and cooperation to the level of 'Strategic Partnership.' This marks a remarkable event initiating a new era in our bilateral relations. I am pleased to emphasize that Kazakhstan is becoming our first 'Strategic Partner' country in the Central Asian region. The official discussions we held were conducted in a warm and constructive atmosphere. We reviewed the successes achieved over the past 30 years and exchanged productive proposals for expanding and enriching our bilateral relations with new content in the coming years, identifying future prospects, priorities, and roadmaps for our cooperation. I am happy to announce the joint declaration on the development of 'Strategic Partnership' relations between Mongolia and Kazakhstan has been issued as a result of the visit. In the framework of this state visit, governmental and inter-organizational documents have been signed to strengthen the legal foundations of Mongolia-Kazakhstan relations and to expand cooperation in critical sectors such as transport, logistics, agriculture, veterinary medicine, information technology, culture, and tourism. Our two countries also agreed to intensively develop mutually beneficial economic cooperation based on our wide-ranging resources and potential, accelerating cooperation in all sectors including roads, transport, agriculture, light industry, tourism, culture, and education. We agreed on the vital importance of cooperation in the transport and logistics sector for expanding and developing the economic cooperation between our countries, and decided to resolve obstacles in the transport sector, create new transportation routes and increase the number of flights and directions within the framework of bilateral and multilateral legal mechanisms. We established a roadmap to intensify and expand trade and economic cooperation from 2025-2027 between Mongolia and the Republic of Kazakhstan. We agreed on increasing trade turnover to 500 million USD and expanding and developing cooperation in the agricultural sector, signing documents to cooperate in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and livestock breeding. We also agreed to mutually supply agricultural and light industrial products to each other's markets and implement joint projects and programs that symbolize our countries' relations. The first meeting of the Mongolia-Kazakhstan Business Council was successfully held during this visit, with numerous representatives from enterprises of both countries participating, which shows the strong desire among business operators to cooperate. Cultural relations connect the people of our two countries and we agreed to implement joint cultural programs, study and identify sources, artifacts, and monuments related to unique Mongolian and Kazakh history and culture, and expand cooperation in the field of intangible cultural heritage. We agreed to promote Mongol and Kazakh studies, train teachers and researchers in language, culture, and regional studies, support cooperation between scientific and strategic research institutions, conduct joint historical and archaeological studies, and introduce the nomadic culture and civilization of felt dwellers to the world. As part of this visit, documents on cooperation in tourism and information technology sectors were signed, which will provide important impetus to organizing cultural festivals and tourism events together, and supporting tourism based on border and nomadic cultures and traditions. We also agreed to implement joint projects and programs in information technology, digital development, and communication sectors. Our two nations have been working together actively in mutual support within the framework of the United Nations and other international organizations, aiming to deepen and develop our regional and international cooperation further. We have decided to contribute to combating climate change and protecting the environment, aligning Mongolia’s 'Billion Trees' national movement initiative by the President of Mongolia with the 'Two Billion Trees' project initiative by the President of Kazakhstan. We thank Kazakhstan for its continual support and cooperation in the activities of the International Research Center for Landlocked Developing Countries based in Ulaanbaatar. Within the framework of this international research center, the parties agreed to develop policies for landlocked developing countries, unify their positions, and intensify relations and cooperation. Honorable President, I am delighted that together we are elevating the traditional friendly relations and cooperation between Mongolia and Kazakhstan to a high level of Strategic Partnership, opening a new page in the history of our bilateral relations. I am confident that our discussions and mutually agreed tasks will become tangible efforts for the development and prosperity of both nations and the welfare of their peoples, and that our relations and cooperation will continue to expand and strengthen. May the friendship and fellowship between the peoples of our two countries be strong and eternal, and may the friendly relations and cooperation between Mongolia and Kazakhstan continue to flourish. You are welcome to visit our beautiful country, the land of eternal blue sky and ancient history. Thank you for your attention." President K. Tokayev of the Republic of Kazakhstan: "Honorable President, Ladies and gentlemen, First of all, I express my sincere gratitude to President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh for inviting me to Ulaanbaatar on a state visit. I also extend my gratitude to all the people of Mongolia for their warm welcome. I attach great importance to this visit. Mongolia is a significant neighbor in our region. We share common aspirations for each other's good, with historical, spiritual, and cultural values. Our meeting today coincides with the 800th anniversary of the Zuchid State, a notable event in Kazakh history, enhancing its symbolic significance. Kazakh-Mongolian relations have been intensively developing in recent years, and our cooperation solidified by steadfast friendship has now reached the level of 'Strategic Partnership.' Together with President U. Khurelsukh, we signed a Joint Declaration. This document will further strengthen our friendship and provide impetus to developing mutually beneficial relations in many fields. We also agreed to deepen trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian cooperation. Several important agreements and treaties were signed during the visit. The discussions were very successful. We agreed to revive economic interaction. Kazakhstan and Mongolia are classified among the major countries in Asia. Thus, our trade turnover should encompass a wide range. In recent years, trade has approached 150 million USD, and we discussed increasing this figure to 500 million USD in the near future. I am confident that our governments will take practical measures to increase product varieties and remove economic cooperation barriers. Today, we signed a roadmap to increase trade and economic relations. This document will play a crucial role in expanding the scope of bilateral cooperation. In addition, we held discussions on cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing, transport logistics, and the energy sector. Kazakhstan has the capacity to produce vaccines against animal diseases. We agreed to establish a vaccine factory in Mongolia. Furthermore, we discussed collaborating on new technologies, jointly utilizing mineral resources, and investment. I highlighted Kazakhstan's achievements in e-government, cybersecurity, and space exploration. Our two nations are rich in natural resources. There is great potential to collaborate in prospecting and exploiting iron, phosphate, bauxite, and rare minerals. Kazakh entrepreneurs are ready to cooperate in the mining sector. During the discussions, we exchanged views on transport logistics. Enhancing the competitiveness of international corridors is crucial. Developing transport links between countries and with others will increase cargo transit through our territories. It is vital to utilize the Trans-Caspian direction and southern and northern corridors. Yesterday, the inaugural meeting of the two countries' Business Council was held in Ulaanbaatar. During this event, our businesspeople signed trade contracts and other significant documents. Our governments should work to create favorable conditions for joint ventures. Currently, the cities of Astana and Ulaanbaatar have established a sibling relationship, and it is advisable to develop this relationship among other provinces as well. The Kazakh citizens of Mongolia are a golden bridge of enduring friendship. I take this opportunity to thank the government, the authorities, and the people of Mongolia for their constant attention. We particularly discussed cooperation in education, science, and culture. New initiatives to increase youth connections were also discussed. Kazakhstan's universities are always ready to welcome young Mongolians. I urge researchers, scholars, and intellectuals to collaboratively study our shared history. I am confident that these important steps will contribute significantly to the development and prosperity of both countries. Honorable journalists, Kazakhstan and Mongolia have established close relations at international and regional levels, sharing similar positions on many key issues. Our cooperation is developing within global and regional organizations. We focused on strengthening cooperation in Asia. The current geopolitical situation presents challenging times, so it is essential to provide mutual support and consultations within the framework of the United Nations and other international organizations. We will continue to develop bilateral and multilateral relations. We support Mongolia's intention to negotiate a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union. Today's visit confirms that our partnership will continue to deepen. Best wishes to the people of Mongolia. May our friendship be everlasting. Thank you all."

Back to Table of Contents

State Visit: Mongolia and Kazakhstan Announce Elevation of Their Traditional Friendly Relations to "Strategic Partnership" Level

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

At the invitation of the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Kemelovich Tokayev, is making a state visit. The heads of state from both countries informed representatives from the media about the results of their official discussions. Here is the full statement. The President of Mongolia, U. Khurelsukh: Dear Kassym-Jomart Kemelovich Tokayev, Distinguished representatives of the press who are present here today, I am pleased to extend my greetings to you on this day. I express my heartfelt gratitude to you, honorable President, for accepting my invitation and making a state visit to our beautiful country, the land of eternal blue sky. This historic visit by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan is being realized 16 years after the last state visit in 2008 and will undoubtedly further strengthen the friendship and ties between our peoples, and contribute to the expansion and development of relations and cooperation between our two countries. Our two nations, having deep historical ties and cultural heritage, have lived as nomadic peoples with kinship relations for many centuries. During this state visit, we have made a historic decision to elevate our traditional friendly relations and cooperation to the level of “strategic partnership,” further developing them in the present era. This marks the beginning of a new era in the history of relations between our two countries. I am pleased to highlight that Kazakhstan has become our first "strategic partner" country in the Central Asian region. The official talks with you, honorable President, were warm, cordial, and held in a business-like and productive atmosphere. We reviewed the achievements of over 30 years of our relations and exchanged productive ideas on diversifying and expanding our cooperation across all sectors in the coming years. We charted out the prospects and priorities as well as our roadmap for future cooperation. I am delighted that as a result of the visit, we are issuing the "Joint Declaration on the Development of Strategic Partnership Relations between Mongolia and the Republic of Kazakhstan." Within the framework of this state visit, documents were signed to strengthen the legal foundations of Mongolia-Kazakhstan relations and expand cooperation in critical sectors such as transport, logistics, agriculture, veterinary science, information technology, culture, and tourism. Our two countries also agreed to vigorously develop mutually beneficial economic cooperation based on our extensive resources and potential, accelerating collaboration in all areas such as transport, agriculture, light industry, tourism, culture, and education. We agree that collaboration in the transport and logistics sector is especially important for expanding our economic cooperation and have decided to increase the number and routes of flights as well as create new transportation routes within bilateral and multilateral legal frameworks to overcome obstacles in the transport sector. A roadmap to enhance the trade and economic cooperation between Mongolia and the Republic of Kazakhstan has been established for the period 2025-2027 to increase the volume of mutual trade to 500 million US dollars. Documents on collaboration in agriculture, veterinary services, and livestock development were signed to enhance cooperation in this sector. The two nations agreed to mutually supply agricultural and light industry products to each other's markets and explore joint projects and programs symbolic of Mongolia-Kazakhstan relations. The first meeting of the Mongolia-Kazakhstan Business Council was successfully held during this visit, with numerous representatives from enterprises of both countries participating and establishing the business council, indicating the high enthusiasm from entrepreneurs for collaboration. Cultural relations serve as an essential bridge connecting the peoples of our two countries, and in this area, we have agreed to implement joint cultural programs, investigate and document unique historical and cultural sources and monuments, and conduct joint research on intangible cultural heritage. We also agreed to promote the development of Mongolian and Kazakh studies, the preparation of teachers and researchers in language, culture, and regional studies, and the strengthening of cooperation between organizations engaged in scientific and strategic research, as well as the conduct of joint archaeological studies, to introduce the nomadic civilization and culture of the felt tent community to the world. This visit laid the groundwork for collaboration in the tourism and information technology sectors, signing documents that will facilitate organizing cultural events and promoting tourism activities, supporting tourism based on border and nomadic culture and customs, and implementing joint projects and programs in information technology, digital development, and communication. In the framework of the United Nations and other international organizations, our two countries have consistently supported each other and will deepen their regional and international cooperation. Joint efforts are to be undertaken to combat climate change and protect the environment, aligning Mongolia’s "Billion Trees" national movement with Kazakhstan’s "Two Billion Trees" project. We express our gratitude to Kazakhstan for its consistent support and cooperation as a member of the International Research Center for Landlocked Developing Countries headquartered in Ulaanbaatar, and within this framework, we have agreed to formulate development policies for landlocked developing countries and to energize our relations and cooperation. Honorable President, I am pleased to be opening a new chapter in the history of relations between our two countries with you as we bring the traditional friendly relations and cooperation between Mongolia and Kazakhstan to a new level of Strategic Partnership, infusing them with new content. I am confident that our discussions and mutually agreed-upon activities will translate into tangible results benefiting the development and prosperity of our two countries and peoples and will further strengthen and expand our relationship. May the friendship and fraternity between the peoples of our two countries grow and prosper for all eternity. You are always welcome to our beautiful country, the land of eternal blue skies. Thank you for your attention. President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, K. Tokayev: Honorable President, Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, First of all, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh for inviting me to make this state visit to Ulaanbaatar. I also want to thank all the people of Mongolia for their warm hospitality and reception. This visit holds special significance for me. Mongolia is an important neighbor in the region for us. We share common values of history, spirit, and culture, always wishing the best for one another. Our meeting coincides with the 800th anniversary of the State of Zuchi, which holds special symbolic significance for both our countries. The Kazakh-Mongolian relationship has been intensifying in recent years. Our cooperation based on solid relations has reached the level of "Strategic Partnership." Together with President U. Khurelsukh, we signed a Joint Declaration. This document will further strengthen our friendship and promote mutually beneficial relations in many sectors. Furthermore, we have agreed to deepen cooperation in trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian areas. Several important agreements and treaties were signed during the visit. The discussions were very successful. We agreed to revive our economic relations. Kazakhstan and Mongolia are classified as significant countries in Asia. Thus, our trade turnover should cover a broad scope. In recent years, trade approached 150 million US dollars. We discussed increasing this figure to 500 million US dollars in the near future. I am confident that our governments will take tangible measures to resolve obstacles and challenges in economic cooperation and diversify product ranges. Today, we signed the roadmap on enhancing trade and economic relations. This document will significantly impact expanding the scope of bilateral cooperation. Additionally, we discussed cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing, transport logistics, and energy sectors. Kazakhstan has the potential to produce vaccines against animal diseases. We agreed to establish a vaccine production plant in Mongolia. Furthermore, we discussed collaborative exploitation and investment in new technologies and mineral resources. I mentioned Kazakhstan's developments in e-government, cybersecurity, and space exploration. Our two countries possess abundant natural resources. There is the full potential to collaborate in the exploration and use of iron, phosphate, bauxite, and rare minerals. Kazakh entrepreneurs are ready to cooperate in the mining sector. During the talks, we discussed logistics and transport. Increasing the competitive capacity of international corridors is essential. Developing transportation links between countries and with other countries will increase the volume of cargo passing through our territories. Using Trans-Caspian routes and south-north corridors is important. Yesterday, the first meeting of our two countries' Business Council was successfully held in Ulaanbaatar. During this event, our entrepreneurs signed trade agreements and other numerous documents. Our governments must create a conducive environment for joint ventures. Currently, Astana and Ulaanbaatar have established a sister-city relationship, and it would be beneficial to develop such relations between other regional provinces. The Mongolian Kazakh citizens are a golden bridge of robust friendship. I express gratitude to the government, authorities, and people of Mongolia for consistently paying attention to our brethren. We particularly focused on discussing education, science, and cultural cooperation. Moreover, we talked about new initiatives for strengthening youth relations. Kazakh universities are always ready to welcome Mongolian youth. I urge scientists, researchers, and intellectuals to jointly explore our shared history. I am confident these important actions will contribute to the development and prosperity of our two nations. Distinguished journalists, Kazakhstan and Mongolia have established strong relations at both international and regional levels. We share common positions on many important issues. Our cooperation is developing within global and regional organizations. We particularly focused on strengthening cooperation in Asia. The current geopolitical situation is in a delicate state. Therefore, mutual support and consultation within the frameworks of the United Nations and other international organizations are crucial. We will continue to develop bilateral and multilateral relations. We support Mongolia's aspiration to conclude a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union. Today's visit clearly aims to further strengthen the cooperation between our two countries. I wish the people of Mongolia well-being and prosperity. May our friendship be eternal. Thank you.

Back to Table of Contents

Ambassador Sukhbold Presents Credentials to President of South Korea

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Mongolia to the Republic of Korea, Mr. Sukhbayar Sukhbold, presented his credentials to the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk-yeol. President Yoon Suk-yeol received Ambassador S. Sukhbold along with the ambassadors of countries such as the Holy See, Paraguay, and Bahrain who also presented their credentials on this day, wishing them great success in their work. Ambassador S. Sukhbold transmitted greetings from the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, to President Yoon Suk-yeol and reiterated President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh's invitation for President Yoon Suk-yeol to visit Mongolia in the coming year, marking the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Ambassador S. Sukhbold expressed his commitment to actively work towards realizing this visit.

Back to Table of Contents

TODAY: The President of Kazakhstan is Visiting Mongolia

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar. A summary of some events taking place on Tuesday, October 29: - At the invitation of the President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan K. Tokayev is making a state visit to Mongolia. 08:30: At the "Tuushin" Hotel: The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, together with the Asian Development Bank, will organize the "International Forum on Social Protection". Representatives from countries such as Mongolia, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Uzbekistan will exchange experiences and suggestions over two days on improving social protection programs. Phone: 9900-7115. 09:00-17:00: At the "Blue Sky": A discussion on the "Role and Issues of Government Agencies in Food Safety" will be held. Leadership from the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry, the Ministry of Health, representatives of government agencies, scientists, and researchers will participate. - The capital city of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, is celebrating its 385th anniversary. 11:40-13:40: At "Lantern restaurant" (Khan-Uul district, 120th area): There will be a press conference regarding the 20th anniversary concert of the band "Kiwi". Phone: 9944-3636. 10:00-14:00: Meetings of working groups, standing committees, and sub-committees of the State Great Khural will take place. 14:00: At the National Library: The Standing Committee on Education, Culture, Science, and Sports of the State Great Khural will organize a meeting and discussion on the "Activities of the Culture and Sports Sector". - Journalists will familiarize themselves with the winter preparation status of thermal power plants. In the provinces: 09:00: The inaugural session of the Citizens' Representative Meeting in Tuv province will take place. - In Khovd province: The "Folk Melody" arts festival organized by the Mongolian Children's Folk Art Center continues for its second day.

Back to Table of Contents

Development of Parliamentary Friendship Group Operations between Mongolia and Kazakhstan

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Speaker of the Mongolian State Great Khural, D. Amarbaysgalan, paid a courtesy call on President K. Tokayev of the Republic of Kazakhstan, who is on a state visit to Mongolia. At the beginning of the meeting, the Speaker expressed his pleasure that President Tokayev is visiting Mongolia as the head of state after 16 years. He emphasized that cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries plays an important role in bilateral relations, noting that the State Great Khural of Mongolia will work to support and strengthen relations between Mongolia and Kazakhstan to the level of a Strategic Partnership and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation. President Tokayev highlighted that the traditional friendly relations between the two countries have steadily expanded and developed over the past 30-plus years, culminating in a "Strategic Partnership" of high-level sophistication. He expressed his intention to work on expanding and developing parliamentary cooperation between Mongolia and Kazakhstan and to further strengthen the friendship and camaraderie between the historically closely connected peoples. Both parties confirmed their commitment to further develop the "Strategic Partnership" relationship between the two countries, support cooperation in all aspects between the parliaments, strengthen the legal foundation of relations, and expand the exchange and cooperation between parliamentary friendship groups and their secretariats, according to information from the State Great Khural Press Office.

Back to Table of Contents

Speaker of the Parliament D. Amarbayasgalan Meets Ambassador Aibek Artykbaev

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar. On the 28th of this month, the Speaker of the State Great Khural (Parliament) of Mongolia, D. Amarbayasgalan, held a meeting with the Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic to Mongolia, Aibek Artykbaev. At the beginning of the meeting, Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan emphasized that as two landlocked and developing countries located in the Central Asian region, Mongolia and the Kyrgyz Republic have vast opportunities to share experiences in development and to expand cooperation in many sectors. Ambassador Aibek Artykbaev highlighted the long-standing and close historical ties between our two countries and expressed his intent to work actively and with initiative to strengthen traditional friendly relations, enrich economic cooperation with new content, and deepen cooperation in the fields of agriculture and trade. The parties exchanged views on further deepening friendly relations and actively advancing cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries, including enhancing exchanges of delegations at all levels, such as parliamentary groups, according to the Press and Information Department of the Parliament of Mongolia.

Back to Table of Contents

Ambassador S. Sukhbold Presented His Credentials to the President of South Korea

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Mongolia to the Republic of Korea, Sükhbold Sükhee, presented his credentials to President Yoon Suk Yeol of the Republic of Korea. President Yoon Suk Yeol received Ambassador S. Sukhbold along with ambassadors from the Holy See, Paraguay, and Bahrain, who also presented their credentials on the same day, and briefly met with them, wishing them great success in their work. Ambassador S. Sukhbold conveyed the greetings of the President of Mongolia, U. Khurelsukh, to President Yoon Suk Yeol, and reaffirmed President Khurelsukh's invitation for President Yoon Suk Yeol to visit Mongolia next year on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He expressed his commitment to actively work to implement the visit, as reported by the Embassy of Mongolia in South Korea.

Back to Table of Contents

President K. Tokayev Expresses Commitment to Strengthening the Friendship of Historically Closely Connected Peoples

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Chairman of the State Great Khural, D. Amarbayasgalan, met today with the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, K. Tokayev, who is on a state visit to Mongolia. At the beginning of the meeting, Chairman of the State Great Khural, D. Amarbayasgalan, expressed his pleasure at President K. Tokayev's visit to Mongolia after 16 years as the head of state of his country. He noted that cooperation between the highest legislative bodies plays an important role in the relations of the two countries and stated that the State Great Khural of Mongolia will support efforts to strengthen Mongolia-Kazakhstan relations to the level of a Strategic Partnership and further develop mutually beneficial cooperation. President K. Tokayev emphasized that the traditional friendly relations between the two countries have consistently expanded and developed over the past 30 years, reaching a high level of "Strategic Partnership." He expressed his commitment to further work on enhancing inter-parliamentary cooperation between Mongolia and Kazakhstan and strengthening the friendship and camaraderie of their historically closely connected peoples. The parties reaffirmed their intent to expand and develop the "Strategic Partnership" relations between the two countries, support inter-parliamentary cooperation on all fronts, strengthen the legal basis of relations, and enhance exchanges and cooperation between friendship groups and offices of the parliaments. This was reported by the Press Service of the State Great Khural. Note: Media outlets (TV, Radio, Social and Web pages) must cite their source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, completely or partially.

Back to Table of Contents

Infrastructure

Kazinform: Kazakhstan and Mongolia Plan to Build a New Road to the Mongolian Border through Russia

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Kazakhstan and Mongolia's trade reached $83.9 million as of August 2024, according to "Kazinform," quoting Kazakhstan's Ministry of Trade and Integration just before President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's state visit to Mongolia. The director of the Institute of Philosophy, Political Science, and Religious Studies' Center for Political Studies, Aidar Amrebayev, highlighted that Mongolia and Kazakhstan have similar foreign policy positions when interacting with major powers like China and Russia. The countries are planning a joint museum to develop cultural relations and support bilateral initiatives in education, science, information, archaeology, and nomadic history. "There are historical and cultural ties between our countries. We are currently working on projects related to Jochi [the eldest son of Genghis Khan] in Kazakhstan. Mongolia's national, cultural uniqueness is also rooted in the heritage of Genghis Khan," Amrebayev emphasized. Kazakhstan and Mongolia are discussing the construction of a new road that will pass through the cities of Öskemen and Ridder in Kazakhstan, and Tuyukta in Russia, to reach the Mongolian border. Kazakhstan has already constructed the road from Öskemen to the Russian border. According to Amrebayev, the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route offers a promising path for Mongolia to diversify its transport corridors and reach the European Union through Kazakhstan. He also emphasized that Tokayev's visit to Mongolia would bring various beneficial initiatives. The welcoming ceremony for the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's visit to Mongolia is scheduled for today, where the two Presidents will hold official talks and make a joint statement to the press. During the visit, relevant officials will sign bilateral documents aimed at strengthening the legal foundation of relations between the two countries and expanding cooperation in fields such as transport, logistics, agriculture, veterinary services, information technology, culture, and tourism. President K. Tokayev's current state visit is the first at the head-of-state level from the Republic of Kazakhstan in 16 years since the visit in 2008. Source: Astanatimes.com

Back to Table of Contents

Agreements to Increase International Passenger and Freight Transport

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

The state visit of Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, who arrived at the invitation of the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaa Khurelsukh, is ongoing. During the visit, the parties signed several documents on relations and cooperation. 1. In the "ROADMAP FOR TRADE AND ECONOMIC COOPERATION BETWEEN MONGOLIA AND KAZAKHSTAN FOR 2025-2027," Mongolia's Minister of Foreign Affairs Batmunkh Battsetseg and Kazakhstan's First Deputy Prime Minister Roman Sklyar agreed to jointly implement measures in trade, economy, transport, logistics, food, agriculture, tourism, and other sectors from 2025 to 2027. 2. The "AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENTS OF MONGOLIA AND THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN ON COOPERATION IN AVIATION SEARCH AND RESCUE" was signed between Mongolia's Minister of Road and Transport Borhüü Delgersaikhan and Kazakhstan's Minister of Transport Marat Karabayev. This agreement aims to strengthen cooperation between search and rescue organizations, enabling the immediate exchange of information and operations of the other party's air and ground search and rescue organizations within each other's territories to provide rapid assistance to people in distress. 3. In the "MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD AND TRANSPORT OF MONGOLIA AND THE MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN," the two ministers agreed to increase the efficiency of road relations between the two countries by organizing international bilateral and transit passenger and freight transport. They will also share experiences in the operation of dry ports to increase international passenger and freight transport, thereby developing logistic transport on the Mongolian-Kazakhstan route. This is crucial for ensuring fast and stable transportation, increasing export and import volumes, and invigorating regional trade and cooperation. 4. The "2025-2027 COOPERATION PLAN BETWEEN THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF MONGOLIA AND THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN" was signed by Mongolia's Minister of Foreign Affairs Batmunkh Battsetseg and Kazakhstan's Murat Nurtleyu. In expanding and strengthening the strategic partnership between Mongolia and Kazakhstan, the two ministries will collaborate in specific areas from 2025 to 2027. This includes increasing the frequency of political dialogues, organizing mutual high-level official visits, and institutionalizing dialogues between the ministry leaders on bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest.

Back to Table of Contents

Kh. Nyambaatar: Ulaanbaatar has grown into a mega city with over 1.8 million people

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: ikon.mn

In celebration of the 385th anniversary of the founding of Ulaanbaatar and the 100th anniversary of naming the capital city "Ulaanbaatar," the city's past and present leaders, representatives of the Capital City Council, and citizens paid tribute at the Turtle Monument and at the "Secret History of the Mongols," and celebrated with the city emblem. During this event, city mayor Kh. Nyambaatar stated, "I extend warm congratulations on our anniversary to our capital residents. 385 years ago, in 1639, Zanabazar was appointed as the leader of the Yellow Sect of Khalkh Mongolia, and the 'Orgoo' was established, marking the beginning of the capital city of Mongolia. Since then, it has moved locations 21 times and settled on the northern side of Bogd Khaan Mountain, along the banks of the queen Tuul River, and the cool banks of Selbe in 1778. To commemorate this historic event and introduce it to future generations, the Turtle Monument was built in 1994 and has been honored every anniversary of the capital city since. For us with a nomadic culture and civilization, the process of urbanization is progressing very rapidly, with Ulaanbaatar being a prime example. The population of Ulaanbaatar was 100 in 1919, but today it officially has over 1.8 million residents, and with visitors and guests, it amounts to a mega city of nearly 2 million people. The future development direction, policies, and goals of Ulaanbaatar city need to be updated to meet mega city standards. Hence, this anniversary will be spent solving the short, medium, and long-term goals and policies for the city rather than mere celebrations. I urge you all to strive together for the development, prosperity, and construction of our great city." Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web pages) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, fully or partially.

Back to Table of Contents

Dornod: "Petro Matad" LLC Begins Oil Extraction

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

"Petro Matad" LLC, a company listed on the London Stock Exchange, has commenced oil extraction operations from the "Deegli 1" site with a special use permit in the territory of Matad sum. This "Tsagaan Togoruu-1" field will produce 200 barrels of oil per day. Additionally, it has been announced that testing of the "Tsagaan Togoruu 2" well will begin later this month. "Petro Matad" is the first Mongolian company to trade its shares on the London Stock Exchange. Over the past period, the company has invested 67 million dollars in this field. The confirmed reserves of the "Tsagaan Togoruu-1" field are 8.7 million barrels. During the opening ceremony, organizers highlighted that this project was initiated 19 years ago with the goal of reducing Mongolia’s dependency on oil and energy. For more, follow @montsame.mn

Back to Table of Contents

The Decision on How Much to Raise Energy Prices to be Announced on Friday

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Member of Parliament T. Dorjkhad introduced that they are studying to increase energy prices starting from November 1. Since energy tariffs for businesses were raised last year, this time the prices for residential consumers will be increased. The Energy Regulatory Commission will announce the decision on how much to increase energy prices on Friday. According to the Energy Law, consumers must be informed about price increases at least 14 days in advance. On the 27th of this month, a forum titled "Current: Energy Reform" was held at the Tuushin Hotel. Members of the National Committee on Energy Reform, including Members of Parliament T. Dorjkhad, M. Enkhtsetseg, and S. Tsegguun, gave presentations. They introduced the current situation of the sector and what legal reforms they are aiming for. During this event, Member of Parliament T. Dorjkhad stated, “The government will not enter the renewable energy sector in the future. An investment of one tugrug in the energy sector can yield a return of four tugrugs. Mongolia ranks in the top five in the world for coal reserves and second for renewable energy resources. I returned from working in Uzbekistan. They successfully transitioned their energy system within two years. Just like us, they experienced an energy capacity shortage, and the city froze for three days. They attracted investments from countries like Saudi Arabia and now supply all their energy needs themselves.” LOSS IN THE ENERGY SECTOR - Short-term debt: 349.6 billion tugrugs
- Long-term debt: 1.8 trillion tugrugs
- Electricity capacity shortage: 994 MW
- Thermal capacity shortage: 1427 MW
PROJECTS IN THE ENERGY SECTOR FOR THE COMING YEAR - Install 430,000 smart meters to save 100 billion tugrugs.
- Transform the state bank into a green development bank.
- Introduce incentives for saving energy during peak load times.
How much do households pay for heating each year? Calculated for a family of four: - Households in ger districts pay around 2 million tugrugs.
- Households in apartments pay around 410 thousand tugrugs.
FUTURE GOALS By 2030, it is planned that domestic consumption will be fully met, and energy exports will begin. By 2050, the working group for Energy Reform of the Parliament plans for the country's greenhouse gas emissions to reach zero.

Back to Table of Contents

Simple Method to Rescue the Energy Sector from Intensive Care

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: news.mn

PROBLEMS ARISING FROM DEFICITS The electricity sector is so burdened by deficits and operational inefficiencies that it has reached the stage of needing intensive care. The main reason is the pricing of electricity and heating energy not reflecting their actual costs. Today, the energy sector finds itself ensnared in a web of debt, facing the dilemma of either raising prices or shutting doors. Specifically, the sector is projected to end this year with a deficit of 355 billion tugriks. Out of this, 81 billion tugriks account for losses by three coal mines that supply central region thermal power plants. In addition, necessary repairs and renovations are not being carried out, employees' salaries are delayed, and there are disruptions in fuel, supplies, and spare parts, making it significantly challenging to maintain operations. In addition to financial difficulties, there are technical issues as well. The operation period of 19 percent of thermal power plant equipment and 40 percent of network lines has expired. Moreover, consumption is increasing faster than anticipated, resulting in a capacity shortage of 115 MW last year alone. Therefore, a comprehensive reform is needed in the energy sector, which is a fundamental part of the economy, transitioning it from intensive care to a normal ward. Moreover, sector experts emphasize the necessity of reforms in pricing, corporate governance, energy sources, investment, market model, smart energy services, human resources, energy exports, and legal aspects. However, these reforms need to align with Mongolia's long and medium-term development policies and be implemented in phases, ensuring a proper reform process. "LIFE CURE" OR TARIFF REFORM The Energy Regulatory Commission consistently conducts research regarding tariff increases. In 2022, they proposed a 28% increase for consumer tariffs up to 200,000 kWh and a 38% increase for those exceeding 200,000 kWh. The commission also proposed aligning tariffs of internet, mobile service providers, alcoholic beverages producers, and cryptocurrency miners with mining tariffs, offering discounts to small and medium enterprises, and increasing tariffs for budget institutions by 28% in line with the Budget Law starting 2023. Furthermore, they raised the heat tariffs for all enterprises by 28%. In the current situation, authorities believe the next immediate steps include taking specific measures in pricing and energy market regulation. Ensuring financial stability of energy companies by matching energy prices to actual costs and desired profit levels through consistent indexing is seen as a way to attract new investments. The Energy Regulatory Commission has formulated an index adjustment plan based on four factors: changes in domestic inflation, foreign exchange rate fluctuations, electricity purchase price changes, and the impact of new sources. Consequently, the tariffs might decrease if these factors decline. Additionally, the initial program of the New Recovery Policy aims to index and update energy tariffs seasonally, and phased improvements in residential household tariff structure and categorization are also planned. For households, it is proposed to introduce peak time tariffs in addition to daily and nightly tariffs and increase tariffs for consumption exceeding baseline levels. Nationally, the average household electricity consumption is 220 kWh per month, translating to 36,220 tugriks, one of the lowest payments compared to other utilities. During the heating season, the energy cost accounts for only 3.1% and during warmer months merely 2.2% of household income, which is among the lowest internationally. Hence, the current realities emphasize the urgency of implementing a "life cure" by adjusting electricity and heating tariffs, transitioning from intensive care. RECOVERY IN SHORT TERM, PATH TO DEVELOPMENT IN LONG TERM If the energy sector manages to adjust its tariffs to a reasonable level, it is projected to settle accumulated overdue debts over the next 2-3 years, creating conditions for normal operations. Subsequently, focus should be on reducing unproductive costs, making efficient investments, and improving regulatory oversight. This includes transitioning from "cost-based" approaches to "incentive-based" calculations for tariff formulation of companies with special permits. Moreover, there are discussions about converting state-owned energy companies into publicly traded entities. Such change is expected to enhance transparency and accountability, potentially reducing costs, through better corporate governance and financial operations. As of now, Mongolia's installed electricity capacity is 1,584 MW, with thermal power plants accounting for 81% and renewable energy sources 19%. Nationwide, total electricity consumption for last year was around 11 billion kWh, with 80% generated domestically and over 20% imported. Compared to 2022, electricity consumption increased by six percent and heating by three percent. The peak load on the central network reached 1,636 MW last year, an increase of 11%. Thus, to address the transition in the energy sector, it is crucial to ensure equitable, reliable, environmentally sustainable, and economically progressive energy systems, tackling the challenges without sacrificing any of these core aspects. The call for change is overdue; the urgent need for action is underscored by the proximity of looming collapse if the energy sector continues to languish in intensive care.

Back to Table of Contents

The decision on how much to increase electricity prices will be announced on Friday

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

Member of Parliament T. Dorjhand introduced that a study is being conducted to increase electricity prices starting from November 1. Since the electricity tariffs for businesses were increased last year, this time the prices for household consumers will be increased. Additionally, the decision on by what percentage the electricity prices will be increased will be announced by the Energy Regulatory Commission on Friday. Member of Parliament T. Dorjhand also stated, "The government will not venture into the renewable energy sector any further. An investment of one tugrik in the energy sector can yield a return of four tugriks. This is because Mongolia ranks among the top five countries in the world for coal reserves and second in renewable energy resources. I have just returned from working in Uzbekistan. They successfully completed their energy transition within two years. Just like us, they faced an energy shortage, and their city was frozen for three days. They attracted investments from countries like Saudi Arabia, and now they provide all their own energy needs."

Back to Table of Contents

Society

The licenses of "Olon Ovoot" were "looted" by a conspiracy

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Last year, the debt of "Olon Ovoot Gold" LLC was finally settled, and it was released from the prosecutor's seal. However, representatives acting in the name of the state have begun to "loot" the properties lawfully owned by the company. In reality, "Olon Ovoot Gold" LLC did not avoid paying its obligations. Instead, the state, which is the debt receiver, is not providing the opportunity for the company to settle its debt. The mining operations of the company were sealed and halted in 2013. Since then, a criminal case was initiated, and more than 10 years have passed with the enforcement procedures suspended. The organization that is supposed to receive the payment is reportedly willing to receive it today, as the debts are under the names of the children of the deceased owner. The total amount is discussed to be approximately 170 billion MNT, and it could be fully settled by deducting guaranteed receivables from the debt. Although the state owes its citizens, it does not pay, whereas if a citizen fails to pay a bank debt, their property is confiscated without setting a value. Is this "robbery" going to continue? The serious legal violation lies in transferring all assets to settle debts without any assessment and proceeding to transfer and account for this directly. M. Enkhtor, the receiver at "Savings Bank" LLC, has transferred eight mineral use licenses to a company related to him. Why did he transfer the licenses to the company he is associated with, instead of fulfilling his role as a receiver and closing the bank? Why did the relevant organizations transfer it to him by breaking the law? Several organizations were involved in this case, with the most serious being the General Tax Department. First, some officers of the Court Decision Enforcement Agency conspired to order the asset transfer. Second, false entries were made in tax records, with a tax payment certificate for the license transfer sent to the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority. Third, there was influence at the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority to illegally transfer the licenses to others. Fourth, the constitutional right of inheritance was hindered. The children of the deceased owner, who held 100% of shares, could not exercise their inherent rights due to the wrongful actions of state agencies. However, this mistake was corrected, and their inheritance rights were opened at the end of September this year. The first organization to address is the Large Taxpayer Office of the General Tax Department. It exceeded its powers by unlawfully altering the tax report of "Olon Ovoot Gold" LLC and issued a claim on behalf of the company, creating a record in the tax system claiming the payment of 296 million MNT on December 15, 2023. On this basis, the department removed the restrictions on "Olon Ovoot Gold" LLC’s seven mineral use licenses. It was officially notified that the restrictions were lifted in January 2024 because the tax was paid on the license transfer. This incident appears to be a serious violation of the Corporate Income Tax Law sections 18.8 and 30.6, and the method prescribed by the Finance Minister’s Order No. 302 dated December 31, 2019. A false declaration was potentially made and sent. Furthermore, following this illegal procedure, a request to transfer these licenses was brought to the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority during the 2024 parliamentary elections and processed in August. According to documents, the receiver at "Savings Bank" LLC, directors of "Mineral Exploration" and "Spirit Mining" LLC, M. Enkhtor, and the Court Decision Enforcement Agency’s Bank Payment Settlement Division showed that the valuation of mineral licenses was 142 billion MNT. Of this sum, the debt to "Savings Bank" LLC is only 45 billion MNT. The remaining are debts to "Zoos" and "Anod" banks, which M. Enkhtor has no legal basis to transfer to himself. Court decisions for these three banks exist. Moreover, according to section 18 of the Law on Corporate Income Tax, 11.2 billion MNT in tax must be paid on the income from selling the rights when transferring a mineral use license. As of today, neither "Olon Ovoot Gold" LLC nor any party paying tax on its behalf has paid this 11.2 billion MNT. Defining unpaid taxes as "paid," by asserting that it caused a loss of 296 million MNT to the state and depriving the state of tax due from the transfer of mineral rights, seems a criminal act affecting public interest. Therefore, the inheritor has filed a complaint and pursued the matter. Consequently, the information about the payment of 296 million MNT was removed from the tax system. Based on the inheritor's complaint, the Tax Department conducted an internal audit, seemingly refuting the actions above. However, the received response was to justify the aforementioned operation. It is peculiar that the General Tax Department had sent a document to the Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority, indicating the unpaid 296 million MNT was deemed as paid from the transfer payment. This conduct raises the possibility of serious violations of Mongolian Civil Law, the Law on Corporate Income Tax, the Law on Execution of Court Decisions, the Minerals Law, and the Finance Minister’s Order No. 302 and regulations by the General Tax Department. Documents show "Olon Ovoot Gold" LLC, final owner G. Altan held 100% of shares since November 17, 2011, until he passed away on March 1, 2022. Yet, a 296 million MNT payment purportedly made on December 15, 2023, and B. Batbayar, without authority to represent "Olon Ovoot Gold" LLC, used a fake blank stamp to present himself as executive director to the Large Taxpayer Office of the General Tax Department on November 23, 2023. It is proven by records from the tax system and legal entity registrations that B. Batbayar has no right to represent "Olon Ovoot Gold" LLC. Tax Department officers colluded to unlawfully seize the property of others and provided the means to pay tax in place of someone (not actually paying but falsely recording as paid), or attempted to avoid substantial taxes, potentially committing acts of corruption. This is being investigated by the Anti-Corruption Agency. The financial statement of "Olon Ovoot Gold" LLC was not accepted on the grounds that it did not reflect "rights selling transaction." This situation continues to cover illegal license transfer acts and cause difficulties in business activities by not collecting due payments. By doing so, it has suppressed a family business for decades, causing damages not only by its own executing but also involving the then-leadership of the Central Bank, reaching large-scale harm involving legal entities under investigation, some under arrest today, illustrating legal accountability eventually reaches those exploiting the state’s name and power for profit.

Back to Table of Contents

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The state visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, K. Tokayev, to Mongolia is ongoing. At 08:30 AM in "Tuushin" Hotel, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Mongolia, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank, is organizing the "International Social Protection Forum" on the 29th and 30th of this month. Representatives from Mongolia, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Uzbekistan will exchange ideas and experiences over two days aimed at improving social protection programs. Next to "Central Tower" at 09:30 AM, the city administration will pay tribute at the turtle monument. In the State Palace from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, committee and subcommittee meetings of the State Great Khural will be held. At "Holiday Inn" Hotel on the 19th floor at 11:00 AM, a press conference will be held before the second match of the "Challenge League" of the Asian Football Confederation's I group. On October 30th, the champion of the National Premier League, "SP Falcons," will play their second match against the "Svay Rieng" team from Cambodia. In Lantern restaurant (Khan-Uul district, 120 Myangat) from 11:40 AM to 1:40 PM, a press conference on Kiwi band's 20th anniversary concert will be organized. In the building of the National Library at 2:00 PM, the Education, Culture, Science, and Sports Standing Committee will organize a discussion meeting on "Activities of the Culture and Sports Sector." In Bayanzurkh district, 26th and 36th khoroos at 8:00 PM, the fire department and rescue unit GTUA-63 of the Bayanzurkh district emergency department will respond to a simulated fire call. This will showcase the real conditions of access routes in residential areas and the difficulties encountered when fires occur. Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, whether in full or in part.

Back to Table of Contents

Supporting Women in Business

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Bank of Mongolia and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development have jointly signed a memorandum of understanding to implement the "WE Finance Code" initiative in Mongolia. As a result, the Bank of Mongolia will take the lead in implementing this initiative, and both parties will work together to improve the frequency and quality of data and statistics on women's entrepreneurship. Based on this, policies and financial support for women in business will be provided. Empowering female entrepreneurs is a key driver to strengthen Mongolia's economy. With the help of the WE Finance Code, the parties will collaborate in the financial sector to offer equal opportunities to entrepreneurs. This strengthens the joint efforts to enhance financial inclusion and create a future of equality, as reported by the central bank. Under the "We-Fi" (Women's Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative) program, implemented in collaboration with various international financial institutions, including the World Bank, the EBRD is supporting the collection of statistical data related to women's entrepreneurship. This is the basis for policy support for women entrepreneurs, from which the "WE-Fi Code” initiative was launched. This initiative has so far been successfully implemented in 14 countries, including the United Kingdom.

Back to Table of Contents

Environment

L. Oyun-Erdene: Special Attention Is Being Paid to Environmental Issues in the Uranium Extraction Project

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene received a delegation led by Claude Imowen, Chairman of the Mongolia-France Business Council at the Movement of French Enterprises. During the meeting, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene emphasized the active development of Mongolia-France relations in recent years and noted the importance of direct communication and effective cooperation between businesses in both countries for expanding and developing collaboration. In this context, he expressed confidence that the upcoming meeting of entrepreneurs from both nations, to be jointly organized by the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Movement of French Enterprises on the 30th of this month, will be successful and contribute to expanding trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene provided information on the newly established government's action plan, the mega projects included in it, and policies and activities aimed at attracting foreign investment and improving the business environment. He also exchanged views on the projects being jointly implemented by Mongolia and France and emphasized that from the government's side, special importance is being given to environmental issues within the framework of the uranium extraction project. The meeting included discussions on enriching bilateral cooperation with economic content and the possibilities of expanding into various sectors such as food, agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, and information technology. The participation of business representatives from the French side in implementing joint Mongolian-French projects during the meeting was significant.

Back to Table of Contents

Innovation

Cooperation with Kazakhstan to Increase Information Technology Exports

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar. The Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication Ts.Baatarkhuu met with Madiev Zhaslan Khasenovich, Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan. At the start of the meeting, Minister Ts.Baatarkhuu expressed Mongolia's high importance on the visit of the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev, and the decision to expand cooperation in the field of information technology. He noted, "Kazakhstan is emerging as a major player in information technology in the region. Mongolians have successfully digitized government services to a good extent. Now we are focusing on developing the digital economy and increasing information technology exports. We are also preparing bills on artificial intelligence, space, and drones to present at the plenary session of the State Great Khural. At the same time, we are keen to study Kazakhstan’s experience in creating testing zones for drones and wish to collaborate in this direction." Kazakhstan's Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry, Madiev Zhaslan Khasenovich, stated: "Kazakhstan places great importance on digital development. Every nation is declaring its ambitions in today's era of rapid advancement in artificial intelligence. Our Ministry has approved a 5-year strategic plan for artificial intelligence. Soon we will submit our draft bill on artificial intelligence. Our strategic goals for artificial intelligence include establishing high-capacity computing both domestically and abroad, and we have started organizing online and in-person training courses and hackathons in this field. We aim to train 300,000 people in this field by 2025. We are also working to establish a campus with an AI research laboratory for startups." He also noted that Kazakhstan houses one of the largest space flight centers in the world and collaborates with many countries in space exploration. He emphasized Kazakhstan's desire to work with Mongolia in all sectors. Kazakhstan ranks 24th in the UN e-Government Development Index and has made progress in cybersecurity and innovation indices. They plan to introduce 5G networks in more than 20 cities by 2025. Additionally, Kazakhstan is collaborating with Azerbaijan to improve internet traffic by laying fiber optic cable through the Caspian Sea, which is expected to reduce Asian-European internet load by 20%. Furthermore, Astana Hub is nurturing over 1500 startup companies and currently exports products and services worth 600 million USD annually, with plans to increase this to 1 billion USD by 2026. Astana Hub has 16 branches across Kazakhstan and operates successfully in the USA, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia. The parties expressed their willingness to collaborate in these areas and agreed to establish a memorandum of understanding during the high-level visit.

Back to Table of Contents

2027: Mongolia Will Launch Its First Observation Satellite in Collaboration with Kazakhstan

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication of Mongolia and the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan have signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate in the field of information and communication technologies. As part of this memorandum of understanding: - The parties will share experiences in identifying, analyzing, and solving national issues using information and communication technology; - They will collaborate in attracting investment to support small and medium-sized enterprises, innovation, and startups in the field of communication and information technology; - They will share best practices in new and emerging technologies, science, and high technology by leveraging information technology parks, academies, and other organizations, as well as implement programs to enhance human resources and train specialists; - Plans are being made to work together in the fields of artificial intelligence, big data analysis, high-performance computing, blockchain, the Internet of Things, and manufacturing of innovative products, and to explore platforms providing AI-based solutions to state enterprises. Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication Baatarkhuu Ts. stated, "We have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry of Kazakhstan. This cooperation will expand in two main directions. First, to develop Mongolia's digital economy, we will extend mutually beneficial cooperation. Kazakhstan's greatest experience lies in creating a robust legal environment to protect investors. Many startups are being nurtured in the 'Astana Hub' from across the globe. To establish digital businesses in Mongolia and protect startups, there is a need to open markets in Central Asia and Asia, and improve the legal environment for innovation and investment in the information technology sector. Accordingly, a government decision has been made to support startups, provide economic incentives, and offer eight types of non-tax benefits in the digital zone. Second, Kazakhstan has extensive experience in space research. A memorandum of understanding to launch a research satellite was signed within the framework of public-private partnership. This will enable continuous imaging for construction, mining, agriculture, and development sectors every 10 hours and will result in technological advancements." Minister Zh. K. Madiev of the Republic of Kazakhstan's Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry stated, "During the high-level visit, a cooperation memorandum was signed between the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication of Mongolia and our Ministry in the field of communication and information technology. Within this memorandum, we will expand cooperation in digital economy, artificial intelligence, and new technologies. We are pleased with Mongolia's successful development in the digital transition sector and look forward to exchanging experiences and collaborating further in developing the digital economy." Additionally, a memorandum of understanding for launching a research satellite was signed between "Kazakhstan Gharysh Sapary" JSC and "ICT Group" of Mongolia. The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communication is open to collaborating with private sector initiatives and attracting investments. Chairman of the Board of ICT Group, G. Lkhamsuren, stated, "A significant private investment agreement is being made between Mongolia and Kazakhstan. For the first time in Mongolia, a private sector initiative is collaborating with Kazakhstan Gharysh Sapary JSC to launch an observation satellite. This is becoming an economically beneficial investment, with the satellite planned to be commissioned and launched in 2027."

Back to Table of Contents

Health

If Members of Parliament Fall Ill, They are Treated Abroad at the Expense of the Budget, While Citizens Must Pay Themselves

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Minister of Health T. Munkhsaikhan's statement about legislating citizen health responsibilities and charging individuals for preventable diseases has caused quite a stir. It might be easy for ministers and leaders who neglect their homeland's medical services and rush abroad at the slightest sniffle to demand accountability from citizens. However, is our country truly developed to such an extent? How should we, citizens who consume uncertified food, are "nurtured" by toxic smoke for nearly three seasons of the year, and live amid perpetual soil contamination, bear responsibility? Even if an individual undergoes preventive check-ups every year, eats proper food, and leads an active life, it is impossible to stay healthy in such a filthy society and environment, as doctors, specialists, scholars, and researchers have long proven. In this context, for ministers and leaders who are completely detached from life, casually talking about legislating citizen health responsibility is something they manage to fit in their mouths. Every year, hundreds of fetuses die from oxygen deficiency in the womb. Newborns perish from various respiratory diseases, colds, and pneumonia, while adolescents carry chronic, underlying conditions due to malnutrition. Adults have become "nests" of cancer, and the elderly suffer from heart and vascular diseases, barely managing with medication. What kind of accountability should be demanded from the citizens, Minister T. Munkhsaikhan? Even the relatively healthy young people suffer from strokes and embolisms due to societal stress and frustration, with some simply "not waking up" from sleep. The Minister of Health of such a tragic country should be ashamed to talk about charging sick citizens. Of course, personal health is inseparable from the individual. We don't have the right to blame everything on the government. Article 17.2 of the Constitution of Mongolia states, "It is the duty of every citizen to work, protect their health, raise and educate their children, and protect the environment." The law also mandates that the state provides a healthy and safe environment for its citizens and protects their health. However, has the government ever fulfilled these constitutional duties? On the contrary, over the years, it has created a threatening, unsafe environment where being alive is not guaranteed, a price the citizens have paid with their health and lives for many years. In a nightmare-like city, where citizens live like rats, it is not surprising that only ministers and leaders have the "courage" to charge citizens for being sick. It is just a familiar "technology" of shifting the government's irresponsible actions to the people. However, citizens are not stupid. How long will they endure and endure such deceitful, impractical proposals and decisions? When they fall ill, they go abroad. They have long enshrined in law that Members of Parliament must be treated for free abroad with taxpayers' money. Specifically, Article 41.13.4 of the Law on Parliament states, "...if a member requires treatment abroad by the decision of an accredited medical institution, at least 70% of the cost will be covered by the state." But when a citizen falls ill, telling them "You were irresponsible, so pay the fee" is just a double standard mask worn by the state. In short, it's a clear example of nurturing discrimination and injustice. The Minister of Health should never make such irresponsible statements to the public or "pop" in the media for the irresponsible state that fails to fulfill its duties and creates a dangerous society.

Back to Table of Contents

Aero Mongolia LLC: Offering Special Discounted Tickets to Individuals Traveling for Medical and Business Purposes

Published: 2024-10-29 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Aero Mongolia LLC has started offering special discounted tickets to individuals planning to travel to Seoul or Tokyo for medical and business purposes. This special discount is aimed at relieving the financial burden on those traveling for medical treatments and business requirements to these countries, providing a more affordable option. If you wish to travel with a special discounted ticket, please be advised that you need to present a visa confirming your medical or business purpose to the ticket booking agent. Travel with Aero Mongolia LLC to reduce your travel expenses and take advantage of reliable, affordable flights tailored to meet your business and medical needs! You can book your discounted ticket through the following link: Phone: 7010 3030
Facebook Messenger: Aero Mongolia
Website: www.aeromongolia.com
Email: callcenter@aeromongolia.com
Tickets can also be booked through all ticket selling agencies. Note to Media: When using our information in any form, whether in full or in part, media organizations (TV, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must cite the source as ikon.mn.

Back to Table of Contents

Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Politics

If the Uranium Project Is Supported by Party Groups, It Will Be Discussed by the National Security Council Tomorrow

Key Lever for Uranium Project Initiation - Amendments in Nuclear Energy Law

Tomorrow the National Security Council will meet on the uranium issue

Gaining Experience from Foreign Experts to Reclaim Illicit Assets

Preliminary Hearing on the Case of Z. Sanzhdorj and D. Byambajav, Accused of Collaborating with Foreign Intelligence, to Be Held Today Behind Closed Doors

Economy

Received Representatives of French Business Movement

Mongolia Agrees to Export Wool, Cashmere, and Leather Goods to Kazakhstan

The Bank of Mongolia Signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev: Increasing Bilateral Trade to 500 Million USD

Cooperation with Kazakhstan in Uranium Mining, Licensing, and Radiation Safety

Presented Investment Opportunities and Major Projects

The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the uranium mining project in a meeting with representatives of French enterprises

A Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Nuclear Energy Sector was Signed with Kazakhstan

The First Meeting of the Business Council Presented the Khorgos Free Zone

Visit: Aiming to Increase Bilateral Trade to $500 Million

Diplomacy

President Khurelsukh and President Tokayev to Hold Official Talks

Kazakhstan becomes our country's first 'Strategic Partner' in Central Asia

Mongolian and Kazakh Presidents Announce Elevation of Traditional Friendly Relations to Strategic Partnership

State Visit: Mongolia and Kazakhstan Announce Elevation of Their Traditional Friendly Relations to "Strategic Partnership" Level

Ambassador Sukhbold Presents Credentials to President of South Korea

TODAY: The President of Kazakhstan is Visiting Mongolia

Development of Parliamentary Friendship Group Operations between Mongolia and Kazakhstan

Speaker of the Parliament D. Amarbayasgalan Meets Ambassador Aibek Artykbaev

Ambassador S. Sukhbold Presented His Credentials to the President of South Korea

President K. Tokayev Expresses Commitment to Strengthening the Friendship of Historically Closely Connected Peoples

Infrastructure

Kazinform: Kazakhstan and Mongolia Plan to Build a New Road to the Mongolian Border through Russia

Agreements to Increase International Passenger and Freight Transport

Kh. Nyambaatar: Ulaanbaatar has grown into a mega city with over 1.8 million people

Dornod: "Petro Matad" LLC Begins Oil Extraction

The Decision on How Much to Raise Energy Prices to be Announced on Friday

Simple Method to Rescue the Energy Sector from Intensive Care

The decision on how much to increase electricity prices will be announced on Friday

Society

The licenses of "Olon Ovoot" were "looted" by a conspiracy

EVENT: International Social Protection Forum to be Organized

Supporting Women in Business

Environment

L. Oyun-Erdene: Special Attention Is Being Paid to Environmental Issues in the Uranium Extraction Project

Innovation

Cooperation with Kazakhstan to Increase Information Technology Exports

2027: Mongolia Will Launch Its First Observation Satellite in Collaboration with Kazakhstan

Health

If Members of Parliament Fall Ill, They are Treated Abroad at the Expense of the Budget, While Citizens Must Pay Themselves

Aero Mongolia LLC: Offering Special Discounted Tickets to Individuals Traveling for Medical and Business Purposes

You might also like...

Mongolia News Summary for November 21, 2024

Mongolia News Summary for November 20, 2024

Mongolia News Summary for November 19, 2024

Mongolia News Summary for November 18, 2024

Mongolia News Summary for November 17, 2024