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Mongolia News Summary for September 06, 2024

Mongolia News Summary for September 06, 2024
The following news articles are the opinions of their authors and publications. They are presented here as translations for informational purposes and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Mongolia Strategy Center or its members.

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Politics

N. Narantsatsag: Make sure to read the voter list

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

We interviewed N. Narantsatsag, a senior specialist at the General Registry Office, regarding the voter list and citizen registration movement for the upcoming 2024 Provincial, City, District, and Village Citizens’ Representative Council election.

The voter list for the 2024 Provincial, City, District, and Village Citizens’ Representative Council election has been posted in the electronic system. How is the voter information different from the 2024 State Great Hural election?

According to the law on the Provincial, City, District, and Village Citizens’ Representative Council election, the voter list has been posted on the organization's website as of July 13, 2024.

In accordance with the laws on the Presidential and State Great Hural elections, as well as the Provincial, City, District, and Village Citizens’ Representative Council elections, voter information is similar. Specifically, there is a legal regulation to verify and check whether the voter's last name, first name, age, gender, civil registration number, and permanent address registration information are incorrect or mismatched.

However, due to the amendments in the State Great Hural Election Law, voters now have the opportunity to view their and their registered permanent address’s voter information posted on the electronic system.

This regulation is not included in the Provincial, City, District, and Village Citizens’ Representative Council election law, so voters can only view information related to themselves from the voter list posted on the electronic system. If the information is incorrect, they should contact the local registration office of their residence.

For the State Great Hural election, how many voters checked their information? We've heard reports of unknown individuals registered at certain addresses or data discrepancies. Were there many such complaints during the 2024 State Great Hural election? How were they resolved?

As of June 29, 2024, 136,063 citizens have reviewed the relevant information on the State Great Hural 2024 election voter list, with 128,548 indicating their information was correct, 7,517 found discrepancies, and 1,286 were resolved.

82% of the total complaints, or 6,179, were related to discrepancies in resident numbers at their address or unknown individuals registered at their address. Investigation showed that it was often previous owners of the property who were still registered. Therefore, citizens who have sold their property need to ensure their registration reflects their new address.

Citizens can request the suspension of their address registration based on the conclusion of an administrative inspector if their civil registration does not reflect the termination of property ownership or land rights, according to Article 19.4 of the Law on Civil Registration. This allows the owner to resolve the issue with a request to the administrative inspector of the unit.

Resolving this discrepancy requires implementing the General Administrative Law, which requires a specific time frame.

Additionally, other issues have arisen where property owners formally registered relatives, such as children, for school enrollment purposes and then forgot. It is important to properly verify information and make complaints accordingly.

What were the common registration discrepancies related to addresses?

The most common complaint was about other individuals being registered at the given address. Citizens unfamiliar with the rules and regulations regarding moving likely did not update their registration. The law mandates that citizens must register their relocation within 10 days by providing relevant documents to the local registration office, either in person or through the e-Mongolia service for government services.

If many complaints were resolved during the State Great Hural election, can we understand that address registration issues have decreased in local elections?

Yes, discrepancies have decreased to some extent. However, I would like to reiterate that petitions and complaints that require verification and clarification need time.

If there is a discrepancy, how long will it take to file a complaint and get it corrected using the electronic system?

We will process citizens' applications and complaints within the time frame specified in the Law on Resolving Applications and Complaints from Citizens to State Agencies and Officials.

Complaints made by voters will be addressed based on original archival documentation whenever possible, and feedback will be provided to the citizens. For information that requires verification and clarification, it will take a certain period to resolve.

How long will the voter list remain available on your electronic system? Until when can citizens check their information and file a complaint if there are discrepancies?

The voter list posted on the website will be accessible until the election voting day, allowing citizens to check not only their information but also the address of the voting station. However, it is important to note that complaints must be filed at least 14 days before the voting day as per the law. It should be noted that even after the 14-day legal period has ended, the issue can still be resolved by contacting the appropriate registration department.

Can citizens who cannot check their information online get information by visiting their local election committee? When will voters' information be available at local election committees?

According to Article 20.9 of the Law on the Provincial, City, District, and Village Citizens’ Representative Council Election, the state administrative body responsible for registration issues will provide the voter list in paper form to local branches of the registration agency at least 25 days before the election day and distribute it to local election committees. Therefore, the paper voter lists will be issued and sent to the election committees before September 16, 2024. From this moment, voters who cannot check their information online can visit their local election committee to review the voter list.

Political parties and coalitions participating in the election receive the voter list. There have been reports on social media about parties and coalitions contacting voters regarding whom to vote for or giving advice. Does the voter list contain personal information of the voters? In general, what information is provided to parties and coalitions?

For the Presidential election, the law permits authorized representatives of parties and coalitions to receive the voter list electronically once. For the State Great Hural election, registered parties and coalitions participating in the election can receive it twice electronically. However, the law for the Provincial, City, District, and Village Citizens’ Representative Council election does not allow providing a voter list to parties or coalitions.

Is the policy of stopping voter registration movements for local elections similar to that of the State Great Hural election?

Yes, it is similar. The registration of civil movements is suspended 60 days before the voting day and resumed the day after voting. The registration of movements was stopped starting from August 12, 2024.

How many voters will participate in the local election?

As of August 26, 2024, there are a total of 2,237,879 registered voters for the local election.

This number might change by election day due to factors like deaths and updates in civil registration, as well as additional notations based on government agency information.

Local Elections in Other Districts Besides Bayanzurkh and Songinokhairkhan Have a Single District

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

In this local election, 2,393 constituencies have been established, and 8,031 mandates have been determined.

Specifically, 558 constituencies in 21 aimags have 751 mandates, 1,642 constituencies in soums have 6,922 mandates, 12 constituencies in the capital have 45 mandates, and 181 constituencies in districts have 313 mandates.

Out of these, the nine districts of the capital have 12 constituencies, with Bayanzurkh district having 3 constituencies and Songinokhairkhan having 2 constituencies, each with 10 mandates, while the other districts have one constituency with 1–6 mandates.

Introducing the Attendance Information of the Extraordinary Session of the State Great Khural

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The extraordinary session of the State Great Khural of Mongolia for 2024 took place between August 15-30.

The attendance information during this period is being reported by the Parliament Session Organizing Department.

According to the reports, during the extraordinary session, there were a total of seven plenary meetings. The members with the least attendance, who missed five out of seven plenary meetings, are as follows:

  • Member of Parliament D. Batlut - worked in local areas for 1 day, absent for 4 days
  • Member of Parliament Kh. Battulga - traveled abroad for 3 days, absent for 1, late for 1 day
  • J. Ganbaatar - traveled abroad for 3 days, absent for 2 days
  • Member of Parliament D. Ganmaa - traveled abroad for 5 days
  • Member of Parliament B. Purevdorj - worked in local areas for 5 days

Source: Session Organizing Department

Note: News organizations (Television, Radio, Social and Web sites) must credit (ikon.mn) when using our information, be it fully or partially.

Economy

Russia to Supply 1.9 Million Tons of Oil Products to Mongolia

Published: Fri, 06 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

According to an agreement between Russia and Mongolia, Russia will supply 1.8-1.9 million tons of oil products and 60 thousand tons of aircraft fuel annually to Mongolia, as announced by Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev during the Eastern Economic Forum.

During Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Mongolia, a cooperation agreement was signed between the Ministry of Energy of Russia and the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources of Mongolia for the supply of oil products and aviation fuel. "Rosneft" and "Gazprom Neft" companies are supplying products to the country, and both governments and energy ministers signed an intergovernmental agreement to support this initiative. The agreement outlines how to cooperate in a way that benefits both Russia and Mongolia," the minister explained.

According to Sergey Tsivilev, Russia supplies almost 99% of Mongolia's imported fuel, with the share of diesel fuel being slightly lower. Regarding the supply of aircraft fuel to Mongolia, he mentioned that Russia would provide 100% of the necessary fuel for the new airport. "Additionally, we have agreed on mutually beneficial terms for all parties. We have defined the principles of operation with a 60:40 ownership ratio in a joint venture. We always negotiate under the principle of mutual benefit," he said.

BUDGET 2025: Regions Will Have Different Tax Rates

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The government has announced its regional development policy. Accordingly, salaries of civil servants working in provinces and sums will be increased, more jobs will be created in local areas, and a decision has been made to issue mortgage loans with a 3% interest rate.

Starting next year, different taxes will be imposed on regions. To support development projects, equipment used in such projects will be exempt from customs duties and the VAT payment period will be delayed by four years. From the time when development is completed and operations begin, real estate tax will be applied as stated in the 2025 state budget draft and accompanying projects.

Additionally, processing industries will be supported by being fully exempt from customs duties. Implementing these exemptions and discounts will not reduce state budget revenue, as these adjustments aim to support future, rather than current, income.

The Ministry of Finance estimates that next year, our country's GDP will reach 95 trillion MNT, and the GDP per capita will be 7,900 USD. This increase is expected to boost household consumption, resulting in a corresponding rise in personal income tax and VAT.

Mongolia was decided to be developed through a seven-zone system of economic regions: Khangai, Western, Northern, Central, Eastern, Gobi, and Ulaanbaatar, as defined last June.

Khangai Region: Arkhangai, Bayankhongor, and Uvurkhangai provinces;
Western Region: Bayan-Ulgii, Govi-Altai, Zavkhan, Uvs, and Khovd provinces;
Northern Region: Bulgan, Orkhon, and Khuvsgul provinces;
Central Region: Darkhan-Uul, Selenge, and Tuv provinces;
Eastern Region: Dornod, Sukhbaatar, and Khentii provinces;
Gobi Region: Govisumber, Dornogovi, Dundgovi, and Umnugovi provinces;
Ulaanbaatar Region: Ulaanbaatar and surrounding areas

How to Obtain the Increase in Meal Money to be Decided by Government Meeting

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The decision to increase the budget for kindergarten children's meal raw materials by 1,000 MNT per day, with parents bearing the additional cost, has been made and implemented from this new academic year.

Minister of Education P. Naranbayar stated that over 292,000 children will study in kindergartens this year. As in previous years, every child who applies will be accommodated in kindergartens this year as well.

A regulation has been added to the General Law on Education that parents or guardians will jointly pay for their children's meals. By paying an additional 1,000 MNT per day for their kindergarten children's meal expenses, parents can ensure their children have access to more nutritious meals. It is urged that children should be able to eat until they are full and play to their heart's content in their kindergartens, and parents are encouraged to contribute to the meal expenses.

Although it was decided that 22,000 MNT would be collected from parents monthly, calculated over 22 working days for kindergarten children's meal materials, the collection had not started in the first week of the new school year.

Regarding this, the Head of the Food Production Department of the Ministry of Education, Tumenzharag, clarified that the regulations and guidelines on how to collect kindergarten children's meal money have not yet been issued. This issue will be presented and resolved at next week’s meeting of the Government and then communicated to the public.

- So now, does it mean children's meals are being prepared with last year's budget?
Yes, indeed, kindergarten children's meal money is 3,000 MNT per day. Currently, meals are being prepared with this budget. The school lunch budget is 1,500 MNT.

- Will the school lunch budget be increased?
- The Ministry of Education has proposed to include the increase in lunch money in the 2025 State Budget.

MSE: Securities Traded Worth ₮57.6 Billion in August

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: bloombergtv.mn

In August, 71.3% of the trades were made up of bond trades.

Securities worth ₮57.6 billion were traded on the Mongolian Stock Exchange. This represents an increase of more than 50% compared to the previous month. Since the beginning of this year, approximately ₮893 billion worth of securities have been traded on the stock exchange. While there were no primary market trades for stocks last month, bond trading was active.

During the reporting period, bonds worth ₮41.1 billion were traded. Bond trading made up 71.3% of last month's trades.

On Wednesday, the main indices showed mixed movements, with the “Top-20” index rising by 0.09% to reach 48,941 points. This is a peak for three trading days but remains below the 49,000-point level. A total of ₮4 billion were traded, with 2.7 million securities traded for ₮3.7 billion through block trading. The stock market's capitalization closed at ₮12 trillion.

In addition, "Khermes Center" JSC announced a dividend distribution of ₮12.50 per share from its net profit for the first half of 2024.

The principle payment for the second tranche of the "ETT Bond" issued by "Erdenes Tavantolgoi" JSC and the fifth tranche of the "Invescore Bond 2.0" issued by "Invescore NBFI" JSC have been fully paid. Therefore, these debt instruments have been removed from the registration of the Mongolian Stock Exchange in accordance with relevant laws and exchange regulations.

The Bank of Mongolia Purchased 932 kg of Precious Metals in August

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Bank of Mongolia purchased 931.9 kg of precious metals in August 2024, bringing the total purchased since the beginning of the year to 10.3 tons. This represents a decrease of 1.6% compared to the same period last year.

Since the beginning of the year, the Bank of Mongolia's branch in Darkhan-Uul province has purchased 429.5 kg, and its branch in Bayankhongor province has purchased 828.8 kg of precious metals, respectively.

The price at which the Bank of Mongolia purchases precious metals is determined by the global market price. In August 2024, the average purchasing price for gold was 267,835.69 MNT.

Source: Bank of Mongolia

“Open the World with UnionPay” Promotional Campaign with Cashback Launches

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Khan Bank is pleased to announce the launch of its latest promotional campaign, "Open the World with UnionPay," offering cashback on every purchase for UnionPay cardholders.

This campaign will run from September 1 to December 31, 2024. During this period, UnionPay cardholders of Khan Bank can enjoy a 5% cashback for every purchase made using POS devices in China and on Chinese online shopping websites.

Key Terms of the Campaign:

  • Maximum transaction amount: 5,600,000₮
  • Minimum transaction amount: 30,000₮
  • Maximum cashback amount: 280,000₮
  • Minimum cashback amount: 1,500₮

Cashback will be automatically credited to the card account linked to the transaction at Khan Bank on the 10th of each month. For example, if you make a total purchase of 2,000,000₮ on Chinese online shopping platforms from September 1 to September 30, you will receive a cashback of 100,000₮ credited to your account automatically on October 10. The promotion applies to individual UnionPay cards only, so corporate UnionPay cardholders are not eligible.

Customers can easily manage their UnionPay cards through Internet banking and the Khan Bank application. Services include card ordering, renewal, reissuing, activation, status change, statement viewing, PIN code change, and unblocking.

The "Open the World with UnionPay" promotional campaign aims to bring international shopping closer to Khan Bank customers, offering an opportunity to save on finance. Let's open up more opportunities together with Khan Bank!

Harmonious Growth Together – Khan Bank

Diplomacy

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Vice Chairman of the People's Republic of China, Han Zheng, will make an official visit to Mongolia from September 6th to 8th, 2024.

In accordance with the law on special state protection, during these days, the movement of some roads will be temporarily and partially restricted and regulated.

Therefore, citizens are requested to comply with the lawful requirements of the officials of state institutions that implement special state protection, show respect to others, follow traffic rules, and participate in the movement with culture.

Source: Special State Protection Agency

Will President U. Khurelsukh Attend the BRICS Member Nations' Summit?

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: itoim.mn

During an official visit to Mongolia, Russian President Vladimir Putin invited the country's President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh to attend the upcoming summit of the BRICS member nations.

At a meeting held in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, Putin remarked, "We are waiting for you." The group of major emerging economies, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is scheduled to meet in Kazan, Russia, at the end of October. However, President U. Khurelsukh of Mongolia has not yet expressed a position on participating in the summit.

Putin expressed his desire to first discuss economic cooperation with Mongolia, highlighting the completion of a free trade agreement between the two countries. He emphasized the possibility of supplying more than 300 Mongolian products to Russia with tax benefits.

This visit marks the first time since the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin in connection with the war in Ukraine in March 2023, which has been in effect to transfer him to the court in the Netherlands. However, the likelihood of Putin being arrested in Mongolia was low given the country's economic dependence on Russia and neighboring China.

Mongolia is trying to establish balanced relations not only with its neighboring countries but also with Western nations. According to Mongolian analyst Julian Dierkes, "Handing over Vladimir Putin would be almost 'suicidal' for Mongolia. The country sources most of its fuel from Russia, and China is Mongolia's most important trading partner, with the nation of approximately 3.4 million people exporting raw materials like coal to Beijing."

A copy of the credentials of the new Ambassador from the Holy See to Mongolia received

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The State Secretary L. Munkhtushig of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has met with the new Ambassador of the Holy See to Mongolia, Giovanni Gaspari, and received a copy of his credentials.

During the meeting, there was a discussion on strengthening the historical relationship and cooperation between the two sides, especially in the field of culture and humanities, as well as uncovering and integrating historical documents related to Mongolia that are preserved in the Vatican library and archives into research circulation.

Additionally, they mutually confirmed their commitment to contribute collectively to resolving challenges faced by the international community, as well as to strengthen cooperation within the United Nations and other international organizations.

USA: We Understand Well the Difficult Situation Mongolia Is In. However, It Is Important to Fulfill Obligations

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The issue of Mongolia not implementing the International Criminal Court's (ICC) arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit has come into the spotlight globally.

On the day of the visit, the matter was addressed during the daily press briefing of the U.S. State Department.

When a journalist asked about the Mongolian authorities' failure to implement the ICC's warrant, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller responded:

“There are a few things to be said here. Firstly, we are confident that no country should provide a platform for Putin to promote his war of conquest against Ukraine. We hope that Mongolia will fulfill its commitment to supporting the principles of the UN Charter, such as sovereignty and territorial integrity, and uphold these principles worldwide. We understand Mongolia's position, being situated between two large neighbors, but we believe it's crucial to continue supporting the rule of law internationally,” he answered.

When the journalist asked again, “Does this mean you are disappointed with the failure to comply with the arrest warrant?” Miller replied: “As I stated, we understand very well the difficult situation Mongolia is in, being a relatively small country next to its two neighbors. We want to continue supporting Mongolia, but it is important for the country to fulfill its international obligations. It is vital for them to clearly express support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty when interacting with Russia,” he said.

When the journalist remarked, “Not such a small country,” Miller concluded the conversation by saying, “I am speaking in terms of population compared to Russia and China.”

Received Ambassador Gabit Koishibayev from the Republic of Kazakhstan to Mongolia

Published: Fri, 06 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia, D. Amarbaysgalan, welcomed Ambassador Gabit Koishibayev from the Republic of Kazakhstan to Mongolia today.

Chairman D. Amarbaysgalan expressed his satisfaction with the active development of traditional friendly relations and cooperation between Mongolia and Kazakhstan over the past 30 years, with regular dialogue at high levels. He emphasized the significant role of cooperation between legislative bodies in deepening relations and collaboration between the two countries, as well as in strengthening political trust and understanding.

Ambassador Gabit Koishibayev congratulated D. Amarbaysgalan on becoming the chairman of the newly formed 126-member parliament and expressed commitment to focus on intensifying all-round cooperation between the two countries. Additionally, he highlighted the active role he would take in studying the experiences of legislative bodies and strengthening friendly relations.

The parties exchanged views on working together in the areas of trade, economy, and investment, and on further expanding their traditional friendly relations, according to the Press Office of the State Great Khural.

The Copy of Credentials from the Apostolic See's Ambassador to Mongolia Received

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, L. Munkhtushig, met Giovanni Gaspar, the Ambassador who concurrently serves Mongolia from the Apostolic See, and received a copy of his credentials.

During the meeting, discussions were held about strengthening the historical relations and cooperation between the two sides, particularly in the spheres of culture and humanitarian cooperation. This includes efforts to uncover and bring into research circulation documents related to Mongolian history stored in the Vatican's library and archives.

The parties also reaffirmed their commitment to contributing jointly to resolving global challenges faced by the international community and to strengthening cooperation within the United Nations and other international organizations.

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Disputes Should Be Settled Through Trust, Respect, and Dialogue Within the Framework of International Law

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Russian President Vladimir Putin's one-day visit to Mongolia concluded amid criticism from Ukraine and several European nations for Mongolia's decision not to arrest him, despite the International Criminal Court's (ICC) warrant.

Ukraine, in particular, expressed strong disapproval, with Ukrainian officials stating, "We will work together with our allies to ensure Mongolia faces consequences for not arresting Putin." Shortly after Putin's arrival in Ulaanbaatar, Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Georgy Tikhiy, condemned Mongolia for failing to comply with the ICC's arrest warrant. "Failure to comply with the mandatory arrest warrant for Putin is a significant blow to the ICC and the international criminal justice system," the statement read.

In response to these criticisms, Mongolian President U.Khurelsukh addressed the matter in a joint statement following official talks with Putin at the State House. He emphasized Mongolia's approach to international relations, saying, "We respect the pluralism that arises from the history, culture, civilization, national interests, and development path of any country, and aim to build international relations based on multi-pillar principles."

President Khurelsukh reiterated Mongolia’s commitment to the role of the United Nations in global affairs, stressing that "any international difficulties and misunderstandings should be addressed through mutual understanding, mutual trust, respect, and dialogue, and resolved within the framework of international legal norms."

He concluded by expressing confidence in Russia’s potential to contribute to global peace, security, and sustainable development, stating, "We trust that our eternal neighbor, the Russian Federation, will demonstrate leadership in promoting world peace and will play a valuable role in fostering trust, mutual respect, and cooperation among nations."

Infrastructure

Progress and Challenges of the Oil Refinery Construction Project Presented

Published: Fri, 06 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In today's government meeting, Minister of Mongolia and head of the Cabinet Secretariat N. Uchral presented the progress and current challenges of the oil refinery construction project. Additionally, the Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Ts. Tuvaan discussed measures to be taken in the future.

It was instructed to the relevant officials to accelerate the implementation of decisions and resolutions related to the project and to report the results regularly. The Cabinet Secretariat informed that N. Uchral will lead the working group responsible for accelerating the construction and resolving challenges of the oil refinery project through management and inter-sectoral coordination.

A Contract for the Design and Development of the Expansion and Renovation of the III Thermal Power Plant Was Signed

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

President U. Khurelsukh of Mongolia and President V.V. Putin of Russia signed the following documents today:

  • The basic design and development agreement for the expansion and renovation project of the III Thermal Power Plant
  • Oil products supply agreement
  • Agreement on supplying aircraft fuel to Mongolia
  • Agreement on cooperation in epidemiological studies of plague
  • Agreement on cooperation in the protection of Lake Baikal and the Selenge River

The power plant will be expanded in stages by a total of 300 MW (50+250 MW). The project will be implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Energy of the Russian Federation (RF) and the company "Inter RAO Export."

Within the framework of the cooperation, in March 2023, the Ministry of Energy of Russia submitted the draft intergovernmental agreement for the expansion and renovation of the III thermal power plant's construction and assembly works.

This draft agreement was presented by the Ministry of Energy at a government meeting. It will be ratified in a regular session of the State Great Khural. There arose a necessity for mutual agreement to specify the total budget cost, construction and assembly period, and the conditions of the Russian Government's export loan for the expansion and modernization project of the station.

Therefore, the Minister for Economic Development Ch. Khurelbataar sent official letters No. 01/1373 of 2022 and No. 01/333 of 2023 to the Minister of Finance of the Russian Federation, A.G. Siluanov.

On April 25, 2023, a meeting was held with the Minister of Finance of Russia at the Russian Ministry of Finance. During this time, the financing terms of the project were discussed. It was communicated that Mongolia is interested in obtaining a ruble-denominated export loan of Russia with an interest rate of 2%, a repayment period of 20 years, a principal payment grace period of 5 years, and a Mongolian investment not exceeding 5%.

Additionally, on June 06, 2023, Finance Minister B. Javkhlan sent a request to Minister of Finance A.G. Siluanov regarding the issuance of a loan in consideration of concessional loan levels prescribed by the Law on Public Debt Management.

Furthermore, during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum organized in June 2023 in the city of St Petersburg, Minister of Energy B. Choijilsuren met with Russian Minister of Finance A.G. Siluanov to discuss financing. During the meeting, the Russian Minister of Finance mentioned that it would not be possible to give a loan under the concessional conditions offered by the Mongolian side. He also noted that the financing could be reconsidered upon the improvement of the Russian economic situation.

The total budget cost for the project, according to the technical and economic feasibility study (TEFS) developed by the Russian company "Inter RAO Export" in 2022, amounts to a total of 1,326.9 million euros (including VAT 1,486.9 million euros). It was planned to finance 15%, or 199 million euros, by Mongolia and 85%, or 1 billion 127.9 million euros, by the Russian EXPORT loan.

The Ministry of Energy and "DCT-3" Joint-Stock Company studied this TEFS of the project and, using the benchmark price estimates of other thermal power plant projects being implemented in the energy sector, came to the conclusion that if our country finances this project with its own resources, it could be implemented for 814.3 million USD (including VAT 915.1 million USD) by shortening the construction period by 1-2 years.

Negotiations were held repeatedly with the representatives of the Russian company "Inter RAO Export," and a proposal to reduce the total budget cost of the project was presented.

In connection with the above situation, Minister of Energy B. Choijilsuren, in December 2023, during a meeting with Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology of Russia, who is also the Chairman of the Russian part of the Mongolia-Russia Intergovernmental Commission, A.A. Kozlov, exchanged opinions regarding the phased expansion and modernization of the III Thermal Power Plant by a total of 300 MW (50+250 MW). An updated roadmap was developed to ensure the implementation of the project.

In accordance with the updated project roadmap, it has been agreed that the Mongolian side will initially finance the design and drawing development works of the project with its funds, and this funding will be included in the total budget cost of the construction and assembly works in the second stage.

In this connection, a draft intergovernmental agreement on "The design and drawing development of the expansion and renovation project of the III Thermal Power Plant" was prepared by the Ministry of Energy of Mongolia and the Russian Federation.

This draft agreement incorporated the suggestions of the Ministry of Economic Development, the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was presented at the government meeting on April 17, 2024.

By the 15th resolution of this meeting, it was instructed to take appropriate measures within the framework of the legislation to the Minister of Energy, the Minister of Finance, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Accordingly, this project was delivered to the Minister of Energy of Russia N.G. Shulginov through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via letter No. a/12Z1 dated April 25, 2024, of the Minister of Energy.

Regarding the draft agreement, P.Yu. Sorokina, acting on behalf of the Minister of Energy of Russia, sent the Russian party's proposal through diplomatic channels on July 23, 2024. The proposals of the Russian party were studied, and the Ministry of Energy's response proposal was delivered to Minister S.E. Civiliev on August 07, 2024, via diplomatic channels, resulting in mutual understanding.

The project was presented to a government meeting in compliance with relevant Mongolian laws and regulations and discussed with the relevant Standing Committee of the State Great Khural in advance. Following this, the right to sign the agreement was granted to the Minister of Energy by the Prime Minister's decree, and subsequently, the agreement will be ratified by the State Great Khural.

The agreement consists of 11 articles. It covers the specification of the general conditions, scope of work for design and engineering studies, and appointing project coordinator "DCT-3" Joint Stock Company for the design and development of a 50 MW (1x50 MW) block extension of the high-pressure part and replacing the 48 MW (4x12 MW) block of the medium pressure part with a new 250 MW (2x125 MW) block station. "Inter RAO Export" of Russia was proposed as the implementing contractor.

During the design and drawing development stage, the total budget cost, and timeline for the construction and assembly of the III Thermal Power Plant's expansion and renovation project will be thoroughly clarified, and further conditions will be established to enable negotiations with the Russian side on the Russian Government's export loan conditions and construction outcomes.

BUDGET 2025: Start of the Egiin Gol Hydropower Plant, Completion in 2032

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Next year, the government plans to make development-focused investments. In 2025, budgetary investments are expected to be 4.2 trillion MNT, and local investments are projected to be 1.8 trillion MNT. Eight percent of this will be allocated to the energy sector, specifically to increase sources and capacity.

When looking at investments by sector, the most significant allocation is to transportation infrastructure and housing, with a considerable portion also directed towards the energy sector.

Energy projects have the characteristic of spanning many years.

ENERGY PROJECTS TO CONTINUE NEXT YEAR

  1. 450 MW Thermal Power Plant at Tavan Tolgoi
  2. Duration: 2024-2028
  3. Size: 460 billion MNT
  4. State-Owned Company Amount: 690 billion MNT was contributed.
  5. Private Sector Contribution: 1.6 trillion MNT
  6. Total Investment: 2.3 trillion MNT
  7. 90 MW Hydropower Plant at Erdeneburen
  8. Duration: 2021-2028
  9. Size: 100 billion MNT
  10. Foreign Loan: 855 billion MNT (to be taken from China)
  11. Total Investment: 855 billion MNT
  12. 310 MW Egiin Gol Hydropower Plant
  13. Duration: 2024-2032
  14. State-Owned Company Amount: 3.7 trillion MNT (partnership between state and private sector)
  15. Total Investment: 3.7 trillion MNT
  16. Renewable Energy and Distributed Sources
  17. Duration: 2024-2028
  18. Size: 20 billion MNT
  19. Foreign Loan: 211 billion MNT
  20. Total Investment: 1.3 trillion MNT
  21. Building Thermal Power Stations in Ten Provinces
  22. Duration: 2023-2025
  23. Total Investment: A loan of 110 million USD from the Export-Import Bank of Korea
  24. Extension and Modernization Design Project for the III Power Plant
  25. State-Owned Company Amount: The Mongolian side will provide 15% of the funding, equivalent to 199 million euros. 743 billion MNT
  26. Foreign Loan: A loan of 1.3 billion euros from Russia with a 2% interest rate for a 20-year repayment period with a 5-year principal payment holiday
  27. Total Investment: 4.8 trillion MNT or 1.5 billion euros

The project to build power stations in ten provinces is 46% complete. The Ministry of Finance announced they will finish this project next year.

The Northern Road of EHEMU Will be Closed and Renewed

Published: Fri, 06 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The northern road of EHEMU in the Bayangol district will be closed and renewed from 23:00 on the 6th of this month until 06:00 on the 9th.

As part of this effort, works such as adjusting the manholes of the engineering network to the asphalt concrete pavement level and replacing guardrails will be carried out, as informed by the NHK Department of the Mayor’s Office.

BUDGET 2025: A 4C Category Airport to be Built Near Buir Lake

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

In order to support tourism and enhance the comfort of both domestic and international tourists, the following projects will be implemented next year:

  • Construction of a road to Altai Tavan Bogd
  • Construction of a 4C category airport at Buir Lake
  • Expansion of the Nalaikh-Terelj road

In compliance with the commitments to the International Civil Aviation Organization, the decision was made by the Ministry of Road and Transport Development in 2022 to classify the international airports that are along the transit routes over our country (Dornod, Khovd, and Ulaangom airports) as 4C category. However, this action has not yet been implemented.

Buir Lake is located in the territory of Khalkhgol soum, Dornod aimag, lying on the border of Eastern Mongolia and Inner Mongolia, and is a freshwater lake. It is part of the Khölön-Buir ecotourism region along with the nearby Khölön or Dalai Lake. The lake was registered in the Ramsar Convention list of internationally significant wetland sites in 2004.

Residents of the capital travel by road to Buir Lake via Sukhbaatar or Dornod aimag and follow the route Ulaanbaatar-Choibalsan-Meneng Steppe-Buir Lake. The journey requires 2-3 days for a one-way trip, making it a long journey.

Road Closure Announced from Dölgön Lake Intersection to Ölzii Center Tomorrow

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The road from the Dölgön Lake intersection of the Ikh Toiruu road in Sukhbaatar District to the Ölzii Center will be closed for reconstruction from 10:00 PM on September 6th to 6:00 AM on September 9th. With this, road repair works will commence in four locations of the city starting tomorrow.

As part of this work, manhole covers of the engineering network will be adjusted to the asphalt concrete pavement level, and curbs will be replaced.

Citizens and drivers are advised to choose alternative routes during this time.

Source: Public Relations Department of the Mayor's Administration Office

Note: Media outlets (television, radio, social media, and websites) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when using this information in any form or partially.

ROUTE: Changes in Bus Routes M:4, Ch:34, Ch:35, Ch:74 of Public Transport

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Due to road repair works, temporary changes will be made to four public transport routes.

Specifically, the Public Transport Department of the Capital has informed that road segments on Dorj's street, located in Bayanzurkh district's neighborhoods 2, 4, 7, and 30, will be closed from 22:00 on September 6, 2024, until 06:00 on September 9, 2024. Therefore, route changes are being made to four public transport lines that run through this road.

During the road closure, public transport vehicles will serve passengers according to the following routes:

  • M:4 Tsambagarav-Injury Hospital-Great Circle-Shar Khad
  • Ch:34 Shar Khad-Sansar-Ard Cinema-TEC 3
  • Ch:35 Moneliin 43-Food Market No. 4-MUST-11th Neighborhood
  • Ch:74 Tsagaan Davaa-Gandan-Station

Attention is drawn to all media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Websites) regarding the necessity of citing the source when using our information in any form (ikon.mn).

Closure and Renovation of the Road from Dölgön Lake Shopping Center Intersection to Ölzii Center

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The road from the intersection of Dölgön Lake Shopping Center to Ölzii Center, located in the Sukhbaatar district and on the Ikh Toiroogiin road, will be closed and renovated from 22:00 on September 6th to 06:00 on September 9th.

As part of this, the manhole covers will be adjusted to the level of the asphalt concrete surface, and curbs will be replaced. Therefore, residents and drivers are advised to choose alternative routes to participate in traffic.

Society

NHRC: Citizens who protested may have been subject to excessive force when detained and brought to the police station

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) held a press conference today on human rights issues in domestic regions.

During the event, G. Uuganbaatar, head of the Complaints and Investigation Department of the NHRC, provided information regarding the detention of citizens who protested against Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit.

He stated that due to the official visit of the Russian President to Mongolia, citizens expressed their opinions. During the organization of this expression of opinions, they were detained by the police.

The NHRC kept constant oversight and observation of the situation. Specifically, they acted swiftly at Sukhbaatar Square and the Sukhbaatar district's first police station where citizens were detained, and exchanged relevant information.

Citizens are open to carry out demonstrations and express opinions on any subject. However, this time, the situation was conducted under special circumstances.

According to the law on state protection, it is organized in three levels. The Russian President's official visit was classified under a first-level protection measure as stipulated by law.

During the event, citizens who organized demonstrations and expressed their opinions were told by the police that "expressing opinions in the second tier of protection is open. Therefore, you may express your opinions."

The police provided information that citizens were detained because they expressed their opinions in the first tier of protection.

According to Article 12.1.5 of the law on state special protection, organizing demonstrations in a protection area is legally prohibited.

The matters involving the organization of the state leader's visit in Mongolia are regulated not only by the law on state special protection and other relevant laws but also by international agreements and legal regulations.

The host nation, Mongolia, assumed responsibilities for ensuring the safety and security of the guest during the Russian President's visit.

Official information from the police stated that "The detained citizens did not comply with the police officers' requests, resisted, and attempted to enter the first protection zone, therefore, they were temporarily detained according to the law to establish their identities, obtain statements, and explanations."

We visited the Sukhbaatar district's first police station to observe the situation of the detained citizens and spoke to three of the six citizens.

We also joined the process of obtaining statements from the detained individuals.

The citizens are under investigation for violations according to the Law on Violations, specifically for:

  • Article 5.8: Violation of procedure for organizing demonstrations,
  • Part 2 of Article 15: Failure to comply with a state official's decision and obstructing operations.

There are circumstances suggesting that excessive force may have been used when escorting detainees to the police station. This matter is under official investigation by the internal control and inspection department of the General Police Department.

In other words, internal investigation is being conducted regarding the actions of police officers who allegedly used excessive force while stopping named citizens from expressing their opinions in the first protection tier, with information being exchanged between the NHRC and police authorities.

ATTT: 29,000 Road Traffic Incidents Recorded Annually in Mongolia, Approximately 3,000 People Injured

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

According to the National Road Transport Agency (ATTT), 29,000 road traffic incidents are reported in Mongolia annually, resulting in injuries to approximately 3,000 people and leading to 600 fatalities each year.

As part of the "Project to Strengthen the Inspection Capacity of Mongolia's Vehicle Technical Inspection and Improve Road Safety by Improving Technical Inspection Equipment," the National Road Transport Center has signed and ratified a Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of Korea's Road Traffic Safety Authority (KoRoad) to collaborate on road traffic safety.

Although social and economic indicators in our country have been increasing in recent years, negative consequences that require attention have emerged. One such consequence is the impact of road traffic incidents nationwide.

Through this memorandum, various projects and programs will be jointly implemented to improve Mongolia's road traffic safety performance. These will include the development of professional driver examinations, management systems, traffic safety education, training specialists, and enhancing public knowledge and information, thereby contributing to ensuring road traffic safety in Mongolia.

Family Divorce in the Gobi Region and Teenage Girl Pregnancy Issues in the Western Region Are Emerging

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

A press conference was organized by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on human rights issues in local areas.

During this time, it was announced that activities under the theme "Together for Human Rights" will be organized starting from October in the western, Khangai, Gobi, central, eastern, and northern regions.

The following information was presented regarding what issues are increasing in the provinces and local areas.

Khangai Region: Arkhangai, Bayankhongor, and Uvurkhangai provinces have common violations of the right to live in a safe environment. Moreover, the number of crimes and violations has increased.

Specifically, administrative violations, sexual abuse of girls, defamation, the condition of dormitories in general educational schools, and the violation of the right to education for children with disabilities were highlighted.

Gobi Region: In the provinces of Govisumber, Dundgovi, Dornogovi, and Umnugovi, where approximately 210,000 people live, the mining sector is predominantly developed.

By the end of 2023, it accounted for 24% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), 29% of total budget revenues, and 91% of export revenues while creating 62,000 jobs.

Consequently, issues such as dust pollution from mining, children's rights issues, road safety, road paving and transport, family divorce, domestic violence, children's rights, and the protection of the rights of target groups are pressing issues in the Gobi region.

Central Region: Darkhan-Uul, Selenge, and Tuv provinces primarily engage in agriculture, including livestock and crop farming, producing about 60% of the country's grain.

The central region is connected by paved roads and railways, with the number of newcomers increasing annually.

For instance, in Darkhan-Uul province, more than 6,000 citizens have moved in over the past three years, leading the nation in this regard. Consequently, issues concerning the rights of target groups have been significantly raised.

To address the pressing issues, resolution of budget financing, children's rights, particularly the right to education for children with disabilities, orphans, and those in care centers, land ownership rights, family violence, unemployment, support for labor, and ensuring the working conditions of civil servants have been highlighted as pressing issues.

Western Region: In Bayan-Ölgii, Gobi-Altai, Zavkhan, Uvs, and Khovd provinces, issues such as the implementation of the right to live in a safe environment, air, water, and soil pollution, reducing the incidence of criminal violations, lack of teachers in general educational schools, child abuse, the right to work for people with disabilities, domestic violence, teenage girl pregnancy, and childbirth are human rights issues.

In addition, external cause mortality, including traffic accidents and suicides, is high in this region.

For example, in Gobi-Altai province:

  • in 2022, out of 295 death cases, 39
  • in 2023, out of 267 death cases, 41 were due to external causes.

The NHRC has analyzed the status of human rights and forwarded the information to the governors of 21 provinces.

The governors of the provinces and candidates for the Citizens' Representative Khural were advised to consider the status of human rights when approving their action programs.

G.Uuganbaatar: Complaints of Non-regulation in Military Relations Do Not Reach NHRC, So We Are Working Based on Information

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) held a press conference today addressing human rights issues in the local area.

During this session, G.Uuganbaatar, Head of Complaints and Inspection Department of the NHRC, provided the following information regarding the health status of two soldiers from Border Troops Unit 0146 who may have been subjected to non-regulation military relations:

"The NHRC received information that regular duty military personnel from Border Troops Unit 0146 in Sukhbaatar Province, Erdenetsagaan County, faced health damage due to mistreatment and are undergoing medical treatment.

Immediately, we obtained information and clarifications from the Head of the General Authority for Border Protection, the border troop commander, the head of the Health Service of the General Authority for Border Protection, and officials from the Unified Police Hospital.

We have visited the State Special Service Workers' Hospital to address the issue and are sending an official letter today to obtain explanations and documents from the General Authority for Border Protection.

Due to confidentiality, the diagnosis of the two soldiers cannot be disclosed. However, their health is stable, they underwent tests yesterday, and are receiving appropriate treatment and care.

We met with the involved soldiers yesterday and gathered the necessary information."

"Since 2006, non-regulation military relations have decreased by 11-20% but have not completely stopped."

"NHRC has consistently organized inspections and studies related to non-regulation military relations.

In the 21st report submitted last year, the commission studied and inspected the issues of non-regulation military relations and included them in the report discussed by the Parliament.

In 2006, NHRC conducted a study suggesting 'There are non-regulation military relations. Stop them' and included this in the report discussed by the Parliament.

Despite a 11-20% reduction since 2006, non-regulation military relations have not completely ceased, as reflected in the report submitted to the Parliament.

Following this report, the Parliament issued Resolution No. 49 in 2022, which tasked the government with identifying and stopping non-regulation military relations and monitoring.

NHRC continuously organizes inspections in military units and formations since its establishment:

  • 53 times in Border Troops units
  • 69 times in Armed Forces units
  • 10 times in Domestic Military units addressing the elimination of non-regulation military causes and related issues.

And the relevant examination is ongoing," he stated.

"Such violations occur due to the behavior of service members."

NHRC responded to questions from journalists regarding military regulation issues.

Journalist: Have you contacted the families of the two hospitalized soldiers? Did they file a complaint?

NHRC: No official complaint was filed with us. However, we are working based on the relevant information rather than a complaint. Erdenetsagaan County in Sukhbaatar Province is remote, and as of yesterday, the families were not present at the hospital.

Journalist: How often are such complaints received?

No complaints related to non-regulation military relations have been received this year. It's complicated to file complaints due to the circumstances preventing individuals from directly submitting information. Communication tools are not available.

NHRC's complaint and information channels, including a hotline and other forms, are open for receiving complaints.

Military service members and their families affected by non-regulation military relations can file a complaint with NHRC. Usually, such complaints do not reach NHRC. We work according to the information.

NHRC continuously organizes human rights training for military unit and armed forces instructors. In other words, human rights courses and training for military personnel are conducted.

Disputes arising from service members' behavior and adherence to existing rules and regulations contribute to these issues. The character of officials responsible for organizing military activities is the source.

A Parliament resolution was issued for the government to take measures stopping non-regulation military relations. The implementation of this resolution is insufficient, relating to these non-regulation issues.

Journalist: How should military relations be?

NHRC: According to military service rules, it should operate within the scope of legal command and order requirements.

Non-regulation relations involve:

  • Use of force
  • Threats
  • Actions harming physical or mental well-being.

Journalist: Is there information related to sexual violence?

NHRC: No complaints or information related to service members facing sexual violence have been received.

Warning

Media organizations (Television, Radio, Web pages, and Social platforms) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using this information in any form, either fully or partially.

Provision of Family Education from Adolescence and Arrangement for Psychological Counseling to be Delivered in Classroom and Online Formats

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Working groups have been established and are operating to assess and provide recommendations on the policies of family, labor, and social protection sectors.

Yesterday, the Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, met with the members of the policy analysis working group in the family sector. The family is the fundamental unit of society. As of 2023, there are a total of 983.5 thousand households in Mongolia.

In the Mongolian Government's 2024-2028 program of action, the development of family-based development and social protection is highlighted. It has been emphasized by the working group members that the state's policy on family, the legal environment should be updated, and the content and form of measures and services to support families need to be renewed.

In the future, there will be arrangements to empower human resources in the sector, to provide family education from adolescence, to emphasize healthy and stable relationships, and to deliver psychological counseling in both classroom and online formats.

Creating healthy and stable families in society is an issue that involves all sectors including health, education, social protection, and law, so inter-ministerial coordination is to be ensured according to the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Protection.

A Group of People Who Steal Vehicles Have Been Identified

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Police officers have identified two groups of individuals, named B, A, M, T, N, and B, who are involved in illegally stealing other people's vehicles, and an investigation is underway.

These groups have stolen 17 vehicles of the brands “Prius,” “Harrier,” “Mark-II,” “Chaser,” and “Honda Fit." Therefore, citizens are warned by the General Police Department to prevent potential risks by placing their vehicles in places with guards and surveillance cameras, and installing alarm and security systems in their cars.

Discussion on Implementing Regulations Allowing 18-year-olds to Ride Sur-Rons and 16-year-olds to Ride Scooters

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

A working group has been created by the joint order of the Minister of Justice and Home Affairs and the Minister of Road and Transport Development to study accidents and injuries related to electric scooters, Sur-Ron bicycles, and electric motorized vehicles, and to improve the legal environment. This working group is reviewing international and domestic regulations on such vehicles and has put forward proposals such as adopting a government resolution on measures to ensure public safety and prevent traffic violations and accidents, and amending traffic regulations.

In 2023, there were 60 accidents involving Sur-Ron and scooter-type vehicles (scooters 28, Sur-Rons 32), while in the first seven months of 2024, 241 road accidents were reported involving bicycles, scooters, and Sur-Rons, with 229 or 95% occurring in the capital. As a result of traffic accidents related to Sur-Rons, scooters, and bicycles, 121 people were injured.

A meeting to discuss the recommendations of the working group, as well as to exchange opinions on preventing crimes, violations, accidents, and injuries related to this type of vehicle among adolescents, youth, and the public, was held today.

The discussion involved representatives from the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs, the Ministry of Road and Transport, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, the Family, Labor, and Social Protection Ministry, the National Road Safety Council, the Agency for Crime Prevention Coordination, the General Police Department, the Child and Family Development and Protection Authority, the Governor's Office of the Capital, the Internal Affairs University, the Mongolian Union of Driving Schools, electric scooter and Sur-Ron bicycle sales and rental organizations, as well as members of the working group.

The following clarification was taken from the chief of the working group, Justice Ministry's State Secretary, N. Myagmar.

What proposals is the working group suggesting and discussing?

Participants in the discussion expressed the view that scooters fall under the category of mopeds, and Sur-Rons, due to their higher speed and potential to cause damage to self and others, fall under the category of motorcycles.

Is it possible to limit the number of these vehicles imported into the country?

Instead of limiting the number of imports, the working group believes it is better to enhance standards. Relevant organizations should ensure these standards are met, with the National Center for Road Transport granting permissions. For example, they should have protective equipment, signals, alerts, etc. Thus, a standard should be established that any imported vehicles adhere to all these requirements.

Will there be age restrictions?

If Sur-Rons are approved as a motorcycle category, then only those aged 18 and over will be allowed to ride them. If scooters fall under the moped category, then those up to 16 years old may ride them. However, they must use protective gear and adhere to traffic regulations. This is still at the proposal stage.

Overall, the working group's recommendations have been made. The matter will be discussed with the National Road Safety Council under the Ministry of Road and Transport, and presented to the government soon.

Group of Individuals Who Stole 17 Vehicles of Brands Like "Prius", "Harrier", "Mark-II", "Chaser", "Honda Fit" Identified

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Police officers have identified two groups of individuals, B, A, M, T, N, and B, who unlawfully steal other people's vehicles and are conducting investigations.

This group of individuals has stolen 17 vehicles of brands like "Prius", "Harrier", "Mark-II", "Chaser", "Honda Fit".

Therefore, the Traffic Police Department advises citizens to park their vehicles in places with security guards and surveillance cameras, and install alarm and security systems in their cars to prevent potential risks.

Human Rights Open Day to be Organized

Published: Fri, 06 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The Human Rights Commission has a tradition of organizing "Human Rights Open Day" across 21 provinces.

This time, it will be held in the western, central, gobi, central, eastern, and northern regions. The plan includes checking the human rights situation on-site in the local areas, exchanging views with governors of aimags and sums and other relevant authorities on the implementation of human rights, holding discussions, and organizing human rights training.

Respecting, promoting, ensuring, and protecting human rights is the basic duty of the State. The Human Rights Commission is an independent and impartial organization that oversees whether the state is fulfilling this duty, noted D. Yondonjamts, the Head of the Administration Management Department, during a press conference.

He emphasized the importance of public support for the activities of the National Human Rights Institution and requested information on the human rights situation in local areas to be sent to the Commission. He also invited active participation in the discussions to be held during the Human Rights Open Day.

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The court hearing related to the management of "Beltes Moron" LLC has been postponed and rescheduled to October 3. The court session concerning the founders of "Beltes Moron" LLC commenced today at 10:00 AM at the Khuvsgul Provincial Court. However, prosecutors involved in the hearing requested a postponement because the procedures stipulated in the court's decision had not been fully carried out.

The court panel accepted this request and tasked the supervising prosecutors with completing all the procedures specified in the court's decision, rescheduling the court hearing to 10:00 AM on October 3, 2024.

On another note, requests made by lawyer E. Myagmardorj for additional investigative activities on behalf of defendants R. Buzmaa and G. Nyamdelger, and a request to alter preventive measures against defendant G. Nyamdalai from lawyer G. Minjmaa for defendants Ch. Ochir, D. Tsengenbayar, and G. Nyamdalai, were rejected.

A total of over 70 participants were involved in the court session, including 56 victims, two state prosecutors, defendants, and 12 lawyers representing the victims.

The leadership of "Beltes Moron" LLC was accused of defrauding 2,595 people of 45 billion MNT using a pyramid scheme.

Source: Khuvsgul Provincial Court Administration

Warning: As a reminder, media outlets (Television, Radio, and Web pages) should always cite the source (ikon.mn) when using any content in full or partially from our publication.

Environment

Protecting and Preserving the Springs

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

An initiative has been launched to protect and preserve the sources of several springs in Bayantumen District's IV division's Khontotnyn spring, Tsagaan-Ovoo district's Khureet division's Khureet spring, and Züükh division's West Three Springs in Dornod Province.

This initiative aims to protect water resources from scarcity and contamination. The measure of encasing and protecting the sources of springs is included in the Water Usage Agreement, established with water-using enterprises and organizations across the basin.

An initiative has been launched to protect and preserve the sources of several springs in Bayantumen district's IV division's Khontotnyn spring, Tsagaan-Ovoo district's Khureet division's Khureet spring, and Züükh division's West Three Springs in Dornod province.

This initiative aims to protect water resources from scarcity and contamination. The measure of encasing and protecting the sources of springs is included in the Water Usage Agreement, established with water-using enterprises and organizations across the basin.

The organization transporting marmot meat and raw materials fined 35.8 million MNT

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

To prevent infectious diseases in humans and livestock and the plague, professional organizations have been organizing 24-hour inspections at vehicle checkpoints since the 15th of last month.

During the inspection, more than 25,000 vehicles were examined, and 51 violations were found.

A legal entity transporting and delivering marmot meat and raw materials was fined 3.2 million MNT and required to pay 32.6 million MNT in compensation.

Inspection to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and plague, which are natural hotspots for humans and animals within the capital's territory, is ongoing, as reported by the Media and Public Relations Department of the Capital City Government.

According to the law on animals, it is prohibited to bring raw marmot materials and parts into urban areas.

At the order of the Minister of Environment, Tourism, and Travel, the hunting of marmots has been banned for three years.

According to the law on violations, if one marmot is hunted, an economic valuation is calculated at 820,000 MNT, with fines imposed in addition to assessing the damage to nature and ecology based on the number of marmots hunted.

Innovation

The Ministry of Education seeks to collaborate with the World Bank to establish schools suited to the nomadic culture

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Minister of Education, P. Naranbayar, received Tae-Hyun Lee, the Resident Representative of the World Bank in Mongolia, Christian Aedo, the Manager responsible for the Education sector in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, and other team members. During their meeting, they exchanged views on potential collaboration.

Mongolia joined the World Bank as a member in 1991 and began collaboration in the education sector in 2006. Within the scope of the Ministry of Education and the World Bank’s partnership, major projects such as the "Quality Reforms in Education" and initiatives aimed at providing personal skills and entrepreneurship education to local youth are being implemented. Additionally, financial support was provided by the World Bank when Mongolia participated in the PISA assessment for the first time in 2022.

Representatives at the meeting expressed their intention to further reinforce the successful long-term collaboration between the World Bank and the Ministry of Education. They discussed the possibility of jointly implementing measures included in the Mongolian Government's 2024-2028 Action Plan. Furthermore, they highlighted the necessity for dialogue to eliminate urban-rural education quality disparities and to accelerate the digital transition in the education sector.

Minister of Education P. Naranbayar remarked, “The key to reducing poverty, which is the main goal of the World Bank, lies in education, and the foundation of education is equitable access. By establishing good teachers and good schools throughout every corner of Mongolia, the overall education level will improve.” He expressed the hope to collaborate on making good schools, quality educational content, and proficient teachers available in rural areas, creating a school system suited to the nomadic culture, and enabling children of herders to attend school from home rather than from dormitories. The meeting discussed initiating major projects and discussions in the general education sector.

New Standards for Teacher and Staff Work Environments to be Established and Implemented

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Minister of Education P. Naranbayar reviewed the implementation and results of activities jointly undertaken by the Ministry of Education and the Cambridge Advisory Group for 2023-2024.

The Ministry of Education and the Cambridge Advisory Group collaborated on curriculum, textbook innovations, teacher development, teacher training systems, and specialized high schools during 2023-2024, achieving specific results. Therefore, it has been decided to effectively continue the previously executed tasks, conclude some tasks, reform the teacher training system, and establish and implement standards for the work environment of teachers and staff.

Moreover, the Minister of Education instructed relevant officials to present to the public the reports, suggestions, and recommendations developed by academics and professors from the University of Cambridge as part of the advisory services.

"New Ideas" Educational High School: If you can effectively use the three years of high school, the future of the child shines

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

"New Ideas" Educational High School held the opening ceremony for the 2024-2025 school year. This academic year, the school opened its doors for the first time, implementing a dual-language program and an internationally standard-compliant curriculum for high school students.

"The school aims to prepare students who can utilize their three years in high school effectively, developing creative thinking, self-expression, understanding and respecting others, being proficient in languages, and being confident in their future," emphasized the school's founders.

New Idea Educational High School, based on the experience of the “Happy Education Center”, which has successfully operated for over 10 years to eliminate academic delays and prepare students for the state exams, has now expanded its operations and opened a high school.

The high school years are a critical period that determines a child's life and destiny. Three years is enough time to open up, develop, and if there are any academic delays, make up for them and choose a career. From our past ten years of experience, we have come to understand and emphasize this, advising parents as well.

Unfortunately, many students who have not chosen a profession, nor prepared for exams, still receive poor scores, which is related to their inability to fully utilize these three years, a concern for us as teachers.

Most parents do not understand the importance of high school and fail to recognize its significance, leading to lost time," added the principal.

Our school's advisory council consists of an academic team that is developing grounded programs drawing from educational science, psychology, and natural sciences.

Collaborating with experienced professionals in the field, we are laying the foundation to provide a quality education to our students in a very short time.

We aim to provide our students with advanced level foreign language education, eliminate academic delays, and adequately prepare them for the state exams. If we can foster a desire to learn in children, these goals can be achieved in a short period.

Therefore, during high school when students become more self-aware and conscious of their actions, we provide knowledge based on their emotional needs and dreams.

Why Choose "New Idea" Educational High School?

Foreign Language Training at Bachelor Level: Our goal is to provide bachelor-level foreign language proficiency in the three years of high school.

Our students have the opportunity to choose their preferred language among English, Chinese, and Korean.

Recognizing that language skills become crucial when entering the workforce after university, gaining advanced foreign language knowledge in high school is a tremendous advantage.

From Beside, Not From Above: This is our school's motto. The secret to our successful long-standing achievements in the education sector is the result of understanding students' psychology and supporting them from beside.

Teaching methods are ineffective if the teacher and student do not understand or respect each other. A wall forms between them, preventing desired outcomes.

Therefore, understanding the characteristics of adolescence and guiding them like friends with genuine care is necessary.

EQ-Based Training: In addition to preparing students to be goal-oriented and competitive in the new century, psychological education cannot be overlooked. EQ is essentially education of the heart and mind.

Developing the ability to understand oneself, emotions, and cooperate and love others is extremely important and will become even more valuable in the future.

Science-Based School: All school activities should be based on science and be innovative. For this reason, our school's academic council works on creating solid educational programs in education science, psychology, and natural sciences. We will also study educational methods used in other countries and ensure our curriculum and evaluation system are science-based.

Courses Preventing Traffic Problems and Foster Child Development All in One Place: Do you have a high school child? Children these days endure a lot of workload. With classes and extracurricular activities all over the place, they lose all their time in city traffic. They have less rest time, often working harder than adults.

To address this issue, our New Idea high school has designed all child development courses to be centralized in one location.

Children arrive early in the morning, attend school, and make efficient use of their time. Additionally, they have the opportunity to take personal development courses, participate in debates, art, piano, morin khuur, and music classes. Sports clubs also operate.

Standards for Teachers and Staff Working Environments to be Established and Implemented

Published: Fri, 06 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Minister of Education P. Naranbayar reviewed the implementation and outcomes of the activities jointly carried out by the Ministry of Education and the Cambridge advisory team for the 2023-2024 academic year.

The Ministry of Education and the Cambridge advisory team collaborated in areas such as curriculum renewal, textbook updates, teacher development, and the teacher training system, as well as specialized high schools, achieving specific results. As a result, it was decided to effectively continue the previously implemented activities, conclude certain tasks, renew the teacher training system, and establish and implement standards for the working environment of teachers and staff.

Additionally, within the scope of the advisory services, the Minister of Education instructed the relevant officials to disseminate the reports, suggestions, and recommendations developed by the scientists and professors of Cambridge University to the public.

Health

Inspection to Prevent Bubonic Plague Continues

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In Ulaanbaatar, inspections and monitoring to prevent human, livestock, and animal infectious diseases, particularly the bubonic plague, are ongoing within the capital city's jurisdiction, according to the Information and Public Relations Department of the City Mayor's Office.

Professional organizations have been monitoring around the clock since August 15 at vehicle checkpoint stations. During this period, over 25,000 vehicles have been inspected, resulting in 51 violations being detected. Legal entities found transporting or handling marmot meat and raw materials were fined 3.2 million Tugriks and made to pay compensation of 32.6 Tugriks.

The efforts are part of a continued initiative to prevent the spread of these serious infectious diseases in the region.

Sports Medicine Specialists Investigate Opportunity for Master's Studies in Japan through BZS

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Minister of Education, P. Naranbayar, held a meeting with Masatoshi Nishikido, the therapist for Mongolia's national judo team, Professor Nobuyoshi Kume from Tokyo Ariake University, a guest professor at MNUMS, Head of the Department of the International School of Mongolian Medicine G. Munkhzulu, and Professor D. Tsend-Ayush to discuss the movement therapy program.

Masatoshi Nishikido is not only a teacher in the Traditional Massage Therapy Department of the International School of Mongolian Medicine at MNUMS but also worked as the therapist for the Mongolian national judo team and silver medalist athlete B. Baasankhuu at the "Paris-2024" Olympics. Meanwhile, medical doctor Nobuyoshi Kume, a teacher in the Judo Massage Therapy Department at Tokyo Ariake University, provided information on traditional medical therapy and expressed his desire to support the program.

The Minister of Education stated that sports medicine, including injury treatment and movement therapy, plays a crucial role and that the ministry is committed to supporting it. Additionally, he tasked the relevant officials with exploring opportunities for specialists in this field to participate in master's programs in Japan through the Education Loan Fund and to work in coordination.

Since 2016, in collaboration with Tokyo Ariake University of Japan, MNUMS has implemented an international joint training program to prepare specialists with bachelor's degrees in traditional medical therapy. Graduates are now employed in health, education, and sports sectors. Additionally, professors and teachers from Tokyo Ariake University visit Mongolia twice a year to conduct professional judo massage therapy courses, and the students undergo clinical training.

Source: Ministry of Education

I.Baskhüü: We are performing bone graft surgeries and treating teeth with stem cells

Published: Fri, 06 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

"Baskhüü Implant Clinic" in Ulaanbaatar is spearheading medical tourism in Mongolia by offering state-of-the-art treatments at significantly reduced costs compared to advanced countries, while maintaining high levels of safety and reliability. We sat down with the clinic's director, Idesh Baskhüü, for an insightful interview.

When entering your clinic, there's a peaceful atmosphere like an art gallery. There are bright works by young contemporary Mongolian artists. Do you have an interest in art?

Being a dentist involves applying creative thinking, sensitivity, and the concept of proportion to one's work. That's why dentists can be said to be close to art, especially painting. The differentiation of colors in a painting, the balance of shapes, and the perspective are exactly replicated on teeth.

Everyone has a childhood fear when entering a dental clinic. To relieve that fear and provide a comfortable and relaxed environment, we decorated our clinic with artworks and other elements. My father was an art teacher, and I have always been fond of art.

A child who liked paintings became a doctor, and not just any doctor but a dentist. Are you happy with your career choice?

As a child, many of my friends wanted to become doctors. When looking at the available options from my entrance exam results, I saw "Facial and Oral Beauty Doctor." My father suggested that it seemed like a new specialty that makes people beautiful and advised me to choose it. At that time, "Dentist" was the previous designation, so he thought it was a new profession. I now think I made the right choice back then since I am succeeding in this field.

Could you share the "secret" of your highly successful "Baskhüü Implant Clinic" located in the center of the capital city?

We aim to give people a lifelong smile. Therefore, we can define both my own philosophy and the clinic's with three words: the most reliable, safe, and trustworthy.

Our clinic currently has over 50 staff members and 23 doctors. Including their families, we are responsible for over 150 people, so we must work responsibly and reliably. My skills and capabilities are, of course, limited. It's the team who represents my name and takes the clinic to success. The clinic's executive director, human resources, and external relations managers fill in for what I can't do, resulting in our clinic having a good reputation.

I initially thought your clinic would have a very large sign outside, but I didn't see one. Is there a particular reason for this? How do you attract clients?

Clinics and companies pass through various phases. People walking by and deciding to get their teeth treated just because they saw a dental clinic are not important to us.

We prefer to serve people who consider their teeth valuable and want them treated at the best clinic.

When we treat a patient's teeth well, they bring the next person. Our clinic has become well-known through this kind of word-of-mouth marketing.

We once gave an interview on television. Since then, we've stopped public marketing activities to avoid overwhelming the clinic and to maintain a calm, safe environment for patients who want peace while getting their teeth treated.

Could you tell us what services you offer to those who come to your clinic? Can you introduce some of your advanced technologies?

Our clinic provides all types of dental treatments. We offer services in two areas: prevention and treatment. We start by providing knowledge and information such as "You are at risk of developing this kind of disease in the future, please take these preventive measures, and warn your family about this."

In terms of treatment, we use the latest technologies. Our clinic has placed over 13,000 implants in the 20 years since we started implant treatments. When a person has missing teeth for many years, their jawbone shrinks and becomes thin. Similarly, for some people with weak immunity, wounds do not heal, and treatments might be ineffective.

Therefore, we have introduced bone graft surgeries and stem cell treatments for dental and anti-aging therapies. These state-of-the-art therapies are typically conducted in university hospitals abroad—meaning the technology and skills of our clinic have reached an equal level with them.

Before the interview, you mentioned competing with the world's top centers. Can we say that there are only a few places using stem cells for dental treatment?

In the past, we would pursue technology after it was developed. Now we bring in technology as it is evolving and seek ways to provide it to Mongolians.

Stem cell therapy is rapidly evolving in medical science worldwide. As for Mongolia, there are currently no other dental clinics using stem cells in treatments besides us.

In South Korea, there are only a handful of clinics that utilize stem cells in dental treatments.

How are you using stem cells in therapies, and what results are you achieving?

In short, stem cells are the cells that form at the dawn of human life. All tissues and organs like cartilage, liver, spleen, heart develop from these cells.

We are applying stem cells directly to the needed area in the teeth or intravenously into the body. So, it is essentially transforming old cells into young ones, thereby slowing aging. The main benefit is that it enhances the immune system and cures various incurable diseases.

For the adoption of such advanced technology, are the equipment necessary?

Besides ensuring high skills, we continuously develop our doctors' knowledge. We adhere to principles for reliable and up-to-date technology. Therefore, artificial teeth and crowns in our country are manufactured with the same technology used everywhere else. Our dental laboratory is equipped with a 3D printer. We previously scanned only images but now we are scanning dental impressions. We design the tooth with a computer and produce it with a robot.

Since 2014, we have introduced plasma sterilization equipment. It was the first in Mongolia and has been in use for 10 years now. It is the latest sterilizer that completely eliminates viruses and bacteria at plus 56 degrees Celsius. We imported two of these.

Hence, there is no risk of infection from someone else when receiving treatment at our clinic. We also use the latest equipment for other treatments. We have also imported equipment for separating stem cells.

Every dental clinic strives to stay up to date with the best technologies. What competitive advantages help you stay ahead?

If I become a good doctor, many people will come to our clinic, and it will thrive by focusing solely on treatment. However, a clinic is still a service organization. We pay great attention to service— starting from welcoming clients to sending them off.

Our clinic has one team responsible for treatment-related activities and another team overseeing the clinic's vision, annual plans, and future goals. The coordination between these two teams leads us to success. We have doctors who have been working for six to twelve years, which is a testament to the effective human resources management we have.

What is the key to becoming a good dentist, and how do you train such dentists?

We train our doctors here and also send them abroad to some extent. Naturally, inviting good foreign experts offers extensive possibilities for our doctors' training. We conduct local training weekly. Besides, we are developing another approach for training future doctors.

Achieving proficiency as a good doctor requires years of effort and learning from others. It is said that out of a hundred doctors, only five become excellent, while the rest have average skills. Thus, we have now introduced an AI-based system for dental diagnosis and treatment planning. By inputting data, it provides details on problems and treatment plans, irrespective of the doctor's skills, allowing doctors to learn and improve.

Do you also employ foreign specialists permanently?

Since equipping our dental laboratory with the latest digital tools and introducing the new technology, we have needed to employ foreign technicians. Thus, since 2013, we have invited dental technicians from South Korea to work with us. Considering the continuous emergence of new developments, we replace our experts every year or two.

Your team is one of those developing medical tourism in Mongolia. Does the competitive pricing alongside safe, high-quality, and reliable services attract people from abroad?

Indeed, the number of people coming from abroad for dental treatment has increased in recent years, in addition to Mongolian patients. It's mainly because dental treatment in Mongolia is significantly cheaper. Mongolians living abroad come back to their homeland, enjoy their holiday while getting dental treatments.

We offer dental implants priced 3-4 times lower and dental crowns 4-5 times lower than other countries, making it affordable even compared to Mongolian clinics. Implant technology is generally costly, hence the treatment is expensive.

To make this expensive treatment accessible to Mongolians, we offer our clients the possibility to pay in installments with no interest.

There is the term "Hollywood Smile." However, for artificial teeth, most Mongols wear dentures with a plastic palate. What advice would you give to them?

Implant refers to the insertion of a foreign object into the body. It involves implanting titanium in the jawbone and attaching a tooth to it. We were the first to introduce and localize implant treatment in Mongolia back in 2004-2005. I named the clinic "Baskhüü Implant Clinic" to indicate my personal contribution to this.

Implant offers many advantages, resembling natural teeth. Since the implant dentures are made from hard materials, they do not wear out, and they effectively fulfill their chewing function for many years.

The dentures you're speaking of are made of plastic material. Since they are softer than human teeth, they wear out over usage and reduce in size. The chemicals in plastic begin to break down after two years, so replacing dentures with plastic frames every two years is necessary to avoid ingesting harmful chemicals.

Your clinic actively participates in humanitarian activities. Who do you wish to help?

Of course, as our organization grows and develops, we aim to help others. From this standpoint, we collaborate with associations to support people with disabilities and special needs. We provide free treatment to children who are part of the Special Olympics. There are other ways we provide financial assistance to people and support our employees.

Foreign students who studied in our country used to say, less than thirty years ago, that Mongolians had envy-worthy teeth and eyes. We associated this with our dairy consumption. Now, however, even rural children complain about dental diseases. What causes this change?

Studies show that 95 - 96% of Mongolians and 88% of children have dental diseases. About thirty years ago, Mongolians had good teeth due to different dietary habits compared to today. There hasn't been any genetic change as Mongolian bones are the same.

The changes in lifestyle have led to increased consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods. While as children we used to eat three meals a day, today it has increased to at least 5-6 times. This lifestyle contributes to tooth decay. This is because saliva is the sole solution that mineralizes teeth. Eating up to eight times a day is considered optimal for saliva to perform its function. Drinks or candies count as meals too.

Children in rural areas have become similar to those in cities with their consumption patterns. Due to infrequent visits to health clinics, tooth decay progresses to the point where extraction is the only option. There are few dental clinics in rural areas, and due to limited knowledge and awareness about dental health, parents cannot pay attention to their children's teeth, resulting in poor dental health for rural children.

It is said, "Healthy teeth lead to a healthy body." What harm does dental disease cause, and are there new studies on this?

Teeth contribute to beauty and health. We used to only connect the teeth to the stomach and intestines, but recent studies show that lack of teeth affects jaws, overall posture, and even musculoskeletal systems like muscles in the neck, head, and back. Eventually, the weight-bearing axis of the body changes, causing knee surgeries when aging. In Japan, it was confirmed that those undergoing knee replacements had such issues.

Having decayed teeth or gum inflammation means continuously swallowing bacterial toxins, which, when entering the bloodstream, cause rheumatic, chronic heart, and kidney diseases. Thus, not just for one tooth, but in general, one should learn to treat and keep them healthy.

The mother of a sumo champion once considered getting implants in Japan. She was told that they couldn't do it, and recommended a good dentist in Korea. The Korean dentist then mentioned my name, leading her to come to me for treatment. When she returned six months later, she was quite different, much more cheerful and lively. Thus, teeth provide not only beauty but also self-confidence.

What good practices exist globally for protecting citizens' dental health?

In Mongolia, root canal treatments are very common. However, in Japan, root canal treatments are rare. Large cities have fluoridated drinking water. Brushing teeth with that water reduces cavities by 30-40%.

In developed countries, children up to the age of 16 have insurance coverage for treatment costs, so they grow up without dental deformities. If they develop cavities in adulthood, they pay for treatment themselves, which is expensive. In Mongolia, the insurance system only covers dental treatment equivalent to two healthy teeth per year. It may improve in the future.

If insurance included treatment for children's dental deformities, a new generation could grow up with healthy, cosmetically correct teeth. This would lead to a healthy Mongolian population. Healthy citizens are vital for Mongolia's future development.

Memorandum Signed for Improving Mobicom's Medical Service Standards

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

As part of the Ministry of Health's initiative to enhance the quality and productivity of the healthcare sector's services and to strengthen effective governance, a memorandum of understanding was signed by Sh. Altantuya, General Director of the National Center for Maternal and Child Health, and B. Munkhzorig, Deputy Director of Group Business of Mobicom Corporation LLC.

Mobicom Corporation will share its organizational know-how in developing innovation and infrastructure, aligning with the ninth goal of sustainable development. The collaboration aims to improve processes at the National Center for Maternal and Child Health, implement digital transitions, and introduce services that enhance customer satisfaction.

In an effort to promote social equity, Mobicom Corporation has continuously implemented projects and programs to support children's health and improve their living and learning environments. Moving forward, they plan to expand their collaboration and implement new initiatives and projects in this direction.

Sports

The MongolZ Team Secures Their First Win in the "ESL Pro League Season 20" Tournament

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The "Counter Strike 2" esports tournament "ESL Pro League Season 20" is being organized in Malta. A total of 32 teams are competing for $750,000, with ATOX Esports and The MongolZ representing our country. ATOX Esports, assigned to Group C, will play their first match against Team Vitality on the 11th of this month.

Meanwhile, The MongolZ team played their first match in Group B yesterday against France's 3DMAX and lost with a score of 0:2. Consequently, they will continue the tournament from the middle bracket of Group B.

Today, in the first match of this bracket, The MongolZ played against Spain's "KOI" team in a BO3 format and won dominantly with a score of 2:0. As a result, their next match is scheduled for tomorrow at 19:30. If they win against their next opponent, they will compete for a spot in the Playoffs stage of the "ESL Pro League Season 20" tournament.

Arts

Under the Patronage of the President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh, the 36th "Book Festival" Will Take Place

Published: Fri, 06 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The 36th annual Book Festival, an integral part of the capital city's culture, will be held at the central square from 13th to 15th September 2024.

This educational and cultural event attracts not only book enthusiasts from the capital city but also numerous readers from local areas. It is increasingly gaining prominence with the participation of publishers, authors, and literary agencies from foreign countries.

This year's festival will be unique in that it is organized under the patronage of the President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh, based on Presidential Decree No. 158.

In relation to this, a brief chronicle of the book-related activities of Mongolian Presidents over the past 32 years will be published in the "Book World" magazine and will be made available as a new bibliographic resource for researchers.

During the festival days, apart from the unveiling of new books, there will be opportunities for face-to-face meetings with distinguished authors, engagement in book-oriented research, selection of books in a men-oriented environment, and enjoying discussions about books over coffee or tea in specially designated free spaces for readers. The "LIBRO SUVD Agency" will offer services such as acquiring translation rights, book editing, bibliography services, and book marketing techniques, providing a new space for readers interested in writing their own books.

This time, the organizers plan to surprise male readers with the "50 Books to Inspire Men" list, offering unexpected talks and gifts to men attending the festival. The special guest for the upcoming issue of the "Book World" magazine will be Minister of Education P. Naranbayar who will share thoughts on proper book reading culture and educational policies from the ministry. The magazine will be printed in 5000 copies and distributed for free during the festival.

The Book Festival traditionally awards the "Friend of Books" in spring and the "Wise Book" title in autumn, encouraging and supporting book authors and publishers. This year's "Wise Book" title winner will be revealed during the festival.

Since last spring, the organizing NGO "Cultural Book World" has been expanding its international relations by implementing the "Friendship Program" for foreign publishers. Previous festivals have seen the participation of publishing houses and literary agencies from countries like Thailand, Hungary, Korea, Kazakhstan, and Turkey, allowing Mongolian publishers to meet them and offering Mongolian authors opportunities to propose their works to foreign publishers and purchase book rights. This has led to organizers being invited to international book events and significantly changed the level of cooperation and the cultural atmosphere of book festivals.

Authors and publishers from Russia, China, South Korea, and North Korea will also participate in this year's festival.

The festival, first organized in 2007 by B. Suvd, the presenter and editor of the "Book World" TV program since 2005, began with a single publisher and just over 80 attendees. Last spring's festival, however, drew more than 236,000 readers.

The festival also provides opportunities for children and youth to meet and foster closer friendships. The "Book World" club, consisting of adolescent students, will open its doors during these days to students from grades 7-12 who wish to join. The club also organizes the annual "50 Tasty Books" competition, exhibiting creative notes. This year, they will register participants for the competition and distribute a reading management calendar to school librarians, book clubs, and student readers.