Mongolia News Summary for September 12, 2024
The following news articles are the opinions of their authors and publications. They are presented here as translations for informational purposes and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Mongolia Strategy Center or its members.
Today's Stories
Politics
- If the Government Wants to Halt Meat Exports, It Conducts Inspections at Factories and Indirectly Lowers Prices
- Will Rectify Rules and Regulations Causing Human Rights Violations
- 45 Candidates from the Civic Will Green Party Running for the City Council
- The Government Meeting is Ongoing
Economy
- P. Naranbayar: The State Budget Will Cover 75% of Kindergarten Meal Costs, Parents and Guardians Will Cover 25%
- BUDGET 2025: 50 billion MNT Allocated for the Transition to Initiate Energy Tariff Reform
- In the Summer Months of This Year, Our Country Received 380,917 Tourists
- Inflation, which had been steadily decreasing, rose to 6.5% in August, intensifying
- In August, the Average Price of New and Old Apartments Slightly Declined Compared to the Previous Month
- Four Objectives Proposed for Monetary Policy's Main Direction
- The average annual cost of office supplies for one ministry is ₮44.1 million
- Are You Ready to Welcome 100 Local Business Entrepreneurs?
- MIAT LLC Announces 20% Discount on Business Class
Diplomacy
Infrastructure
- A Decision Has Been Made to Relocate the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry to Darkhan-Uul Province
- The planning of executing the metro construction in Mongolia without increasing congestion and in 40-degree cold has become a major issue
- Z. Enkhbold: Ulaanbaatar can be improved with the state budget. However, it cannot be like the money used for the pavement.
- Do You Support Halting Road Repairs? A Survey Has Started
- The road from Shangri-La Center Intersection to Paris Street will be renovated
- N.Uchral: The Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry will be relocated to Darkhan-Uul Province
- Road from Shangri-La Center Intersection to Paris Street to be Renovated
Society
- Transferred 112 Million Tugriks in Response to Telegram Instructions and Was Defrauded
- Businesses in the Area Around Bagshiin Deed Without Hot Water for Three Months
Environment
- Intensifying the "New Cooperative" Movement and Continuing the "Prosperous Herder" Initiative
- 13 Marmot Organs, 170 kg of Bleached Nuts Prevented from Entering the City
- Four Foraging Camps Removed from the Mountain
- The 2024 Lessons from the Zud
- Prague Zoo to Implement Project for Reintroducing Przewalski's Horses in Dornod Province
Innovation
- Student 100% Scholarship Program Announced
- "Green Technology-2024" Event to be Held on the 18th-19th of This Month
- Currently Announced Student Scholarships
- The success of ES depends on the cooperation of teachers and students. It is challenging to understand the practice of leaders rewarding themselves
Health
Sports
- MONADA: Although Doping Was Detected in B. Battögs, He Was Taken to Compete in the Paralympics
- Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Medalists to Receive 3-4 Room Apartments
Arts
- The First National Conference of Translators of Mongolia to be Held on the 30th of This Month
- An Exhibition "Patterns of the Wind" Opens at the Oyu Tolgoi Underground Mine
Politics
If the Government Wants to Halt Meat Exports, It Conducts Inspections at Factories and Indirectly Lowers Prices
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The discussion titled "New Economy: Do We Need a Trade Law?" is being held today at the State Palace. Teachers, researchers, and business entrepreneurs are participating and expressing their views.
Let's highlight some of them.
Businessman O. Nemehbayar stated, "In the wholesale and retail trade of our country, the share of the informal sector is excessively high. In the food sector, about 40 percent is considered informal. The fundamental organic laws of the sector are not being implemented in informal trade. In sectors where organic laws are not enforced, creating a specific law leads to non-implementation.
There are around 60 food markets, from Narantuul onwards, with about 80 percent being informal traders, compared to approximately 1,200 supermarkets.
About 90 percent of the meat trade is in the informal sector. Meat accounts for 22 percent of household consumption. The meat sector heavily involves government intervention. The government sets upper and lower prices and provides low-interest loans.
During severe winters, the government steps in with various subsidies to the meat sector. Export quotas are set for beef, and export permits are controlled through the General Authority for Veterinary Services, General Customs, and others.
Essentially, the government decides whether or not exports will occur. If they want to stop exports, they conduct inspections at factories and find violations. Violations are found, and they halt exports, indirectly lowering prices.
When placing meat in supermarkets for sale, there's a 24 percent discrepancy compared to informal trade.
- 10 percent VAT
- 7 percent employee tax
- 7 percent operational costs.
This discrepancy of 24 percent in price inhibits informal sectors from entering the formal sector. On the other hand, the government itself supports the informal sector by setting prices, etc.
Since trade laws can't be implemented under these conditions, it's important for policymakers to focus on major tasks and perhaps the government should stop supporting informal trade in the meat sector and minimize its intervention, allowing traders to operate, which is beneficial for the economy," he said.
Ö. Jambalsüren, Chairman of the Legal Policy Council of the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry stated, "The Mongolian government has forwarded the trade law to the Parliament for nine years, aiming for private law reform for five years, yet no issue appears to have been resolved. The trust of the private sector and businesses might be shattered.
Currently, 800 laws are in effect in Mongolia that regulate the relationship between businesses and consumers and impose obligations and liabilities on business entities. When Parliament enacts a law, it imposes obligations on businesses.
In reality, there's still no system in place that enables agreements between parties independently, guarantees those agreements, or ensures that disputes are quickly resolved in court. This is what business people desire. From January 2024, the Social Insurance Law is in effect. Despite individuals saying they don't want to pay social insurance premiums, because of the law, deductions must be made, leading to high contractual costs. Businesses prefer not to establish contracts with individuals, rendering sole proprietors incapable of support.
Additionally, because sole proprietors are unregistered, there’s doubt about the reliability of contracts with business entities.
Another issue is contractual freedom. Despite businesses establishing contracts among themselves, setting obligations and commitments, disputes arise when these contracts are deemed as collaborative contracts in court, leading to reversals at the Supreme Court. This has resulted in cases where business disputes have gone unresolved for 7-8 years," he said.
Warning
Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) when using our information in any form, either in full or partially.
Will Rectify Rules and Regulations Causing Human Rights Violations
Published: Thu, 12 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn
Today, Secretary General of the Parliament B. Baasandorj and the management of the Administration Office delivered information to journalists regarding the outcomes of the extraordinary session of the Parliament for 2024 and workgroups established by the order of the Speaker of the Parliament.
General Secretary B. Baasandorj stated that the extraordinary session of the Parliament was held from the 15th to the 30th of the past month, during which 30 laws and resolutions were passed. In his closing speech for the extraordinary session, Speaker D. Amarbaysgalan emphasized three main points: Firstly, greater focus will be placed on reflecting human-centered and human rights-oriented principles in the legislation. Secondly, legal regulations should be clear to citizens, ensuring that the implementation of laws does not discriminate against anyone. Thirdly, the laws must be timely and not outdated.
Additionally, it was identified that the rules and regulations approved by ministries and agencies are causing human rights violations. Therefore, the Parliament members' opinions were gathered, and a total of 53 workgroups were established. Out of these, 18 workgroups will prepare their recommendations to be presented to the Parliament during the regular fall session of 2024, while the other workgroups will present their recommendations during the spring session of the following year, as he informed.
Within the framework of the aforementioned decision:
- In the field of human rights and law, there are 16 workgroups.
- There are 5 workgroups in the field of state organization and public service.
- 9 workgroups are focused on social protection, health, and education.
- 16 workgroups are in the area of economic and business activities.
- There are 3 workgroups dedicated to the environment and surrounding environment.
- In the field of urban planning and infrastructure sector, 5 workgroups have been established.
Currently, 840 laws are in effect, of which 400 directly relate to everyday life. In addition, approximately 2700 rules and regulations are enforced, highlighted General Secretary B. Baasandorj.
45 Candidates from the Civic Will Green Party Running for the City Council
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The Civic Will Green Party (CWGP) has nominated 45 candidates for the 2024 City Council elections.
The party has emphasized its selection of candidates who are lawyers, advocates, economists, environmental green development researchers and analysts, as well as specialists trained in social sciences.
Noteworthy nominees from CWGP include host R. Nyambayar running in Songinokhairkhan District, G. Khajidmaa, a citizen who held several press conferences regarding the dividend of 1,072 shares, also running in Songinokhairkhan District, and dance teacher J. Uuriintuya running in Bayangol District.
The Government Meeting is Ongoing
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The regular meeting of the government is being held at the State Palace, discussing the following issues.
- The draft decision of the government on "Revising the cost measures of raw materials for kindergarten children's meals"
- The general development plan of Ulaanbaatar city until 2040
- Regarding the activities being implemented within the framework of the "New Cooperative" movement
- Discussions and introductions planned on the progress of 14 mega projects and 24 other issues.
Economy
P. Naranbayar: The State Budget Will Cover 75% of Kindergarten Meal Costs, Parents and Guardians Will Cover 25%
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The regular meeting of the government was held today, presenting the decisions made.
Today's meeting discussed the draft government resolution on "Revising the Cost of Raw Materials for Kindergarten Children's Meals." Regarding this, Minister of Education P. Naranbayar provided the following information.
He stated, "The government resolution is about to be approved. This decision will increase the cost of raw materials for kindergarten meals by 1,000 MNT.
Currently, the cost of raw materials for kindergarten meals is 3,000 MNT. As mentioned, increasing it by 1,000 MNT will raise the calorie intake from 60% to 80% through their meals. We expect this to positively impact the quality of meals.
Initially, this decision will apply to 135,000 children in 310 public and local kindergartens in the capital city. Specifically,
- 1,000 MNT per day
- 22,000 MNT per month
- 190,000 MNT per year for their meal raw materials.
75% of the cost of meal raw materials will be covered by the state budget, and the remaining 25% will be paid by parents and guardians.
According to Article 20.2 of the Social Welfare Law, the cost of raw materials for meals of children who require educational support and services will be fully financed by the state budget.
For the 2024-2025 school year, the cost of raw materials for meals of one child in kindergarten will be 3,000 MNT, totaling 131.8 billion MNT, as previously mentioned.
Also, 58% of the cost of providing meal services to one child in kindergarten goes to raw materials, while 42% goes to cook salaries, social insurance, heating, electricity, equipment, and sanitation.
Calculating per child, the total cost of meals is 5,210 MNT per day. Within this, 3,000 MNT goes to raw materials, with 2,210 MNT allocated to other expenses.
We will collect 1,000 MNT from 62% of the 135,000 children in the city kindergartens, which covers 84,602 children. The state will fully cover the meal costs for 38% or 50,440 children, including:
- Half or full orphans
- Children attending 24-hour kindergartens with extended hours
- Children with disabilities.
Additionally, children of families with incomes below the threshold line, and households with three or more kindergarten-age children will be exempt from the third child onward. This will allow the state budget to collect 16 billion MNT from parents annually, ensuring that children eat to satisfaction.
Well-fed children have better sleep, play well, and parents' satisfaction with kindergartens improves."
How will kindergarten meal fees be collected? It will be fully digitized, so classroom teachers will not collect it. Parents will submit payments directly to the national treasury via applications.
This digital service will also provide direct access for parents to information about their child's daily meals, such as menu details and nutritional value.
The investment you make for your child will reach them, ensuring they receive wholesome meals, fostering a good norm where children return home well-fed from kindergarten, not hungry. The Minister of Education added.
VIDEO:
https://www.facebook.com/iKonNews/videos/879195074117074
Please note that media organizations (TV, Radio, Social Media, and Websites) must cite the source (ikon.mn) in any form when using our information, whether in full or in part.
BUDGET 2025: 50 billion MNT Allocated for the Transition to Initiate Energy Tariff Reform
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The government has included energy reform in its 2024-2028 action program. Therefore, a subcommittee has been established to initiate energy reform and tariff changes, and work has begun.
The government considers energy as the next sector to support economic growth, with Mongolia having a substantial renewable energy reserve of 14,000 gigawatts. Companies operating in the energy sector will be opened up to the public to attract investment. First, the sector must become non-deficit. To achieve this, price tariffs will be changed. On August 21, Deputy Prime Minister T. Dorjkhand announced the government's decision to increase energy price tariffs starting from November 1, 2024.
The government has submitted the 2025 Budget Bill to the Parliament, and we will introduce what measures and investments related to energy sector reform have been included in next year's budget proposal.
Within the framework of Mongolia's 2024 budget amendment, the transition costs required to initiate energy tariff reform will be allocated from the budget. Consequently, subsidies will not be provided to the Western Region Power Grid SOE, Altai-Uliastai Energy System SOE, and 12 heat-producing enterprises.
By bringing the energy price tariffs sold to consumers by energy enterprises to a non-deficit, and ultimately profitable level, the reliability of the energy sector will be ensured, and the opportunity for development will be created. Although tariff changes will increase the electricity and heating costs of budgetary organizations, measures aimed at introducing and saving appropriate energy and heat usage will be implemented simultaneously.
In addition, next year's budget includes costs required for electricity price discounts for ger district households and winter greenhouse operations.
It is necessary to consider that due to operating at a loss for many years, the sector had limited opportunities for investment, technical, and technological upgrades. To reduce future risks and provide support for laying the financial and economic stable foundation of the sector, transition period costs for reform have been included in the 2024 budget. It is planned to allocate 50.0 billion MNT for financing the transition period costs next year.
The current energy supply and availability of our country are in a condition that cannot meet the growing demand and needs.
The growth rates of electricity production and the number of consumers are increasing by an average of 6% and 5% per year, respectively, while the expansion of Mongolia's total installed electricity capacity has been slow in recent years, indicating a lag in energy infrastructure.
Furthermore, consumer energy tariffs being below the actual production cost reduces efficiency, leading the energy sector to operate at a loss.
Interruptions in energy supply pose risks to the operations of real sectors and the overall economic productivity.
When compared internationally, Mongolia's household electricity prices are approximately 70% lower, and business and organizational electricity prices are about 60% lower on average.
In the Summer Months of This Year, Our Country Received 380,917 Tourists
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
This year, our country has set a goal to receive one million tourists. According to the information provided by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth, a total of 576,283 tourists have visited our country in the first eight months of this year.
During the three summer months, from June to August, the goal was to receive a total of 425,000 tourists, out of which 380,917 tourists have been received. In the summer months of last year, 254,352 tourists were received.
The number of tourists from the top 10 countries who frequently visit our country has increased compared to last year. For example, by July of last year, 63,641 tourists from the Republic of Korea had visited, whereas by July of this year, 108,295 tourists from the Republic of Korea have visited.
Additionally, it is noteworthy that on July 2nd of this year, 5,174 tourists visited our country, marking the highest number of tourists received in a single day.
Inflation, which had been steadily decreasing, rose to 6.5% in August, intensifying
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: bloombergtv.mn
The rate of increase in the prices of consumer goods and services was 6.5% nationwide in August, intensifying by one percentage point from the previous month, according to the National Statistics Office. Nationwide inflation had been continuously decreasing from the end of 2022 until June of this year.
Inflation was influenced by the increase in the price of imported goods, excluding gasoline and fuel, by 2.1 percentage points, and the price of domestic goods, excluding meat and solid fuel, by 3.4 percentage points, respectively.
Due to the effects of money distribution ahead of the election and increased budget spending, inflation is expected to further intensify by the end of this year, as warned by the Central Bank and international organizations. In their May survey, experts participating in the Research of the Bank of Mongolia projected that inflation would reach 6.8% by the end of the second quarter and rise to 7.6% in the first quarter of next year.
This year, the Bank of Mongolia made a decision to reduce policy rates twice and maintain them once, with the next monetary policy decision scheduled for September 13.
In August, the Average Price of New and Old Apartments Slightly Declined Compared to the Previous Month
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Housing prices in Ulaanbaatar city increased by 11.5% from the same period last year. However, they decreased by 0.1% compared to the previous month, according to the National Statistics Office.
By housing age, the price of new apartments decreased by 0.7%, and the price of old apartments by 0.1% compared to the previous month. For instance, the average price of a new apartment per square meter was 4,110,000 MNT in July, which decreased to 4,060,000 MNT in August. Meanwhile, the price of old apartments dropped from 3,960,000 MNT to 3,870,000 MNT.
Four Objectives Proposed for Monetary Policy's Main Direction
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The primary direction for the 2025 monetary policy sets out four objectives.
Specifically, it aims to create a favorable legal environment to increase foreign investment in the banking sector, strengthen the governance and risk management systems of banks, introduce an assessment methodology for inspections, and focus on developing sustainable green financing for the sector. The implementation and efficacy of Mongolia's systems for combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction will be prepared for the next evaluation, with a move towards self-assessment methodologies, according to G. Borkhuu, Director of the Risk Assessment Division at the Bank Structural Reform and Policy Department, during a discussion to present the draft of the primary directions for the 2025 monetary policy to government representatives, economists, researchers, and international organizations.
During this event, Bank of Mongolia's Monetary Policy Department Director B. Bayardavaa noted that the objective is to maintain inflation at a median rate of 6%, and further reduce it to 5%. Before the pandemic, interest rates were 12-13%, but post-COVID, given the worsening geopolitical situation, the central bank changed its monetary policy. The policy rate, which was 6% in 2020, reached 13% and later returned to 11%. As the economy is becoming more active, competition for resources is intensifying in both the bank and non-bank markets. The government, in collaboration, is proposing legal reforms to liquidate non-performing loans. The current non-performing loan amount of 1.7 trillion MNT has effectively locked up collateral worth at least 3-4 trillion MNT, taking it out of economic circulation. The costs of maintaining and protecting collateral fall on the banks, which need resolution. The macroeconomic outlook must remain stable in the medium to long term. Even though the economy has recovered, maintaining stability remains a major challenge, necessitating monetary policy and financial regulations aimed at this goal. Over the past two years, fiscal revenues have exceeded expectations. As our economy heavily depends on mining, fiscal revenues should be planned cautiously, considering global market prices for these products.
Since 2017, the Bank of Mongolia has organized this discussion annually, and since 2023, the draft of the "Primary Directions of State Monetary Policy" is presented to the public before being submitted to the State Great Khural (Parliament).
The average annual cost of office supplies for one ministry is ₮44.1 million
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The regular government meeting was held today, and the decisions made were presented.
During this time, N. Uchral, the head of the Cabinet Secretariat, introduced the "Paperless Government" initiative aimed at transitioning government operations to an electronic format and increasing governmental productivity.
In this regard, cabinet members, governors at all levels, state administration, and all levels of local administration bodies were tasked with working to facilitate the exchange of documents electronically using an inter-office document exchange system. Furthermore, they were instructed to reduce unnecessary steps in state operations, improve the legal environment for electronic information exchange, and develop and discuss the relevant legislative drafts.
Based on the data from the government productivity office from 2023 budget execution and the transparent accounts system, a study calculated that the annual average cost of office supplies for one ministry is 44.1 million MNT, which totals to:
- 662.3 million MNT for office supplies of 15 ministries.
- 574.2 million MNT was spent on postal, communication, and internet expenses of 14 ministries, with an average cost of 41 million MNT.
Considering the procedural steps for official document management in ministries, it takes 1-3 days for a document to be reviewed and formalized, 1-2 days for delivery within Ulaanbaatar by post, and seven days to reach other regions.
Additionally, according to the law, public and legal entity proposals and requests should be resolved within 30 days and responses provided. However, when these proposals and requests are received by state organizations, it takes 4-5 procedural steps and 4-10 days before reaching the responsible specialist and moving to the resolution stage.
This means that it is impossible to resolve proposals and requests within 30 days, resulting in the necessity to extend resolution periods or even return requests. Each of these actions increases paper usage accordingly.
Source: Government Public Relations Department
Are You Ready to Welcome 100 Local Business Entrepreneurs?
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn
In alignment with the Government of Mongolia's policy to increase the supply of building materials, reduce congestion in the capital, and decentralize the city's focal areas, a new international-standard "BARILGACHIN" trade center has opened in the western region, serving as a hub for building materials supply.
The center boasts several advantages including a comfortable environment for business owners and clients, ample parking, comprehensive sales and marketing policies, and a solution to storage logistics, all while adhering to green building policies.
These advantages ensure the trade center is in a prime location, providing increased sales opportunities for clients and a continuously growing value for real estate investments.
Located along Songolon Road in Bayangol District's 20th khoroo, "BARILGACHIN" trade center spans 30,000 square meters with a building size of 28,000 square meters, storage space of 10,000 square meters, and accommodates 100 container-based storage units.
The initial A block of 3,400 square meters was put into operation in 2022, hosting major brands and enterprises such as VGT eco-paint, Kelebek, Sanitari Vari LLC, JOMOO, CHINT, CNP, Jobby dry mix, Ballu heaters, MACK Euro block, Elektro montage, IGL Mongolia, HAUS, Kansai Paint, Smart Energy Technology, DELTA lifts, Eco wool insulation, among others.
Scheduled for completion in October 2024, the second phase, B block, will feature a 5,500 square meter building and a 1,000 square meter heated storage. The third phase, C block, is planned for 2025-2026, measuring 15,000 square meters of trade space and a 4,000 square meter storage facility.
Reasons for establishing a construction materials trade center in the western region:
- 80% of building materials transportation to rural areas,
- 68% of construction and housing projects in the capital,
- Over 70% of building materials production, storage, and logistics are based in the western region,
- The area supports numerous large-scale construction projects,
- The trade center aligns with the government's program to boost building material supply,
- It is compatible with policies aimed at reducing congestion and decentralizing Ulaanbaatar.
Six Reasons to Choose the BARILGACHIN Trade Center
- Convenient Location - Based in a central zone focused on building materials production, storage, and logistics.
- Comfortable Environment - Crafted for the comfort of business owners and customers.
- Ample Storage and Space - Offering 10,000 square meters of storage and space for 100 container units.
- Sufficient Parking - Over 500 parking spaces available with unrestricted access for delivery vehicles.
- Strong Sales - Comprehensive sales and marketing solutions.
- Growing Property Value - A consistent increase in value post-opening.
Pricing and Payment Terms:
Select retail spaces ranging from 18 to 300 square meters for purchase.
Sales Price Per Square Meter:
- Ground floor: 6,950,000 MNT
- Second floor: 5,500,000 MNT
- Third floor: 4,950,000 MNT
Offering flexible payment options for new clients, including installment financing and barter options involving necessary building materials, housing, or vehicles.
Rental Price Per Square Meter:
- Ground floor: 35,000 MNT
- Second floor: 30,000 MNT
- Third floor: 25,000 MNT
Fall discounts are available based on payment terms:
- 5% discount for a 30% down payment,
- 10% discount for a 50% down payment,
- 20% discount for full payment.
Enterprises with long-standing operations and strong inventory management may receive 3 to 6 months of rental exemption as a welcome gift.
The BARILGACHIN trade center is ready to welcome businesses focused on building materials.
Registration link: https://forms.gle/RajZ8eMMiKkKwixo8 Website: www.barilgachin.mn Phone: 77662277, 94001171
MIAT LLC Announces 20% Discount on Business Class
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
MIAT LLC has announced a 20% discount on Business Class tickets until October 31.
This promotion is valid on routes from Ulaanbaatar to Bangkok and back, Ulaanbaatar to Phuket and back, and Ulaanbaatar to Ho Chi Minh and back.
The number of seats is limited.
For more information, please call +976 11 333-999.
Ticket Distribution Centers:
Ticket Sales Branch 1 - Encanto tower, 1st floor (Monday-Friday 09:00-19:00) (Saturday, Sunday 10:00-15:00), Phone: +11 322118
Ticket Sales Branch 2 - Naran Mall, western wing, 1st floor (Monday-Friday 09:00-19:00) (Saturday, Sunday 10:00-15:00), Phone: +11 322 144
Tickets can also be booked through www.miat.com, MIAT APP, or Facebook Chatbot.
Diplomacy
Open Discussion on Strengthening Peacekeeping Activities Held
Published: Thu, 12 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The UN Security Council organized an open discussion on September 9 with the theme “Strengthening UN Peacekeeping Operations: Aspiration for the Future.”
During the event, the Permanent Representative of Mongolia to the UN, N. Ankhbayar, expressed Mongolia's position. He highlighted that over the past 20 years, Mongolia has contributed 20,000 troops, including 1,500 female peacekeepers, to UN peacekeeping operations. He also introduced a project aimed at supporting peacekeepers and their families. Furthermore, Mongolia fully supports UN Security Council Resolution 1325 and the UN Secretary-General's initiatives on peacekeeping, while emphasizing the importance of increasing women's participation in peacekeeping operations. He underlined the necessity of clarifying and adapting the mandates of peacekeeping missions to current realities, ensuring the safety of peacekeepers, and providing the necessary financial, technological, and training support.
The open discussion was organized under the initiative of Slovenia, which is chairing the UN Security Council in September, and was led by Slovenia's Permanent Representative to the UN, Samuel Žbogar. Over 70 member state representatives participated, with inputs from senior officials such as Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Comfort Ero, President of the International Crisis Group, and Zeid Raad Al Hussein, President of the International Peace Institute.
Countries that contribute troops to peacekeeping operations actively participated in the discussion, expressing their commitment to making the mandates of peacekeeping operations more specific to the contexts of the countries where they are carried out, ensuring necessary funding, and supporting women's participation.
Infrastructure
A Decision Has Been Made to Relocate the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry to Darkhan-Uul Province
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
At today's government meeting, a decision was made to relocate the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry (ХХААХҮЯ) from the capital. Specifically, the sector minister presented the process of relocating the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry to Darkhan-Uul province as part of regional development. Consequently, the government decided to move this ministry to the central region.
The planning of executing the metro construction in Mongolia without increasing congestion and in 40-degree cold has become a major issue
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Ulaanbaatar's metro project is receiving consultancy services from the South Korean company "Dohwa Engineering."
During a forum held today, the company's General Director of the Transportation Division, Chon Soo Dong, responded to questions from journalists about the progress of the metro project consultancy.
Journalist: Have you worked in a cold, extreme climate like Mongolia before?
- Between 2015 and 2017, we participated in city planning projects. One important aspect to consider in the metro project is how to incorporate harsh climates into the design and how this will be factored into future metro construction.
Today's forum aimed to discuss how to integrate Ulaanbaatar's infrastructure, such as water supplies and road transportation infrastructure, with the metro project.
"Dohwa Engineering" has been involved in metro planning in South Korea for 40 years.
Journalist: What is the current progress of the consultancy services being provided in Mongolia?
- Our company has been working with Ulaanbaatar to complete the plans and start on the main design of the metro. We have initiated the research activities that will play a crucial role in the metro design.
Once we receive approval from Ulaanbaatar city, we are ready to start exploratory drilling work immediately.
The tender for the organization to execute the metro construction is planned to be announced by October 1 this year. It is expected to be an open international tender. Subsequently, it will be determined which national companies will participate, and we will plan in more detail with the city authorities on how to execute the construction.
Companies from South Korea and China have already started to pay attention, with the upcoming October tender announcement for the metro construction.
Journalist: What are the infrastructure challenges in implementing the Ulaanbaatar metro project?
- Compared to other metro consultancy projects we have executed in different countries, one major challenge in Mongolia involves how to properly plan the construction to continue without interruption during the winter's 30-40 degree cold.
The second main challenge is planning the metro construction in a way that does not increase the current congestion of Ulaanbaatar city.
Z. Enkhbold: Ulaanbaatar can be improved with the state budget. However, it cannot be like the money used for the pavement.
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar conducted a live stream today on his social media, stating, "I have received information that a large team is now working on the pavement issue. I also received information stating that Zandaakhuu Enkhbold broke the stone pavement at dawn and took a picture," he announced. In response to this issue, former Speaker of the State Great Khural and member Z. Enkhbold conducted a live stream to address the matter.
He said, "Last night, Ulaanbaatar City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar slandered me. I have been in Baruunbayan-Ulaan soum, Ovorkhangai aimag, planting trees for a week, and after visiting Nariinteel and Uyanga soums, I am on my way back. I am next to the Statue of Freedom in Uyanga soum.
How can a person who has been in Ovorkhangai for a week take a hammer and break the pavement in Ulaanbaatar? Such a foolish thought can only come to Nyambaatar's mind and no one else's.
Instead of responding to the issue of purchasing a pavement worth 23,000 tugriks for 132,000, he talks about breaking it with a hammer, which is unclear.
As someone who was a Member of Parliament and is now a City Mayor, stop going low and slandering. Issue a correction. I am doing a virtuous job by planting trees in Ovorkhangai; the Ulaanbaatar elections are irrelevant to me.
However, I thought to find out the issue with the pavement. If it's stone, why does it break when hit with a hammer? Stones do not break. Instead of repairing the road, they keep replacing the pavement. The next series seems to go on saying, 'Let's stop the road work because Enkhbold broke the pavement.'
Ulaanbaatar can be improved with the state budget. However, it cannot be like the money used for the pavement. Construct the road.
I have not seen a mayor with such negligence. Ulaanbaatar residents will assess during the elections.
Nyambaatar, apologize, or I will file a defamation case with the police," he said.
Do You Support Halting Road Repairs? A Survey Has Started
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
As of today, all ongoing and planned road repair work in Ulaanbaatar City will be paused to allow the National Audit Office and the Anti-Corruption Agency to review the budget for road repair updates. The city's mayor announced that citizens will have the opportunity to express their opinion on this matter.
The capital city has already begun conducting the survey.
The survey, "Do you support halting road repairs?" offers two options: Yes or No. It has been made available on the online page https://vote.ulaanbaatar.mn/home.
The survey was supposed to begin at 12:00 today, but information has already been disseminated at 09:11. Currently, 76 citizens have participated, and 86% of them voted against it.
This year, there are 87 road projects scheduled in Ulaanbaatar. Out of these, 27 have been completed, while the remaining 60 projects will be left unfinished and will undergo review before starting again next spring.
Warning
Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social, and Websites) must mention the source (ikon.mn) when fully or partially using our information.
The road from Shangri-La Center Intersection to Paris Street will be renovated
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The road from the Shangri-La Center intersection to Paris Street will be closed and renovated from 11:00 PM on September 13 to 6:00 AM on September 16.
As part of this, the manhole covers of the engineering network will be adjusted to the asphalt concrete pavement level, and marking work will be done.
Therefore, citizens and drivers are asked to choose other routes for traveling.
N.Uchral: The Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry will be relocated to Darkhan-Uul Province
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Minister of the Cabinet Secretariat E.Uchral stated, "In connection with the approval of the government's 4-year operational program, initial activities have begun implementation. The Prime Minister has given official tasks to ministers of all areas. Each minister has been tasked with highlighting the areas they need to work on and given assignments. Major reforms will be carried out within the framework of the 14 mega projects to be implemented by the government.
The 14 mega projects are being prioritized, and discussions are underway to present them step-by-step to the State Great Khural. This autumn session will submit the investment project for "Orono." Within the framework of regional revitalization, a decision has been made to relocate the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry to Darkhan-Uul province, which is the agricultural belt.
Reforms will be implemented based on complaints and suggestions received at the "1111" line. In this context, requests have been made to international consulting companies. The law on state and local government property will be completely renewed. In addition, the government will develop human resource policies for the civil service. Moreover, tax will be viewed not only as a budget-forming item but also as a social regulator, and changes will be made from this perspective. The Finance Minister has been instructed regarding this matter," he said.
Road from Shangri-La Center Intersection to Paris Street to be Renovated
Published: Thu, 12 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The road from the "Shangri-La" center intersection to Paris Street in the Sukhbaatar district of Ulaanbaatar will be closed for renovation from 11:00 PM on September 13th to 6:00 AM on September 16th.
As part of this process, the manhole covers for the engineering networks will be adjusted to the level of the asphalt concrete surface, and signage will be installed.
Furthermore, the road from the end of the Zuraagt district in Bayangol to the 7th neighborhood in Chingeltei will also be closed for renovation from 10:00 PM on September 13th to 6:00 AM on September 16th. During this time, manhole cover adjustments, curb replacements, and other related works will be carried out, as reported by the Public Relations Department of the Capital City Administration.
Society
Transferred 112 Million Tugriks in Response to Telegram Instructions and Was Defrauded
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The General Police Department's Preventive Department has warned that cases of individuals losing their passwords and suffering financial losses due to curiously clicking on various links on social media, particularly on Facebook, continue to occur.
According to the police, 28,219 criminal cases have been registered in the first eight months of this year, with 8,103 or 28.7% considered fraud under Article 17.3 of the Criminal Code. These statistics indicate an average of 1,013 cases per month or 33 cases per day. As a result of this type of crime, citizens, businesses, and organizations have suffered a total damage of 293.3 billion tugriks, showing an increase of 126 billion or 76% compared to 2023. During the same period last year, fraud crimes caused 166.7 billion in damages.
In other words, fraudsters have embezzled enough money to allow about 2,000 citizens to acquire two-bedroom apartments, approximately 1,000 students to receive a four-year education in the USA, or to build 52 schools with a capacity of 320 students each in the capital.
Around 55-60% of all registered fraud cases have been committed using electronic devices. There is a growing trend of fraud cases involving the sale of goods and products online, using victims' acquaintances' information, offering low-interest loans, processing visas for travel abroad, facilitating studies, arranging part-time jobs online, raising money, and renting out properties under the pretext of advance payments.
Only last week, 716 crime-related complaints and reports were registered by law enforcement agencies, 64 of which or 9% were fraud-related. As a result, citizens have suffered losses exceeding 473 million tugriks. Of these, 51 cases or 80% involved online fraud. Sixteen incidents occurred from stealing Facebook passwords and defrauding acquaintances and friends, eight from online orders, 21 from offering to do part-time work on Telegram to increase money, four were scams claiming to offer loans, and 15 were committed in other ways.
For instance, a citizen named D was involved in a fraud case where he engaged with a person named Konstantin via Telegram, who proposed advertisements suggesting receiving 20% of the order for a product, resulting in D making 22 transactions sending 31.6 million tugriks to three accounts in Khaan Bank and being defrauded.
Additionally, a resident of Orkhon Province, named M, reported to the police that he was defrauded by repeatedly transferring a total of 112 million tugriks to multiple accounts in Khaan Bank under the pretense of completing tasks received via the Telegram app. Furthermore, two other citizens found that their relatives' and friends' Facebook accounts were hacked and they had received messages asking for money, resulting in them transferring between 3-10 million tugriks in multiple transactions, causing them financial loss.
To avoid becoming a victim of the ever-increasing online fraud, it is advised that citizens refrain from transferring any verification fees, charges, or advances required by an account, be wary of fraudsters claiming to transfer the desired loan amount immediately, as they often create fake account information, transaction images, and videos to mislead individuals, and to not disclose personal information, especially bank and loan application login names and passwords, to others, while maintaining confidentiality. It is also important to carefully investigate and pay attention to any online ads or promotions, especially those relating to money and finance.
Source: Preventive Department of the General Police Department
Warning
Media outlets (TV, Radio, Social, and Websites) using our information in any form, fully or partially, must mention iKon.mn as the source.
Businesses in the Area Around Bagshiin Deed Without Hot Water for Three Months
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: news.mn
Hot water has been cut off for three months in the 16th district of Sukhbaatar, which includes the First Hospital, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the area around Ulaanbaatar Songdo Hospital. The reason is that pipeline installation work is being conducted along the central road in that area. According to representatives of local enterprises, hot water has been unavailable since June 1st of this year.
In general, it was announced that repair work on the heating pipeline would begin early in February and then start at the beginning of June. However, the pipeline repair work around the Songdo, and the First Hospital started on August 1st. Hot water was cut off in early July.
Our hospital and nearby kindergartens, banks, and other businesses have been without hot water for more than two months. We are using instant water heaters to continue our services. It's a state project, so we are supportive, but there's no certainty about when the work will be finished. There's a trench dug on the right side of Bagshiin Deed, along the road from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to our hospital and the Drama Theater, with pipes left lying around, making pedestrian and vehicular movement difficult. From our observation, it seems like barely 50% of the work is done. However, we have communicated our demand to have heating and hot water by September 15th to the relevant authorities.
Since it's supposed to be a state project, we haven’t asked very often. However, it would be better if the repair period were clear. Unfortunately, as of September 15th, the work isn't finished. Initially, we received an official letter stating that the pipeline installation and repair work would be done from June 1st to September 15th. Additionally, they had promised to limit the hot water cut-offs to a short duration to ensure our hospital's operations wouldn't be affected, but since June, we have been without hot water until now.
The Ministry of Energy, with financing from the World Bank, is doing an expansion and renovation of the heating main pipelines around the 16th district of Sukhbaatar. We have not opposed the work; we are simply requesting that the promised timelines be adhered to and that the heating and hot water be provided.
“There wasn’t an issue during the summer since the kindergarten doesn't operate. Initially, we were told the work would be completed before the kindergarten resumes. However, the pipeline installation work in front of the kindergarten wasn't completed by the time it resumed. The children face difficulties coming and going in these conditions.
We have to heat water for washing dishes and cleaning. Moreover, it is difficult for children to wash their hands and faces with cold water. It seems unlikely that we will have heating by September 15th. I am telling parents to dress their children warmly,” said the teacher.
To inquire about this issue, we reached out to E. Munkhder, Coordinator of the Ulaanbaatar Heat Supply Efficiency Improvement Project, who said that businesses would start receiving heating from October 1st. Initially, it was planned for the heating pipeline repair work to begin on June 1st and finish on August 15th.
However, due to the parliamentary elections, the permission to start the heating pipeline expansion and renovation was only granted by the Ulaanbaatar Road Maintenance Department in July. This has slowed down the progress and extended the completion timeline. Additionally, alongside heating pipeline expansion and renovation, there is substantial work being done to replace and expand other engineering networks such as information cable networks, UB Powers Network, and Ulaanbaatar Water Supply's clean water pipelines, which has further delayed the work.
Environment
Intensifying the "New Cooperative" Movement and Continuing the "Prosperous Herder" Initiative
Published: Thu, 12 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn
In today's government meeting, it was directed for the relevant government members and provincial governors to intensify the "New Cooperative Movement" nationwide.
The government is implementing the "New Cooperative" movement nationwide to support the livelihoods of herder households through cooperatives, stabilize the cash flow of livestock and livestock-derived raw materials and products, and increase herders' incomes. The government has discussed and approved a five-year plan for the "New Cooperative – Prosperous Herder" initiative, and decided to provide preferential loans to cooperative member herders.
Investment loans have been issued using the commercial banks' own resources, with interest rate differential support provided by the government, and loan collateral guarantees implemented by the Credit Guarantee Fund at 80-100 percent. As of today, within the framework of this initiative, preferential loans amounting to 502.3 billion MNT have been granted to 14,688 cooperative member herders of 4,466 herder cooperatives, and projects worth 88.3 billion MNT from 1,570 herders are currently under review by commercial banks.
Based on the number of cooperative member herders eligible for preferential loans and the requested project financing amount, amendments have been made to the General Financing Agreement, and upon signing by the parties, a total of 1 trillion MNT in preferential loans will be released this year.
13 Marmot Organs, 170 kg of Bleached Nuts Prevented from Entering the City
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The Environmental Police, in cooperation with professional organizations, has been conducting 24-hour surveillance and inspections at checkpoints surrounding Ulaanbaatar City since August 7 of this year.
Over the past period, inspections were conducted on more than 25,000 vehicles, revealing 64 violations. Among the incidents, from six buses operated by local passenger and freight transport companies, an attempt was uncovered to illegally smuggle out 13 marmot organs and 170 kg of bleached pine nuts into Ulaanbaatar City. The necessary inspection actions are currently underway.
In order to prevent the recurrence of violations detected through these inspections and to protect the life and health of citizens, official notifications have been sent to the state-owned Auto Transport National Center and to the auto transport centers of Övörkhangai, Uvs, and Khovd aimags, which provide passenger transport services based on contracts, to eliminate the causes and conditions of crimes and violations.
Going forward, measures will be enforced to prevent the illegal hunting, capturing, and transportation of wild animals and related raw materials on intercity passenger buses, and operations of businesses repeatedly involved in such violations will face cancellation.
Four Foraging Camps Removed from the Mountain
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The Department of Environmental Police, in cooperation with the City Environmental Department, organized a patrol and inspection to combat the crime and violation of gathering unripe pine nuts. This took place in areas such as Bayangol, Urtyn, and Burkhant located within the 35th district of Bayanzurkh district.
During the inspection, four camps were discovered, waste in the surrounding area was cleaned up, and notices were given to 18 vehicles and 41 individuals, who were then removed from the mountain.
In connection with this inspection, 23 bags of bleached nuts, involved in two actions suspected of being criminal offenses, were temporarily confiscated as material evidence for further investigation, as reported by the Environmental Police Department.
The 2024 Lessons from the Zud
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn
More than 100 representatives from public and international humanitarian organizations will discuss the conditions of the past zud and the lessons learned from it.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, in cooperation with the State Emergency Commission's working group, will organize a discussion on the negative impacts, consequences, and lessons of the 2023-24 zud, focusing on reducing future disaster risks, vulnerabilities, and strengthening resilience to overcome those risks.
The Resident Coordinator's Office of the UN, the General Authority for Emergency Management, and representatives from the Food and Agriculture Department of Sukhbaatar Province will participate as guest speakers.
They will give presentations within the scope of the conditions of the past zud, emergency response measures, the livelihood of herders, the negative impact on livestock production, lessons learned, and reducing disaster risks and vulnerabilities.
The FAO of the UN has conducted a study to identify the needs for restoring the livelihoods of herder households affected by the zud. Preliminary results will be presented during the discussion.
Additionally, experts, and advisors from the UN FAO's Asia and Pacific Division will deliver presentations on disaster risk and preparedness. The National Reinsurance JSC will also present some issues regarding livestock index insurance.
Representatives from the emergency services, food and agricultural departments, labor and welfare services, and statistical offices from all 21 provinces, along with international humanitarian organizations, will attend the discussion.
The discussion will take place tomorrow from 09:00 AM to 4:30 PM at the Jade Room of the Blue Sky Hotel.
Prague Zoo to Implement Project for Reintroducing Przewalski's Horses in Dornod Province
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The Chief of Staff of the Office of the President of Mongolia, G. Zandanshatar, received a delegation led by the director of Prague Zoo, Miroslav Bobek.
The Prague Zoo is preparing to reintroduce Przewalski's horses in the ecosystem of the steppe and arid regions of Mongolia by conducting assessments of significant ecological areas nationwide and providing necessary professional advice for their special protection. They are also working on innovative conservation methods and preparing to introduce horses in the Sumy Hollow area of the Nömrög Strictly Protected Area in Khalkhgol soum, Dornod province.
During the meeting, they discussed the project of reintroducing Przewalski's horses and expanding bilateral cooperation in wildlife conservation and environmental sectors.
For over 30 years, Prague Zoo has been involved in reintroducing Przewalski's horses to the Great Gobi Strictly Protected Area, enhancing the material base of the conservation administration, strengthening human resources, and intensifying research activities. G. Zandanshatar expressed gratitude for these contributions.
The Prague Zoo has a history of bringing one stallion and two mares to the Great Gobi Strictly Protected Area in 1998. Additionally, projects conducted in areas like Khustai National Park and Khomiin Tal have resulted in population growth, with approximately 1,000 Przewalski's horses now residing in their native habitats.
Innovation
Student 100% Scholarship Program Announced
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The oldest establishment in Mongolia, Suu JSC, announces the "Student Scholarship Program 2024," which will provide 100% tuition scholarship for students of the following fields of study at universities and colleges for the academic year 2024-2025.
Applications for the scholarship selection process will be accepted online from September 10, 2024, to September 20, 2024, until 22:00.
Information about the scholarship program can be obtained during working days from 09:00 to 17:00 at 77072222 /4/ and 89105658.
"Green Technology-2024" Event to be Held on the 18th-19th of This Month
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The Municipality Administration of Ulaanbaatar and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change will jointly organize the "Green Technology-2024" event at Sukhbaatar Square on the 18th and 19th of this month.
The event aims to promote green technology to the public by using technological advancements and innovations for environmental protection, proper resource utilization, and reducing environmental degradation, thereby fostering a sustainable lifestyle and mindset.
During the event, information will be provided to citizens and the general public on improving air quality for households in ger districts, preventing carbon monoxide poisoning, reducing heat loss in buildings, creating energy savings, and the importance of insulation.
Currently Announced Student Scholarships
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: news.mn
Many young people want to challenge themselves for their goals and aspirations. This time, we are bringing together information about the scholarships currently being announced in different countries.
The domestic scholarship traditionally announced annually by Oyu Tolgoi has been announced. The general criteria for this scholarship are being a citizen of Mongolia, a full-time student of an accredited domestic university or college. Also, applicants should not be recipients of any other scholarship and should be studying in the 2nd-4th years in specified fields.
Materials will be accepted until the 27th of this month.
The Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi Joint Stock Company has also announced a student scholarship. The aim of this scholarship is to support students and young people registered in Ömnögovi, studying at Mongolian universities and colleges, to gain quality higher education, and to promote the formation of a creative and skilled workforce recognized both in Mongolia and globally.
It applies to students in the 1st-4th years of domestic universities and colleges who are registered with a residential address in Ömnögovi.
Eligibility Criteria
1. Applicants must have a residential address registered in Ömnögovi.
2. Must be a student in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year of a bachelor's degree program at an accredited university or college.
3. Must have a strong desire to study, be a leader in academic achievement among peers, with a GPA of 2.8 or higher.
4. Students entering the 1st year in the 2024-2025 academic year should have an average score of over 90% on their General Education Certificate.
5. Only one student per household may apply.
The deadline for application submission is the 1st of next month.
The Zorig Foundation, in collaboration with Paloma LLC, has announced a scholarship program for 20 students studying in the main campuses of domestic universities, in the 2nd year or higher, under the motto "Health is the greatest wealth, education is the highest wealth."
The deadline for material submission is the 15th of this month.
Participating in this scholarship program allows for tuition support and learning of project management to implement micro-projects for social wellbeing. There is also an opportunity to attend training aimed at personal development and skills enhancement. The requirements include a GPA of 3.2 or above, a desire to challenge oneself among peers, and a drive for innovation.
The deadline for scholarship applications for currently active, high-achieving, and leading students in need of tuition support studying at the National University of Mongolia will be in five days. Specifically, a scholarship equivalent to 12 credits of tuition will be awarded to students in the 2nd and 3rd years with a GPA exceeding 3.
Required documents include completing an application form, printing out a grade transcript, and copies of documents proving achievements and social activity.
For more information, the contact phone number is 77307730-1514.
The success of ES depends on the cooperation of teachers and students. It is challenging to understand the practice of leaders rewarding themselves
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Some decisions from the regular meeting of the government were introduced by the Minister of Education, P. Naranbayar.
During this time, he responded to journalists' questions related to the education sector as follows:
- How will the schools conducting classes in three shifts be managed for the 2024-2025 academic year?
There are 10 schools conducting classes in three shifts. Of these:
- Five schools are moving into rented premises.
- Rental premises for three schools have not been found.
- Two schools have pending issues with building repairs.
In today's meeting, a 100-day action plan of the government was adopted. This plan aims to have all schools operate on two shifts.
- How long will it take to search for rental places? How are negotiations with the private sector proceeding?
Discussions are ongoing within the framework of public-private partnerships. Second, regarding schools not fully operational, discussions are ongoing with city officials to complete them. For example, the extension of building 62 has not been completed for four years but is expected to be finished by December according to the amended city budget.
- How will the Ministry of Education work on budget reform?
We will implement a policy requiring parents to share the cost of children's food ingredients. This is a part of budget reform.
Additionally, new constructions will employ staff such as security guards, electricians, and carpenters. Services will be contracted with the private sector under reforms starting from the 2025 budget.
Building work for around 190 schools and kindergartens continues, aiming for completion. The Ministry of Finance indicated no funding for new schools and kindergartens in this year's investment budget, aiming instead to complete ongoing projects.
In the 2025 plan, 11 buildings and one dormitory are set for completion, expected to provide education opportunities for 15,000 children. The extension of the fifth school has seen ongoing issues over five years, now at 99% completion after visits and management on-site, with attention paid to taking responsibility with negligent businesses.
- Despite granting bonuses of 1-3 million MNT to students with successful exam results, a district governor reportedly transferred seven million MNT to their personal account, which is double. What is your stance on this?
I saw the report on this issue in Govi-Altai province. This is a locally budgeted matter, so the local area will decide.
In my opinion, bonuses should not be distributed indiscriminately. Exam success is a result of the cooperation between teachers and students. It is difficult to comprehend leaders indiscriminately rewarding themselves. I reiterate, this is a local issue.
Provinces and districts managed by governors concerned with education tend to have high exam success. Therefore, their involvement plays a role.
Health
Infectious Disease Cases Decrease by 6,000
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: news.mn
We inquired with N. Suvdmaa, the head of a unit at the National Center for Communicable Disease (NCCD), about the symptoms of infectious diseases and how to prevent them.
- How prevalent is infectious disease among the population?
- As of July and August nationwide, over 22,000 cases of infectious diseases have been recorded. Compared to the same period last year, this is a decrease of 6,000 cases. This is due to the fact that since the pandemic, people have adhered to hygiene protocols and have learned to incorporate information from professional organizations into their daily lives for prevention.
- What illnesses are currently dominant among the population?
- There are many illnesses. Currently, intestinal and foodborne diseases are present. The main illnesses being treated are hand, foot, and mouth disease, chickenpox, and a few cases of dysentery. Also, as the cold season is approaching, respiratory diseases will continue.
When seasons change, the body can be affected and infectious disease cases may increase.
- What age groups are affected?
- Anyone can get an infectious disease. Intestinal infections, in particular, can infect anyone. Infectious diseases arise when the three chains of sources, transmission paths, and susceptible bodies combine. In terms of intestinal infections, a source is identified when symptoms appear. This allows transmission to others through contaminated hands or food. While everyone is at risk of intestinal infection, young children are particularly susceptible.
This is because children may not know to wash their hands immediately after they become dirty and often share food with each other, leading to poor hygiene.
- Many people have reported frequent stomach aches and dehydration. Is this related to intestinal infections?
- We examine viruses through laboratory-based surveillance. Stomach aches and dehydration can have many causes. Intestinal infections can cause stomachaches. Or, if a person has a chronic digestive condition, spicy food can cause pain. Furthermore, transitioning from warm to cold seasons can lead to gastric distress. Therefore, it's advisable to see a professional doctor for a diagnosis when symptoms appear. If an intestinal infection is not treated, it can become chronic and worsen, spreading to others and causing more illnesses. Chronic conditions can also lead to prolonged digestive issues, which can eventually impact other organs.
- Are infectious disease cases related to soil, water, or air contamination?
- Soil and air pollution can be risk factors that increase infectious diseases. However, we can prevent this. It's important to wash your hands with soap immediately when they become dirty. Additionally, it's necessary to address issues related to pit latrines, wastewater, and septic tanks appropriately and ensure proper disinfection.
Sports
MONADA: Although Doping Was Detected in B. Battögs, He Was Taken to Compete in the Paralympics
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The Paralympic Games concluded last week. Four athletes from our country competed in the para judo category of these games.
However, B. Battögs, who was supposed to compete in the men's 90 kg weight category, did not make it to the mat. The Mongolian National Anti-Doping Agency (MONADA) has provided information regarding why the athlete who went to participate in the Paralympics did not compete.
According to MONADA, "The Paralympic Committee decided to admit two athletes through a special entry and sent an urgent request for testing to our organization in July.
Thus, B. Battögs was selected to enter the men's 90 kg para judo category through this special entry, and an urgent doping test was conducted on July 29.
The test results arrived on August 20, showing that the athlete's sample contained a type of doping substance. Therefore, B. Battögs and his two coaches were summoned for a meeting on August 30.
At that meeting, he was notified that his athlete's rights were suspended and that all competitions he entered after July 20 would be invalidated, and he signed an agreement. Additionally, information about the violation by this athlete was conveyed to the para judo federation on August 30.
Yet, on September 2, B. Battögs's name appeared as part of the para judo team going to the Paralympics. Moreover, a post about B. Battögs training was seen on social media made by the president of the para judo federation while being in Paris.
Our agency reported the violation to the State Physical Education and Sports Committee and the Paralympic Committee on September 3. Within 48 hours after receiving that information, the Paralympic team leader N. Oyunbat removed B. Battögs from the athlete's village.
Because the Paralympic Committee was functioning in Paris, the para judo federation took the athlete along without notifying the committee.
If a doping-offending athlete had competed in the Paralympics, our country might have faced accountability under international agreement obligations" it was explained.
Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Medalists to Receive 3-4 Room Apartments
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
A regular meeting of the government was held. During the meeting, it was decided to award 3-4 room apartments to athletes who successfully participate in and win medals at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.
Specifically, it was decided to provide a four-room apartment to Uulambayar Surenzhav, who won a gold medal, and a three-room apartment each to Bavudoirjin Baasankhuu, Ganbatin Bolor-Erdene, Tsegmidin Battulga, and Enkhbayrin Sodnompiljee, who won silver medals, all of whom have elevated the prestige of Mongolia by participating successfully in the XXXIII Summer Olympics and the XVII Paralympic Games in Paris 2024.
Arts
The First National Conference of Translators of Mongolia to be Held on the 30th of This Month
Published: Thu, 12 Sep 2024 | Translated from: montsame.mn
The First National Conference of the Translators of Mongolia will be organized at the State Palace on the 30th of this month. The conference is being co-organized by the Office of the President, the National University of Mongolia (NUM), and the National Information MONTSAME Agency.
As part of the preparations for the conference, discussions with organizations and individuals in the translation sector are being organized to consolidate opinions. Discussions on topics such as "Challenges in the Translation Sector", "Skills of Translators and Interpreters", "Quality and Standards of Translation Works", and "Development and Solutions in the Translation Sector" were organized on the 6th, 7th, and 10th of this month. Tomorrow, a discussion on the ethical issues of translator professionals will take place.
Doctor and Associate Professor Sh. Egshig, head of the Department of Humanities, Department of Asian Studies, and Center for Qualification Assessment of Translators and Interpreters at NUM's School of Science, was consulted regarding the First Conference of Translators.
- What is the purpose of organizing this conference?
- This conference is being organized based on the initiative of academics from the National University of Mongolia. A Center for Evaluating Translator's Skills has been established at NUM. This center needs to determine the skills of translators and interpreters through research and focus on what needs to be done to keep pace with the world if they are at a poor level. Therefore, work to evaluate the skills of translators and interpreters may begin.
The purpose of this conference is related to the increasing societal demand due to the quality of translations being criticized on social networks and media, yet no concrete steps being taken to solve the issue.
The results of a survey conducted among translators and interpreters since 2021 showed that the level was relatively weak compared to the global standard. It was considered timely to hold a national conference to discuss how translators in Mongolia view this and address this matter.
- In your opinion, why is translation quality poor?
- Translation can only be done when one knows both the language being learned and one’s native language well. Without one, one cannot translate. It's mainly due to the deficiency in the training of the Mongolian language, which is one of the primary aspects. Additionally, there is a need to discuss the abilities of translators and interpreters because there is no system in place to evaluate their skills in the other language.
- Can artificial intelligence replace the profession of translators?
- There is such a thing as the global translation industry. This industry trend is developing to a certain extent with human translation and machine translation, computer-assisted translation, and the use of translation dictionaries and devices. This may tend to dominate. In order to keep up with the world, we need to provide students with a certain level of knowledge in this area.
In terms of the National University of Mongolia, we are working on providing insights about machine translation and computer-assisted translation in the content of certain lessons within the foreign language translation program.
There is also the International Federation of Translators. This federation has a theme for Translation Day. This year's theme is quite interesting. It addresses the question of how we can preserve the rights of the authors of great past translations by human translators and what solutions there are to combat the dominance of artificial intelligence. It seems to signal that attention should now be directed toward how to regard the works of former translators if AI prevails.
- How can one participate in the National Conference of Translators?
- Interested individuals and industry professionals can participate in the discussions. If unable, they are given an opportunity to fill out questionnaires and propose their ideas online.
- How do you see the significance of the upcoming National Conference of Translators?
- To organize the conference, we need to incorporate the opinions of translators and interpreters themselves on issues prevalent in society, skill-related issues, how they view the quality and standards of translation works, and how we should resolve the future development of the translation sector.
We are planning and working on conducting preliminary discussions along these lines. It is necessary to address the pressing issues, raise the matter to the government, make a declaration of translators, and forward other proposals through the discussions. The conference will also discuss the main issues and explore ways to resolve them.
An Exhibition "Patterns of the Wind" Opens at the Oyu Tolgoi Underground Mine
Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 | Translated from: ikon.mn
For the first time in the world, the "Patterns of the Wind" exhibition by Mongolia's People's Artist, State Prize winner, and Honored Art Worker Sh. Chimeddorj is being displayed at a depth of 1,256 meters in the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine. This event marks a significant milestone in the history of culture and arts.
Holding this exhibition in an underground mine demonstrates "Oyu Tolgoi" company's consistent support in promoting Mongolian national culture, arts, and traditions, while bringing artists' works to the public.
During the opening of the exhibition, Sh. Chimeddorj stated, "This exhibition includes a total of 30 works. I brought all new works. It is considered to be a large-scale independent exhibition. Transporting, placing, and arranging the paintings and sculptures from Ulaanbaatar to here was quite an effort. The Gobi is very windy. Each wind has its own flow. There is even wind inside the underground mine. It might suddenly blow, then the sun will come out, and the wind will calm down, just like creating an artwork with different textures and weights. Human emotions are similar, which is why I named the exhibition 'Patterns of the Wind.' I myself am from the Gobi. The wind in the Gobi is exceedingly artistic," he highlighted.
These unique works will be showcased to the mine employees from September 9th to 15th, 2024.
Member discussion