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Wednesday, October 14, 2015
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Headlines in Italic are ones modified by Cover Mongolia from original
TRQ down -2.98% Mon-Tue to US$2.93
TPO last traded A$0.18 on October 1
Tian Poh Resources builds copper-molybdenum confidence in Mongolia
October 13 (Proactive Investors) Tian Poh Resources (ASX:TPO) has hit copper grades up to 1,100 parts per million and molybdenum grades up to 585ppm during due diligence drilling at the Zuun Mod project in Mongolia.
Intensifying alteration was evident at depth, with geological processes indicated an albite alteration zone could overlay a mineralised zone in Khuvyn Khar porphyry complex of the project area.
Most drilling samples from surface to 244 metres depth returned from 200 to 1,100 ppm copper (average 750 ppm copper) and about 30 to 200 ppm molybdenum (average 206 ppm molybdenum), with highest concentration being 585 ppm molybdenum.
The results were much higher in concentration than samples from the lower part of the hole (244 to 450 metres), where copper averaged 288 ppm in grade and molybdenum averaged 31 ppm.
This work represented the completion of due diligence drilling as part of Tian Poh's acquisition of Zuun Mod from Erdene Resources (TSX:ERD).
The drilling program was designed to test the Khuvyn Khar North target zone, located on the northeastern part of Khuvyn Khar. The target is selected on the basis of a series of coincident and overlapping geological, geophysical and geochemical features.
These features include gravity, induced polarisation and magnetic responses, as well as the concentration of quartz veins and anomalous mineralisation of copper, silver and gold.
Mogi: stress over Kumtor and Gatsuurt was I'm sure not fun. CG closed -2.07% Tuesday to C$7.56
Centerra Gold Announces CEO, President Appointments
TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - October 13, 2015) - Centerra Gold Inc. (TSX: CG) announced today that Scott Perry will be appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective November 1, 2015, replacing Ian Atkinson. Centerra had announced in March 2015 that Mr. Atkinson would retire by year-end.
Mr. Perry has more than 20 years of experience in the gold industry. His previous work experience included assignments as CEO at AuRico Gold Incorporated, as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at AuRico Gold Incorporated, as CFO at Highland Gold, and as CFO at Barrick Gold's Russian and Central Asia Business Unit. At AuRico, Mr. Perry worked to enhance the project portfolio to long-lived, low-cost assets, oversee successful construction and development at the Young Davidson Mine, and deliver three years of annual improvements in productivity and costs. Mr. Perry has a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Curtin University in Perth, Western Australia.
Additionally, Centerra announced the appointment of Mr. Frank Herbert as President. Mr. Herbert has been General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of Centerra Gold since 2004. In his new role, Frank's responsibilities will include oversight of the Company's legal matters, government relations and negotiations, and working with Mr. Perry in setting the strategic direction for Centerra.
Mr. Atkinson has been with Centerra Gold since 2005. He was Centerra's Vice President-Exploration, Senior Vice President-Global Exploration and has served as President, CEO and Director since May 2012. Mr. Atkinson will be working with Mr. Perry and the Board of Directors until year-end to facilitate a smooth transition.
Speaking on behalf of the Board of Directors, Chairman Stephen Lang stated, "The Board thanks Ian for his leadership, his years of service, the value he has added, and his assistance in this change. Under Ian's leadership, Centerra has extended its footprint with attractive development assets in Turkey and Canada. We welcome Frank in his expanded role, and greatly value the continuity he provides to the on-going discussions with the Kyrgyz and Mongolian governments. We look forward to working with Scott in moving Centerra forward." In accepting the role, Mr. Perry said, "I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead Centerra at this important stage in its journey and look forward to working with the Centerra team to ensure the Company delivers against its strategic objectives."
MSE Trading Report: Top 20 +0.84%, UID +14.99%, Stocks ₮13.9 Million, T-Bills ₮9.69 Billion
October 13 (MSE) --
₮10 Billion 12-Week 14% Discounted T-Bills Sold with ₮20.7 Billion Bids
October 13 (MSE) On 13 October 2015, the bond orders of 12 weeks Government bonds with 14.0% annual interest, placed on order book, and Ministry of Finance supplied 100,000 or MNT10.0 billion out of total order 207,238 pieces or MNT20.7 billion.
Bellow member brokerage companies participated in the bond trading as follows:
№ | Companies' name | Volume |
1 | Monsec | 50,064 |
2 | Tenger Capital | 45,893 |
3 | Novel Investment | 2,085 |
4 | BDSec | 868 |
5 | Daewoo Securities Mongolia | 411 |
6 | TDB Capital | 410 |
7 | Golomt Securities | 256 |
8 | Standard Investment | 13 |
| Total | 100,000 |
Historic low ₮1,997.26/USD set September 11
BoM MNT Rates: Tuesday, October 13 Close
| | 10/13 | 10/12 | 10/9 | 10/8 | 10/7 | 10/6 | 10/5 | 10/2 | 10/1 | 9/30 | 9/29 | 9/28 | 9/25 | 9/24 | 9/23 |
| USD | 1,994.43 | 1,994.63 | 1,994.45 | 1,993.59 | 1,995.99 | 1,995.06 | 1,996.34 | 1,996.69 | 1,996.27 | 1,996.83 | 1,996.99 | 1,993.89 | 1,996.76 | 1,996.27 | 1,995.28 |
| EUR | 2,274.85 | 2,270.69 | 2,258.02 | 2,250.76 | 2,242.30 | 2,237.66 | 2,245.68 | 2,229.90 | 2,242.44 | 2,242.44 | 2,244.22 | 2,231.26 | 2,229.48 | 2,236.32 | 2,221.35 |
| CNY | 314.81 | 315.61 | 314.32 | 313.83 | 314.03 | 313.88 | 314.09 | 314.14 | 314.07 | 314.16 | 313.81 | 313.02 | 313.16 | 312.86 | 312.54 |
| GBP | 3,064.04 | 3,064.55 | 3,061.98 | 3,056.77 | 3,048.97 | 3,022.91 | 3,041.82 | 3,024.09 | 3,021.16 | 3,026.00 | 3,032.63 | 3,032.31 | 3,042.96 | 3,048.00 | 3,063.15 |
| RUB | 32.05 | 32.71 | 32.34 | 32.02 | 31.85 | 30.59 | 30.40 | 30.28 | 30.70 | 30.41 | 30.17 | 30.37 | 30.32 | 30.05 | 30.07 |
Bank rates at time of sending: TDB (Buy ₮1,990 Sell ₮1,997), Khan (Buy ₮1,990 Sell ₮1,997), Golomt (Buy ₮1,990 Sell ₮1,997), XacBank (Buy ₮1,989 Sell ₮1,997), State Bank (Buy ₮1,990 Sell ₮1,997)
MNT vs USD (blue), CNY (red) in last 1 year:
BoM FX auction: US$5m sold at ₮1,993.1, CNY80.5m at ₮313.88, accepts $39.028m MNT, $20m USD swap offers
October 13 (BoM) On the Foreign Exchange Auction held on October 13th, 2015 the BoM has received bid offers of USD 9.4 million in a rate between MNT 1990.00-1993.70 and bid offers of CNY 129.0 million in a rate between MNT 313.88-314.25 from local commercial banks. The BoM sold USD 5.0 million in a closing rate of MNT 1993.10 and CNY 80.5 million in a closing rate of MNT 313.88 respectively.
On October 13th, 2015, The BoM has received MNT Swap agreement bid offer equivalent to USD 39.028 million and USD Swap agreement selling bid offer equivalent to USD 20.0 million from local commercial banks and the BoM has accepted the offers.
BoM issues ₮175.3 billion 1-week bills at 13%, total outstanding +177.2% to ₮374.2 billion
October 12 (BoM) BoM issues 1 week bills worth MNT 175.3 billion at a weighted interest rate of 13.0 percent per annum /For previous auctions click here/
Inflation Falls to 4.9% in September from 6.6% in August, Ulaanbaatar 3.9% from 5.9%
October 12 (Bank of Mongolia) --
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Mongolia Iron Ore Exports Plunge 48% in Jan.-Sept. to $164m
By Michael Kohn
October 12 (Bloomberg) -- Mongolia's iron ore exports plunged 48% by value to $164.4m in Jan.-Sept. versus a year ago, National Statistical Office says on website.
* Volume of iron ore exports decreased to 3.42m tons from 4.16m tons yr ago
* Copper concentrate exports rose to $1.72b vs $1.68b yr ago; volume increased to 1.06m tons vs 966,000 tons yr earlier
* Coal exports fell to $433m from $633.5m yr ago; volume declined to 10.5m tons vs 13.5m tons yr ago
* Total exports declined to $3.54b in nine-month period, down from $4.02b a year earlier
* China purchased $3b worth of Mongolia's exports in Jan.- Sept., representing 85% of the total
* Mineral products accounted for $2.8b (79%) of total exports; second most was precious metals/jewelry with a value of $287m and textiles third with $262m
(BFW)
Mongolia 2015 Budget Shortfall Reaches $434m at end Sept.
By Michael Kohn
October 12 (Bloomberg) -- Mongolia's total revenue and grants to the general budget in Jan.-Sept. were 4.05tr tugrik vs total expenditure of 4.91tr tugrik, a revenue shortfall of 867.3b tugrik ($434m), compared to 192.5b tugrik deficit in the same period yr ago, according to data released today by the National Statistical Office.
* Tax revenue decreased 165.9b tugrik or 4.5% y/y
* Principal in arrears totaled 828.7b tugrik at end-Sept, a 78.4% increase y/y
* Non-performing loans totaled 836.8b tugrik at end-Sept., a 3.3% decrease m/m and 41.7% increase y/y
* Total external trade in Jan-Sept. fell 20.5% y/y to $6.4b, a drop of $1.65b
* Exports fell $480.3m or 11.9% and imports plunged $1.17b or 29% compared to same period a year earlier
* Trade balance was +$684.2m in Jan.-Sept., compared to -$1.4m a year earlier
* Sept. CPI increased 4.9% y/y, the slowest rise since May 2011
* Construction and capital repairs in Jan-Sept. decreased 13.6% compared to the same period yr ago
(BFW)
Treasury auctions hurting commercial banks says bankers association
October 13 (gogo.mn) The government bond trading at the secondary market (Mogi: primary I'm sure) reached to the worth of MNT 347.1 billion as of first 9 months of 2015.
It is increased by MNT 226.2 billion or 2.9% from the same period of the last year (Mogi: numbers don't add up), reported National Statistics Committee.
The Ministry of Finance continuously issues government bonds via Mongol Bank in order to reduce the state budget deficit. There is still high demand for mid-term government bond with annual interest rate of 14-15%. However, the issues of the bond is being blamed by Banks Association of Mongolia that it negatively affects the competitiveness of domestic commercial banks. The reason is that individuals and entities are eager to invest in the government bond, considering that it is a more reliable investment source with much less risk.
If money invested in the government bond is instead held as savings by commercial banks, it would have been more fruitful for local economic development as it is reinvested and managed by commercial banks.
On the other hand, there are a number of economists who still endorse the issue of the government bond. According to them, it is better approach to increase the volume of the internal debt rather than that of the external debt which has been unbalanced.
Socio-Economic Situation of Mongolia, First 9 Months: NPLs +41.7% to 7%, Budget Deficit ₮867.3 Billion, Trade Surplus $684.2 Million
I. Social indicators
The number of unemployed reached 31.1 thousand at the end of September 2015, has shown a decrease of 2.8 thous.persons or 8.3 percent from previous month, increased by 0.7 thous.persons or 2.2 percent over the same period of the previous year. 17.5 thous.persons or 56.4 percent of the total unemployed were female.
In the first 9 months of 2015, the revenue of Social Insurance Fund amounted to 1044.5 bln.tog, reflecting increase of 27.3 bln.tog or 2.7 percent and the expenditure of the fund reached 1153.5 bln.tog, it has shown of increase 200.7 bln.tog or 21.1 percent compared to same period of the previous year.
…
In September 2015, 6642 mothers delivered 6652 children (live births) it has decreased by 147 mothers or 2.2 percent and by 187 children or 2.7 percent from previous month.
In the first 9 months of 2015, infant mortality reached 921 it has increased by 9 children or 1.0 percent and mortality under-five reached 1098 has shown decrease of 13 children or 1.2 percent compared to same period of the previous year.
…
II. Economic sector indicators
In total 8285 people have injured and 723 people died caused by crimes. The number of injured has increased by 500 or 6.4 percent and but the death cases has decreased by 113 people or 13.5 percent compared to same period of the previous year.
According to report of the Bank of Mongolia, money supply (M2) reached to 9.9 trill.tog at the end of September 2015, decreased by 25.6 bln. tog or 0.3 percent from the previous month and it has decreased by 135.6 bln.tog or 1.3 percent compared to same period of the previous year.
At the end of September 2015, currency issued in circulation reached 767.9 bln.tog, it has decreased by 6.5 bln.tog or 0.8 percent from the previous month and decreased by 59.4 bln.tog or 7.2 percent compared to same period of the previous year.
Loans outstanding amounted to 11.9 trill. tog, at the end of September 2015, increased by 97.7 bln.tog or 0.8 percent from previous month, decreased by 673.1 bln.tog or 5.3 percent compared to same period of the previous year.
Principals in arrears reached 828.7 bln.tog at the end of September 2015, it has increased by 48.3 bln.tog or 6.2 percent from previous month, by 364.1 bln.tog or 78.4 percent compared to same period of the previous year.
At the end of September 2015, the nonperforming loans over the bank system reached 836.8 bln.tog, it has decreased by 28.6 bln.tog or 3.3 percent from the previous month, increased by 246.4 bln.tog or 41.7 percent compared to same period of the previous year.
…
In the first 9 months of 2015 total equilibrated revenue and grants of the General Government Budget amounted to 4045.9 bln.tog and total expenditure and net lending amounted to 4913.2 bln.tog, representing a deficit of 867.3 bln.tog in the equilibrated balance.
…
In the first 9 months of 2015, Mongolia traded with 142 countries of the world and total external trade turnover reached 6397.7 mln.US dollars, of which 3540.9 mln.US dollars was made by exports and 2856.8 mln.US dollars by imports.
Total external trade turnover decreased 1646.2 mln.US dollars or 20.5 percent, exports decreased by 480.3 mln.US dollars or 11.9 percent, imports by 1165.9 mln.US dollars or 29.0 percent compared to same period of the previous year.
In September 2015, exports were 289.3 mln. US dollars, it has decreased by 149.4 mln.US dollars or 34.1 percent, imports by 309.9 mln.US dollars it has decreased by 28.1 mln.US dollars or 8.3 percent from previous month.
…
Link to download NSO monthly bulletin (click Review)
Freight and passengers fall 18.5%, 9.9% in first 9 months
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) In the first nine months of this year, 27.5 million tons of freight and 208.6 million passengers (at duplicated counting) were carried by all types of transport. Size of freight decreased by 6.3 million or 18.5%, while a number of passengers--by 22.8 million people or 9.9% against the same period of the previous year.
Strategically Managing Mongolia's Sovereign Credit and Perception Ratings – Dr. Nigel Finch
Business Council of Mongolia, EEIBC, Galaxy Tower, Ulaanbaatar 9th October 2015
Rio Says Hedge Funds Playing 'Dangerous Game' With Copper
· Rio's copper chief says price isn't reflecting fundamentals
· Says funds shorting copper as macro bet on China's economy
October 12 (Bloomberg) Hedge funds betting that copper will drop further are playing a "dangerous game" with prices, according to the head of copper at Rio Tinto Group, the world's second-biggest mining company.
The metal is "not trading on fundamentals," Rio Copper & Coal Chief Executive Officer Jean-Sébastien Jacques said in an interview in London. "There is lots of short-selling in copper and we've seen the pick up in terms of short-selling in copper on the back of what happened in China a few months ago."
A glut of copper has exacerbated short-selling by hedge funds and China's move in August to restrict such sales in equities has prompted funds to redirect bearish bets on the nation's economy to copper, Jacques said. His view echoes Glencore Plc CEO Ivan Glasenberg's comments last week that the market was being distorted but that supply and demand would eventually prevail. The metal has slumped about 16 percent this year amid a slowdown in China, the biggest user.
Copper has plunged almost 50 percent from a record $10,190 a metric ton set in 2011. The price, at about $5,306.50 now, will drop to an average $4,500 a ton in 2017 and 2018, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. wrote in an Oct. 8 report. Money managers have been betting on lower prices for almost every week since June, U.S. government data show.
"We continue to strongly recommend producers increase the hedging of their copper exposure and investors either reduce long exposure or take out long-dated short exposures in copper," Goldman Sachs analyst Max Layton said in the report.
The rout has prompted miners including Glencore and Freeport-McMoran Inc. to cut back less-profitable production. Stockpiles of copper tracked by the London Metal Exchange have dropped to a seven-month low, another sign that supplies may be tightening. Prices will remain volatile until a deficit returns in 2017 or 2018, Rio's Jacques said.
"It can be a very dangerous game in the medium and long term," he said. "You don't want to have a short position when the market moves into a deficit. From an industry standpoint, the sooner we move back into a deficit situation the better it is because currently there is a lot of noise in the system."
Link to article (and interview video)
Canadian professor underlines need to developing Mongolia's private sector
October 11 (UB Post) On October 8, Associate Professor Eric Werker from Simon Fraser University in Canada met with Mongolian students to talk about vital factors in developing countries, consistent with the nation's economy, highlighting that Mongolia needs to support the private sector's development.
The International Monetary Fund named Mongolia as one of thirty countries with the world's fastest-growing economies in a study conducted in 2015.
Werker gave a speech titled "The private sector's development in a developing economy" to students, teachers, and researchers from Otgontenger University. He analyzed Mongolia's current economic condition, based on his experience, comparing it to other countries.
He said that positive and negative economic trends are directly dependent on the private sector's development and state participation, giving examples of market overviews of Angola, Dubai, China, Argentina, and Pakistan.
Werker emphasized that, first of all, the private sector's competitiveness should be improved. It is vital for countries to define a strategy, whether the state should follow an export directed policy or policy to ensure the domestic market's demands.
He said, "From the examples of many countries, it was shown that an economy based only on mining cannot exist long. Mongolia is now on the edge of that choice. Even though there are many private companies engaged in animal husbandry, agriculture, and production, they need to create their own brands. By successfully releasing them on the international market, the economy will have a self-protective immunity.
"However, one company cannot be supported too much. For instance, Mexican telecommunications company Telemax received more support from its government. Following this, the company successfully became a powerful brand, but Mexicans are getting cellular telephone services at a higher cost. This means that the government needs to properly define how to provide support for the private sector's development," added Professor Werker.
Werker earned his Bachelor of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in economics at Harvard University. Werker is an advisor to the Liberia program of the International Growth Centre in London, serves on the advisory group of the Center for Global Development in Washington, and is a member of the Centre for International Policy Studies study group on Canada's sustainable development policy in Ottawa. He has set up and directed the International Growth Centre's Liberia program, served as economic advisor to the President of Liberia, supported host government teams negotiating concession agreements, consulted to the NGO Conservation International on low-carbon development and to the U.S. government's Millennium Challenge Corporation on foreign aid projects, and worked with the Refugee Law Project in Uganda.
Average Foreign Tourist Spends $1,774 in Mongolia
October 13 (Mongolian Economy) The Bank of Mongolia and the National Center for Tourism studied foreign tourists' travel expenses in Mongolia. Average travel expense in Mongolia varies depending on the tourist's own travel desires and which country's tour operator they chose.
Fifty-one percent of the surveyed tourists organised their trip by themselves, while 49 percent used the services of tour operators. Of the group that utilise tour operators, 51 percent choose to work with Mongolian companies (not to be confused with the 51 percent of all tourists who organize their trip on their own).
The study found that individual travelers spent USD 1526 during their two weeks spent in Mongolia, while tourists served by companies spent USD 2382.
Tourists in Mongolia make 74 percent of payments by cash and 26 percent by card. The study randomly selected 1,233 tourists in Mongolia.
According to Mongolian Immigration, 22 percent of foreign tourists entering the border were citizens of South Korea, China 17 percent, Russia 17 percent, and US and Canadian tourists made up six percent.
Parliament Session Agenda for October 13: Standing Committee Meetings
October 13 (gogo.mn) Standing Committee meetings are scheduled for today.
1. Budget Standing Committee meeting at 09AM at A Hall.
Agenda:
- Operation report for 2016 of the Mongolian State Budget, Amendments to draft law on 2016-2017 budget adjustment
- Amendments to law on 2015 Mongolian State Budget, Amendments to 2015 Budget Law for Human Development Fund, Amendments to Budget Law for 2015 Social Insurance Fund,
- Operation report for 2016 of the Mongolian State Budget, Amendments to draft law on 2017-2018 budget adjustment
- Draft law on 2016 Mongolian State Budget, 2016 Budget Law for Human Development Fund, 2016 Budget Law for Social Insurance Fund Budget,
- Discussion on the establishment working group
2. Justice Standing Committee meeting at 09AM at B Hall.
Agenda:
- Discussion on selection and resignation of Head of Standing Committee
- Amendments to draft law on pardon dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the beginning of democratic changes and the first and free elections held in Mongolia
- Discussion of Constitutional Court's 2015 13th conclusion on dispute whether constitutional clause in 171.2 clause of 171th article in law of Mongolia is violated
- Law on conflict and affiliated other drafts
- Amendments to draft law on border and affiliated other drafts
- Amendments to draft law on border ports and affiliated other drafts
3. Economy Standing Committee meeting at 02PM at A Hall.
Agenda:
- Draft Resolution of State Great Hural on Approval of 2015 Monetary Policy Directions
- Discussion on establishment of Working group in charge of Draft Resolution of State Great Hural on Approval of 2015 Monetary Policy Directions
Mongolia cabinet bill on ratifying amendment to ITU Constitution and Convention
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) The cabinet meeting on Monday discussed and then backed a bill on ratifying the amendment to the Constitution and Convention of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The draft law will be submitted to parliament.
The amendment to the ITU Constitution and Convention was approved during the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2010 (PP-10) which took place in Guadalajara, Mexico on October 4-22 of 2010.
Formed in 1865, the ITU is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) responsible for issues that concern information and communication technologies. The ITU coordinates the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promotes international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, works to improve telecommunication infrastructure in the developing world, and assists in the development and coordination of worldwide technical standards. The ITU is active in areas including broadband Internet, latest-generation wireless technologies, aeronautical and maritime navigation, radio astronomy, satellite-based meteorology, convergence in fixed-mobile phone, Internet access, data, voice, TV broadcasting, and next-generation networks.
ITU also organizes worldwide and regional exhibitions and forums, such as ITU TELECOM WORLD, bringing together representatives of government and the telecommunications and ICT industry to exchange ideas, knowledge and technology.
Mongolia joined the ITU in 1964.
Cabinet backs in concept bill on auto transportation
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) At its meeting on Monday, the cabinet discussed and then backed a draft concept of the law on auto transportation.
The Minister of Road and Transportation M.Zorigt was told to work out the bill and to submit it to the cabinet in near future.
Since its first adoption in 1999, the law on auto transportation has been amended 15 times, therefore the law's articles and clauses have lost their logical order and coherence. The new law on auto transportation has become vital because of needs of door-to-door auto service as the country has a vast territory and less developed infrastructure.
According to the 2014 statistics on transportation performance, 98.8% of total passengers and 64% of total freight were carried by the auto transport.
DBM to establish construction leasing, export insurance subsidiaries
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) --
…
- A decision was made to establish the "Leasing financing for great construction" LLC and the "National Export Insurance" LLC as subsidiary companies at the Development Bank of Mongolia (DBM).
Cabinet approves members of state-private-civil society council on regulating petroleum supply, price
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) --
…
- The cabinet approved a composition of a state-private sector-civil society council, which will be responsible for organizing and controlling the matters on supply of petroleum products and stabilizing their prices.
Mongolia Mulls Scrapping Corruption Cases
Ministers propose new version of a vetoed law granting amnesty to convicted fraudsters.
October 12 (Transitions Online) Watchdog groups are urging the Mongolian parliament to veto a new bill that would grant amnesty to individuals being investigated for corruption, in part by terminating 45 out of 55 corruption cases brought by the Independent Agency Against Corruption branch in Mongolia.
"This is a blatant attempt by politicians to grant themselves impunity," said Jose Ugaz, chair of Transparency International, in a press release. "Anyone accused of corruption must be investigated."
Mongolia's president vetoed sections of a similar law in August that would have granted amnesty to people currently serving prison terms, following a campaign by Transparency International and the UNCAC Coalition, an international umbrella group representing more than 300 civil society organisations.
But now a parliamentary committee has introduced for debate a new version of the vetoed law with the same amnesty provisions, the watchdog groups say.
"Mongolia is a party to the UN Convention against Corruption, and the UNCAC review process already raised serious questions about the Mongolian enforcement system. This new legislation, if adopted, would further undermine the rule of law in Mongolia." -- Manzoor Hasan, chair of the UNCAC Coalition, stated in the press release.
Some politicians have called for the Independent Agency Against Corruption to be disbanded, claiming it has become a political tool of the president, who appoints its members, bne IntelliNews writes.
· Mongolia adopted an Anti-Corruption Law in 2006, created the Independent Authority Against Corruption (IAAC) in 2007, and passed the Law on Information Transparency and the Right to Information in 2011 and the Law on Conflict of Interest in 2012.
· Mongolia ranked 80th out of 176 countries last year in Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index
· A survey by The Asia Foundation this June found pessimism about corruption has increased among Mongolian citizens. Fifty-nine percent of respondents said that corruption had increased in the previous three years, compared to 41 percent in September 2013.
· Former President Nambaryn Enkhbayar was sentenced to seven years in jail in 2012 – commuted to three years – on charges stemming from political corruption during his tenure as head of state from 2005–2009, The Diplomat reported.
Max Group Brings Burger King® to Mongolia
ULAANBAATAR – OCTOBER 16, 2015 – Max Center LLC today announced that the very first international burger restaurant in Mongolia will open in the very popular Bayangol District, one of the most populated commercial, business and residential areas in West Ulaanbaatar. Max Center LLC is owned by the Max Group, in turn owned by Ganbaatar Dagvadorj and Tserenjigmed Dagvadorj, brothers and prominent businessmen in Mongolia.
"We are very excited to bring the BURGER KING® brand and the world-famous WHOPPER® sandwich to Mongolia", said David Shear, president of BK Asiapac, Pte. Ltd., the master franchisor for the BURGER KING® brand in the Asia Pacific region. "We have the right partner in Max Group to drive our business and bring our world-class food to our fans in Mongolia and we are proud to be the first global hamburger chain in Mongolia" added David Shear. "With our partner Max Group, and the immense potential of the country, we are confident that our unique taste profile will continue to attract loyal fans in Mongolia for years to come."
"It is a milestone for Max Group and for Mongolia", said Ganbaatar Dagvadorj. "Personally, I have always liked the BURGER KING® brand and its menu, and I feel it is a really good fit for the Mongolian market and taste prerferences. The Bayangol District is a prime location to site the first restaurant and I am thrilled for the opportunity to offer quality BURGER KING® food at reasonable prices in a family-friendly atmosphere." added Ganbaatar Dagvadorj.
"BURGER KING® restaurants have served signature recipes and provided family-friendly dining experiences to guests around the world and this has defined the brand for more than 60 successful years. We are proud to say that Max Group will officially serve BURGER KING® products to fellow Mongolians very soon," said Tserenjigmed Dagvadorj.
About Max Group
Max Group is one of Mongolia's fastest growing conglomerates, engaged in diversified business activities such as real estate development, mining, infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture and trade and services. Max Group has strong experience in the Mongolian QSR industry operating other local brands, they are now ready to take the next step in their international development and bring BURGER KING® to the market.
XacBank Welcomes National Bank of Canada as Strategic Investor
Ulaanbaatar, October 12 2015 – The Bank of Mongolia (Central Bank) issued its regulatory approval for the National Bank of Canada ("NBC") as a new shareholder of XacBank. The investment in XacBank would be made through the holding company of XacBank, TenGer Financial Group ("TFG").
NBC's investment in XacBank and TFG is the first investment by a foreign commercial bank in the financial sector of Mongolia. The transaction is subject to Canadian regulatory approval.
National Bank of Canada (www.nbc.ca), together with its subsidiaries, forms one of Canada's leading integrated financial groups. Thanks to its 20,000 employees, it provides comprehensive financial services to 2.4 million retail and commercial clients.
XacBank is the largest subsidiary of TenGer Financial Group companies providing fair access to broad financial services. XacBank is the fourth largest bank in Mongolia.
Khan Bank Opens Self-Service Express Banking Centers in Darkhan and Erdenet
October 9 (Khan Bank) Khan Bank opened self-service Express Banking Centers equipped with Recycle ATMs and available 24 hours a day in Darkhan and Erdenet on 6th October 2015.
The Express Banking Centers were opened at Khan Bank branches such as the Business Loan Center and the International Trade Center in Darkhan, as well as at the Orkhon branch of Khan Bank in Erdenet.
The Mongol Bank branch managers, Chairmen of the Citizens Representatives Councils, other officials, employees of branches and representatives of customers attended the opening ceremony.
In his speech, the Mongol Bank branch manager underlined that Khan Bank retains its leading position continuously time and offers products and services tailored to the demands and needs of its customers. At this time, the Bank also introduced highly demanded new service in rural areas.
The self-service Express Banking Centers, which are highly appreciated by customers and have received good feedback from the public, provide customers with a wide range of options to make cash deposit and withdrawal transactions, all types of payments and settlements, and make internet banking transactions through specialized internet banking E-Corners.
The Recycle ATMs installed at the Express Banking Centers are the first ATMs of Mongolia enabling customers to deposit or withdraw up to MNT 5 million or 250 banknotes at one time.
Khan Bank opened its self-service Express Banking Centers in more populated areas of six districts in Ulaanbaatar. The self-service Express Banking Centers opened in Darkhan and Erdenet provide local residents with the opportunity to receive banking services by using Khan Bank payment cards.
Dear customers, please visit your nearest Express Banking Centers and receive banking services such as cash deposits and withdrawals, as well as cash transfers.
Welcome to the Khan Bank Express Banking Centers, which save your time and provide you with modern advanced technology banking in a safe environment.
Mogi: the agreement was signed Tuesday. Tsagaan Suvarga was classified strategic deposit by parliament but opted not to take a stake
Cabinet approves signing investment agreement with MAK on Tsagaan Suvarga
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) At the regular meeting of Monday, the cabinet approved a draft agreement on the investment for Tsagaan Suvarga copper-molybdenum concentrator project, and gave permission to the Minister of Mining R.Jigjid to sign the agreement.
In accordance with the Law on Investment, the Mongolyn Alt Corporation (MAK) had submitted a proposal of an investment agreement with the Government of Mongolia. A project on building a solvent-extraction plant to produce copper molybdenum concentrate, based on Tsagaan Suvarga deposit in Mandakh soum of Dornogovi aimag, has been underway since 2001. According to the draft agreement, the project is to be managed from this point on by MAK's subsidiary company "Erdenes Tsagaan Suvarga".
At a maximum operation, Tsagaan Suvarga Plant has an annual capacity of 14.6 million tonnes of ore processing and 310 thousand tons of copper and 4,000 tons of molybdenum concentrate production. With the implementation, a total of 3.3 trillion Togrog, annually 185 billion, is expected to be accumulated to the State Budget from the project. The project is to create 1,000 jobs.
Mogi: the agreement was signed Tuesday
Cabinet approves signing investment agreement with MAK on Khokh Tsav Cement Plant
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) The Cabinet approved Monday the draft agreement on investment for Khokh Tsav cement-lime plant and authorized the Minister of Industry D.Erdenebat to sign the agreement.
Since 2012, the project on building a dry-processing plant for cement-lime and clinker production, based on Khokh Tsav lime deposit in Dalanjargalan soum of Dornogovi aimag, has been implemented by Mongolyn Alt Corporation (MAK). According to the draft agreement, the project will be further managed by a daughter company "MAK Cement" LLC.
At a maximum, the plant will produce 900 thousand tons of limestone, 1, 045 million tons of PC 62.5, OPC 52.5, OPC 42.5 cement, and 100 thousand tons of burnt lime for construction, with high metallurgical quality.
The project is expected to accumulate 961.9 million USD, annually 32.1 million, to the State Budget, and to create 500 workplaces for the Mongolians.
$1.3 Billion Agreements Signed on Tsagaan Suvarga, Khukh Tsav Cement Projects
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) Government of Mongolia and "Mongolyn Alt Corporation" (MAK), the investor, inked investment agreements for Tsagaan Suvarga copper-molybdenum concentrator project and Khokh Tsav cement-lime plant project, on October 13.
The Tsagaan Suvarga agreement was signed by Minister of Mining R.Jigjid, executive director of Erdenese Tsagaan Suvarga LLC G.Tsogt, and president of MAK B.Nyamtaishir. Mr Jigjid said this agreement is the first ones to be enforced under the new Law on Investment, which came into force in 2013.
With the implementation of this project, a total of 3.3 trillion MNT, annually 185 billion MNT of tax, is expected to be added to State Budget.
According to the agreement, the investment will also cover the full constructions of administration house, hospital, school, dormitory, kindergarten and cultural center of Mandakh soum of Dornogovi aimag, where the project's site is located. The executor will also be responsible for localities social development, and relations with the local community.
The agreement outlines that domestic contractors will be granted privilege in the competition for site work executions.
As for the Khokh Tsav agreement, it was signed by Minister of Industry D.Erdenebat, a director of MAK Cement LLC B.Battulga and a president of MAK B.Nyamtaishir.
The project has been managed by the investor since 2012 in Dalanjargalan soum of Dornogovi aimag. The project is expected to give out 961.9 million USD, annual tax and related payments of 32.1 million, to the State Budget and to provide 480 Mongolians with jobs. The investor is to build at its expense a kindergarten for 120 children and will be overseeing the social issues of the locality, and maintain efficient relations with the local community. Contractors and sub-contractors are to be mostly Mongolian companies, according to the agreement.
Above agreements cost 1.3 billion USD, said the Minister of Industry D.Erdenebat. He expressed confidence that the development by MAK will bring outstanding results in the country's economy. "Signing of these agreements not only opens smooth paths for Tsagaan Suvarga and Khokh Tsav projects, but also encourages further investments to more industrial projects", he noted.
Made in Germany: German-Mongolian Corporate Days 2015 Starts
October 13 (gogo.mn) The Integrated Mineral Resource Initiative (IMRI) of GIZ and the German-Mongolian Business Association (DMUV) are jointly organizing the German-Mongolian Corporate Days – "Made in Germany" on October 13 and 14, 2015 in Ulaanbaatar.
The Corporate Days including conference and exhibition are the most important event for German companies in Mongolia and Mongolian companies with a connection to Germany. The overarching goals of the event are to increase awareness about the Mongolian market and its potential among German enterprises, to foster networks between Mongolian and German clients and businesses, and to build new contacts to decision-makers on both sides.
Since the first German-Mongolian Corporate Days in 2012 more than 100 German businesses have been introduced to potential Mongolian partners and gained market access.
This year, more than 400 daily visitors are expected, making the Corporate Days one of the most important events in Mongolia.
Top three of conference:
1. Master Class: Self-Management - The Loehn Method: How to get ahead with your projects by Prof. Loehn
2. Best Practise: How a SAP ERP implementation is changing your business for the future by Dr. Hartung
3. Master Class: The key to effective performance management: The house of controlling by Prof. Horvath
This year's conference tracks are:
Below is the conference agenda;
More than 50 exhibitors from Germany and Mongolia are spread over 51 exhibition booths.
This year's exhibition is conducted in Ulaanbaatar's prestigious "Shangri-La Hotel". Come and visit in Ballroom I and II and the Ballroom foyer.
Top three of exhibition:
1. Around 50 exhibitors from Germany and Mongolia
2. Companies from variuos business and trend-setting branches
3. Latest technologies and leading know-how from Germany
If you need detailed information, please contact at contact@germoncorporatedays.com or visit at www.germoncorporatedays.com
Annual "Doing Business with Mongolia" Event Held in London
October 12 (news.mn) From the 28th September to the 5th October the "Doing Business with Mongolia" event took place in London. The programme was organised by the British Mongolian Chamber of Commerce and was supported by the Mongolian Business Database (MDB). Mongolian entrepreneurs also participated. During the seminar, representatives of the MDB, London's South Bank University, Asia Pacific Investment Partners, Avia reps, and BG Group, which are going to operating in Mongolia, made presentations about Mongolian economy and the current business environment.
Corporate Convention Centre to Unveil World-Class Concert Hall with Piano Virtuoso Elmar Gasanov
October 13 (gogo.mn) The Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre is ready to unveil a world-class concert hall, this marks a new page in the history of Mongolian art and culture.
Recognized by the world for his talent, the famous Russian pianist Elmar Gasanov has been invited to play at the grand opening of our concert hall. This elite event is organized in collaboration by The Corporate Hotel and Convention Centre and KAWAI Mongolia. Pianist Elmar Gasanov will be performing with the popular up and coming violin quartet, Rusquartet.
We cordially invite our distinguished Mongolian enthusiasts of classical music to enjoy the concert of Elmar Gasanov who is going to perform the highlights of classical music composed by Beethoven, Rahmaninov and Brams. Please, spend the evening with us and feel the brilliance of KAWAI sound - a signature of world class masterpieces that has been developed over the last 90 years and has become the favorite instrument of piano professionals.
Event tickets will be available starting October 13th at Quintessentially, HiFi records' branches and www.ticket.mn Prices for the ticket is at MNT 80,000 and MNT 120,000 according to visibility.
For additional information, please contact at 99111355, 99110342, 88102329.
Where: Concert Hall at Corporate Hotel & Convention Centre
When: October 30, 2015 at 08:00PM
40 ASEM11 partner hotels officially certified
October 12 (gogo.mn) Ceremony of certifying hotels which will accommodate participants of 11th ASEM 2016 to be held in Ulaanbaatar was held at Blue Sky hotel on October 9.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs working group in charge of ASEM jointly organized the ceremony with Mongolian Hotels Association, and more than 40 hotels in Ulaanbaatar, which will receive more than 4000 delegates to participate in the meeting, were officially certified.
Hotels certified:
· Shangri - La
· Bayangol
· Blue Sky
· Khurd
· Grand Hill
· Best Western Premier
· Radison Blue
· Flower
· Chinggis Khaan
· Holiday Inn
· Ramada
· Ulaanbaatar
· Kempinski
· Sunjin Grand
· Corporate - convention center
· Puma International
· Zuchi
· White House
· Lion
· Corporate
· Park
· Hotel Nine
· Platinum
· Nayanbulag
· Royal
· Decor
· Bishrelt
· Sant-Asar
· Narantuul
· Dulguun nuur
· Edelweiss
· Kaiser
· Amarbayasgalant
· Urguu
· Gangar Invest
· Ikh Tenger
Related:
Certificates given to hotels for ASEM delegates – Montsame, October 12
Possible outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease detected in Bayan-Ulgii
October 12 (infomongolia.com) Outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease was detected in Altai sum of Bayan-Ulgii aimag of Mongolia recently. Following the report of sick livestock, veterinaries of Bayan-Ulgii aimag came to Altai sum to check and discovered seven sick livestock on October 02, 2015.
Accordingly, samples were send to the State Central Laboratory for Veterinary Sanitation and Hygiene for the test. Later, working group of experts from the Central Laboratory was dispatched to Altai sum on suspicion of possible outbreak of footand-mouth disease.
At the scene, experts have taken blood sample from 170 head livestock for the laboratory test, which was finished on October 09, 2015. The test results showed that 15 cows, 62 sheep of 16 herdsmen were infected with foot-and-mouth disease. The administration of Bayan-Ulgii aimag was blamed for the slow reaction.
Ulaanbaatar Development Corporation announces board members
Ulaanbaatar, October 12 (MONTSAME) The Corporation is responsible for making estimations and researches, resolving investments for most of the projects and programs of the UB City, being implemented in cooperation with the private sector. Members of the Board of Directors of the corporation were announced on Monday.
The members are the Mayor E.Bat-Uul, a deputy mayor Yo.Gerelchuluun, a general manager of UB City B.Badral, a director of the Mongolia Investment Fund B.Batsaikhan, a CEO of General Electric of Mongolia Ts.Tumentsogt, and a director of Golomt Financial Group L.Bolormaa. The independent members are Ch.Khashchuluun, a professor at the Economic Studies Department of the Mongolian State University, S.Bekhbat, an executive director of the Public-Private Partnership Center of Mongolia; and B.Lakshmi, a manager of Economic Policy and Competitiveness Research Center of Mongolia.
The Ulaanbaatar Development Corporation was established last May, after months of negotiations. The corporation is authorized to commercialize capital from its fundamental revenue from shares allocated to companies for project implementations, and to issue company securities on the domestic and foreign markets in both open and closed ranges.
Public transport recommended during German President's state visit October 14-16
October 13 (gogo.mn) Upon the invitation of the President of Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj, the President of the Federal Republic of Germany Joachim Gauck will pay a State visit to Mongolia on October 14-16, 2015.
In scope of the visit, roads at Peace avenue, Chinggis square and Chinggis avenue will have closures.
Therefore, residents are advised to use public transport instead of private vehicles detour using other streets.
70% of bus passengers using smart cards, paid ₮1.438 billion
October 13 (news.mn) As of 1st October, 70% of the people, using buses have paid using smart cards. The "Ulaanbaatar Smart Card Company" confirmed that 449,400 cards have been sold as of 1st October. In total, MNT 1,438,000,000 has been paid on these cards. The details are as follows:
1. Simple cards- 274,589
2. Children's cards (high school pupils)- 65430
3. Invalids' cards- 23836
4. Student cards- 7594
"Pedestrian Street" project
October 12 (news.mn) On Thursday 8th, the Ulaanbaatar "City Representatives Meeting" took convened yesterday. During the meeting, the project "No Car Street (Pedestrian Street). This comes under the broader "Ulaanbaatar Welcomes You" program. According to the "Pedestrian Street" project, four streets will be established. In the first phase, a 133m section in front of "Asashyoru Park" (from Urgoo Hotel to Golomt Bank") will become car free. In addition, a three level car park will be constructed under the southern part of "Chinggis Square" and a two level one under "Asashyoru Park".
In total, MNT 1.8 billion is required to implement the project. Construction will start from next spring and end in the summer of 2016.
License plate restrictions shift to winter schedule
October 12 (gogo.mn) Limiting automobile travel by its number in the city shifts into winter schedule, starting on October 15. In winter schedule, number of roads covered by rules is reduced, informed Public Relations and Press Division of Capital City Administration.
According to the resolution approved by the administration, the schedule of the limitation rules will apply to daily hours of 08.00 - 20.00 regardless of seasons. During the summer times, number of roads included in the rules is increases, while it is to be reduced when it shifts to winter schedule.
/The photo above explains/
Yellow line: the roads where the rules apply
Black line: the roads where the rules do not apply
Red circle: the ends of the roads where the rules apply, which includes /the north: 32nd crossroad, Dari-Ekh crossroad, safety island section in front of University of Technology & Science, Tasgan Hill crossroad, final bus stop at 3rd and 4rd districts, the west: Sapporo bus stop, IV power station crossroad, the south: 120 thousand district crossroad, Dunjingarav market crossroad, the east: Officer palace crossroad, Chuluun Ovoo crossroad./
President attaches importance to China Defense Minister's visit
Ulaanbaatar, October 12 (MONTSAME) The leader of Mongolia Mr Ts.Elbegdorj has underlined that a visit of the Defense Minister of the People's Republic of China to Mongolia has three values.
The President said it last Friday at a meeting with Colonel Chang Wanquan, the PRC Minister of Defense, who visited Mongolia on October 8-10. Mr Elbegdorj noted the state visit of the PRC President Xi Jinpin paid to Mongolia last year was a historical visit to bring the bilateral relations into a comprehensive partnership level, and said the visit of China's Defense Minister had an importance in fortifying the Mongolia-China comprehensive partnership ties and in lifting up the mutual trust and cooperation in the defense sector. In line of the Defense Minister's visit, some works are expected to be done, he added.
Colonel Chang Wanquan conveyed to Mr Elbegdorj greetings of China's President Mr Xi Jinpin, said he is happy to see an intensive development of Mongolia, and expressed a satisfaction with the boosting bilateral relations.
Thankfully accepting the greetings, the Mongolian President congratulated his Chinese counterpart on the 70th anniversary of the Victory in the 1945 Liberation War and 66th anniversary of the PRC. He also congratulated China on winning bids for the 2022 Winter Olympics and the 2019 Military World Games.
The President said our countries can collaborate in peacekeeping and thanked China for running joint exercises for abolishing disaster aftermath and rescuing and for sending its troops for the first time this year to the "Khaan Quest" international military exercises.
He is happy with forwarding of the bilateral relations and cooperation in the defense sector, he went on. "Our ties in this sphere play a vital role in deepening the comprehensive strategic relations," Mr Elbegdorj stressed.
Mongolia considers that combining its "Steppe Road" initiative with China's "Economic zone of Silk road" initiative could be an important direction of the bilateral economic cooperation, he added.
Present at the meeting were Ts.Tsolmon, Mongolia's Minister of Defense; Mr Xin Haiming, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of China to Mongolia; and other officials.
"Hunting Eagle 2015" Mongolia-China joint military exercise starts
October 12 (infomongolia.com) Joint military exercise of the Mongolian Armed Forces (MAF) and the People's Liberation Army of the People's Republic of China "Hunting Eagle" (Anchin Burged) has commenced at general exercise center of MAF in Mongolia on October 12, 2015.
"Hunting Eagle - 2015" is the first joint special operations exercise of Mongolia and China, and it will continue six days until October 18, 2015. At the joint military exercise, troops of 084th unit of MAF and around 100 soldiers of special task force of 38th Beijing Military Region will train together to fight terrorism.
Head of Operation Command Center of the General Staff of MAF, Brigadier General D.Ganzorig and Commander of Special Task Brigade of Beijing Military Region Lee Chee Feng were present at the opening.
Moreover, on October 08, the Minister of Defense and State Councilor of the People's Republic of China, Colonel General Chang Wanquan arrived in Ulaanbaatar to conduct an official visit upon an invitation of the Minister for Defense of Mongolia, MP Ts.Tsolmon. On the same day, a ministerial level meeting between defense authorities of the two countries held at the Ministry of Defense.
President Ts.Elbegdorj and Prime Minister Ch.Saikhanbileg have received the Minister for National Defense of the Government of China onOctober 09, 2015.
General Chang Wanquan conveyed the sincere greetings of President Xi Jinping to President of Mongolia. In response, President Elbegdorj conveyed his warm greetings to President Xi Jinping and congratulated the people of China for successfully organizing the 70th anniversary of the historical Victory of the Liberation War and the 66th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.
Minister for Defense of Mongolia, Mr. Ts.Tsolmon,Ambassador of Extraordinaryand Plenipotentiaryof the People's Republic of China to Mongolia, Mr. Xing Haiming and other officials were present at the meetings.
Related:
Two countries' servicemen join in military exercises against terrorism – Montsame, October 12
German state Saarland interested in mine rehabilitation cooperation
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) Minister of Environment, Green Development and Tourism N.Battsereg received October 12 the Minister of Justice of Saarland state of Germany Mr Reinhold Jost at the State House of Mongolia.
Present were also the Ambassador of Germany to Mongolia Gerhard Thiedemann and the first secretary of the German Embassy in charge of development cooperation Dr Christian Glass. Saarland state has close ties with Mongolia in coal mining and environmental rehabilitation, said Mr Jost. Mentioning that he had met with a German-Mongolia joint science university's officials, he said that there are plenty of opportunities for the sides to train specialists and to conduct joint studies and researches.
He also expressed an interest to cooperate with Mongolia in occupational safety, in ways of remediating the environment through sophisticating the mining operations, and in engaging the miners into environment protection activities in order to prevent climate change and natural degradation.
The Minister N.Battsereg accepted the offers thankfully and spoke highly of the rehabilitation practices of Saarland in its coal mining sphere. Aside from the mining, he said, it is crucial for Mongolia to diversify its economy into non-mining sectors such as tourism and agriculture.
Then he offered to cooperate in tourism sector as well, particularly in advertising one of the latest repaired archaeological finding–Tomb of Iceman found from Altai Tavan Bogd Mountain–in order to attract more tourists to Mongolia. The archeological finding was repaired by German specialists last year.
Cabinet approves directives for 2015 intergovernmental meeting with Germany
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) The cabinet meeting on Monday discussed and approved directive the Mongolian delegation must adhere to at the 4th meeting of the Mongolia-Germany intergovernmental working group.
This group is responsible for controlling implementation of an intergovernmental agreement on cooperating in mineral, industry and technology spheres. Its meeting will run this October 15 in Ulaanbaatar.
- The cabinet also discussed and approved directives the Mongolian delegation must adhere to at the consultative meeting of the Mongolia-Germany intergovernmental developmental policy cooperation. The meeting will run this October 19 in Ulaanbaatar.
- Directives for a Mongolian delegation was approved. It will take part in the first meeting of the Mongolia-Indonesia intergovernmental joint commission which will run this October 20-21 in Jakarta, Indonesia.
- The cabinet discussed results of the Speaker's official visit to the Russian Federation (this September 20-23). An obligation was given to the FM L.Purevsuren to submit the matter to the National Security Council (NSC).
- The cabinet also discussed results of the official visit of the Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Jan Hamacek to Mongolia (July 29 to August 2, 2015). The issue will be submitted to the NSC.
…
Mongolian Ambassador pays courtesy call on Crown Prince of Denmark
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to the Kingdom of Sweden Z.Altai has paid courtesy call on His Highness Frederik, the Crown Prince of Denmark.
This meeting ran during a cultural measure organized this October 8 in Copenhagen, Denmark, dedicated to the 25th anniversary of founding of the Denmark-Mongolia society.
The event was also attended by diplomats of Mongolia's Embassy in Stockholm; by Rolf Gilberg, a head of the Denmark-Mongolia society; Michael Haslund Christensen, the Honorary Consul of Mongolia; Soren Haslund Christensen, Marshal of the Fredensborg Palace.
Danish Mongolian Society turns 25
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) Arts and culture events took place in Copenhagen, the capital of the Kingdom of Denmark, dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the establishment of Denmark-Mongolia society.
Present were the Ambassador to Sweden Z.Altai along with the Stockholm Embassy officials, aslo the Crown Prince of Denmark Frederik, a head of the society Rolf Gilberg, Mongolia's honorary council to Denmark Michael Haslund-Christensen, and the Royal Danish Marshall Seren Haslund-Christensen.
Z.Altai awarded the society members B.Nyamaa and Mitte Holm the "Friendship" medals in high recognition of their contribution to strengthening of Mongolia-Danish ties, and the vice-chairman of the society--"Silver Star of Friendship" order. After this, the Ambassador and the Prince of Denmark Frederik held a meeting to discuss the relations and cooperation of the two countries.
President receives French Ambassador on end of his term in Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar, October 12 (MONTSAME) The President of Mongolia Ts.Elbegdorj last Friday met Mr Yves Delaunay, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of France to Mongolia in connection with end of his term of diplomatic mission here.
Mr Delaunay said the French Embassy in Mongolia has renewed its composition and introduced to the President newly selected diplomats.
The Mongolia-France ties and cooperation have been intensifying with several mutual high-level visits, Mr Elbegdorj noted and emphasized that Mongolia highly speaks Mr Delaunay's contribution to the strengthening of the bilateral relations.
Mr Delaunay said our countries are collaborating in the fields of energy, agriculture, animal husbandry, education and other spheres, co-implementing several projects and programmes.
During the diplomatic mission of the Ambassador since 2012, several important events took place such as the first official visit of his country's FM to Mongolia, a 1st and 2nd meetings of the intergovernmental working groups, plus the two countries established and signed many important agreements and contracts.
IOM to hold policy meeting on human trafficking in Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) The International Organization for Migration (IOM) will launch a two-day policy meeting on Wednesday together with the National Security Council of Mongolia (NSC), in the "Tuushin" hotel.
Regarding the issue of combating human trafficking, the meeting will attract specialists and consultants from international and domestic organizations.
Opening remarks are expected to be made by officials from the IOM, parliament of Mongolia and the NSC. Presentations about trafficking human beings in Mongolia will be made by officials from the Ministry of Justice, the Prosecutor General's Office of Mongolia, the General Intelligence Agency of Mongolia, the General Police Department, the Research Center for Human Security and the Gender Equality Center.
Following the remarks and presentations, group discussions will run under themes "Identifying Key Trends and Challenges in Mongolia", "NGO/Government Cooperation for Strengthening of Anti-Trafficking Laws and Coordination in Mongolia" and "Ways strengthening the implementation of Anti-Trafficking Policy in Mongolia".
The meeting will last until October 15.
Buryatia police pledges more protection for Mongolians as crimes increase with visits
October 12 (news.mn) Since it became possible for Mongolians to visit Russia without a visa, the numbers of visitors from Mongolia has increased. Unfortunately, a number of Mongolians have become victims of crime. To solve this issue, a meeting of police from Mongolia and the Russian Federal Republic of Buryatia has been held in Ulan-Ude; the outcome was an agreement that the Buryat police will offer protection Mongolians. Mr Oleg Kudinov, the Minister of Interior of the Russian Republic of Buryatia confirmed their positive response to the Mongolian request. In the future, both the Mongolian and the Russian sides will co-operate to prevent crime occurring again. Agreement was also reached regarding the exchange of information regarding wanted criminals and the provision of legal support for Mongolian victims of crime.
Fully Reaping the Benefits of ASEM Summit for Mongolia
October 12 (Mongolian Economy) Mongolia is hosting the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) in 2016. For ASEM member countries, 2016 is an especially important year because it is the 20th anniversary of the founding of the organisation. The organising country will thus take on elevated responsibility. We sat down with the senior official for ASEM preparations, Ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary to Switzerland, L.Orgil, to talk about preparations for the Summit.
-How are the ASEM preparation activities going? In September, the working group had several emergency meetings. What decisions were made at these meetings?
-Broadly speaking, preparations are on-going. A National Council to ensure ASEM preparations was established by a presidential decree. Administrations of ministries and agencies and also representatives from several organisations such as Mongolian Hotel Association are included in the National Council. Six working groups are regularly meeting to discuss each of their own areas, and necessary things are being introduced to the National Council for them to make decisions on. For example, the people who are going work on the renovations of 40 selected hotels are involved in international training sessions. It is estimated that around MNT 150 billion is required for preparations for the meeting. In addition, many journalists are expected to arrive. Last year's meeting in Milan expected 800 journalists, but more than 1,000 journalists turned up to cover the proceedings. Since this summit is being held in Mongolia, journalists will write about our country to the world. There is much to be done in this area. First of all, we must give an understanding about Mongolia to foreign media. We will invite several renowned international media organisations to Mongolia before the summit to provide introductory information in advance.
Also, the ASEM website was launched and a special team is working on dispersing information related to preparations and the meeting in Mongolian and English. The media and advertising work group met on the 10th of August. We are going to station the meeting's integrated media centre in two places. Media personnel will also be provided with a special zone at the Shangri-La hotel, which will host the ASEM assembly, and Sky Resort, which will host the meeting of the heads of 53 states.
-How are you acquiring the necessary funds for this undertaking?
-The Government issued a decree to let the Development Bank of Mongolia finance the money to be provided to hotels. Other costs are being addressed in different ways. Of course, a lot of funding is required, but we are seeking to resolve this with less pressure on the budget through public-private partnerships and foreign aid. For example, the European Union is covering 100 percent of the training costs for translators and interpreters. As a country organising the ASEM summit for the first time, we will host the guests within our own potential and capacity. It does not have to be extravagant. However, we will try to receive guests as hospitably as possible, as is our culture and tradition. On the other hand, other countries understand that we are organising the meeting within our means. There are some countries willing to support us on a bilateral basis.
-The EU pledged to provide support for the preparations. What exact kinds of support would that entail?
-The EU established the ASEM platform in 1996, and it has been 20 years since. As the founder of the meeting, the EU is an active participant. At the beginning of last July, a large group of delegates from the EU visited Mongolia. They discussed a number of subjects and exchanged their views on areas such as meeting organisation, documentation of the meeting and interpreters. Within the meeting framework, the EU agreed to help train interpreters, and they selected six interpreters for high-level, professional, synchronous English translation training. Soon they will have trained for almost four to five months under an intensive training programme. As the organising country, we will develop two documents that will come out of the meeting. A statement that came out of last year's meeting in Milan had around 40 clauses and included key issues the world is facing today. Finally, we will prepare events for the commemoration ASEM's 20th anniversary.
-What will be the point of emphasis at next year's ASEM Summit?
-The heads of 53 states will decide together what to discuss. This coming November, the ASEM Foreign Minister's meeting will be held in Luxembourg. Certain decisions on what will be discussed could come out of that meeting. ASEM seeks to informally develop discussions of Asia-Europe cooperation based on three areas of focus, which are politics, business and culture. ASEM tries to resolve issues as informally as possible by involving each party. On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of ASEM, we will review the past 20 years and outline the future of ASEM. We have to develop a draft document of an Ulaanbaatar declaration by reflecting all parties' opinions. The EU is exchanging their opinions with us on the development of this document. China, one of the most active members of ASEM, is a country that seeks improve the meeting's methods. Thus, we are exchanging opinions on what support we can expect from China. Several meetings related to ASEM, such as ASEM youth and ASEM parliament, will be held at the beginning of next year. The Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) will provide assistance in the organisation of these meetings.
-How do you see Mongolia's place in ASEM?
-The main issue discussed within ASEM is its future and in what form this platform shall continue into the future. The first principle is that ASEM is not a negotiation body. It is a body that informally exchanges views on how resolve issues related to all the economics sectors, such as climate change, water, disasters and how they relate to the cooperation of Asia and Europe. It has been 20 years since we started exchanging views. Some countries are proposing to aim for specific results from meetings in the future. On this matter, Mongolia's position is that this body should continue as a dialogue and discussion platform, but we should also start trying to achieve clear objectives from these discussions. We joined this organisation relatively late in 2008. In a span of 20 years, Asia-Europe economic and trade relations have increased considerably. This is a result of ASEM. The next priority is how to make it more effective. This is where we stand.
-How do you see the ASEM summit benefitting Mongolia?
-It must be viewed from various angles. Asia has become a major global finance and trade region. We often discuss development issues. Organising the Asia-Europe Summit is Mongolia's most significant contribution to the relations between the two continents. Historically, Mongolia used to be the bridge between these two continents. At the moment, we are once again becoming the bridge between the two continents in terms of railways and air routes. In addition, our country is the historical, spiritual and economic link of the two continents. This meeting holds significance as it will strengthen these links further. It will also present an opportunity to the two continents' economies and business sectors to realise the physical links, which are rail and air routes. The heads of 53 states will come to Mongolia for the first time. It will be promotional for Mongolia. We are getting another chance to reintroduce Mongolia to the world from a different angle. Today, the world knows us for mining, Genghis Khan and history. Now we have an opportunity to present our country from a unique developmental standpoint, to show the world that we play our own role in global development and are contributing to it. We must use the ASEM summit to demonstrate ourselves. If we can utilise it well, this can be a great opportunity to develop Mongolia's tourism sector.
Will Kissinger change his mind?
By Jargal Defacto
October 11 (UB Post) The 25th anniversary of the reunification of East and West Germany took place on October 3.
A celebratory event took place in Frankfurt am Main's Alte-Oper, which was attended by federation and district officials, as well as foreign and domestic guests.
Thousands of Germans watched their president's speech on the screen outside. Beside me was a girl sitting on her father's shoulders holding a balloon with the words "Tolerance".
President Gauck, a former pastor from East Germany, highlighted that the difference between West and East Germany has decreased radically, to the point that there are no differences between their youth, but noted that employment, wage, and labor productivity are low in the east compared to the west.
According to Deutsche Welle's public poll on the reunification of Germany, 73 percent believe that the unification was successful, while 62 percent believe the process isn't over yet. Although the economic and political unification has ended, the ideology of its people hasn't united yet.
East joins West
In 1944, the Allied forces defeated Nazi Germany and agreed on how to bring Germany down in any circumstance in the future, appointed the heads of the nation, and how to monitor Berlin through partition.
In May 1945, fascist Germany lost the war, and the signing of the unconditional surrender marked the end of WWII. From then on, the Soviet Union was to monitor East Germany through the communist regime, and West Germany followed the path of democracy and a market economy under the control of France, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
In 1933, the head of the Nazi party, Adolf Hitler, became Chancellor and for more than ten years, key national and social development values such as democracy, human rights, and freedom were nonexistent on German soil. Germany was ruled by the ideology that supported the supremacy of the Aryan race, destruction of the "lower" race that was the Jews, and the domination and slavery of Slavic and other races.
After the war, the United States devised the Marshall Plan for reconstruction aid to Europe, which pumped a soft loan of 13 billion USD (around 130 billion USD in today's currency). The loan came with conditions to decrease restrictions on international trade, eliminate business restriction policies and laws, and increase the productivity and support of businesses. West Germany received eleven percent of the loan. America and England were redeveloping its greatest values of democracy, human rights, and free competition to support nongovernmental organizations and freedom of the press. Society built on the correct soil flourished quickly and West Germany began to lead the European economy.
The Soviets instilled communist values in East Germany. They ceased private property and made it public, prohibited religion, set up one-party rule, valued collective interest above the individual's, preached total obedience, and blocked all ideals except those established in the press. The Soviet Union didn't have a Marshall Plan or billions of USD in funds after many years of a war that depleted material and labor reserves. A centrally managed economy in East Germany slowed its development. Many millions of East Germans realized the hopelessness, and those with knowledge and experience flocked to West Berlin to thrive.
East Germany had no choice but to erect a 3.6 meter high, 140 kilometer long concrete wall around West Berlin on August 13, 1961. The wall, which separated families on one morning, was the de-facto symbol of the economic and political defeat of East Germany to the West for 28 years. This defeat was put to de jure when the reunification of East and West Germany took place in 1990.
When the Berlin Wall was torn down, former German Chancellor Willy Brandt (in office from 1969-1974) said, "Now what belongs together, will grow together."
The path towards growth together was not entirely easy.
Germany too big for Europe
Whether Europe was at war or not was determined by larger countries, such as Germany and France, throughout history. Further war after WWII was pointless, there was no money, and French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman proposed a supranational international body that had power over individual governments to promote international trade development, and joint management of coal and steel production and trade. The European Economic Union was formed after other countries agreed to the proposal. The union was established through the Treaty of Rome in 1957.
European economic integration progressed rapidly and German economic development gained more force. Germany's neighbors began to fear their domination.
Italian former Prime Minister Guilio Andreotti was quoted as saying in the mid 1980s, "We love Germany so much that we would prefer to have two of them."
French President Francois Mittenrand once remarked, "We may have the nuclear bomb, but the Germans have the deutsche mark."
When the reunification of Germany took place in 1990, it accelerated European integration, and formed a connection between the economy, society, national values, cultures, and principles. The European Union (EU) was formed in 1992, when 12 European nations met in Maastricht. One year before the new century, Europe released its own currency. The Rome and Maastricht treaties were renewed in 2007 in Lisbon.
West Germany, which gained two million knowledgeable and experienced East Germans before the Berlin Wall, became even larger after the collapse of the wall and is now leading European economic integration, with trade, cooperation, and customs agreements with 28 nations, 19 of which have the same currency. Former State Secretary of the United States Henry Kissinger, who was born in Germany and escaped the Nazis in 1938, once said, "Poor old Germany. Too big for Europe, too small for the world."
Today, after 25 years since the reunification, Germany is not only an economically formidable nation but a leader in world development in the EU.
Many thousands of refugees fleeing the Middle East's turmoil are heading to Germany. The country scraped for labor forces and received thousands of Turks after WWII to rebuild its economy, and is appealing to Syrian refugees with experience.
According to the Director of the European Academy Berlin, Prof. Eckart D. Stratenschulte, for a country like Germany, which has an older population, it is very important and beneficial to have labor-aged Syrians who are coming with their families, and the country can receive them in by the tens of thousands every day. He joked that their neighbors might one day resent Germany for taking all the refugees for themselves.
The path Germany chose 25 years ago was the right one, it seems. The day when the German led European economy is "too big for the world" seems to have come. Will Henry Kissinger change his mind?
Trans. by B.KHASH-ERDENE
Boris Yeltsin Online Russian Library Opened to Mongolia
October 12 (news.mn) The "Mongolian and Russian Days of Friendship and Co-operation" are taking a place from 1st October- 30th November. This is the 55th time this event has been held. In framework of this campaign, the Online Russian Library (named after Boris Yeltsin) opened yesterday. This library has 140,000 online books and eight computers. 55% of these books are related to Russian history. There are also archival materials. Anyone interested in Russia can use the library. The two main branches of this online library are located in St Petersburg and Moscow. Therefore, Mongolians can now read the same materials as those in the Russian libraries.
4 Universities Accredited by APACC, 9 Business Schools by ACBSP
October 12 (news.mn) The Asia Pacific Accreditation and Certification Commission (APACC) have accredited four Mongolian universities:
1. Mongolian University of Science and Technology (MUST).
2. Mongolian Institute of Technology
3. Health Sciences University of Mongolia
4. Institute of Engineering & Technology (IET)
The Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) have accredited nine universities:
1. Institute of Finance and Economics (June 2012)
2. Business School of Mongolian National University (June 2013)
3. Business Administration and Humanitarian School of Science and Technology University (November 2013)
4. Mandakh Registration Institute (June 2014)
5. San Institute (June 2014)
6. Etugen Institute (June 2014)
7. Economy and Business School of Agriculture University (November 2014)
8. Seruuleg Institute (November 2014)
9. Ider Institute (November 2014)
Currently, 12 universities are waiting the decisions regarding their requests for accreditation.
Mongolian kid wins bronze at Singapore International Math Challenge
Ulaanbaatar, October 13 (MONTSAME) A pupil from the "Shine ekhlel" school E.Narandelger has won a bronze medal in the 2015 Singapore International Mathematics Olympiad Challenge (SIMOC) which took place this August in Singapore.
A ceremony took place last week at the secondary school to grant Narandelger the medal.
Together with this girl, four children from the same school represented Mongolia at the Olympiad. They were coached by a mathematics teacher Enkhbold.
The SIMOC provides an interesting and healthy competition platform with Singapore Mathematics as a base and combining Math Olympiad with mathematics games and IQ puzzles to make learning and competitions more exciting and moulding mathematicians who are well rounded. SIMOC is organized by the same group of education specialists who organized the Singapore and Asian School Math Olympiads (SASMO) for the past 10 years.
Our pupils have competed in the SIMOC Olympiad after being qualified from the SASMO by taking a gold medal.
4.9 magnitude earthquake hits Tuv Aimag on Saturday
October 12 (infomongolia.com) The Research Center for Astronomy and Geophysics (RCA&G) of Mongolia has reported that 4.9 magnitude earthquake hit Batsumber Sum of Tuv Aimag at 01:57 pm on October 10, 2015. Its epicenter was in places called Sugnugur and Gurvanchuluut, 57 km away from the Sum center to the northeast.
Department of Emergency Management Agency in Tuv Aimag reacted immediately, reported relevant officials, and informed the public through any possible media about the disaster. Fortunately, no damage reported.
President marks 6th Annual National Tree Planting Day
October 12 (news.mn) Since 2010, by order of the President of Mongolia, the second Saturday of each October, will be celebrated as "National Tree Planting Day". So, on 10th October, individuals, companies and organisations participated in the tree-planting campaign across the country.
President Elbegdorj also took part by planting a tree in the "Tasgan Ovoo". This new micro park was created in connection with the "Ulaanbaatar- Fresh Air" project. The President planted an eight-year- old spruce in the middle of the park.
The President told journalists about the campaign, "The "National Tree Planting Day" was officially declared in 2010. Since then, 8.8 million trees have been planted in Mongolia, of which, 5.6 million are growing successfully. I hope this one will grow well too".
39,846 trees planted this autumn, 86% past survival rate
October 13 (gogo.mn) In the scope of "1 million trees to plant" movement, 39846 trees have been planted this fall. 9142 individuals from 810 entities have joined the movement to contribute in reducing air pollution and improve the city's environment.
Out of 39846 trees, 15508 are grown trees while 11678 are shrubs. Successful growing rate of the trees previously planted is 86 percent, and the trees planted last spring were also watered this day.
Related:
39,846 trees planted – news.mn, October 13
Opening Remarks by Beate Trankmann, UN RC and UNDP RR: 4th National Forum on Protected Areas of Mongolia
Ms. Beate Trankmann, UN RC and UNDP RR
Forth National Forum on Protected Areas
Chinggis Hotel, 12 October 2015
Your Excellency Mr. Su. Batbold, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Environment, Food and Agriculture,
Your Excellency Mr. N. Battsereg, Minister of Environment, Green Development and Tourism,
Honarable Ms. Oyun, President of the UN Environment Assembly and Member of Parliament
Honorable Members of Parliament,
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
On behalf of UNDP, I am honored to welcome you to the 4th National Forum on Protected Areas.
Ladies and gentlemen, the well-being of our planet and that of current and future generations is dependent on the successful protection of biodiversity and the conservation of our ecosystems. Time is of the essence as we have long exceeded the self-generative capacities of Mother Nature and the global consumption pace of biocapital exceeds the self-healing powers of the earth. The UN Secretary General often says that there is no "planet-B".
From a development perspective, protected areas and the ecosystem services they provide play an essential role in reducing poverty, mitigating climate change and promoting resilience. With the poor in rural communities of many countries generating up to 70% of their household incomes from free ecosystem services, it will be impossible to fight poverty & hunger and protect livelihoods without protecting these ecosystems. Reducing deforestation and land degradation and enhancing carbon stocks generate significant social and economic benefits and are cost-effective ways to mitigate climate change. But to fulfil their potentials, protected areas need to be effectively governed and managed, and sustainably financed.
Just two weeks ago, the Sustainable Development Goals were approved by world leaders at the United Nations in New York. They put sustainable development at the core of the new global development agenda and include specific goals to halt the alarming pace of environmental degradation and climate change that pose unprecedented threats to humanity. The SDGs very much take a holistic approach to development and explicitly link poverty, hunger, climate change, environmental protection, governance, jobs, infrastructure, health and education. As such the SDGs provide an opportunity to mainstream biodiversity and promote a transformational shift in how economies and societies use and value biodiversity.
Globally, financial sustainability has been recognised as one of the key barriers limiting the successful implementation of the Convention on Bio-Diversity (CBD), to which Mongolia is a signatory. When we talk about sustainable financing and investment in protected areas, this should be put into perspective with the economic value that protected areas generate and their contribution to the national economy.
Although Mongolia's protected areas cover 17.4% of the territory which is higher than the world average of 15%, there is some way to go to reach the MDG target of 30%.
At the same time, Mongolia's existing 99 protected areas provide ecosystem services worth11.5% of its GDP as quantified by a study that UNDP conducted in 2012. This by all means is a significant share and contribution to Mongolia's economy.
For Mongolia's protected areas to be sustainably managed in the long run, policies and regulations need to allow the application of innovative measures to increase their financial base. This can include different forms of concessions, payments for ecosystem services, biodiversity offsets for mining companies and so on. At the same time, collaborative management models should be applied that include communities and other sectors in the administration and utilization of protected areas. Local communities should always be given the opportunity to participate in decisions or actions to conserve their environment and be able to benefit from decisions that impact the ecosystems that they depend on. This has been practiced in Namibia where resource rights have been granted to local members of communal conservation areas that now cover 14% of Nambia's territory. In Mongolia, Khustai National Park and Ikh Narth Nature Reserve are managed by CSOs.
In addition, there is room to improve simple financing mechanisms such as entry fees for nature reserves and land use fees. They should be adjusted to ensure that fees and levies collected by the state authorities are fully reinvested into conservation activities.
I hope these considerations will be taken into account in deliberations on the Law on Protected areas and the National Programme for Mongolia's Protected Areas that are currently being amended, as well as in implementing the country's Green development policy and National Biodiversity Action Plan that was approved recently.
The National Forum on Protected Areas, which was jointly initiated by UNDP and the Ministry for Environment, Green Development and Tourism, provides the perfect platform for exchange to sharpen the thinking around specific challenges related to Protected Areas in Mongolia and generate policy recommendations for their long term sustainable management.
I wish you the best of success in your deliberations today and look forward to your suggestions how to strengthen Mongolia's protected areas and maintain the country's significant natural capital for the benefit of communities to reduce poverty, mitigate climate change and improve resilience while contributing to the overall well-being of our planet.
Thank you.
Mongolia wins 13 medals at CISM Military World Games 2015
October 13 (gogo.mn) Team Mongolia wins total of 13 medals including three gold, four silver, six bronze at the 6th CISM Military World Games 2015 which was held in Mungyeong, South Korea on October 2-12.
Total of 8700 athletes from 110 countries have competed for 24 sports category and Team Mongolia have competed in box, shooting, judo, freestyle wrestling, cycling, taekwondo, archery and marathon category.
Archery
- One silver medal and one gold medal
Boxing
- M.Chuhal-Erdene - Bronze medal
Judo
- Male 66kg category A.Batsuuri - Silver medal
- Male -90kg category H.Tsogtgerel - Bronze medal
- Male Team - Silver medal
Rifle
- Single category for 50 meter rifle - Ch.Narantuya - Gold medal, G.Nandinzaya - Bronze medal
- Women team category for 50 meter rifle - Gold medal (hits the record)
- 25 meter rifle - O.Gundegmaa - Bronze medal
Free style wrestling
- Male 70kg category G.Mandahnaran - Bronze medal
- Male 86kg category O.Uitumen - Bronze medal
- Male 97kg category D.Huderbulga - Silver medal
Mongolia ranks at 16th place by its medal result while Russia placed at first with 135 medals including 59 gold, 43 silver and 33 bronze.
Mongolian-trained Mongolian Saturday to race at Breeders' Cup World Championships
October 12 (gogo.mn) "Breeders Cup" World Championships set to take place on October 30 and 31 in Lexington, Kentucky state, US.
Only horses qualified through preliminary competitions are granted to participate in "Breeders Cup" starting back in 1984. "Mongolian Saturday" horse trained by honored trainer E.Ganbat has qualified to participate in the competition for the first time. It is a great achievement for Mongolian horse trainers to compete at world-level tournament.
"Mongolian Saturday" will race in the sprint category of the tournament. Trainers D.Onon and E.Ganbat selected the "Mongolian Saturday" from "Keenland" auction when it was colt.
The horse was qualified for the competition after achieving twice 1st place, three times 2nd place and twice 3rd place out of 7 preliminary tournaments in total in 2015.
FC Erchim wins Federation Cup 2015
October 12 (gogo.mn) FC Erchim has won Federation Cup 2015 attended by 24 football clubs both from Khurkhee 1st League and Khurkhree Premier League.
In the final of the tournament, FC Ulaanbaatar and FC Erchim played. FC Erchim won 4:0 in extra time /4 goals: 92nd minute, 108th minute, 112th minute and 118th minute/.
The champions won trophy and was awarded with MNT 12 million while FC Ulaanbaatar won silver medals and received MNT 8 million for prize.
Moreover, semifinalists, FC Deren and FC Ulaanbaataryin Unaganuud, won MNT 2.5 million respectively.
Mongolian State Philharmonic Orchestra Set to Open 44th Season
October 13 (gogo.mn) 44th season of the Mongolian State Philharmonic Orchestra to start soon.
In order to improve the music education of audience and public, "Classical Music" project is being implemented and artists of Mongolian State Philharmonic Orchestra is preparing for the following classic concerts with the aim to promote and introduce the work of world's best composers to the public.
Horse Fiddle Ensemble (Morin huur ensemble)
- "Masterpiece of World Music" on October 15 at 07PM
- "Karment Suite" on November 13 at 07PM
"Bayan Mongol" Jazz Orchestra
- "Cocоnuts baby" on October 16 at 7PM
- "City swing" on November 20 at 07PM
Symphony Orchestra
- "Masterpiece of World Muisic" on October 17 at 07PM
- "V.A. Mozart works" on November 27 at 07PM
Joint concert
- "Snow melody" concert dedicated to the upcoming New Year celebration on December 24
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