Mongolia News Summary for September 02, 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

• The information that "The International Criminal Court Sent a Letter to President U. Khurelsukh" is False | iSee.mn
• EVIDENCE: Do Ulaanbaatar City Representatives Abroad Receive a Monthly Salary of ₮9-17 Million from the State?
• T. Tuvshintor: The speed of state work is vastly different from that of the private sector
• Ts. Munkh-Orgil to Work as the Chief Advisor to the Speaker of the Parliament
• The Emergency Session of the State Great Khural Has Closed
• B. Solongo Appointed as Deputy Head of the Cabinet Secretariat

Economy

• The GDP Will Double in 2025
• Fitch Ratings Maintains "B" Credit Rating for MMC with a Stable Outlook

Diplomacy

• Russian Hackers Allegedly Hacked Mongolian Government Websites
• Themoscowtimes: Russian President Vladimir Putin to Visit Mongolia
• Ukraine Calls on Mongolia to Arrest Putin During Visit, Reports BBC Agency
• URGENT: Russian Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov Attempted to Enter Mongolia with Firearms, Returned at the Border
• RESEARCHER'S WORDS: “It is almost certain that Putin will not be arrested in Mongolia. However, the consequences are very interesting”
• Honorary Consul B. Lakshmi Presented with Exequatur

Infrastructure

• If regional vehicles stay in the capital for more than 48 hours, they will be charged 5000 MNT per day starting today
• The Yarmag Bridge Section to Open in October

Society

• URGENT: A Chinese Citizen Was Assaulted and Robbed While Traveling in Mongolia, the Suspect Has Been Identified and Charged
• P. Naranbayar: Teachers' Salaries Will Steadily Increase
• President U. Khurelsukh to Deliver Online Lesson on "The Constitution of Mongolia" Today
• The 2024-2025 Academic Year Declared as a Year for Teachers to Study the Constitution
• Children of Herders to Study at Local Primary Schools
• The case of a group assaulting a young child and robbing their phone and sneakers is under investigation by the police
• VIDEO: Police Officers Find Over 100 Million Tugriks Lost Near the Airport and Return It

Environment

• The Tuul, Orkhon, Onon, Kherlen, and Halh Rivers Exceed Flood Danger Levels by 5-55 cm

Innovation

• Elementary School Curriculum and Textbooks to be Updated
• "Oyunkuulag School" Leads in EYES Scores, "Sant" School Ranked Second | iSee.mn
• Unlimited Data for Every Child
• P. Naranbayar: Starting this year, children from 100 schools will learn English from Grade 3 under the "Pearson" program

Health

• Narcotic Drugs Cause Respiratory Failure and Lead to Death
• Seasonal Flu Vaccination Begins in the Capital City
• Portable X-ray Devices Powered by AI Provided to Family Clinics
• Penalties Imposed for Advertising Medicines and Health Supplements on Social Media
• Blood Transported by Drone from Blood Center to MCHC

Sports

• The President U. Khurelsukh Congratulates MUGT G. Bolor-Erdene, Who Won a Silver Medal at the Paralympics
• G. Bolor-Erdene Wins Silver Medal in 63 kg Taekwondo at "Paris 2024" Summer Paralympics

Politics

The information that "The International Criminal Court Sent a Letter to President U. Khurelsukh" is False | iSee.mn

Published: Sat, 31 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

A Facebook user named Bold Tovuu shared a post with the headline “THE INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT SENT A LETTER TO PRESIDENT U. KHURELSUKH:”.

We conducted a fact check as follows:

“Ateo Breaking” is a Telegram channel that disseminates information in Russian. It issued the following call on X (formerly Twitter), encouraging others to share it. When translating and disseminating this appeal issued by the Ateo Breaking news service, they added the headline “From the ICC to President U. Khurelsukh:”, and removed the part “Best regards,” followed by “Ateo Breaking”.

Ateo Breaking provided the following explanation on their Telegram regarding this appeal.

The Ateo Breaking news editorial organized an advertising campaign for residents in Mongolia. Every active Twitter user in Mongolia will see our appeal complaint and the decisions of the international court in The Hague. Every reader of Ateo Breaking will help spread the message by liking, retweeting, and commenting. In conclusion, the appeal issued by the Ateo Breaking news editorial was misleadingly reported as if it were a letter from the International Criminal Court.

EVIDENCE: Do Ulaanbaatar City Representatives Abroad Receive a Monthly Salary of ₮9-17 Million from the State?

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Information that people holding the position of Ulaanbaatar city representatives and living abroad receive a monthly salary of ₮9-17 million from the state has sparked criticism.

For instance, representatives residing in cities such as Seoul in South Korea, Moscow in Russia, and Warsaw in Poland, representing Ulaanbaatar city, are reportedly receiving high salaries and benefits, leading to the creation of redundant positions. This issue was scrutinized by reviewing the information from the GLASS ACCOUNTING system.

The Glass Accounting data of the Governor's Office of Ulaanbaatar City (GOUBC) openly posts amounts exceeding five million MNT apart from wage expenses.

Looking at the July 2024 salary data:

• Representative Ts. Tselmuun received 17.2 million
• Representative Ts. Sandui received 17.2 million
• Representative M. Munkhtsetseg received 15.5 million
• Representative D. Batmunkh received 9.1 million
• Representative B. Khajidmaa received a salary of 13.1 million MNT last month.

Detailed salary information can be viewed HERE.

It is questioned that these officials are receiving significant monthly salaries and are residing abroad representing Ulaanbaatar city. The GOUBC has initiated an inquiry, but no response has been received so far.

Warning

Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social media, and Websites) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either fully or partially.

T. Tuvshintor: The speed of state work is vastly different from that of the private sector

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

A meeting of the working group aimed at improving the integration of electronic systems in the education sector took place today.

During this meeting, improvements to the attendance, lesson, and teacher-student registration system, as well as two main systems: the database of the Education Assessment Center and the general admissions exam database, were discussed.

Specifically, in addition to the registration system, there was an exchange of ideas on involving the private sector in creating integrated systems that include information on food production, rental, and textbook information to share the responsibilities of the state.

The representatives at the meeting believe that the approximately 30 electronic systems providing educational services are currently not integrated, which results in digital oppression for teachers, students, parents, and guardians.

A working group has been established to streamline these systems, improve their integration and information exchange, and develop a unified information technology interface or integrated architecture.

T. Tuvshintor, Chairman of the "Ania" Educational Technology Association stated, “The Ministry of Education and the Joint Government have been speaking very energetically about digital transition. Today’s meeting concluded that it is appropriate to elevate the level of cooperation between the state and the private sector.

From the perspective of our association: General education school teachers and schools are at risk of digital oppression. There are many duplicate systems. There is a need to improve their integration because teachers, students, and parents are now required to use many systems. It is appropriate for the state and the private sector to jointly find open solutions to this.

In the initial phase, implementing modern technologies based on artificial intelligence requires a trial period. Once it is successfully implemented during the trial period, the actual transition should be introduced to schools.

The private sector operates ‘24’ hours, while the state operates eight hours.

Moreover, fair competition must be created. If the private sector starts to enter the market freely, it should be open and without any conflicts of interest. Three issues were addressed: price, quality, and cooperating with individual entities in an open and fair manner.

Issues such as how state systems developed with state budget funds will connect with private sector systems have been addressed since the pandemic. There are positives, but also shortcomings. The speed of state work is vastly different from that of the private sector. In other words, the private sector operates ‘24’ hours, while the state operates for eight hours. This issue must be thoroughly discussed, and the speed of operations between the state and private sector should be as closely aligned as possible,” he said.

In addition, Consultant of the Minister of Education, D. Gantulga stated, “This working group will analyze the services of the education sector and, as a result, reach a common understanding and clarify the services and working principles that the state and private sector are responsible for.

In doing so, we will work with the aim of supporting fair market competition and localizing new initiatives by Mongolian engineers and world technology.

The government program has an objective of reducing state involvement and improving private sector participation. Within this objective, private sectors will not depend on the Ministry of Education to implement projects in this direction. Instead, they aim to establish a market system that competes to meet the needs of schools, teachers, students, parents, and guardians.

We will discuss what is not working, how systems connect, whether the state and private sector will continue to compete, how to reach remote provinces and districts, and other issues.

Afterward, an expert team will develop a system architecture blueprint that encompasses all services. Based on this blueprint, the roles and responsibilities of the state and private sector will be clarified. Moreover, policies and procedures will be developed based on the blueprint. All these can be clarified within a week from the completion of the blueprint,” he stated.

“DO WHAT YOU CAN YOURSELF, DEVELOP AND USE IT TO AVOID FALLING BEHIND GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT"

Professor at the National University of Mongolia and Director of "Digital Solution" LLC, A. Enkhbayar said, “It is correct to eliminate the long-standing disorder and direct the system in one direction. At a time when technology is developing at a rapid pace, Mongolians are lagging behind in technology. Meanwhile, many educational technologies are emerging.

In addition to discussing current problems, we need to discuss the direction of the world in the future. Therefore, this is my proposal for discussion.

By developing and implementing technology ourselves, sectors like Mongolian education technology and research will develop together.

We're delighted to import ready-made programs worth billions from around the world. Instead, developing and implementing them ourselves is cost-effective and makes it easier to update. Doing what we can ourselves, developing, and using it will prevent us from falling behind the world.

The cornerstone of digital transition in education is actively centering on the learner.

Virtual classrooms, artificial intelligence, and virtual schools have already emerged globally. We are falling behind. So, after a few years, we’ll end up saying “We can’t do it” and will have to buy from abroad,” he said.

This working group is led by Consultant of the Minister of Education D. Gantulga, comprising over 40 representatives from both state and private organizations.

Ts. Munkh-Orgil to Work as the Chief Advisor to the Speaker of the Parliament

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Member of Parliament Ts. Munkh-Orgil is set to work as the chief advisor to Parliament Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan. He did not run for the 2024 regular parliamentary elections. Now he will be advising the Speaker of the Parliament. Speaker D. Amarbayasgalan is assembling his team with experienced lawyers.

Former Member of Parliament Ts. Munkh-Orgil is a professional lawyer, elected three times to the Parliament, and has served as Minister of Justice and Home Affairs as well as Minister of Foreign Affairs. In the previous parliament, he initiated and submitted an updated bill on the law regarding the Constitutional Court but was unable to get it approved before the end of his term.

The Emergency Session of the State Great Khural Has Closed

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The emergency session of the State Great Khural has closed, and the Speaker of the State Great Khural, D. Amarbayasgalan, delivered a speech. He stated:

Honorable Members of the State Great Khural, and Citizens

Since Mongolia transitioned to a constitutional democratic parliamentary system, this is the 33rd emergency session of the State Great Khural. The current session of the State Great Khural began on August 15, 2024, and after 12 working days, it has concluded. During the session days, seven plenary meetings were held, during which 39 issues were discussed, and appropriate decisions were made. During this period, Standing Committees met 35 times, and Subcommittees met 3 times.

Honorable members of the State Great Khural, approving the Government's action plan is an exclusive competence of the State Great Khural. The joint Government urgently discussed and approved the action plan for 2024-2028 based on the election platforms of the Mongolian People's Party, the Democratic Party, and the National Labor Party for the 2024 elections.

The Mongolian Government's 2024-2028 action plan submitted to the State Great Khural aimed to implement 619 objectives within the four main policy areas: Regional Development Policy, Human Development Policy, Economic Policy, and Good Governance Policy based on respecting human rights.

Members of the current parliament emphasized the importance of the joint Government’s action plan as the main direction of sustainable development over the next 10-20 years, not just the four-year period, and made their decisions accordingly.

The action plan includes launching the long-awaited reforms in the energy sector without delay, increasing domestic energy production, implementing 14 mega projects for economic expansion such as industrialization, regional development, and new city development, which are expected to bring progressive changes to Mongolia’s social and economic life.

The action plan emphasizes that this should not only be for four years but also as the main outline of development policy to be carried out stably in the next 10-20 years, according to the current parliament members.

In addition to the Government’s action plan, a budget amendment was presented, which highlighted the necessity for effective discussions to clarify the legislative body's oversight functions, urging members to act as true representatives of their citizens, and to work with high ethics, openness, and professionalism to accelerate the development of the country.

The newly formed Parliament’s first emergency session discussed and approved Mongolia’s consolidated budget performance for 2023, the Government's 2023 financial consolidated report, and the resolution draft on "Approval of Mongolia’s 2023 Budget Performance" in all Standing Committees and the plenary meeting of the State Great Khural.

The consolidated budget balance for 2023 showed a surplus of 785.9 billion MNT. However, it is crucial to ensure budget planning and performance align with the mid-term budget framework statement approved by the State Great Khural to improve budget stability, responsibility, and discipline.

In the future, the Government is required to spend the budget approved by the State Great Khural effectively according to its purpose and to improve control over subsidies, incentives granted to private sectors, implementation of major projects, investment spending, and financial execution of public investments, as well as to address the financial losses of state-owned enterprises, governance issues, and resolve debts and receivables between state-owned enterprises, ensuring dividends are transferred to the budget.

Moreover, it is important to improve the implementation of the recommendations of the State Audit Office and to strengthen accountability for non-compliance. The newly established Parliament with a wide representation of different social groups highlighted the discussion of the Budget Performance as an essential mechanism for overseeing the implementation of State Great Khural legislation.

It is necessary to enhance the legal framework to ensure public scrutiny of governmental performance and outcomes, thereby improving state productivity and accountability.

The session discussed the income to be distributed fairly and equitably to current and future citizens from the mineral resource sector, with the approval of the first budget of the National Wealth Fund for 2024, as outlined in the National Wealth Fund Law adopted by the State Great Khural on April 19, 2024, which includes specialized funds such as the Savings Fund, the Future Heritage Fund, and the Development Fund.

The State Great Khural, as an institution representing the aspirations of the people, should direct all its activities towards the development of the state and the welfare of the public.

Therefore, the discussions and approvals during this session served to activate the action of the executive government, ensuring that the programs and laws passed genuinely deliver development benefits to the people, thus marking the first emergency session of the newly entrusted parliament.

Honorable members of the State Great Khural, at the opening of the emergency session, we were informed of the extensive scope of work awaiting us to effectively realize the THREE IMPROVEMENTS in Mongolia's legal environment.

Therefore, based on your proposals, we are establishing working groups in the following three main directions:

• Creating a legal system based on a human-centered legal ideology and respecting human rights, with 22 working groups in this direction;
• Making laws clear and understandable, ensuring they apply equally to everyone, with 6 working groups in this direction;
• In line with the needs of rapid social development, quickly enacting legal regulations, with 24 working groups, issuing resolutions from the Speaker of the State Great Khural. We wish you success.

The emergency session is declared closed.

B. Solongo Appointed as Deputy Head of the Cabinet Secretariat

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

Today, during the government meeting, Deputy Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs B. Solongo was appointed as the Deputy Head of the Cabinet Secretariat. Specifically, Bayarsaikhan’s Solongo was appointed as the First Deputy Head of the Cabinet Secretariat, following Byambajav’s Ganbat's transfer to a different position.

B. Solongo's education and academic qualifications:

• Graduated from the 11th School of the Capital in 2000
• Graduated from the Law and Political Science School of Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary in 2007
• Graduated from the University of Dundee in the United Kingdom in 2010
• Graduated from Harvard Law School in the USA in 2015. Profession: Lawyer. Master’s degree in Law.

Work experience:

• Worked as a lawyer and senior lawyer at Hogan Lovells international law firm from 2011 to 2017
• Served as the executive director of the Avinex Partners law firm from 2017 to 2020
• Has been serving as the Deputy Head of the Cabinet Secretariat and as the Deputy Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs since 2020.

Economy

The GDP Will Double in 2025

Published: Sun, 01 Sep 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

When the government led by L. Oyun-Erdene was established in 2021, the nominal value of Mongolia's Gross Domestic Product was 43.5 trillion. According to projections for 2025, it is expected to double and reach 95 trillion, as calculated by the Ministry of Finance.

Furthermore, since 2021, foreign trade turnover, exports, and imports have doubled. In 2021, the GDP per capita was 4,484 US dollars, which is expected to increase to 6,107 US dollars by the end of this year, and to 7,516 US dollars in 2025.

In the 2024-2028 action program approved by the coalition government in the State Great Khural, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene emphasized the goal of advancing major projects and expanding the economy to increase GDP per capita to 10,000 US dollars.

Fitch Ratings Maintains "B" Credit Rating for MMC with a Stable Outlook

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: bloombergtv.mn

The sale of mining products through an exchange has contributed to the increase in sales and the number of buyers for "Mongolian Mining Corporation."

International ratings agency "Fitch Ratings" has maintained the credit rating of "Mongolian Mining Corporation" at the "B" level and viewed the outlook as "Stable."

While the sales of "Mongolian Mining Corporation" were primarily concentrated among 10 buyers, this dependency decreased to 54% in 2023. Compared to 93% in 2019, this has been significantly improved, according to Fitch Ratings.

The end users of "Mongolian Mining Corporation" products are overly concentrated in China, which makes the company highly sensitive to changes in the country's economy and regulatory environment. This became more apparent during the Covid-19 pandemic, when disruptions in port operations caused the company's coal sales to drop dramatically from an average of five million tons to 1.6 million tons.

However, the company's sales have been recovering rapidly after the pandemic. Additionally, the initiation of trading mining products through an exchange has been contributing to the increase in sales and the number of buyers for "Mongolian Mining Corporation." As of the first half of this year, approximately 50% of the company's income has been derived from this new trading platform.

In terms of financial performance, the profit margin of "Mongolian Mining Corporation" is expected to slightly decrease between 2024 and 2027 but remain relatively strong above 40%, Fitch Ratings predicts.

Diplomacy

Russian Hackers Allegedly Hacked Mongolian Government Websites

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

According to Google's Threat Analysis Group, it was discovered that some websites of the Mongolian government were subjected to cyberattacks from a foreign country between November 2023 and July 2024. Malicious code was installed on these sites to steal information from users accessing the sites.

Specifically, the code was designed to steal passwords, web history, stored credit card information, and cookies from the Google Chrome browser of users who accessed the websites through devices running iPhone or Android operating systems. The affected websites included the Cabinet Secretariat of Government (cabinet.gov.mn) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (mfa.gov.mn).

The attacks were attributed to the APT29 group, which targeted iPhone users with iOS versions 16.6.1 and earlier. The attacks occurred in November 2023, February 2024, and July 2024. When iPhone users accessed the compromised websites, code known as CVE-2021-879 was used to steal cookies for services like LinkedIn, Gmail, and Facebook.

Google attributes the attack to the APT29 group, which is reportedly connected to the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service. The cookie-stealing tactic employed in the attack had similarities to an APT29 attack conducted in 2021. Since 2008, this group has been involved in illegal cyber activities targeting Europe and NATO countries and was allegedly responsible for hacking the United States Democratic National Committee's website in 2015.

Upon discovering the breach of Mongolian government websites, Google immediately informed Apple and Android. They also notified Mongolia's Cyber Security Information and Management Center to help address and fix the vulnerabilities on the affected websites, according to the Threat Analysis Group.

Themoscowtimes: Russian President Vladimir Putin to Visit Mongolia

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

The Kremlin has announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to visit Mongolia next week. President Putin's visit aims to pay homage to the Soviet-Mongolian victory over Japan in the Battle of Khalkhin Gol in 1939. Previously, in 2019, President Putin made an official state visit to Mongolia to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Khalkhin Gol battle.

Mongolia is one of the countries that have the legal obligation to arrest President Putin and turn him over to the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC issued the arrest warrant in March last year on charges that President Putin unlawfully deported Ukrainian children. Mongolia is a signatory to the Rome Statute, the treaty that governs the ICC, and is therefore obliged to comply with the court's requirements.

The Kremlin's statement mentioned that "the heads of state will discuss the prospects of further developing comprehensive strategic partnership relations between Russia and Mongolia." Observers believe that given Mongolia's historical ties as a longtime ally of Russia, it is unlikely that President Putin will be detained.

Ukraine Calls on Mongolia to Arrest Putin During Visit, Reports BBC Agency

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

Fadi el-Abdallah, a spokesperson for the International Criminal Court (ICC), stated in an interview with the BBC Agency that Mongolia, as a member of the ICC, has an obligation to fulfill the arrest warrant for Russian President V. Putin during his upcoming visit. You can view the source HERE.

However, the agreement with member countries of the ICC allows for exemption from arrest if it leads to breaching obligations of agreements made with other countries or violates the diplomatic immunity of third-country officials or property.

Interestingly, in March 2023, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for V. Putin for forcibly transferring children from the Ukrainian territories occupied by Russia. Subsequently, a similar arrest warrant was issued against Maria Lvova-Belova, the Russian Commissioner for Children's Rights for the same crime.

Putin's visit to Mongolia on September 3 is reportedly his first entrance into the territory of an ICC member state.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated to journalists, "We have very good relations with our Mongolian partners. Naturally, all issues regarding the president's visit have been thoroughly prepared." Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has appealed to the Government of Mongolia to fulfill its obligations under the Rome Statute and in front of the ICC, by arresting Putin during his upcoming visit.

URGENT: Russian Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov Attempted to Enter Mongolia with Firearms, Returned at the Border

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

Officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Ecology of Russia, including Minister A.A. Kozlov, paid an official visit to our country. However, unofficial sources reported that Russian Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov, who was supposed to be part of this delegation, was denied entry into Mongolia by the border control authorities and was sent back.

Specifically, Igor Krasnov, the Russian Prosecutor General, who had proposed to collaborate with Beijing authorities to protect Mongolia from Western influences, had made an official visit to North Korea. On his return journey, he planned to visit our country as part of A.A. Kozlov's delegation.

Upon landing at our "Chinggis Khaan" International Airport, Krasnov attempted to enter Mongolia with firearms. However, our border control authorities stipulated, "It is not possible for a foreign national to enter our country with firearms." Krasnov reportedly responded, saying, "If we are not allowed entry with firearms, we will not visit your country," and subsequently returned to his own country.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that last year, during his visit to China, Russian Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov stated, "We need to discuss intensifying Russo-Chinese-Mongolian dialogues with the participation of Mongolia, as the influence of Western countries in our domestic neighbor Mongolia is increasing. We have submitted a draft trilateral cooperation agreement to the Mongolian Prosecutor's Office. We are ready to join in the trilateral cooperation format with Mongolia and China and ensure public safety in other sectors."

RESEARCHER'S WORDS: “It is almost certain that Putin will not be arrested in Mongolia. However, the consequences are very interesting”

Published: Sun, 01 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Russian President Vladimir Putin's scheduled visit to Mongolia next week has attracted global attention.

This is because in March 2023, the International Criminal Court (ICC) based in The Hague issued an arrest warrant against him in connection with war crimes.

As a result, member countries of the court that have joined the Rome Statute are obliged to arrest Putin if he comes to their territory.

The ICC and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, a country affected by Russian aggression, have called on Mongolian authorities to arrest Putin.

However, the Kremlin's press office announced that there is no danger of arrest as they have thoroughly discussed and agreed with the Mongolian side.

Mongolia is a member of the ICC, while Russia ratified the Rome Statute in 2000 but withdrew it in 2016.

Since the arrest warrant was issued, this is the first time Putin is visiting a member country of the ICC.

Last August, he planned to attend the BRICS summit organized in another member country, the Republic of South Africa (RSA), but canceled his visit after months of negotiations.

Business Insider sought clarification from an international relations expert regarding what might happen during his visit to Mongolia.

Talita Dias, a researcher at the Oxford Institute for Ethics, Law, and Armed Conflict, said, “Of course, Mongolia will never arrest him. I don't think there will be serious consequences for not arresting him.”

She explained that it is very difficult for the ICC to operate in international spaces as it is an organization without a mechanism to implement its decisions.

“It is very difficult for an organization without the power to implement its decisions to operate in international spaces,” Dias said.

Previously, there was only one similar case. Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, who also had an ICC arrest warrant, visited South Africa in 2015, another member country, without being arrested.

In that instance, the involvement of the UN Security Council exacerbated the issue, Dias explained.

However, in today's case, given that Russia is one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, she believes the issue will not escalate as it did previously.

“There may be legal proceedings at the ICC for not arresting him. From this, it's likely that Mongolia will be concluded to have violated the Rome Statute. Some countries might impose sanctions on Mongolia. And that will be it, I think. What exactly will happen is something that fascinates me,” Dias said.

Previously, Hungary and Armenia, member countries of the ICC, had also declared that they would not arrest Putin if he visited their territory.

Source: Business Insider

Honorary Consul B. Lakshmi Presented with Exequatur

Published: Sat, 31 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Deputy Director of the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, T. Bat-Orshikh, presented the exequatur to B. Lakshmid, the newly appointed Honorary Consul from the Swiss Confederation to Mongolia at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Deputy Director T. Bat-Orshikh congratulated the newly appointed Honorary Consul B. Lakshmi on her new role and expressed a desire for active collaboration in expanding cooperation in the fields of trade, tourism, and culture between Mongolia and Switzerland, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Economist B. Lakshy heads the Center for Competitiveness Policy Research.

Infrastructure

If regional vehicles stay in the capital for more than 48 hours, they will be charged 5000 MNT per day starting today

Published: Sat, 31 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

A decision has been made that if regional transport vehicles travel in the capital for more than 48 hours, they must pay 5000 MNT for each day. This decision takes effect today.

In an effort to reduce the number of vehicles traveling in Ulaanbaatar, the City Council approved an updated road usage fee.

Specifically, this resolution states that regional transport vehicles will be charged 1000 MNT if they travel in the capital for 48 hours or two days. However, if they stay beyond 48 hours, a fee of 5000 MNT will be collected every 24 hours.

Previously, the city mayor H. Nyambaatar stated, "In order to reduce traffic congestion in the capital and promote housing development for ger areas, we had a bill approved by the parliament last fall. Within the framework of this law, some administrative regulations are legalistically established. A fee will be imposed on vehicles with regional numbers if they travel in the city for more than 48 hours, starting from September 1 of the coming year."

Since Ulaanbaatar city is the social and economic hub of Mongolia, there is a significant influx from rural areas to the city. However, this regulation will not apply to herders selling livestock and related products, or business people bringing in goods. It applies to residents who use vehicles to offer taxi services. Taxi services are allowed, but this arrangement is made to reduce the congestion they contribute to.

We are working towards implementing an integrated camera system based on artificial intelligence to further reduce congestion. The main goal of this is to reduce violations of traffic regulations. The city road network is being integrated into a system of unified control. Additionally, it aims to instill the culture of timely payment of taxes and fines.

The Yarmag Bridge Section to Open in October

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

We inquired with T. Batbileg, the head of the Construction Engineering Facilities Control Department of the Capital City Road Development Authority, about the progress of the bridge and road construction that will connect the Yarmag Bridge with the First Neighborhood.

How is the progress of the construction work of the bridge that connects Yarmag with the First Neighborhood? When is it scheduled to be put into use?

The bridge is being built to alleviate traffic congestion around Yarmag. The project consists of three bridges and link roads. The bridge construction started in September 2022, while the road construction began in August 2023. This construction is expected to reduce Yarmag's road congestion by about 20%.

Officials had previously stated that the bridge would be commissioned in June. However, it wasn’t put into use on time, and the embankment on the Yarmag side was flooded with rainwater. How is this being addressed, and is there a guarantee against future flooding?

This year, there was an abundance of rain across the entire region. This resulted in the Tuul River exceeding its average annual flow and flooding. The work on directing the embankment is underway. Experts have conducted studies to ensure it won't be flooded again. The bridge construction is about 97% complete, while the road work is over 80% completed. The embankment work is finished. Curbs are being installed, and the work on the crushed stone foundation is in progress. The link roads comprise several projects, namely:

It is a comprehensive development including a six-meter-wide road, storm drainage system, lighting, bicycle, and pedestrian paths.

Additionally, water, sewer, and heat installation works are ongoing. Asphalt paving is planned to start on September 10. The traffic section is scheduled to open in September. All work is being carried out according to the design and engineering analysis. A total of a 391-meter-long bridge is under construction. Due to rain and flooding, it has been impossible to commission it on time. It is planned to fully open the traffic section from October 1st.

Society

URGENT: A Chinese Citizen Was Assaulted and Robbed While Traveling in Mongolia, the Suspect Has Been Identified and Charged

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

A Chinese citizen reported on social media that they were assaulted and robbed of a mobile phone and 5,000 yuan while traveling in Mongolia, attracting public attention.

Upon investigation by the prosecutor's office in Mandal district, Selenge province, it was clarified that the complaint regarding the Chinese citizen being assaulted was filed with the police. The prosecutor’s office supervised the investigation based on the complaint, and with the collected evidence, a criminal case was initiated against citizen B.G. under Article 12.1 /Assault/ and Article 17.2 /Robbery/ of the Criminal Code. The case is currently under investigation by the local police department.

P. Naranbayar: Teachers' Salaries Will Steadily Increase

Published: Mon, 02 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

As the new academic year 2024-2025 begins, Minister of Education P. Naranbayar extended greetings to all teachers, educators, students, and parents.

In his message, he stated, "We will steadfastly increase the salaries of teachers and staff in educational institutions. We aim to enhance the incentive system based on performance evaluation according to the decisions made at the Teachers' Congress of Mongolia, making it less cumbersome and more straightforward, and closer to reality through self-assessment and school internal evaluations. Based on last year's performance evaluations, 52.6% of all teachers received incentives with a 'Good' rating, and this year, 57% are expected to receive incentives. We will ensure that all teachers earn a sustainable income that supports their families."

Additionally, he emphasized, "A developed teacher is Mongolia's wealth." Therefore, he expressed his special attention to teacher development, including plans to train teachers domestically and abroad, attain master's degrees, and specifically, train 2,000 English teachers overseas in the near future.

President U. Khurelsukh to Deliver Online Lesson on "The Constitution of Mongolia" Today

Published: Sat, 31 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

On September 1, which falls on a Sunday this year, the new school year celebration day will take place. The opening of the new school year will be organized as a modest celebration for students, teachers, and parents, without the participation of high-profile figures such as the President or the Prime Minister. Instead, the President will conduct an online lesson on the topic "The Constitution of Mongolia" to mark the new school year's opening, as informed by the Minister of Education, Culture, and Science, P. Naranbayar.

The 2024-2025 Academic Year Declared as a Year for Teachers to Study the Constitution

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Mongolian Teachers' Union, in collaboration with the Public Justice NGO, has declared the 2024-2025 academic year as "The Year for Mongolian Teachers to Study the Constitution."

This announcement was made by Member of Parliament Ts. Mönhtüyaa, Chairman of the Mongolian Teachers' Union D. Mönkhbaatar, and Head of the Public Justice NGO H. Bat-Yalalt.

Ts. Mönhtüyaa highlighted that for over 30 years, citizens have had insufficient information about upholding and implementing the Constitution in our country. Due to citizens' inadequate understanding of the Constitution, conflicts between the state and citizens arise, leading to the violation of citizens' rights and adverse consequences in economic and social security. Therefore, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the adoption of the First Constitution, the academic year of 2024-2025 has been dedicated to teaching teachers about the Constitution.

Through this initiative, it is expected that students and young children will gain knowledge and be shaped by understanding and implementing the Constitution. This has significant importance in familiarizing citizens with the Constitution.

Children of Herders to Study at Local Primary Schools

Published: Mon, 02 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The government's operational program includes plans by the sector ministry to establish new model local primary schools.

Children of herders, starting from the age of six, either live far from home in dormitories or their parents relocate to province or district centers to supervise their children's education. This situation is considered a social crisis. Therefore, to enable young children to grow up with their families without distancing themselves from the nomadic way of life, this model is being developed.

Once this model is implemented, children will attend classes in-person for three days and participate in online learning for two days.

The case of a group assaulting a young child and robbing their phone and sneakers is under investigation by the police

Published: Sat, 31 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

Incidents of robbing personal belongings from young children have significantly increased recently.

In particular, a call was registered with the police about a young child walking in the Songino Khairkhan district who was assaulted by a group of approximately 10 unknown children, and had their phone and sneakers stolen.

Additionally, last week, the police received a report in the Bayangol district near a gas station, stating "our sibling was assaulted and robbed by a group of children." Currently, the police are investigating these two cases. Therefore, parents are advised not to let their children walk alone at night or in the evening, and to ensure they travel along well-lit paths with security cameras.

VIDEO: Police Officers Find Over 100 Million Tugriks Lost Near the Airport and Return It

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

Citizen E. Khishigdavaa lost approximately 100 million tugriks while using "Chinggis Khaan" International Airport. The police officers from the Civil Aviation Police Department of the Traffic Police Department found and returned the money.

In relation to this, citizen E. Khishigdavaa stated, "I didn’t even realize that I had lost my belongings, but the police officers quickly and efficiently found and returned them to me complete and responsibly. I am very grateful."

Environment

The Tuul, Orkhon, Onon, Kherlen, and Halh Rivers Exceed Flood Danger Levels by 5-55 cm

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Today, the water level along the Halh River, which originates from the eastern slopes of the Khentii Mountains and the Greater Khingan Mountains, has increased by 5-15 cm compared to the previous day.

The Balj, Kherlen (Mungunmorit, Bayanmonkh), Ulz (Ereen-Tsav), Khurkh, Buyant, and Kharkhiraa Rivers surpassed flood levels by 5-35 cm. Meanwhile, the Tuul (Lun), Orkhon (Orkhontul), Onon (Dadal), Kherlen (Ondorkhaan, Choibalsan), and Halh (Yalalt) Rivers have exceeded dangerous flood levels by 5-55 cm and are experiencing severe flooding.

Therefore, people living and herding along the banks of these rivers, as well as those traveling, resting, and enjoying activities, are strongly advised to be cautious of flood dangers.

Innovation

Elementary School Curriculum and Textbooks to be Updated

Published: Mon, 02 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Ministry of Education has announced that the curriculum and textbooks for elementary schools will be revised starting from this academic year.

The new textbooks for elementary students are expected to be interactive, digital, and appealing while being content-appropriate and lightweight to aid children's growth and development. The revised curricula and textbooks will be observed and evaluated this year with the aim to be fully introduced nationwide by next year.

Currently, the "Reading Book" is being restored. It has been identified through the "PISA" examination that Mongolian children have weak skills in comprehending, expressing, and further developing what they have read. Thus, establishing foundational reading skills will be a primary objective of elementary education.

Instead of reading rapidly by the minute, the focus will shift to reading with comprehension, skimming, scanning, and grasping key ideas. Furthermore, when children make errors in writing, instead of having them write repeatedly, schools have been advised to grant them the "right" to use erasers and write with pencils, according to the Ministry of Education.

"Oyunkuulag School" Leads in EYES Scores, "Sant" School Ranked Second | iSee.mn

Published: Sat, 31 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

Based on the average scores of schools in the General Entrance Examination, information on the scores of the top 60 schools nationwide, as well as schools leading in 10 subjects, has been delivered.

Specifically, "Oyunkuulag School" ranked first according to the EYES scores, followed by "Sant" School. "New Mongol Harumafuji" was ranked third, and the "Bilegt Urguy" School of Bayan-Undur District was placed fourth. Moreover, among the schools ranked in the top 60, 31 are capital city secondary schools, while the rest are local schools.

Unlimited Data for Every Child

Published: Sun, 01 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

As the new school year begins, match with your class and friends with the new "Enjoy Kids" package. GMobile is gifting fancy numbers with unlimited data for every child under 18 years old.

• If acquired under postpaid conditions, the first month's base fee is 100% discounted.
• If acquired under prepaid conditions, get a 30-day unlimited data number for 0₮.

Did you know that every child using GMobile can enjoy UNLIMITED DATA at the most affordable price?

• Unlimited 15GB data for 15,000₮
• Unlimited 8GB data for 8,000₮
• Unlimited 3GB data for 5,000₮

Use your package data without speed limits, and even after it ends, continue using at a speed of 1mbps unlimited.

Getting postpaid is even better.

• If you are a GMobile postpaid service user, you can link your child's number to your own account and pay the bills together in one go.
• The postpaid children's packages not only offer unlimited data within the network but also unlimited calls, messaging across networks, providing additional privileges.

New number promotion continues until October 31. Visit the service branch with your documents and your child's birth certificate and pick your number.

Additionally, GMobile LLC offers young people under 25 seeking great numbers with lots of data a package with 150GB data for 5,000₮. You can activate your new number directly without going to a branch by visiting www.gmobile.mn.

Purchase channel: Available from all service branches, G-Agent devices, and the www.gmobile.mn website.

Promotion period: Until 2024/08/15 – 2024/10/31

Notice

Please note that media outlets (Television, Radio, Social, and Web pages) must credit the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in whole or in part by any means.

P. Naranbayar: Starting this year, children from 100 schools will learn English from Grade 3 under the "Pearson" program

Published: Sat, 31 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

On the occasion of the new school year, Education Minister P. Naranbayar has extended his greetings. He conveyed best wishes for the 2024-2025 academic year and introduced the policies and plans to be implemented in the future.

He stated, "I urge all students to strive diligently, explore and study deeply, and critically assess by forming personal conclusions for a better future. I wish that teachers approach their students and work with genuine compassion, teach with perseverance and patience, and inspire children's desire to learn."

He continued to extend the following call to action to teachers, students, and pupils.

Health

Narcotic Drugs Cause Respiratory Failure and Lead to Death

Published: Sat, 31 Aug 2024 | Translated from: news.mn

Due to the use of narcotic drugs and psychoactive substances, there has been an increase in cases where young people suffer from severe pneumonia and face life-threatening risks. We spoke with Dr. G. Ankbold, a pulmonary and allergy specialist at the National Central Hospital's Pulmonary and Allergy Center, about this issue.

He stated that law enforcement agencies report and warn every year about the increasing use of narcotic drugs and psychoactive substances. These substances not only affect the mind and cause addiction but are also extremely harmful to the body. Young people are using these substances on their own and injecting them, leading to blood infections and sepsis.

This is because there is MRSA, an antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria infection, on human skin surfaces and in dirty environments. When injecting psychoactive substances intravenously in dirty environments without infection control, it leads to blood infections and severe sepsis. Pneumonia caused by sepsis is very dangerous. It creates cavities in the lungs, leading to respiratory failure and potentially death, which is why attention is necessary.

In the past five years, there have been many severe cases of infections like this in our department, particularly among young people, which is regrettable.

A 2020 study in the United States documented that 66,000 people died from respiratory failure due to the use of narcotic drugs and psychoactive substances. International studies also show that people who use and inject these substances are 10 times more likely to suffer from severe pneumonia than ordinary people.

Psychoactive substances damage the lungs very quickly. If blood infection occurs, complications increase by the minute, and if medical help is delayed, it can be life-threatening. Such severe cases often result in death.

Depending on the method of use, psychoactive substances primarily suppress the respiratory and cardiovascular centers, causing respiratory failure, bleeding from the respiratory tract, chronic bronchitis, respiratory inflammation, acute lung injuries, emphysema, and heart problems. Clinically, symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, sputum production, chest pain, and further, bleeding from the lungs and coughing up blood. Bleeding from the lungs is very dangerous and difficult to control. It can become life-threatening in a short period. Therefore, young persons with such a history should be urgently diagnosed by internists, pulmonologists, and psychiatrists working together in a team. Although treatment can save lives, it should be noted that it often leaves scarring in the lungs, reduces breathing capacity, and causes chronic complications.

Seasonal Flu Vaccination Begins in the Capital City

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

In connection with the start of the new academic year, we discussed the measures being implemented by the capital city to reduce and prevent the flu with P. Erkhembulgan, Director of the City Health Department.

What policy are you following in the direction of preventing the flu and flu-like illnesses?

With the start of the new academic year, flu-like illnesses among children increase. The peculiarity of this year is that the flu vaccination is starting earlier. Last year, the flu vaccination started in October throughout the capital, but this year, vaccines were acquired early and the seasonal flu vaccination for targeted populations in the capital began on August 26. A total of 180,000 vaccine doses will be administered in the capital city. Of these, vaccines will be provided free of charge to groups at high risk of contracting the flu and those at high risk of complications after illness. According to last year's research, over 50% of all flu-affected citizens were children aged 0-4, and more than 20% were children aged 5-9. In other words, over 70% are children aged 0-9, so young children will be included in this vaccination.

Which country's vaccine is being imported to Mongolia? Can you talk about the importance of immunization?

The Ministry of Health organizes the procurement of vaccines through UNICEF. This year, "Greencross" vaccines produced in South Korea are being used. These vaccines are commonly used in countries with winter climates. It is a vaccine against two types of viruses in group A and two types in group B. In other words, it is a vaccine capable of recognizing and reacting to flu pathogens.

The importance of vaccines is that it sets up an immune system that prevents the disease caused by the virus, or if contracted, ensures a mild illness. Research related to flu shows that the likelihood of illness in vaccinated individuals decreases by 50%, and the risk of complications when sick decreases by more than 50%.

During the flu peak in winter, citizens criticize the lack of beds for children in hospitals. This year, what measures are being planned to increase bed capacity and prevent such illnesses?

There are a total of 800 children's beds within the healthcare facilities under the Health Department of the capital city. During flu outbreak periods, bed capacity is increased to up to 2000. The main importance of starting vaccinations early is to prevent children with the flu from reaching a level of complication that requires hospitalization.

What policies are being implemented to increase the number of medical personnel providing care to young children?

Our sector experiences a shortage of human resources, particularly of specialized personnel. Efforts are ongoing to regularly organize activities to increase social guarantees and salary incentives in the healthcare sector. In recent years, new healthcare facilities have started operations in the capital. For example, the model general hospital of Songinokhairkhan was commissioned earlier, and this year the Selbe hospital is ready to be commissioned. As the number of hospitals increases, we need to prepare the human resources required for these hospitals. Thus, we are planning to implement comprehensive programs for this work.

How is the work of disinfecting and sanitizing school and kindergarten classrooms going?

A joint working group consisting of specialists from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry, the Health Department of the capital, and other relevant agencies conduct preventive inspections and oversight on educational institutions. This year, it is planned to conduct inspections in 75 institutions. They inspect the health and safety conditions of educational buildings, kitchen operations, food production, and classrooms. As of today, the inspection work has progressed to about 60%.

Thank you for the interview.

Portable X-ray Devices Powered by AI Provided to Family Clinics

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

Health Minister T. Munkhsaikhan has handed over high-resolution "MinXray" portable X-ray devices, based on artificial intelligence, to five family clinics.

Each of these devices is valued at 197.7 million MNT and is intended for early detection tests of HIV and tuberculosis. It has been decided to gradually supply these devices to all family clinics. By implementing this equipment across all state family clinics, the spread of diseases, diagnostic delays, service disruptions, and costs will be significantly reduced. The equipment, provided by the US-based "MinXray" company, is already widely used in our country's healthcare services, and what makes this particular implementation noteworthy is its integration with artificial intelligence.

Penalties Imposed for Advertising Medicines and Health Supplements on Social Media

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

During today's extraordinary session of the State Great Khural of Mongolia, the resolution project regarding the "Measures to Ensure the Implementation of the State Great Khural Resolution No. 38 of 2024" was approved.

During the discussion, Member of Parliament J. Chinburen provided information about notable provisions included in the resolution project.

He explained, "It takes 6-12 months to register a medicine. Following this, the quality is verified in a reference laboratory. All these processes create a barrier, preventing others from entering the pharmaceutical market.

The resolution we are approving aims to facilitate the direct import of medicines, approved for use in highly developed countries according to the World Health Organization, into Mongolia through simplified procedures.

We are intending to stop the re-registration and laboratory verification process. This activity will be carried out by the Ministry of Health representing the government, signing agreements with the health ministries and pharmaceutical agencies of the respective countries, thus enabling the General Customs Administration to electronically view the list of medicines used in that country.

For example, even if a drug used in South Korea is not registered in Mongolia, it can pass through customs if an agreement is made between the governments and the pharmaceutical agencies exchange their data. As a result, we will have access to quality medicines without the need to pay bribes or face delays in registration, and without incurring additional costs for laboratory tests. This is to be done quickly as included in the parliamentary resolution.

Selling medicines through unauthorized channels is a serious issue. With the new law taking effect on October 1, strict regulations have been introduced. For example, advertising medicines and health supplements on social media will be prohibited.

If violated, penalties will be imposed, and responsibilities will be enforced. However, non-prescription or health supplements can still be advertised through media channels," he said.

Blood Transported by Drone from Blood Center to MCHC

Published: Sun, 01 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

In collaboration with the National Center for Transfusion Medicine, the MCHC successfully transported blood and blood products using an unmanned aerial device (drone) on the 29th of this month.

The drone covered the 4.3 km distance from the Blood Center to the MCHC in 8 minutes, transporting 2 units of blood products. This device can transport up to 3 kg of blood in a single flight.

Initially, in 2023, the Blood Center conducted a trial to transport blood by drone to the Mongolian-Japanese Hospital. The unmanned device is considered an effective technological advancement, saving human resources and fuel while delivering the necessary blood and blood products in a short time.

Sports

The President U. Khurelsukh Congratulates MUGT G. Bolor-Erdene, Who Won a Silver Medal at the Paralympics

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

The taekwondo competition of the "Paris-2024" Paralympic Games is ongoing. On the first day of the competition, in the women's taekwondo -52 kg K44 category, Iukhm U. Surenzhav fought and won a gold medal. Meanwhile, world double champion MUGT G. Bolor-Erdene, who competed in the men's taekwondo 63 kg category last night, won a silver medal.

President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh congratulated G. Bolor-Erdene on winning the silver medal at the "Paris 2024" Paralympic Games. He stated, "Congratulations to Ganbatyn Bolor-Erdene, a five-time world champion, five-time Asian champion, and Honored Athlete of Mongolia, who raised the national flag with golden soombtsin in the Paris sky and won the first SILVER MEDAL in the 63 kg category of men's taekwondo, bringing joy to his homeland and people. I extend my heartfelt congratulations on behalf of all our people. I would also like to express my gratitude to all the coaches and staff of the National Team of Para Taekwondo of Mongolia and wish them continued success in sports."

G. Bolor-Erdene Wins Silver Medal in 63 kg Taekwondo at "Paris 2024" Summer Paralympics

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 | Translated from: isee.mn

The taekwondo competition at the "Paris-2024" Paralympic Games is ongoing. On the first day of the event, International Master of Sport U. Surenzhav competed in the K44 category of the women's -52 kg taekwondo division and won a gold medal.

On the night of August 30-31, 2024, multiple world champion and Mongolian State Honored Athlete G. Bolor-Erdene challenged for the 63 kg men's taekwondo event and won a silver medal. He fought against Turkey's Mahmut Bazteket and drew 7:7 in regular time, losing in the golden score time. Interestingly, the Turkish athlete is ranked 1st in the world, while our athlete is ranked 2nd.