Mongolia News Summary for July 19, 2025
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 MongolBeat or its members.
Today's Stories
Politics
- INTRODUCING: Draft Laws to be Discussed in the Autumn 2025 Parliamentary Session
- Ts.Khulan: There Really Was No Other Legal Means to be Released Except Appealing to the President
- 29 Committees and Councils Disbanded to Save 41.6 Billion MNT Annually
- T. Davaadalai: No Construction Will Be Allowed on Public Land
Economy
- Study: Two out of Three Households in Mongolia Live from Loan to Loan
- Most Markets and Trade Centers Resume Operations Today
- Baganuur JSC Employees Warn of Strike if Illegal Appointments Are Not Stopped
- Baganuur JSC Employees Protest Against Illegal Appointment by Erdenes Mongol
- Executive Director of “Baganuur” JSC Allegedly Unlawfully Dismissed
- Markets and Shopping Centers Resume Operations
Diplomacy
- Croatia's Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman Pays Courtesy Call on Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar
- Discussion on Cooperation with Croatia for the Implementation of the “Ilgeelt-2100” Scholarship Program
Infrastructure
- Demolition of Fire-Damaged Building at Thermal Power Plant No. 3 to Begin on the 25th of This Month
- Three Companies Compete for Waste-to-Energy Plant Project
- The Total Length of Mongolia's Road Network Reaches 112 Thousand Kilometers
- Hot Water Outage Locations for 20 Days Starting July 20th
- Three Companies Submit Proposals for 'Waste Incineration and Energy Generation Plant' Project
- This Year, Roads Will Be Repaired and Upgraded at 36 Locations in the Capital
- Rainwater Drainage Pipes Installed at Three Locations Including Narnii Bridge and the Camel Statue During Naadam
- Road Closure from Wrestling Palace to East Four-Way Intersection
- The Damaged Turbogenerator at "Thermal Power Plant-3" Will Be Manufactured and Fully Replaced in China
- Reminder: Road Closure from Wrestling Palace to Zuun Dörvön Zam Intersection Tonight
- Road Closures During the Weekend
- Citizens Support Removal of Extensions and Expansion of Pedestrian Sidewalks
Society
- NEMA: 17 People Died in Water Accidents During the Naadam Festivities
- 20 People Died in Accidents During the Naadam Holiday, 6 of Them Children
- J. Damdinsuren: During Festivities, 20 People Lost Their Lives to Water Accidents, Structural Fires, and Floods, Including Six Children
Environment
- 58% of the Country Experiencing Drought or Near-Drought Conditions
- G.Zandanshatar: We will not touch Noyon Mountain
- P. Soronzonbold: Wildfire Reported in Bagaturgen Waterfall Area of Bayan-Ulgii Province, the Most Visited Region by Citizens
- Efforts Underway to Extinguish Six Forest Fires in Tushig, Yeruu, and Khuder Districts of Selenge Province
Innovation
- G. Zandanshatar: Carriers are Successfully Implementing Advanced Technologies and Services at International Standards
- Drone transporting blood is ready for its next flight
Health
Sports
- The 'Silk Way' Auto Rally International Competition Continues Until the 21st of This Month
- Judokas from 29 Countries to Compete in Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam Tournament
Politics
INTRODUCING: Draft Laws to be Discussed in the Autumn 2025 Parliamentary Session
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: news.mn
During the first year since the new 126-member Parliament of Mongolia commenced its 9th term, a total of 144 laws and 146 resolutions were adopted. Of these, during the 2025 spring regular session, 66 laws and 59 resolutions were discussed and approved, with the session ending on July 9th. Additionally, whereas the autumn session of the State Great Khural (Parliament) previously opened on October 1st, it has been brought forward to start from September 15th with an added stage of budget discussions, increasing the phases from 4 to 5.
Below is a presentation of the legislative bills planned to be discussed at the regular autumn session of the State Great Khural in 2025:
- Draft laws on the 2026 state budget of Mongolia, the 2026 budgets of the Social Insurance Fund, the Health Insurance Fund, the National Wealth Fund, and other related bills and resolutions.
- Draft resolution of the State Great Khural on the "2025 performance and 2026 budget of the main and current accounts of Mongolia's Treasury Fund".
- Draft resolution of the State Great Khural on approving the "Main directions for 2026 monetary policy".
- Draft law on amendments to some laws related to ensuring human rights and freedoms.
- Draft of the revised law on Freedom of the Press and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft of the revised law on the Right to Assemble and Protest and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft law to annul laws that ratified loan agreements.
- Draft law to improve the productivity, transparency, and governance of state-owned and local government enterprises and other related bills and resolutions.
- Draft law amending the Law on Labor Force Migration.
- Draft law amending the Law on Livestock Indexed Insurance and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft resolution of the State Great Khural to approve the General Development Plan of Ulaanbaatar City until 2040.
- Draft law amending the Criminal Code.
- Draft of the revised law on Standardization, Technical Regulation, Conformity Assessment Accreditation, and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft resolution of the State Great Khural on some measures to ensure the implementation of the "State Policy on Railways".
- Draft of the revised Law on Public Property and other submitted related bills and resolutions.
- Draft law on the transplantation of organs, tissues, and cells, and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft law on Blood Donors and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft law amending the Law on the Police Service and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft law amending the General Law on Social Insurance.
- Draft law amending and supplementing the Criminal Code and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft of the revised Law on Insolvency and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft of the revised law on the structure of the Court Decision Enforcement Agency and the legal status of bailiffs, and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft Commercial Law and other submitted related bills.
- Draft law and other related bills on civil proceedings to reclaim and recover illicit assets by public officials.
- Draft law amending the Law on Environmental Impact Assessment.
- Draft law amending the Law on Value-Added Tax.
- Draft law amending and supplementing the Law on Excise Tax.
- Draft law amending and supplementing the Law on Food and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft Law on Agriculture and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft law amending the Law on Incentives for Mothers Raising Multiple Children.
- Draft law amending and supplementing the Law on Ensuring the Safety of Food Products and other submitted related bills and resolutions.
- Draft law amending and supplementing the Law on Science and Technology and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft law amending and supplementing the General Law on Education.
- Draft law introducing amendments to the Law on the State Great Khural of Mongolia.
- Draft law introducing amendments to the Law on Public Holidays and Commemorative Days and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft law amending and supplementing the Law on Road Traffic Safety and other submitted related draft laws.
- Draft law amending and supplementing the Law on Common Minerals and other submitted related bills.
- Draft resolution of the State Great Khural approving the schedule of planned inspections and oversight during the spring 2026 session.
- Draft resolution of the State Great Khural on the agenda for the spring 2026 regular session.
Ts.Khulan: There Really Was No Other Legal Means to be Released Except Appealing to the President
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: gogo.mn
President U.Khurelsukh granted a pardon to Honored Cultural Figure and poet Ts.Khulan, allowing her release before the National Naadam Festival.
On July 25, 2023, the Sukhbaatar District Primary Criminal Court sentenced Ts.Khulan to 9 years and 6 months in prison. Her appeal hearing was held on November 1 of the same year, where her sentence was reduced to 8 years and 1 month.
Poet Ts.Khulan, who regained her freedom thanks to the Presidential pardon, greeted the public via her social media today.
She wrote: "How are you all? Did you enjoy the festival? I am endlessly grateful to everyone who worried about me and waited for my return! To the writers, poets, theater people, the entire cultural and artistic community, to the journalists, my friends living in both the city and the countryside, and our compatriots abroad... Thanks to the care, trust, and kindness of all you capital city dwellers who knew me even when I was at my lowest, I managed to endure this difficult time.
Khulan has never leaked or transmitted any state secrets. Not a single tugrik, dollar, yuan, or ruble has ever entered my account. One journalist (who is quite well-known) wrote that Khulan just needed to explain about the 2 billion in her account, confusing the public terribly. Let me just now say—I had no chance to take legal action about that.
Thank you to the head of state who extended a helping hand. Reporting, petitioning, and persevering for over two and a half years, keeping faith that the truth would be seen, eventually paid off. I heard that one or two people criticized the President for releasing a criminal—please, don't do that...
May such good instances of the state helping its citizens continue! Also, in recent months, several amendments were made to criminal laws concerning human rights violations as discussed multiple times in Parliament. This, I believe, encouraged the President. Truly, there was no other legal way for me to be released except to appeal to the President.
Let me stop here for now. My mother scolds me to 'watch my mouth! Don't talk too much!' Let's meet again soon with new creative works!"
29 Committees and Councils Disbanded to Save 41.6 Billion MNT Annually
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: news.mn
The government has made a decision to disband 29 committees and councils as part of its efforts to implement budget austerity measures at all levels, cut inefficient expenditures, eliminate overlapping governmental functions, and gradually reduce staffing levels. It is estimated that disbanding these 29 committees and councils will save 41.6 billion MNT every year.
For instance, among those being disbanded are the National Wealth Fund Committee, the National Housing Committee, the Intersectoral Coordination National Committee for "Vision-2050," the National Border Revival Committee, the 20-Minute City National Committee, the National Committee for Monitoring and Evaluation, the National Industrialization Committee, the Intersectoral Coordination Committee for the New Cooperative Movement, the National Committee for Managing the Reform of the Energy Sector, the National Committee for Promotion and Information Abroad, the Regional Development National Committee, the National Committee for the Implementation of the Anti-Corruption National Program, the National World Heritage Committee, the National Committee for Preparing the National Team for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the National Committee for the Coordination and Organization of HIV/AIDS Prevention Activities, the National Transport Committee, the National Council for Science and Technology, the State Savings and Productivity Council, the National Council for Youth Development, the Economic Development Council, the National Council for Intellectual Property, the Council for Metrology, the National Partnership for Open Government Council, the National Space Policy Council, the National Council for Policy and Regulation of Hazardous and Toxic Chemicals, the National Water Council, the National Council for the Supervision of the Agricultural Commodities and Raw Materials Exchange, the National Council for Public Health, the National Road Traffic Safety Council, and the Southern Gobi Regional Development Council.
Disbanding these committees and councils does not mean their activities will be completely halted. Their functions will be transferred to the relevant sector ministries and the Cabinet Secretariat.
Matters such as the National Wealth Fund, government transparency, productivity, open government partnership, development policies, planning, and the monitoring of the implementation of the Government’s Action Program will be overseen by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development N. Uchral.
Monitoring the implementation of laws and government decisions will be the responsibility of Minister and Cabinet Secretariat Head S. Bayabatsogt. Issues regarding the development of an integrated transportation and logistics network in border regions, border development policy and planning, and infrastructure projects connecting border and strategic deposits will be overseen by Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan. The Minister for Urban Development, Construction, and Housing, E. Bat-Amgalan, will be responsible for measures aimed at reducing urban congestion, creating new human-centered environments where social services can be accessed within 20 minutes, and reducing traffic congestion.
T. Davaadalai: No Construction Will Be Allowed on Public Land
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Regarding the issue of temporary construction in front of Secondary School No. 45, on Seoul Street in the 4th khoroo of Sukhbaatar District, city officials have visited the site following public criticism from citizens.
At that time, E. Chinzorig, the manager of Sukhbaatar District, stated: "Golden Bilegt Company submitted a request to implement the Breakfast Project in 2024 to the Governor of the district. Since then, the project has been discussed twice at the meeting of the Council for Regulation of Trade and Services, and on May 28, a contract was signed to operate a summer temporary trade, granting a temporary permit to be completed by November 1."
D. Battuvshin, director of Golden Bilegt LLC, introduced: "The old stairs that were there were decayed and were removed, but underneath, the area was full of trash and waste. We planned to develop these areas and turn them into a modern food street, and three business entities and four citizens submitted a request to jointly implement the Breakfast Project in the district. During two requests and three meetings, the district set particular requirements. For example, it was required to design the street for improvement, not to place retail kiosks. According to our design, the pedestrian walkway will remain. No terrace will be constructed. Nine coffee shops will be set up. There will be a public restroom, a kitchen area, and food sections representing about 20 countries. We are also working to implement the Milk Program. Three business entities and four citizens are investing about 400 million MNT in this project. Around 300 million MNT worth of outdoor improvement items, such as LED screens and lighting panels, have arrived at customs. We are working confidently to turn it into a great street."
Deputy Mayor of the Capital City, T. Davaadalai, said: "Temporary permits to conduct trade and services on public land are issued after consultation with Urban Planning. We have only just removed retail kiosks. In accordance with the relevant laws, a notice will be issued and the area must be vacated. The Urban Planning Department has not given permission to build structures such as benches for public seating or any buildings with engineering solutions. No construction will be allowed on public land. Temporary structures are defined as those with wheels. If permanent buildings are to be built in Ulaanbaatar city, permission must be obtained from the Urban Planning Department. If a structure is to be built near a school, it must be coordinated with teachers, school administration, and the General Education Department. The capital city does not plan to build higher-level buildings on the main city streets and cannot grant permits for such constructions. The requirement to vacate the street area will be enforced in the near future."
Warning: Media organizations (television, radio, social platforms, and web pages) are prohibited from using our information in full or in part in any form. Utilization is only allowed with prior agreement and must cite the source (ikon.mn).
Economy
Study: Two out of Three Households in Mongolia Live from Loan to Loan
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: itoim.mn
Economic growth and development of a country are assessed based on its citizens' purchasing power and standard of living. Research results show that this indicator is very fragile and weak in Mongolia.
The majority of Mongolian households reported that their income is only enough to cover the bare minimum of living expenses. A significant portion of households also rely on salary loans and loans from mobile applications to make ends meet. Over the past five years, with the consistent price increase of essential goods and products, household purchasing power has also declined accordingly.
The results of the "CURRENT SITUATION AND CHANGES IN MONGOLIAN FAMILY RELATIONS" study, conducted every five years, were recently released. Notably, several facts related to household financial capability stand out. Over 70% of all households surveyed have some form of loan.
Looking at the types of loans participants have taken, about one in three people—or roughly 40%—have taken out salary loans. Among rural residents, salary and herder loans are common, while urban residents more frequently use financial application loans and housing loans.
"Analyzing the composition of the average monthly expenses of the households surveyed, the highest portion—55.2%—is spent on food and children's needs. This is followed by expenses for clothes, debts, loans, and healthcare. From this, we see that household incomes are just enough to cover essential expenses and loan repayments, leaving little to nothing for savings, personal development, or travel. This is the conclusion of the Population and Family Development Research Sector at the Institute for Population, Labor, and Social Protection Studies," said Uyanga G., head of the research sector.
PAYING OFF LOANS WITH MORE LOANS IS BECOMING THE NORM
The majority of households rely solely on salaries as their main source of income, with over 80% of respondents saying they have no additional income. In previous years, households would often take out bank loans or borrow from others to cover expenses beyond their consumption. More recently, however, householders are more likely to use loan apps to cover these extra costs.
When surveyed on the main reason for taking out loans from applications, most people selected the category "other" rather than essential needs, indicating that many loans are taken out for non-essential expenses due to an inability to delay gratification, Professor Oyuntsetseg L., scientific doctor and advisory lecturer at the National University of Mongolia, pointed out.
Looking at the age group of those who use application loans, those aged 18–35 make up the majority, over 60%, and in terms of education level, more than half are university graduates.
Summarizing the results, it is apparent that most households, despite having no additional sources of income, are taking on multiple loans and falling into a debt chain where one loan is used to pay off another. Furthermore, the culture of cutting down on non-essential expenses is lacking, so whenever the possibility to take a loan arises, it is often used for non-essential purchases. Even if we have empty pockets, all we are left with is the freedom to borrow and buy.
Most Markets and Trade Centers Resume Operations Today
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: ikon.mn
The official public holiday for the National Naadam Festival has ended, and today, government organizations, markets, and trade centers have begun operations. In the six districts of the capital city, the Naran Tuul, Shine Sunday, Saruul, Soyombo, Songino Khairkhan, Selenge, Box Mall, Sodon Bombogor, Yumt Bombogor, Narlag Denj, Organic Market, Lavai, Tenger, Amgalan, and Bayalag-Undraa trade centers, except for some, are scheduled to open today. Detailed schedule:
Notice:
Media organizations (television, radio, social networks, and websites) are prohibited from using our information in any form, either in whole or in part, and may only use it with permission and by citing the original source (ikon.mn).
Baganuur JSC Employees Warn of Strike if Illegal Appointments Are Not Stopped
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: itoim.mn
The employees of "Baganuur" JSC delivered a demand today to "Erdenes Mongol" LLC and the three highest state officials.
This is because on July 8-9, during an extraordinary meeting of the Board of Directors of "Baganuur" JSC, a decision was made to dismiss Acting Executive Director D. Tuvshinjargal. The employees believe this decision is illegal and politically motivated. They claim that this move destabilizes the company and do not support the new executive director. The employees have announced plans to organize peaceful protests demanding the board’s decision be nullified, ensuring that the main operations of the mine are not disrupted.
Moreover, the workers have stated that if their request to reinstate the executive director is not met, they will go on strike.
Representatives of the miners gathered outside "Erdenes Mongol" LLC to express their protest. Out of 1200 employees, 876 signed a 41-page petition.
A miners’ representative stated: “We, the miners, believe that the relevant provisions of the Board Procedures for Executive Directors as approved by the decision No. 97 of 2023 from the Board of Erdenes Mongol LLC, as well as the clauses 2-15 and 2-17 of the procedures approved by the Board's resolution No. 14 of 2019 of 'Baganuur' JSC, have all been violated. This has led to instability in the company, and we oppose the unlawful appointment of a new executive director brought about by this illegal decision. We protest the board's resolution from the extraordinary meeting held on July 8 and 9, 2025, and demand that it be repealed. Unless that resolution is nullified, we declare that we will take all actions from peaceful protest up to and including a strike.”
According to "Erdenes Mongol" group, the executive director was dismissed on the grounds that the mine operated at a loss in the first half of the year and failed to ensure labor safety. They claim that coal is not sold at cost and the company incurs losses. However, "Baganuur" JSC has actually operated with a net profit of 1 billion 758 million tugriks. Employees say they do not understand or accept why this would be considered insufficient. Like a managerial appointment happening quietly during the Naadam festival, the board met on July 8 and 9 without any announcements or explanations and made their decision. Although the meeting was called under the pretense of reviewing half-year performance, it resulted in the appointment of a new executive director.
D. Tuvshinjargal previously held the positions of representative of Baganuur JSC in 2018-2019, First Deputy Director in 2019-2022, and has been Acting Executive Director since May 2022. The mine is crucial for the capital city’s heating supply, as it provides coal to power plants.
Baganuur JSC Employees Protest Against Illegal Appointment by Erdenes Mongol
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: news.mn
The Board of Directors of Erdenes Mongol held a meeting and dismissed D. Tuvshinzhargal, the CEO of Baganuur JSC, from his position on the grounds that the company operated at a loss during the first half of this year. The employees protested this decision and submitted a demand to S. Narantsogt, the director of Erdenes Mongol. On the 8th and 9th of this month, Erdenes Mongol urgently convened a Board meeting, where they officially dismissed D. Tuvshinzhargal from his role as acting CEO of Baganuur JSC and appointed T. Otgonbold as the new CEO.
The employees of Baganuur JSC consider this appointment illegal and believe that the review of the semi-annual report for 2025 was only a pretext, arguing that the real aim was to remove D. Tuvshinzhargal and appoint their own candidate instead. Therefore, the mine workers of Baganuur JSC submitted the following demands to the director of Erdenes Mongol S. Narantsogt and the Board members: They protested against the violation of relevant provisions of Articles 3, 6, and 8 of the "Executive Management Operational Procedures" approved by Board Resolution No. 97 of 2023 of Erdenes Mongol LLC, and Clauses 2.15 and 2.17 of the "Operational Procedures for the Board of Directors and its Committees" approved by the Baganuur JSC Board Resolution No. 14 of 2019. They stated that these violations created instability in the company and led to illegal decisions, and declared their refusal to accept the dismissal of the acting CEO and the new appointment, executed concurrently with the National Great Festivities. They demanded the annulment of the Baganuur JSC Board Resolutions No. 12 and 13 dated July 8th and 9th, 2025.
The workers of Baganuur JSC further stated that until these illegal Board decisions are rescinded and annulled, they would undertake all possible measures ranging from peaceful protests and gatherings to strikes, without disrupting the core production activities of the company. Over 800 out of 1,200 employees of Baganuur JSC have signed this demand letter.
As of the first half of 2025, Baganuur JSC removed 12,115.2 thousand cubic meters of overburden, fulfilling 113% of their plan; produced 2,374.3 thousand tons of coal, fulfilling 95.8% of plan; and sold 2,397.3 thousand tons of coal, fulfilling 96.7% of the plan. In the first half of this year, Baganuur JSC made a net profit of around 1.8 billion MNT. D. Tuvshinzhargal served as a representative of Baganuur JSC during 2018-2019, as the First Deputy CEO from 2019 to 2022, and as acting CEO from May 2022.
Executive Director of “Baganuur” JSC Allegedly Unlawfully Dismissed
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: gogo.mn
On the 8th and 9th of this month, the Board of Directors of "Baganuur" JSC held an extraordinary meeting and decided to dismiss the acting executive director, D. Tuvshinjargal.
Employees consider this decision to be illegal and politically motivated.
They claim that the company has become unstable and do not support the appointment of a new executive director.
They announced that they would organize peaceful protests until the board's decision is annulled, but said that the main operations of the mine would not be disrupted.
Furthermore, if their request regarding the allegedly unlawful dismissal of the executive director is not accepted, they have threatened to go on strike. As a result, representatives of the miners gathered outside "Erdenes Mongol" LLC to express their protest.
The reason is that, while employees' salaries have not increased for many years, D. Tuvshinjargal's team did secure a raise. They also stated that, although "Baganuur" JSC had long-standing tax debts and supplied coal to thermal power plants at low prices regulated by the Energy Regulatory Commission, for the first time they received dividends.
Of the 1200 employees, 876 signed a 41-page petition. However, the "Erdenes Mongol" group claimed that the mine operated at a loss in the first half of this year and failed to ensure labor safety, and cited these as reasons for the dismissal of the executive director. Representatives of the miners came to deliver their demands in person.
D. Tuvshinjargal previously served as a representative of Baganuur JSC in 2018-2019, as the First Deputy Director from 2019-2022, and as Acting Executive Director since May 2022. The mine plays a crucial role in the heating supply of the capital city and supplies coal to thermal power plants.
Miners’ Representatives
At the end of 2024, the "Erdenes Mongol" group evaluated the management of the mine as successful, awarding them a golden cup and a bonus of 100 million tugriks. However, workers now criticize the reversal in their appraisal—calling the recent negative evaluation inconsistent and illogical.
They shared that in the first half of this year, they achieved 110% of their mining targets and 113% of their overburden removal targets, performed well, and prepared coal reserves for the winter. They also reported a net profit of 1.7 billion tugriks in the first half of the year. The workers requested that the Board of Directors of Baganuur JSC and the "Erdenes Mongol" group review these achievements. However, they also noted that the headquarters of the group was empty, with no employees present at their workplaces.
Markets and Shopping Centers Resume Operations
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: news.mn
The holiday break for the National Naadam Festival has ended and work resumed today. Some markets and shopping centers have also started operating from today. For example, markets and shopping centers such as Da Khuree, Bayanzurkh Shopping Center, Ikh Nayad Shopping Center, Sunday, and Dunjingarav have resumed business.
Diplomacy
Croatia's Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman Pays Courtesy Call on Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: montsame.mn
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar of Mongolia received Gordan Grlić Radman, the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia, who is currently on an official visit to Mongolia.
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar stated that developing effective and mutually beneficial cooperation with Croatia, a key "third neighbor" and important partner for Mongolia in Europe, in various social and economic fields, is a top priority of Mongolia's foreign policy. He also expressed his satisfaction with the steady expansion of the long-standing friendly relations and cooperation between Mongolia and Croatia in recent years. The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of the signing of several documents aimed at further expanding bilateral cooperation during the official visit of the Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs at this high level for the first time.
Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar for taking the time to meet and conveyed his enthusiasm for expanding and deepening Mongolia-Croatia relations and cooperation in all mutually interested sectors.
During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on opportunities to intensify cooperation between Mongolia and Croatia in the areas of trade, economy, education, tourism, and forest management.
Discussion on Cooperation with Croatia for the Implementation of the “Ilgeelt-2100” Scholarship Program
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg held official talks yesterday with Gordan Grlić Radman, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia.
The parties exchanged detailed views on expanding the relations and cooperation between Mongolia and Croatia, especially regarding strengthening collaboration in trade, economy, tourism, education, and culture.
Minister B. Battsetseg introduced Mongolia’s long-term development policy and major objectives and discussed working with Croatia in implementing the national "One Billion Trees" movement and the “Ilgeelt-2100” scholarship program.
The ministers also emphasized the importance of strengthening multilateral cooperation to address and resolve global challenges such as climate change, desertification, soil degradation, and food security, expressing agreement to work closely in these areas.
Within this framework, they discussed cooperation for the "International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists" in 2026 and for the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, which will be held next year in Ulaanbaatar.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to increasing people-to-people exchange, particularly by deepening cooperation so that students and youth from both countries can study in each other's countries with reciprocal scholarships.
They also confirmed the strengthening of cooperation within the UN and other international organizations, and exchanged views on certain international relations issues.
During Minister Gordan Grlić Radman's official visit to Mongolia, the following bilateral cooperation documents were signed:
- An "Agreement between the Government of Mongolia and the Government of Croatia on International Road Transport of Goods and Passengers," which is important for developing cooperation in road and transport, creating new transportation and logistics routes, facilitating connections for citizens and businesspeople, and creating a favorable legal environment for mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation.
- A "Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia," aimed at activating cooperation at the international and regional levels, promoting the proposals and initiatives of both countries, and extending mutual support.
- A "Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Forestry Sector between the Forest Agency of Mongolia and Croatia's 'Croatian Forests' LLC," through which the parties will collaborate on sustainable, long-term cooperation in the forestry sector, foster sustainable forest management, and share experiences and methods in afforestation and reforestation to combat desertification and soil degradation.
- A "Memorandum of Understanding between the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Croatian Chamber of Economy," aimed at activating relations between the chambers, supporting the proposals and initiatives of entrepreneurs and wealth creators, fostering favorable conditions for business cooperation, and intensifying dialogue between enterprises, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Infrastructure
Demolition of Fire-Damaged Building at Thermal Power Plant No. 3 to Begin on the 25th of This Month
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: unuudur.mn
Prime Minister of Mongolia, G. Zandanshatar, visited Thermal Power Plant No. 3 (TSETS-3) and inspected the progress of orders and tasks he previously set. On June 2nd, an accident occurred at the high-pressure plant producing 50 MW, leading to a fire in the production building and the ninth turbogenerator being rendered inoperative. To address the consequences and restore normal operations, Minister of Energy B. Choijilsuren and Government Representative N. Tavikhbek introduced a set of three measures.
First, demolition of the fire-damaged building and construction of a new one will commence on the 25th of this month, with completion planned for November 1. To avoid interruption of heat production, the heating system’s mode will be changed by October of this year. The major groundwork has been completed and negotiations to select a contractor are underway.
Secondly, the seventh and ninth turbogenerators will be completely renewed and put into operation by the 2025-2026 winter. The ninth turbogenerator is a high-pressure power transmission unit where the accident took place. In 2014, the plant was expanded with this 50 MW capacity. The 25 MW seventh turbogenerator, which also halted due to the accident, was intended to substitute the 50 MW loss. Repair works aim to finish before the heating season, initially focusing on repairing the old seventh turbogenerator to prevent power outages.
Both the seventh and ninth turbogenerators will be replaced before November of next year. The initial funding for the upgrades has been included in the revised budget, with the remaining funds allocated in next year’s budget. The government representative N. Tavikhbek stated that they are looking into ordering the new ninth turbogenerator from China.
Furthermore, a project to upgrade the 48 MW medium-pressure station with Russia has begun. This station, operational since 1968, is 33 years past its expected service life but is still in use. The plan is to fully upgrade and increase its capacity by 250 MW and commission it by 2028.
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar reminded energy sector workers to speed up repair and renewal works, to ensure reliable heating through winter, and to work together in unity. He gave the following directives: submit proposals by the end of this month to streamline sector structures and reduce unnecessary positions and expenses; address issues such as bid rigging, forced procurement, and theft, which are frequently raised in connection with the sector; and implement similar expenditure reductions in coal mines. The government will conduct financial, operational, and organizational audits to resolve all these matters. He ordered relevant bodies to draft proposals to liquidate, merge, or privatize unnecessary units and to submit them to the government by the 15th of next month.
The second block of the Bureltzuut Power Plant, with a capacity of 150 MW, is scheduled for commissioning in December this year. Additionally, a power plant has begun construction in Selenge province, and with the addition of Avkhany Toson district's thermal power plant, battery storages, and solar stations, the Prime Minister stated that the country will safely get through the upcoming winter.
Three Companies Compete for Waste-to-Energy Plant Project
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Three companies have submitted proposals for the selection process announced by the capital city for establishing a waste incineration plant to generate energy.
During the regular government meeting on November 10, 2021, the Minister of Energy, N. Tavinbekh, and the Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, D. Sumiyabazar, were tasked with forming a joint working group to conduct a preliminary study for the waste-to-energy project in the capital, identify necessary funding sources, and determine a feasible implementation structure.
According to the government's operational program, if a waste-to-energy plant is established, starting from 2024, it is estimated that 31.8% of all waste will be disposed of through incineration, thereby reducing the proportion of waste sent to central landfills.
Preliminary estimates set the goal for Ulaanbaatar city by 2040 to recycle 50% of all waste, incinerate 42%—which cannot be recycled—for energy production, and reduce the amount of waste deposited in landfills at the central waste site.
However, this project has not yet been implemented.
The Total Length of Mongolia's Road Network Reaches 112 Thousand Kilometers
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: montsame.mn
President U. Khurelsukh sends his congratulations to those in the road transport sector. These days mark the historic 100th anniversary of the establishment of the road transport sector. President U. Khurelsukh conveyed his congratulatory message to the delegates attending the anniversary celebration and to all those in the sector, which was read out by A. Uilstuguldur, Chief of Staff of the President's Office. Here is the full message:
PRESIDENT OF MONGOLIA UKHNAA KHURELSUKH:
Dear road transport workers,
Esteemed guests and delegates,
Ladies and gentlemen,
I offer you my sincere congratulations on the 2234th anniversary of the founding of the first state, the 819th anniversary of the establishment of the Great Mongol State, the 114th anniversary of the restoration of national independence, the 104th anniversary of the People’s Revolution, the 35th anniversary of the Democratic Revolution, and the 100th anniversary of the development of the road transport sector in Mongolia.
As a result of the victory of the People’s Revolution, we Mongolians chose a new form of social development, kept pace with global political and economic changes, and restructured and developed all sectors of our social and economic life following the model of modern countries.
In 1924, the First National Assembly decided "that all matters regarding transportation shall be administered by the state..." and a special committee was established under the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Thus, after many centuries relying on animal-drawn transport, Mongolians established the "Transport and Communication Department of Mongolia" on July 15, 1925, marking the beginning of the development of the road transport sector.
From its inception, the road transport sector has cooperated with national defense, energy, construction, industry, communication, and agriculture sectors, consistently providing prompt state services to citizens, supplying essential goods, facilitating passenger and postal transport, and serving as a vital link for the entire country.
Starting with only 7 vehicles, the sector by last year transported 85.4 million tons of cargo, which constituted about 65% of total cargo transport, 88% of export transport, and 36% of intercity and international passenger transport.
Moreover, the infrastructure associated with the road transport sector, such as roads and bridges, has developed in parallel with the sector. The total length of Mongolia’s road network now reaches 112 thousand kilometers, with about 15 thousand kilometers of international and state highways.
Dear road transport workers,
Dear colleagues,
I express my heartfelt gratitude to all the generations of road transport workers and the entire community in the sector, who have made valuable contributions to the country’s development and have conscientiously and honorably fulfilled the vital responsibility of providing continuous, prompt, and dependable road transport services to the public.
It is a pleasure to announce on this festive occasion that the state-owned "National Road Transport Center," which has successfully implemented state policy and activities by organizing road transport services fairly and inclusively, registering vehicles, expanding and developing information databases, monitoring the impact of the road sector on public health and the environment, and overseeing transport and equipment operations, has been awarded the Order of the Red Banner of Labour Merit.
This recognition is the result of the commitment and efforts of the entire community that has taken part in the 100-year history of the road transport sector.
Once again, I congratulate you all on the centennial anniversary of the development of Mongolia’s road transport sector. I wish you good health, happiness, and every success. May the golden road of every Mongolian’s work and life be blessed. May Mongolia prosper under the eternal power of the heavens.
Hot Water Outage Locations for 20 Days Starting July 20th
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Repair and renewal work on the city's heating pipelines continues in the capital. According to information from Ulaanbaatar Heating Network JSC, hot water will be restricted and repairs will take place for 20 days in the following locations from Sunday, July 20th, 2025, until August 9th, 2025:
Areas where hot water will be restricted: - 220 Myangat - Khüühdin 100 - Circus - SUTS - Near the Japanese Embassy - Locomotive Depot - 5th Microdistrict UDDT-64 - Around Em Impex, - Otgontenger University - Near Zhukov Museum - Mongo Kino Negdel area users - Near 21st School - Near Wrestling Palace - Eastern Khuree Residential District - NCCD - Users near the 13th, 14th, and 15th microdistricts.
You can view the zoning locations by clicking HERE.
The annual heating pipeline repairs are scheduled to continue this year until August 20th.
Detailed Schedule:
Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social and Websites) are prohibited from fully or partially using our information in any form without consent, and may only use it by citing the original source (ikon.mn) after getting prior agreement.
Three Companies Submit Proposals for 'Waste Incineration and Energy Generation Plant' Project
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: montsame.mn
Three companies have submitted proposals for the discussion of a project to build a waste incineration and energy generation plant with a capacity of 35 MW in the 12th khoroo of Khan-Uul district, Ulaanbaatar. The three participants are "Naanova Green Energy Mongolia" LLC, "Sichuan Energy Investment, Energy Efficiency and Environmental Protection Investment" LLC, and "Shanghai S.U.S." LLC.
According to T. Davaadalai, the First Deputy Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, as part of the city's 24 mega development projects, invitations and documents for the "Waste Incineration and Energy Generation Plant" project have been sent to private sectors to enter partnership agreements for "design, budget estimation, construction, usage, and transfer," "operation and maintenance," and "management" forms, as per the procedures for direct partnership agreements without selection. In accordance with the Law on Public-Private Partnership, documents were accepted between June 26 and July 18 at 12:00, and the above-mentioned three companies have officially submitted their participation proposals for the discussion.
Moving forward, negotiations with participants will be openly communicated to the public in accordance with laws and regulations.
This Year, Roads Will Be Repaired and Upgraded at 36 Locations in the Capital
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: itoim.mn
This year, within the capital city, road repair and upgrade works will be carried out at 36 locations, covering a total of 74 km of roads. Here are updates on some of the roads where work has been completed so far.
Specifically, the partial repair and upgrade of the road at the General Club (from the Police Academy Avenue to the underpass junction) has been completed. Road signs and markings have been installed, the section has been reopened to traffic, and the road is now in normal use.
The partial repair and upgrade of the Sharhad road (from the Erdenetolgoi junction to the end of Sharhad) has been completed. Road signs and markings have been installed, the section has been reopened to traffic, and the road is now in normal use.
The repair and upgrade of Denver Street (from Peace Avenue, along the west bank of the Selbe River to Ikh Toiruu) has been completed.
The partial repair and upgrade of Peace Avenue (from the 25th pharmacy junction to the Sapporo junction) has been completed, with 0.400 km of new road surface and sub-base completed. The remaining 1.250 km will have its surfacing completed between July 21–30.
The partial repair and upgrade of the road on Paris Street (from Peace Avenue to the Sun Road) is completed, and restoration of the sidewalks is underway.
The surfacing of the road on Laagan Street (from Ikh Toiruu Road to Sambuu Street) is completed.
Press and Public Relations Department of the Capital City Governor's Office.
Rainwater Drainage Pipes Installed at Three Locations Including Narnii Bridge and the Camel Statue During Naadam
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Work on installing rainwater drainage pipes in the capital city continues. As of today, one kilometer of road around Narnii Bridge, 1,398 meters from the intersection behind Power Plant-3 to Dund Gol Bridge, and the area around the Camel Statue have completed the installation of rainwater drainage pipes in tandem with road construction works.
Currently, the installation of rainwater drainage pipes around building 14 of Altai Apartment Complex in Bayangol District's fourth khoroo is 70% complete, and red line marking has been laid to begin installation around the railway station in Bayangol District's first khoroo.
Regarding this, City Mayor H. Nyambaatar said, “We completed key work on drainage pipes during the Naadam holiday. We finished installing the 1,398-meter drainage pipe from the intersection behind TEC 3 to Dund Gol Bridge in Khan-Uul District’s third khoroo. Restoration of roads and pedestrian paths following the pipe installation is ongoing. Also, we completed the pipe installation alongside road work around the Camel Statue. Many thanks to the young people of NGUBBG.”
This year, seven locations are designated for installation of rainwater drainage networks on roads: - Around the railway station, 4th khoroo, Bayangol District - Around building 14 of "Altai" Apartment Complex, 5th khoroo, Bayangol District - South of Narnii Bridge, near the "Altai" Apartment Complex bus stop - Under the Peace Bridge, 15th khoroo, Khan-Uul District - Around TEC 3, Workers' Street, 3rd khoroo, Khan-Uul District - Road in front of "Bumbugur" shopping center - Chinggis Avenue around 120 Myangat area.
Notice: Media organizations (television, radio, social networks, and web pages) are prohibited from partially or completely using our information in any form, and may only use it by agreement with proper reference to the source (ikon.mn).
Road Closure from Wrestling Palace to East Four-Way Intersection
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: news.mn
The road from the Wrestling Palace to the East Four-Way Intersection will be closed for renovation. Specifically, as part of the partial repair and renewal works on Peace Avenue in Bayanzurkh district's 3rd and 15th khoroos, the road from the Wrestling Palace to the East Four-Way Intersection will be closed starting from today at 22:00 until 06:00 on the 20th of this month for renovation.
The southern lane of the road from the 100 Ail intersection to the Dari-Ekhiin intersection is also being closed and renewed. Specifically, as part of the partial repair and renewal work on Ikh Toiruu Road, repairs on the southern lane of the road between the 100 Ail intersection and the Dari-Ekhiin intersection began on the 16th of this month. It is planned to reopen this road tonight at 23:00.
Additionally, the auto road of Erchim Khuchnii Street is partially closed as expansion and renewal works continue. Starting from the 13th of this month at 23:00, Erchim Khuchnii Street has been partially closed for widening. As part of the "Bayangol district, khoroo 20, 5.9 km auto road expansion and major repairs on Erchim Khuchnii Street," the first 2 km section of road from the Songosolon Road intersection to the eastern intersection of Power Plant 4 is being partially closed for expansion and renewal work. This road is scheduled to be reopened at 06:00 on the 21st of this month.
The Damaged Turbogenerator at "Thermal Power Plant-3" Will Be Manufactured and Fully Replaced in China
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: itoim.mn
An accident occurred at Thermal Power Plant No. 3 on the night of June 2, 2025, causing the ninth turbogenerator to become inoperable. This equipment was carrying a significant part of the plant's main load and, according to experts, was damaged beyond repair. As a result, there is now a risk of disruption to "TPP-3", which supplies 31% of Ulaanbaatar's heat supply, 14% of the central electricity supply, and 47% of industrial steam.
The government has established a special regime at "TPP-3" and appointed N. Tavinbekh, the State Secretary for Energy, as the Government Plenipotentiary to manage the situation. In connection with the accident, a two-phase response plan has been devised for TPP-3.
First, the damaged unit will be urgently dismantled, restored, and repaired. This work has already begun and is planned to be completed by November 15, 2025.
Since the ninth turbogenerator is inoperable, a previously decommissioned and written-off turbogenerator will be restored so that it can share the main load during the coming winter. The work to restore this generator must be completed by August 15, after which network tuning will be carried out.
Restoration and renewal work has also begun on the damaged ninth and seventh turbogenerators, and a contractor selection process is underway. Companies from China, Russia, Germany, and Japan have submitted price proposals for the turbogenerator restoration project. Currently, negotiations are being held with Chinese companies, and Mongolian representatives are visiting their factories for inspections.
On this matter, "TPP-3" Government Plenipotentiary N. Tavinbekh stated: "The price offer from China is twice as low as that submitted by Russia. Therefore, a final decision will likely be made in favor of China. The available equipment was also inspected on-site. Since using previously used equipment poses a risk, it has been decided to order, manufacture, and install two completely new turbogenerators. Although this will take a little more time, it is better to opt for new equipment."
For purchasing these two turbogenerators, the state budget has allocated 60 billion MNT for the 50 MW turbine and 30 billion MNT for the 30 MW turbine. This funding will be distributed across the budgets of 2025 and 2026. For the 2025 budget, 20 billion MNT has already been allocated, making it fully possible to place the order and start the work.
The plan is to fully restore the ninth turbogenerator and replace the previously decommissioned seventh turbogenerator, with a capacity of 25 MW, before November 1, 2026.
Reminder: Road Closure from Wrestling Palace to Zuun Dörvön Zam Intersection Tonight
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: ikon.mn
A reminder has been issued that, as part of partial maintenance and renovation work on Enkhtaivan Avenue, the road section from the Wrestling Palace to the Zuun Dörvön Zam intersection will be closed tonight for upgrades.
Road Closure: July 18, 22:00
Road Reopening: July 20, 06:00
Therefore, the Ulaanbaatar City Road Development Agency advises citizens and drivers to use alternative routes during this period. Meanwhile, the road from the Wrestling Palace intersection to the Natur Trading Center has been renovated and is now open for traffic.
Warning: Media organizations (television, radio, social and web pages) are strictly prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form, except with agreement and by citing the source (ikon.mn).
Road Closures During the Weekend
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Starting tomorrow evening, the road from Natur Road in Bayanzurkh District, 25th khoroo, to the Narnii Road will be closed for renovations.
Road closure: July 19, from 23:00
Road reopening: July 21, at 06:00.
As part of the partial repair and renovation works on Enkhtaivan Avenue, the road from the 10th Microdistrict intersection to the Sapporo intersection will also be closed and renovated.
Road closure: July 20, from 22:00
Road reopening: July 24, at 06:00.
Meanwhile, the southern lane of the road from the 100 Family Intersection to the Dari-Ekh Intersection has been renovated and reopened to traffic today.
We kindly ask all citizens and drivers to use alternative routes during this time.
Source: Ulaanbaatar City Road Authority
Warning
Media outlets (Television, Radio, Social Media and Websites) are strictly prohibited from fully or partially using this information in any form without permission. It may only be used with proper attribution to the source (ikon.mn) after prior agreement.
Citizens Support Removal of Extensions and Expansion of Pedestrian Sidewalks
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Pedestrians, as well as those with bicycles, scooters, and mopeds, find it difficult to travel along Enkhtaivan Avenue. Therefore, there is a proposal to demolish the first-floor extensions that were built on what used to be green spaces, and to broaden the pedestrian sidewalk. Do you support this initiative?
We posted this question on our website beginning on the 1st of last month. A total of 2,815 people participated in the survey. Of them, 82 percent, or 2,314 citizens, supported the removal of the extensions that line both sides of Enkhtaivan Avenue, which is a main road in the capital city.
With this measure, it will become easier for pedestrians, as well as people with bicycles, scooters, and mopeds, to travel along Enkhtaivan Avenue. Before the extensions were built, these areas were green spaces.
It is hoped that city officials will respect the wishes of the citizens and create safe and comfortable passageways for travelers.
Pedestrians, as well as those with bicycles, scooters, and mopeds, find it difficult to travel along Enkhtaivan Avenue. Therefore, there is a proposal to demolish the first-floor extensions that were formerly green spaces and to expand the pedestrian sidewalk. Do you support this initiative?
Support
2,374
Do not support
464
Don't know
44
Total votes: 2,882
Society
NEMA: 17 People Died in Water Accidents During the Naadam Festivities
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: news.mn
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) provided information about the state of rivers, waters, forests, steppe fires, and the measures taken during the national Naadam festival holidays.
Since the beginning of the year, 47 people have died in water accidents.
Colonel J. Damdinsuren, Head of the Operations Management Department at NEMA, stated:
"During the holidays of Naadam, the emergency services operated at an elevated state of readiness to ensure the safety of citizens and to prevent possible floods and water accidents. An operations task force was established to coordinate response measures and cooperation among the emergency headquarters in Ulaanbaatar and the provinces. In total, more than 513 staff from the national and local emergency divisions as well as related professional units worked in 9 districts of 21 provinces.
In total, responses were made to 105 incidents to ensure safety, including 45 water accidents, 11 forest and steppe fires, 16 water accidents, 9 cases of people stuck in mud or rivers, 3 weather-related hazardous events, and 1 case of an animal epidemic.
Of particular note, 17 people lost their lives in water accidents, 1 person in a structural fire, and 2 people in floods, totaling 20 fatalities, 6 of whom were children. During the holidays alone, 16 water accidents were recorded in 1 district of the capital and 10 soums of 8 provinces, resulting in 17 deaths (13 adults and 4 children). Five people were saved. Since the beginning of the year, 40 water accidents have been registered in the capital's 3 districts and 22 soums of 12 provinces, with 47 fatalities, including 13 children.
The main causes of water accidents are entering bodies of water while intoxicated, leaving young children unsupervised or allowing them to play by the river or lake shores, and using non-standard inflatables, boats, and floating devices, which has led to such fatalities. Additionally, in Bayankhongor province, sudden floods claimed the lives of two young children.
A livestock epidemic was reported in the 33rd khoroo of Bayanzurkh district in the capital, in the area near Shar Ulaan Am. According to a decree by the Bayanzurkh district governor, 3,666 head of livestock from 121 households were fully immunized. Efforts are ongoing to vaccinate 342,000 livestock in other districts of the capital.
Efforts underway to extinguish 6 fires in Tushig, Yeruu, and Khuder soums of Selenge province
Lt. Colonel P. Soronzonbold, Head of the Fire Department at NEMA, reported on the forest and steppe fire situation and related measures taken during the Naadam holidays:
During these days, 11 incidents of forest and steppe fires were recorded in Dornod, Bayan-Ulgii, Bulgan, and Selenge provinces. As of 11:00 on July 18, two fires had been contained and efforts to extinguish four others are ongoing.
Specifically, two forest fires in "Khar gorkhi" in Tushig soum and "Aguuit" in Yeruu soum of Selenge province have been contained. Work is continuing to extinguish four forest fires in Khuder soum: "Shorgooljnii khuderteen khets," "Shorgooljiin-Undur," "Yangaakhai," and at "Sharlangiin ekhiiin baruun" in Yeruu soum.
A total of 93 personnel and 12 vehicles from the emergency services and local professional teams are working to extinguish the fires. Additionally, 40 staff from the emergency departments of Selenge and Darkhan-Uul provinces are being transported by helicopter from NEMA's Air Search and Rescue Unit No. 111 to the fire sites in Yeruu and Mandal soums.
20 People Died in Accidents During the Naadam Holiday, 6 of Them Children
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: gogo.mn
Colonel J. Damdinsuren, Head of the Operations Management Department of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), provided information regarding disasters and accidents recorded during the Naadam holiday days, the measures taken, as well as incidents of drowning and preventive activities.
During the Naadam and holiday period, 21 search and rescue operations, 45 fires at facilities, 11 forest and steppe fires, 16 water accidents, 9 incidents of people trapped in rivers and mud, 3 hazardous weather events, and 1 case of highly infectious animal disease were recorded—making a total of 106 calls. Emergency service workers from NEMA at the central and local levels carried out duties to ensure public safety and provided assistance and services.
During this period, due to disasters and accidents, there were a total of 20 deaths: 17 from water accidents, 2 from mudslides, and 1 from a facility fire. Of these, 6 were children.
Specifically, during the Naadam holidays, 17 people (13 adults and 4 children) lost their lives in 16 water-related incidents registered in 1 district of the capital and 10 soums (districts) of 8 provinces.
As part of efforts to prevent water accidents, 2,912 people, including 1,720 NEMA officers, 664 police officers, 160 staff from the Child, Family, and Development Protection Agency, and 368 volunteers, with 656 vehicles, organized mobile patrol measures at 24 rivers and 7 lakes in 19 provinces where many people relax and picnic.
Source: NEMA
J. Damdinsuren: During Festivities, 20 People Lost Their Lives to Water Accidents, Structural Fires, and Floods, Including Six Children
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Photographs were used with special permission from the MPA agency.
Today, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) organized a press conference about the fire and safety situation during the holiday festivities and the preventative measures taken.
Colonel J. Damdinsuren, head of the Operations Management Division of NEMA, stated:
"During the holiday break, the Emergency Services shifted to heightened readiness, with around 513 officials working across 21 provinces and nine districts. We recorded a total of 105 incidents including 21 search and rescue operations, 45 structural fires, 16 water accidents, 11 forest and wildfires, 9 cases of people stuck in rivers or mud, 3 weather-related hazards, and cases of highly contagious livestock diseases.
During the festivities, 17 people died due to water accidents, 1 in a structural fire, and 2 in floods—a total of 20 deaths, including six children. For example, in one district of the capital and eight soums, there were 16 water accidents with 13 adult and 4 child fatalities, while five people were rescued alive.
The causes of these accidents include entering rivers while intoxicated, leaving small children to play along riversides unsupervised, and using boats or floating devices on the water. Unfortunately, a sudden flood in Bayankhongor led to the tragic death of two young children."
Since the beginning of the year, there have been 40 registered water accidents in 22 soums of 12 provinces and three districts of the capital, resulting in 13 deaths.
Notice: Media organizations (television, radio, social and web pages) are prohibited from fully or partially using this information in any form, and may only use it with agreement and by citing the original source (ikon.mn).
Environment
58% of the Country Experiencing Drought or Near-Drought Conditions
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: gogo.mn
As of the 10th of this month, plant growth on pastures is in a drought or near-drought state across 58% of the country, while 42% remains normal.
Specifically, pasture conditions are poor in some areas of Bayan-Ulgii, Uvs, and Central aimags, as well as in a few soums of Khovd, Uvurkhangai, Omnogovi, Selenge, Darkhan-Uul, Dundgovi, Khentii, and Sukhbaatar. Conditions are normal in the entirety of Govisumber and Arkhangai, most of Zavkhan, Khuvsgul, Sukhbaatar, as well as in some soums of Bayankhongor, Uvurkhangai, Govi-Altai, Bulgan, Selenge, Tuv, Umnugovi, Dornogovi, Dornod, Bayan-Ulgii, Uvs, Khovd, Dundgovi, and Khentii. Other areas have moderate conditions.
Wind speeds temporarily reached 16-27 meters per second, which is considered dangerous, in the steppe and Gobi regions. In Bayantsagaan of Bayankhongor, Ugtaaltsaidam of Tuv, Darkhan of Khentii, and Tsagaandelger and Derem of Dundgovi, winds reached 28-31 meters per second, which is classified as extremely dangerous.
Over the past ten days, average air temperatures across the country were about normal or 1.1-4.7 degrees warmer, and precipitation was at normal levels or above in more than 70% of the country. Some areas, such as all of Orkhon, and several soums of Govi-Altai, Khuvsgul, Omnogovi, Khentii, Dornogovi, Dornod, most of Sukhbaatar, Uvs, Khovd, Zavkhan, Bayankhongor, Bulgan, Tuv, Arkhangai, Uvurkhangai, and a few soums of Dundgovi received more rainfall than the average.
Source: National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring
G.Zandanshatar: We will not touch Noyon Mountain
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: gogo.mn
The government has issued a resolution to implement the "Gold-3" program. In response to the suspicions that have arisen among the public regarding this decision, Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar addressed the issue through his social media account yesterday.
He stated that during the spring session of the State Great Khural, the resolution on some measures to implement the "Gold-3" campaign was approved.
As a result, he expressed regret that false and misleading information is circulating on social networks about the government allegedly deciding to mine Noyon Mountain.
The government does not pursue any policy of conducting mining operations in specially protected areas.
Rather, efforts will be focused on expanding the scope of protected areas, strengthening their protection, and improving the legal environment for developing responsible mining.
Let me reiterate, the government will not touch specially protected areas and will not mine Noyon Mountain.
P. Soronzonbold: Wildfire Reported in Bagaturgen Waterfall Area of Bayan-Ulgii Province, the Most Visited Region by Citizens
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: ikon.mn
Photographs were used with special permission from MPA Agency.
Today, information was provided about the situation of wildfires in forests and other locations during the festival period. Regarding this, Deputy Colonel P. Soronzonbold, head of the Firefighting Department at the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), said:
“From July 10th to today, 11 wildfires have been registered. Of those, 11 cases occurred in the provinces of Bayan-Ulgii, Selenge, Bulgan, and Dornod. Five of these fires have been extinguished, two fires in Eruu and Khuder soums of Selenge province have been contained, and more than 90 staff members are working to control four other fires. Additional emergency workers from Darkhan-Uul and Orkhon provinces have been dispatched by helicopter to the wildfire sites in Selenge province. In Selenge province’s Khuder and Eruu soums, drought is severe, and although cloud seeding was performed, the rain was not enough to extinguish the fire. The fires in Khalkhgol soum of Dornod province and Bagaturgen Waterfall region of Bayan-Ulgii province, which is the most visited area by citizens, have been extinguished. Citizens are urged to take precautions against fire hazards when traveling or picnicking.”
Since the beginning of the year, there have been 2,814 fire incidents in buildings/objects and 182 forest and steppe wildfire reports.
Warning: Media organizations (television, radio, social and web pages) are prohibited from wholly or partially using our information in any form without permission and should only use it with consent by citing the original source (ikon.mn).
Efforts Underway to Extinguish Six Forest Fires in Tushig, Yeruu, and Khuder Districts of Selenge Province
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: montsame.mn
During the holiday period of Naadam, a total of 11 forest and steppe fires were reported in Dornod, Bayan-Ulgii, Bulgan, and Selenge provinces. Of these, five have been fully extinguished. Emergency service personnel have currently contained two fires, and efforts to put out four remaining fires are ongoing.
According to Lt. Colonel P. Soronzonbold, head of the Firefighting Division of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), "In Selenge province, the forest and steppe fires in ‘Khar Gorkhi’ of Tushig district and ‘Aguit’ of Yeruu district have been contained. Work continues to extinguish fires in ‘Shorgooljny Khuderin Khets’, ‘Shorgooljiin-Undur’, ‘Yangaakhai’ of Khuder district, and the ‘Western head of Sharlangiin Ekh’ area in Yeruu district. A total of 93 people from the emergency services and local professional teams, equipped with 12 vehicles, are working to extinguish these fires. Additionally, 40 emergency workers from Selenge and Darkhan-Uul provinces are being transported to the forest fire sites in Yeruu and Mandal districts by helicopter from NEMA’s Air Search and Rescue Unit #111."
Since the beginning of the year, 2,814 instances of structural fires have been recorded, an increase of 26.2% compared to last year. During the Naadam holiday alone, 45 such incidents were registered, with one civilian casualty, according to NEMA.
Innovation
G. Zandanshatar: Carriers are Successfully Implementing Advanced Technologies and Services at International Standards
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: montsame.mn
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar delivered a speech to open the ceremony celebrating the 100th anniversary of the establishment and development of the road transport sector in Mongolia.
He remarked that before the People’s Revolution, Mongolians transported goods with traditional carts and provided governmental services via horse relay systems, reaching every corner of the vast country. Now, 100 years later, this heavy work has been replaced by fast, productive, and efficient road transport vehicles. He expressed gratitude to the older generation, who built a history of remarkable achievements, and praised the youth who are leading the development today. Although it is considered that the sector officially started 100 years ago, he mentioned historical records showing that as early as the 1900s, Mongolians conducted what today would be called international transport under the business "Khaalgankhuree Transport Company."
By the end of 1925, the establishment of an auto base with 25 cars laid the foundation for today’s national transport organizations. Over the past 100 years, this sector has made an immeasurable contribution to the development of the country. Road transport workers have tirelessly connected the vast territory of Mongolia and delivered the fruits of development, deserving admiration from generation to generation. He emphasized that road transport workers are clear embodiments of Mongolians’ endurance, diligence, and patriotism.
Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar highlighted the special role the road transport sector has played in Mongolia’s development, saying the country’s development history is inseparable from this sector. The industrial, agricultural, and infrastructural advances of the 1960s would have been unimaginable without road transport workers. For example, in the late 1950s, there were movements to recognize "hundred-thousanders" and "millionaire drivers," and by the early 1960s, "billionaire drivers" emerged—testaments to the triumphs and persistence of veteran transport workers.
Quantifying the sector’s achievements over 100 years, in 1925 road transport carried 400,000 tons of freight, whereas in 2024 it increased 213-fold to 85.2 million tons. 800,000 passengers were transported in 1935, while in 2024 the number grew 181.3 times to 145.1 million passengers. Internationally, Mongolian carriers accounted for just 1% of transport in 2015, while in 2025 this figure reached 46%; the number of countries served increased from seven in 2015 to 23 in 2025.
He expressed appreciation for the successful implementation of modern advanced technology, legal and regulatory enhancements, improving services to international standards, and developing the sector through private investment. These steps are necessary to meet the growing demands on the transport sector.
In honor of the anniversary, by decree of the President of Mongolia, the "National Road Transport Center" state-owned company was awarded the "Order of the Red Banner of Labour of Mongolia."
Drone transporting blood is ready for its next flight
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: gogo.mn
A project is being implemented to rapidly and promptly deliver blood and blood products to hospitals by the National Center for Blood Transfusion.
Within the framework of this project, a cooperation agreement has been established with Newcom Group's "Mongolian smart drone" company, and blood is being transported by drone on working days.
It reportedly takes seven minutes to deliver blood from the Bayanzurkh District Blood Collection Center to the National Center for Maternal and Child Health.
Health
Two Doses of Vaccine, Three Types of Protection
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: gogo.mn
As of today, a total of 1,255 people in our country have contracted measles. Due to this disease, eight children have died this year. Currently, three patients are in critical condition in the hospital.
Looking at the age groups, the majority of those infected are children under 19 years old.
Measles is a highly contagious but vaccine-preventable infectious disease. By getting two doses of vaccine for yourself and your child, you can be protected against three diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella.
The National Center for Communicable Diseases advises that if you have had contact with a confirmed measles case and have not contracted measles before, you should receive a measles vaccine within 72 hours to protect yourself and others from the disease.
If you have any questions or would like clarification, please contact ☎️100, 119, or 72224444.
Sports
The 'Silk Way' Auto Rally International Competition Continues Until the 21st of This Month
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: news.mn
The "Silk Way" auto rally started from Irkutsk, Russian Federation, on the 11th of this month, passing through the Irkutsk region and the Republic of Buryatia, entering Mongolia via the Altanbulag border checkpoint on July 15, and arriving in Ulaanbaatar on July 16. The "Silk Way" International Auto Rally competition will continue from July 15–21, 2025, traversing a 5,500-kilometer route through the regions of Selenge, Darkhan, Tuv, Dundgovi, Uvurkhangai, Bayankhongor, Govi-Altai, Khovd, and Bayan-Ulgii.
This year's "Silk Way" international auto rally involves 837 participants and 306 vehicles from 12 countries: Russian Federation, Federal Republic of Germany, Canada, People's Republic of China, Republic of Latvia, United Mexican States, Republic of Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Republic of Uzbekistan, Republic of Belarus, Swiss Confederation, and Mongolia.
Co-organized by the governments of Mongolia and the Russian Federation, Gazprom PJSC, and the China Automobile and Motorcycle Association, this event was first held in 2009, traveling 4,628 kilometers over nine days from Kazan, Russia, through Kazakhstan, to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Since then, it has become a traditional event for countries in Eurasia such as Russia, China, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan, and was successfully held in Mongolia in 2019 and 2024.
The "Silk Way" Auto Rally is a major international sporting event that covers 600–5,000 kilometers in steppes, deserts, forests, and mountainous areas for 2 to 15 days, in vehicle categories such as passenger cars, trucks, and motorcycles. It includes competitions for professional athletes, amateurs, and travelers, growing into both a significant sporting and unity-and-friendship event, watched by millions of spectators worldwide.
Judokas from 29 Countries to Compete in Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam Tournament
Published: 2025-07-18 | Translated from: montsame.mn
Under the patronage of the President of Mongolia, the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam judo tournament will be held in our country for the third time. The International Judo Federation, Mongolian Judo Association, the Office of the President, the Government, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth, the Office of the Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, Ulaanbaatar City Development Corporation, and the State Physical Education and Sports Committee are jointly organizing this tournament, which will award qualifying points for the "Los Angeles 2028" Summer Olympic Games, as well as world ranking points. The event will take place at "Step Arena" from the 25th to the 27th of this month.
A total of 247 judokas from 29 countries will compete in seven men's and seven women's weight categories. As the host country, Mongolia will have the privilege of fielding four judokas per weight class, totaling 56 competitors.
As of today, leading athletes in the 66 kg category—bronze medalist at the World Championships and European Games champion Kamal Khan-Magomedov of Bahrain—along with judokas from the UAE and Russia, have arrived in Mongolia and are participating in joint training sessions.
Top world judokas such as Portugal's Patricia Sampaio, Spain's Nicolas Sherazadishvili, Moldova's Denis Vieru, Russia's Sabina Giliazova, Azerbaijan's Balabay Aghayev, Turan Bayramov, France's Lea Fontaine and Astride Gneto, Japan's Mami Umeki, Uzbekistan's Doston Ruziev, Ukraine's Bohdan Yadov and Artem Lesiuk, and UAE's Karim Abdulaev will compete on the Mongolian tatami. Japan, France, Korea, Russia, Uzbekistan, China, and Tajikistan will each have delegations of more than ten members attending the tournament.
The event will be broadcast live nationwide on C1 Television, the official broadcaster. Ticket prices for the Grand Slam are 30,000 and 100,000 MNT, and are now available on Shoppy.mn.
The Ulaanbaatar tournament is the seventh event in this year's Grand Slam series. After this, the Grand Slam tournaments will pause until November, when the eighth event of 2025 will be held in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
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