May 20, 2025 85 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for May 20, 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.

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Politics

URGENT: President U.Khurelsukh tells Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene to “resign yourself”

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

President U.Khurelsukh met with Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene to discuss the current political situation, as previously reported. It has now been revealed that President U.Khurelsukh has told Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene to "resign yourself." Additionally, a demonstration by citizens demanding the resignation of Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene has continued for the sixth day today at Sukhbaatar Square, and certain members of Parliament have shown support for this demand by signing a petition.

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Decisions Taking Effect from June 1

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

News Agency has compiled information on the notable laws, regulations, and decisions that will take effect from June 1. HOUSEHOLDS TO SWITCH TO GAS FUEL
Starting June 1, the insulation of 51,000 households in the green zone and their transition to gas and electric heating systems will commence. According to the Air Quality Law, yellow and green zoning has been designated for districts. There are 101,000 households in the green zone, and a phased transition from solid fuel to gas and electric heating has been decided for this area. In line with this, the Governor of the capital city and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, Kh. Nyambaatar, announced that, “This year, starting from June 1, the insulation and transition to gas and electric heating for the 51,000 households in the green zone will be carried out, and the work will be completed by September 15.” According to officials, removing the chimneys of these 51,000 households living in smoke-free zones is estimated to reduce air pollution by 29.5%. Furthermore, each household will be given an incentive of 900,000 MNT over a period of seven months. Residents need to register with their neighborhood head that their home is properly insulated in order to receive this incentive. Additionally, in June, around 2,000 housing projects will be implemented in the capital city. For example, a 1,008-apartment project will be completed, with 414-apartment projects in Shar Khad and Bayankhoshuu also going into operation. An international tender will also be announced for a 10,000-apartment project at the Selbe sub-center. PENSION LOANS TO BE REISSUED UNDER OLD RULES FROM JUNE
Previously, we reported that the Minister of Family, Labor and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, had requested the President of the Bank of Mongolia to relax the criteria for pension loans. In response, the Deputy President of the Bank of Mongolia, G. Enkhtaivan, announced that the pension loan criteria would be reverted to their previous status within the second quarter. He said, "The Bank of Mongolia’s Financial Policy Committee has made certain arrangements for loans secured against pensions. A request was made by the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Protection asking for a regulation that after repaying pension loans, sufficient funds remain for pensioners’ living expenses. We made such an arrangement accordingly. The next meeting will be held in the second quarter, where a final decision will be made. The government has submitted a request to revert to the old procedure." Regarding this, Minister Enkh-Amgalan said, “The regulation was made to protect the livelihoods of our seniors. However, since it proved too strict, we are working to relax it. A decision will be made soon. We will discuss with commercial banks about the possibility of reducing interest rates on pension loans. We have been depositing the pension fund’s free balance this year at an annual rate of 15%. Previously, it was deposited at just 3% annually. This year, we plan to deposit over 700 billion MNT at an annual rate of 15% in four systemically important banks, generating 108 billion MNT in interest income.” NO CITY LICENSE PLATES FOR VEHICLES OVER 10 YEARS OLD
Officials have announced that starting June 1, city registration plates will not be issued to vehicles older than 10 years or those that have not undergone pre-export technical inspections. Specifically, vehicle registration licenses for the capital city will be issued under the following conditions. The new criteria, which came into effect on November 15 of last year, require: - The owner or holder of the vehicle must be a resident of the capital or a legal entity registered in the capital.
- The owner/holder must have settled payments required by the Road Law and penalties/fines according to Article 14.7 of the Violation Law.
- Vehicle insurance must be obtained in accordance with Article 5.1 of the Law on Driver Insurance.
- The vehicle’s engine must meet at least "Euro-4" ecological standards or above.
- The vehicle must be sequentially prioritized according to the approved criteria. As of June 1, the following new criteria will apply: - Only vehicles manufactured within the last 10 years will be eligible.
- The vehicle must have passed the pre-export technical inspection.

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LIVE: 'Resigning is Easy' Protest Continues for the Fifth Day at Sukhbaatar Square

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene’s son, O. Temuulen, has attracted public attention and widespread criticism due to his luxurious lifestyle. As a result, some citizens are demanding Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene to resign, to explain his child’s lavish lifestyle, and to prove the source of his income. The "Resigning is Easy" protest is continuing for the fifth day at Sukhbaatar Square.

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Member of Parliament D.Ganbat joins protest calling for Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene’s resignation and announces he will sign the demand

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

The protest by citizens demanding the resignation of Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene has continued for its sixth day. Member of Parliament D.Ganbat joined the protest and spoke to the crowd. He said: “Thank you to the young people fighting for justice. As a state leader, I apologize to everyone.” He also announced that he will sign the demand calling for the resignation of Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene.

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If 32 Members Sign the Motion to Dismiss Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene, It Will Be Discussed in Parliament

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Photos published on social media by a woman believed to be the girlfriend of Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene's son, O. Temuulen, gained significant public attention last week. As a result, citizens have been protesting in Sukhbaatar Square, demanding L. Oyun-Erdene's resignation as Prime Minister. Signatures supporting the Prime Minister's resignation are also being gathered at the square. During this time, some members of parliament, including Ch. Lodoisambuu, have expressed their views and signed the petition. However, whether the government will resign is a matter regulated by the Constitution. Just because citizens are protesting at Sukhbaatar Square does not mean that the government will be dismissed; there is no such clause in the Constitution. Since 1990, no government has resigned due to citizens' protests or petitions. A Prime Minister has only resigned either upon personal request or when the majority of all members of parliament supported the motion. If at least one quarter of all members of parliament, that is, 32 members, sign an official motion to dismiss the Prime Minister, the matter will be discussed in parliament. If the majority of all members of parliament support the proposal to dismiss the Prime Minister, the government is considered stepped down, and a new Prime Minister must be appointed within thirty days. As of today, demanding high ethical responsibility from Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene and expecting him to resign on his own has become a challenging issue. Last Saturday, he declared that he would prove the legality of his son's income. The ruling party, which forms the government, has ample authority and human resources to prove the Prime Minister's income as "legitimate by law." Therefore, the authority to dismiss Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene lies solely with the members of parliament. Currently, the MPs have expressed observations on the political situation, such as, "The Prime Minister must provide an explanation." Thus, it is uncertain whether the required 32 signatures on the motion to dismiss will be collected. The Democratic Party, which is supposed to function as the opposition, is unable to speak against the dismissal of the Prime Minister due to the coalition government with the ruling Mongolian People's Party. In fact, the Democratic Party leader L. Gantumur is actively defending him. According to Article 43 of the Constitution: 1. If not less than one quarter of the members of parliament officially submit the proposal to dismiss the Prime Minister, parliament must start discussion three days later and decide within ten days. If the majority of all members support the proposal, the parliament's decision to dismiss the Prime Minister is considered adopted, and a new Prime Minister must be appointed within thirty days. 2. If the Prime Minister is dismissed, the entire government is dismissed with them. According to Article 44 of the Constitution: 1. If the Prime Minister submits a motion of confidence regarding certain issues of the state budget or policy, parliament must start discussion three days later and, within ten days, decide by a majority vote. If the motion is adopted, confidence in the Prime Minister is considered affirmed. If not adopted, the Prime Minister is considered dismissed and a new Prime Minister must be appointed within thirty days. Notice: Media organizations (television, radio, social and web pages) are strictly prohibited from using our information fully or partially in any form, except by prior agreement and proper citation of the source (ikon.mn).

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Ch. Lodoi-Sambuu: The Prime Minister said, "A government that is not based on the Constitution cannot go on. I am ready for anything"

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

The DP, MPP caucuses, and the HUN party council convened today to discuss current issues. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene also participated in the MPP caucus meeting, where political matters were discussed behind closed doors. There are rumors that they talked about removing the Democratic Party (DP) and HUN Party from the coalition government. On this topic, Member of Parliament Ch. Lodoi-Sambuu wrote on his social media: "Well, the government has started its usual tactics to confuse people again. To set the record straight, during today's MPP caucus meeting, a certain member said, 'The MANAN (oligarchic powers) you wanted to fight against 10 years ago have now developed into an even bigger monster, the MANHAN, with your own hands. A government that is not based on the Constitution cannot go on.' To that, the Prime Minister replied, 'I completely agree with you. I am ready for anything!' That was exactly the conversation. This is an indirect way for him to say he is ready to expel those two parties from the government. However, when meeting with the President, he was told, 'Submit your resignation and step down.' But now news outlets are hastily spreading reports as if the President said, 'Remove those two parties from the government, or else resign.' Our journalists, even if they don't say it outright, understand what's going on. In short, he tried to sacrifice the coalition parties to save himself, but externally he is manipulating the narrative as if he is protecting them. Members of those two parties, believing him, are defending the coalition government until the very last moment, expecting they can keep him in power. Don't be misled by this. The king of deception must resign! He has spent five years misleading the public with such shameful acts. Enough is enough!" (Original tweet: — Ch. Lodoi-Sambuu (@Lodoisambuu))

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The MPP Group to Discuss the Amendment of Tax Law

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

The Mongolian People's Party (MPP) group in the State Great Khural (Parliament) began its meeting today at 10:00 AM, planning to discuss a total of five issues. These include a briefing on the amendment of tax legislation, a briefing on social insurance and pension reforms, an update on the construction of the Tuul highway, measures to increase the traffic flow in the capital city Ulaanbaatar, and changes to legislation related to the legal framework affecting housing and infrastructure development projects currently facing challenges.

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President U. Khurelsukh Meets with Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene to Discuss the Current Political Situation

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

We previously reported that Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene participated in the meeting of the Mongolian People's Party group and turned the session into a closed meeting. Following this meeting, President U. Khurelsukh is now receiving Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene. It is reported that they are discussing the current political situation that has arisen in recent days. We will provide more updates on this matter as information becomes available.

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The President Has Demanded L.Oyun-Erdene to Submit His Resignation

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene's son O.Temuulen's luxurious lifestyle, along with the Prime Minister's remarks referring to citizens as "insects," has sparked public outrage. Protests demanding his resignation are taking place outside the State Palace. Meanwhile, tensions are running high inside the palace, with ministers from the coalition government parties expressing support for the Prime Minister's words and actions. T.Dorjkhand, the leader of the HUN Party, has suggested that all high-ranking officials should be jointly investigated. Certain members of the Mongolian People's Party (MPP) parliamentary group have stated that the Prime Minister's personal matters should not become party issues and should not be discussed at the party congress. The MPP group meeting was reportedly heated, with members demanding that the Prime Minister submit his resignation. The MPP members argued that the party in power should enjoy its privileges and that the next government should be formed by the winning party, while the opposition should fulfill its role as such. In other words, the MPP members pressured Oyun-Erdene that, as the ruling party, they should continue to reap the benefits. Despite this pressure from his party, unofficial reports suggest that the Prime Minister himself is not willing to resign. Instead, he has proposed staying in office and expelling the Democratic Party (DP) and HUN Party from government. If, however, he does not resign voluntarily, the coalition government could be dissolved if 50% of cabinet ministers submit their resignations. Additionally, if 64 members of parliament (a simple majority) support it, L.Oyun-Erdene would be removed as head of the executive branch. During his four years as Prime Minister, Oyun-Erdene had removed his rivals from the party by linking them to corruption and abuse of office cases. Now, he himself is facing allegations of corruption and risks being forced out of office. His company, "Hero Entertainment," which he openly declared holding shares in, managed all the PR for the MPP and the government during the last elections. Having state funds directed to a company he is connected to has led to conflicts of interest being raised against him. Furthermore, his name appeared on the registry of the company that organized the Economic Forum, leading party members to further believe these were corrupt practices. It appears his main hopes lie with L.Gantomor, T.Dorjkhand, and Kh.Battulga. Meanwhile, the female cabinet ministers have declined to make any public statements as government members. From the DP, Kh.Temuujin has criticized the Prime Minister's extravagance. It is reported that President U.Khurelsukh, who previously acted as a political mentor to Oyun-Erdene and supported his appointment as Prime Minister, has now demanded that he take responsibility for his actions and step down.

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The Revised Draft Law on Accreditation of Standardization, Technical Regulation, and Conformity Assessment Submitted

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan of Mongolia today submitted the revised draft law on Accreditation of Standardization, Technical Regulation, and Conformity Assessment to the Speaker of Parliament D. Amarbaysgalan. Currently, the operative legislation stipulates that standards are documents to be adopted selectively, which has created misunderstanding, ambiguities, and differences in interpretations among citizens, businesses, and authorized organizations and officials responsible for state supervision and inspection. Therefore, the law has been revised. As of today, 6,730 standards are in force in Mongolia. However, failure to adhere to these standards has negative impacts on human and animal health, the environment, and the public interest. Therefore, in accordance with the strategies and directions stated in Mongolia's development documents, the law has been drafted to support national development, public, societal, and economic security, increase exports, and develop national industry through policies on standardization, technical regulation, conformity assessment, and sample monitoring, as was explained by Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan. This draft law emphasizes that citizens and legal entities are obliged to comply with standards, to ensure inter-sectoral coordination, and to clarify the process of developing, deliberating, and approving standards and technical regulations. The draft also aims to support conformity assessment bodies through policy, clarify their rights and responsibilities, and, within the framework of eliminating non-tariff trade barriers, introduces mutual recognition of standards and conformity assessment results. Moreover, it details that relevant authorized state inspectors will supervise the implementation of standards and technical regulations and control whether goods and products in the market and entering the borders have conformity certificates. Furthermore, the law regulates to engage not only the state but also the participation of citizens, manufacturers, and suppliers in the implementation of standards, according to the Press and Information Office of Parliament.

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PHOTO: Around 80,000 Citizens Have Signed to Demand the Prime Minister’s Resignation

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Citizens have continued for the sixth day in Sukhbaatar Square demanding the resignation of Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene. Signatures are being collected both online and on paper to urge for his resignation. According to organizers, about 50,000 people have signed on the website uih.mn/petition, while around 80,000 people have expressed their desire for a change of prime minister through paper signatures. Protesters have also announced that they have expanded their initial demands. They stated, “We have considered the responses shown by leaders of political parties and members of the coalition government to our initiated protest as blatant acts of betrayal against the public interest. Therefore, we have expanded our original demands as follows: - Prime Minister Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene should take political and ethical responsibility and voluntarily resign, - We do not support the formation of a coalition government for the next new government, - Support stability of the system rather than officials’ posts and do not amend the Constitution. These demands not only satisfy the initial requirements of the protest but are also significant for creating a long-term, stable, responsible, democratic, and human rights–respectful governance, strengthening the parliamentary system, and protecting the common interests of the Mongolian people.” Regarding the organization of the protest, "Noorog" media studio founder O.Ulamsaikhan said, "It started when I was sitting with friends and we talked about holding a protest called ‘Resigning is Easy,’ so we just went out to the square. At first, the protest was very disorderly, but as time passed, we learned how to operate within the legal framework, and now it is much more organized. It is incorrect to think that the protest is organized only by the ‘Noorog’ studio. I am participating as a citizen, and I do not solely represent 'Noorog.' There are more than ten young people in the organizing team who are not from ‘Noorog.’ Every day, more people are expressing a desire to participate in the organization of the protest. As we live in a democratic country, there has been no problem with being pressured for protesting so far,” he said. The sixth day of protest is continuing from 17:00 to 20:00. Many citizens are raising their voices. Among them, a citizen with a cane, representing people with special needs, said, “I am here as a representative of people with special needs. It is regretful to see my parents' tax money turn into someone else’s private gain.” WARNING
Media organizations (TV, radio, social, and websites) are prohibited from using our information in any form, in whole or in part, except when agreed upon, and only by citing the source (ikon.mn).

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The MPP, DP caucuses and HUN Party's council are meeting to discuss the Government and current political situation

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Democratic Party (DP), Mongolian People's Party (MPP) caucuses, and HUN Party council are currently meeting to discuss the Government and the current political situation. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene is also participating in the MPP's caucus meeting, where they are discussing the above-mentioned issues in a closed session. Additionally, it is reported that in the Prime Minister's office, Speaker of the State Great Khural D. Amarbayasgalan, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene, Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan, Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat G. Zandanshatar, and head of the MPP caucus L. Munkhbaatar met to discuss current affairs. We will provide further updates on this matter.

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Prime Minister Candidates

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

With the prime minister's seat beginning to shake, a heated marathon has erupted within the Mongolian People's Party (MPP). Many have been dreaming of Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene's position for a long time, quietly preparing themselves. Here is an overview of who is aspiring to become the next Prime Minister and running around the MPP headquarters. Secretary-General of the Cabinet N. Uchral:
Member of parliament N. Uchral began his political career in 2012 as the head of the Political Department at the Ulaanbaatar branch of the MPP, and in 2015 became an advisor to the Deputy Prime Minister. After the MPP lost the 2012 parliamentary elections and became the opposition, Uchral briefly worked in the government in 2015, when current President U. Khurelsukh served as Deputy Prime Minister and Uchral was his advisor. In 2016, Uchral ran as a candidate for Songinokhairkhan district and won to become a parliament member, repeating this success in the 2020 elections with the highest voter count of over 50,000. However, in 2024, he switched his constituency to Sukhbaatar district after being elected head of the MPP branch there. After forming his cabinet in 2021, PM L. Oyun-Erdene established the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications and appointed Uchral as minister. During his tenure, Uchral prioritized reducing human dependency in government services through technological advancements. Over recent years, he has led important initiatives to digitize government information, expand the E-Mongolia platform, and make state services more accessible. He is now managing the prime minister's inner affairs as Secretary-General of the Cabinet and is widely considered the President's person within political circles. Upon his joint government appointment, he immediately headed the working group for the investment agreement with "Orona Mining," one of the 14 mega projects outlined in the government action plan. Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan:
Another politician aspiring for the prime minister's seat is Deputy PM S. Amarsaikhan. He began his political journey in 2012 as a member of the Ulaanbaatar City Citizens' Representative Assembly, being elected twice. Before becoming the city's mayor, he was relatively unknown to the public. In 2018, he became the chairman of the city council, and in February 2019, was controversially elected as Ulaanbaatar's governor, becoming a well-known figure. As soon as he took office, he faced heavy criticism over decisions concerning green spaces in the city. During his two years as mayor, his last significant project was the construction of a fountain in front of Sukhbaatar Square for 3.2 billion tugriks, which led to his nomination and election to parliament. Though the fountain project drew controversy, it was completed and put into use. One of his notable contributions was the restoration of the Nalaikh road, which had not been maintained for many years. Amarsaikhan is also known for his proficiency in foreign languages, being fluent in English, Russian, and Chinese. Finance Minister B. Javkhlan:
Post-pandemic, credit for economic recovery and passing fiscal budgets in PM L. Oyun-Erdene's government largely goes to Finance Minister B. Javkhlan. Politically, Javkhlan is considered supported by both PM L. Oyun-Erdene and President U. Khurelsukh. Elected twice from Darkhan-Uul province and serving as Finance Minister in Oyun-Erdene's cabinet, he is a politician specialized in the banking sector. Javkhlan started his career at the Bank of Mongolia and has worked in banking since 1997, making him the economic and banker expert within the cabinet. Thus, Oyun-Erdene wisely entrusted him with budget and financial matters. Javkhlan entered politics under the guidance of his local senior U. Khurelsukh, who helped bring him from banking to politics. He is also quite close to parliamentary speaker G. Zandanshatar. Currently, he is considered the "protector of fire" (crucial defense) of Oyun-Erdene's government and is recognized as the "connector" among Mongolia's three main powers. Traditionally, such connectors are pivotal in political stability, and B. Javkhlan is said to be adept at fulfilling this role during challenging times. Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg:
Mongolia's foreign policy has been revitalized in recent years with major state visits and historic diplomatic achievements, due mainly to Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg. She is considered President U. Khurelsukh's appointee, reflecting the President's desire to have his own person direct foreign policy. Battsetseg's political background includes advising the General Secretary of the MPP in 2010-2011, leading the party's Foreign Relations and Cooperation Department in 2011-2012, serving as an advisor for foreign policy to the Finance Minister in 2015-2016, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2016-2020, and Foreign Minister since January 2021. Chief of Staff of the Presidential Office G. Zandanshatar:
G. Zandanshatar began his political career by joining the MPP in 1998 and working in the party's youth organization. He achieved his first electoral victory in the 2004 parliamentary elections and his third in 2016. However, in the 2024 elections, he ran in the first constituency but did not win the trust of the electorate. He now serves as Chief of Staff of the Presidential Office. Previously, under PM U. Khurelsukh's cabinet, he was Secretary-General of the Cabinet. Member of Parliament J. Enkhbayar:
A likely candidate put forth by President U. Khurelsukh is MP J. Enkhbayar, now serving his fourth term from the MPP. He is the son of the late Defense Minister, General Sh. Jadamba, known in political circles by his father's legacy. Thanks to his father's reputation, Enkhbayar became influential in politics and is seen as a pioneer among the MPP's younger generation. Joining public service in 2000 after a stint in private business, Enkhbayar has held senior official positions since 2002, including various posts in the city administration and Customs General Administration, before being elected as a parliament member representing Govi-Altai in 2004. Though his government service connects mainly to customs and professional inspection, his father's military connections made him actively involved and high-priority in defense matters. Besides his government role, Enkhbayar runs an agricultural business and currently operates a new breed beef cattle farm in Selenge province, reportedly earning 2.4 billion tugriks annually. Member of Parliament B. Enkhbayar:
MP B. Enkhbayar is known for his solo political maneuvers and being labeled as populist. A graduate of National University of Mongolia Law School, he is a former Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs. His current pre-election campaign, especially against the opposition, focuses on land deals. He has openly declared that "land issues involve everyone from the Prosecutor General's office to the Intelligence Agency, with both parties profiteering around the National Park area," indicating more revelations at open hearings and warning those who resist transparency. PM L. Oyun-Erdene has also commented that unregulated land transactions over the past 30 years have led to chaotic urban planning, resulting in today's traffic congestion, flooding, and concrete jungle—hence the need for major reform. Defense Minister S. Byambatsogt:
S. Byambatsogt, now elected for the fourth time by voters in Khovd province, is one of those who crossed from business to politics. With experience as an economist and lawyer, he has held various political roles, including Minister of Justice, standing committee chair, and leader of the MPP caucus during its minority period. Before entering politics, he grew his "New Progress" company into a group operating in construction, roads, and multiple sectors. Since 2008, he has been a continuously elected parliament member and is credited for effectively leading the opposition faction during 2012-2016, ultimately contributing to the MPP's 2016 majority victory. Notably, he was among the few MPP members to act as an internal opposition when many party members were caught in the SME (Small and Medium Enterprise) scandal, calling for accountability. Skilled as both internal and parliamentary opposition, he is now serving as Defense Minister after previously heading the Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs.

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D. Ganbat: The Prime Minister Should Take Responsibility, and If the DP is a Group, It Must Discuss the Government Issue

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Democratic Party (DP), Mongolian People's Party (MPP) factions, and the Hun Party council are meeting today to discuss current issues. The Prime Minister, L. Oyun-Erdene, is also attending the MPP faction meeting where political matters are being discussed in a closed session. In connection with this, Member of Parliament D. Ganbat said: "The demands of the youth are legitimate. It is time to see if we can live up to what we say. I have previously stated that there is no longer any distinction between parties. There are no parties, only groups. The Prime Minister must take responsibility. The relevant organizations should also conduct an investigation. I am ready to sign the youth's petition. Our party's faction must also discuss this issue."

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Former Head of Zamyn-Uud Free Zone A.Enkhzul, Now Under Investigation by the Anti-Corruption Agency, Granted Land to 16 Businesses in the Zone

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

Reports occasionally surface about officials who granted land in the Zamyn-Uud Free Zone being investigated by the Anti-Corruption Agency (ATG), but the issue often fades away without a resolution. Now, new information has emerged about such an investigation. Specifically, it has been reported that the former head of the Zamyn-Uud Free Zone, A. Enkhzul, is being investigated by the Anti-Corruption Agency. When this was clarified with a source at the ATG, it was confirmed: "It is true that we are investigating A. Enkhzul, the former head of the Zamyn-Uud Free Zone." According to the source, she is being investigated on suspicion of illegally granting land in the free zone, abusing her power and authority for personal gain, providing advantages to others, and possibly accepting bribes. A. Enkhzul served as the head of the Zamyn-Uud free zone from 2021 to 2022, and during her tenure, she allocated land to 16 businesses and companies. For example, DHL Global Forwarding Mongolia - 50,000 m², Polygold - 12,000 m², Marta Med Free Zone - 10,000 m², Bat Khangaïn Zuun Süljee - 10,000 m², Arvin Achit - 10,000 m², among others, were granted land. As a reminder, three years ago (June 2022), the ATG investigated a complaint by a citizen alleging "A. Enkhzul may have accumulated unjustified wealth," but eventually that case was closed.

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The MPP to Convene its Board and Conference to Discuss the Political Situation from Multiple Perspectives

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Mongolian People's Party (MPP) parliamentary group held a meeting today and made the following decisions. Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene informed group members about the current political situation. Consequently, it was expressed that it would be appropriate to convene the MPP's Executive Board and National Conference to discuss the political situation from multiple perspectives. Additionally, preliminary presentations and information regarding tax legislation reform, as well as social insurance and pension reforms, were heard. In connection with tax law reform, nationwide discussions have taken place, gathering input from over 13,000 companies and more than 176,000 citizens, which have been incorporated into the draft law. The legal reforms aim to improve the tax environment for businesses, reduce the shadow economy, boost investment and employment, and ultimately make a significant contribution to long-term economic growth. As for social insurance and pension reforms, a basic pension will be established. Reforms to a multi-pillar system are planned, enabling pensions from various sources and enhancing pension adequacy. Information was presented regarding the construction of projects such as the "Tuul Expressway" and the "First Ring Road" in the capital city. Discussions were held on amending relevant laws and regulations to improve the legal framework facing projects to expand infrastructure for housing and to enhance the movement of traffic in Ulaanbaatar, and positions were expressed. Source: Mongolian People's Party group in the State Great Khural Note: Media organizations (TV, radio, social and web pages) are prohibited from using this information in whole or in part in any form, except by prior agreement and by citing the source (ikon.mn).

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A "Ruling Class" that Squanders the People's Money Has Emerged

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

We spoke with economist Ts.Lut-Ochir about current issues. - How many days have you been participating in the "Resigning Is Easy" protest? - I have been expressing my opinion that "The Government Should Resign" and protesting at Sukhbaatar Square for over a month now. Today is my fifth day joining the youths' "Resigning Is Easy" protest. Our protest grows every day and has become the center of public attention. Some politicians are joining the protest to express their views. - Members of the State Great Khural (parliament) have joined the protest and signed the petition? - Members from both the ruling party and the opposition are participating in the protest. MPs J.Bayarmaa, S.Tsenguun, Ch.Lodoisambuu, and J.Zoljargal have signed the petition demanding the resignation of the coalition government. It is a mistake for the parties with seats in parliament to form a coalition government instead of letting the ruling party govern alone. They have formed an unconstitutional government. On top of that, the policies and decisions made by the government go against the national interest and are harmful. That is why we are protesting against all this. - On Saturday, Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene gave an unofficial explanation. But he angered people by calling the protesters “flies,” didn’t he? - The main thing is that, when the Prime Minister gave his explanation, he did not at all clarify the source of his child’s luxurious spending. Why does that child, who is just over twenty years old, live such a lavish lifestyle with no apparent source of income? Then he says his child has moved out and that he just learned his son got engaged, which sounds illogical and dishonest. To claim you do not know with whom your child is associating or has gotten engaged is an insult to the public. On top of that, what does it mean to call those demanding the government’s resignation “flies”? If so, then the waste would be the Prime Minister himself. - You mentioned that your online petition was not accepted. When do you expect a response to your demand? - The parliament’s online petition site, D-Petition, refused to accept my petition demanding the resignation of L.Oyun-Erdene’s government. The Secretariat of the Parliament responded in a completely nonsensical manner, saying it was not relevant to the full powers of the parliament as specified in Articles 25.1 and 25.8 of the Constitution. I do not understand this response. Those articles simply detail parliamentary powers. Either my petition was rejected on a ground not provided for by law, or it was decided at someone’s discretion. I have sent a request to the Secretariat of Parliament asking for the reason why my petition was rejected. I suppose I will receive a response within 14 days. I also inquired if the rejection of my electronic petition was in compliance with the five grounds specified in Article 39.3 of the Law on Parliament. - You have filed a petition with the Anti-Corruption Agency for the Prime Minister and his son to prove their income. Officials said that his son would come to Mongolia next week and give an explanation, right? - The head of the executive branch makes the biggest decisions on the management and spending of state funds. So why does his biological son live such a luxurious life? His engagement, for which he closed off the most expensive resort and arrived by helicopter to give lavish gifts, has drawn public criticism. I have petitioned the Anti-Corruption Agency to investigate and clarify the source of this income. The ACA is supposed to monitor the income and expenses of high-level public officials and their associates. I reminded them of that duty and filed a petition. I have heard information that the ACA has opened a case and will take an explanation from the Prime Minister’s child. Let’s see what happens. Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene came to power six years ago by calling M.Enkhbold the head of the MANAN mafia and promising to fight corruption. But now his own child is enjoying great wealth. If he cannot explain this, he should resign. - People have lost trust in the citizens protesting. There is skepticism about the citizens expressing their opinions in the square. What are the demands of the protesters? - When we protest at Sukhbaatar Square, a dirty tactic is used to defame us as the tools of someone else. There is no one behind these youths. They themselves are being transparent about their income and expenses and protesting. We do not receive any salary from anyone. We openly report and disclose the organizations supporting us. People are protesting because their standard of living is deteriorating. The government’s taxes and fees keep increasing. On the other hand, an entire “ruling class” has emerged that misappropriates these high taxes. This is the real cause of the growing injustice in society. Do the authorities realize this? The coalition government must resign. All political parties with seats in parliament should not unite by unconstitutional means. The MPP, as the majority, should form the government alone. When other parties cooperate with them, it becomes a conspiracy. Now, without any opposition, they have started plundering the budget together. We will keep protesting until the government resigns. - Have there been any assaults or provocations towards citizens who express their opinions and participate in the protest? - While we are protesting, various people such as those under the influence of alcohol are being incited and sent to disrupt us. Also, flour was thrown at those who support the protest. These dirty tactics must stop. There are a few specific people who cause disturbances at the protest. We have already come to recognize these individuals.

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Is the Prime Minister Being Cornered by the Truth?

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The “Bag Protest” demanding the resignation of Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene continues. Citizens are demanding an explanation as to how his son, using money exceeding his and his father's annual income, was able to lavish gifts on his girlfriend. After several days of dodging and evasion, his team seems to have figured out how to handle the situation and arranged for him to answer some journalists’ questions during a tour of the Tuul Highway project. They decided to only address the part concerning the engagement ring, one of his son’s many extravagances. Reportedly, his son is interested in content production and collaborates with “Hero Entertainment.” It appears they hope to use this work to justify the income used to purchase the ring. Certain citizens have approached the Independent Authority Against Corruption (IAAC) to investigate the source of the Prime Minister's and his extended family's expenditures that allegedly exceed their declared income. Accordingly, the PM’s son is expected to return from England this week to testify. The government claims that if he cannot prove how he acquired the ring, it will be confiscated, and if any property exceeding his income is found, he will be held accountable. Otherwise, there will be no responsibility. The Prime Minister’s explanation did little to convince the public—if anything, it suggested that the financial transactions of companies in which he holds stakes should also be examined. THREADS CONNECTED TO THE RING: His son reportedly said the extravagant Mercedes Benz and Chanel bag worth over a billion MNT had nothing to do with him. Since the bag was confirmed to be a gift from the girlfriend's father, Ts.Ögödeibaatar, it has been removed from the list of questionable items. The official line appears to be that the 20 million MNT diamond engagement ring was purchased from income earned by co-creating content with Hero Entertainment. But this “story” also has its flaws. Accepting the engagement ring as legitimate means admitting the luxury ceremony behind it was also true. Renting the luxury “Seven Nuga” resort in Bulgan province, taking a helicopter there, and staging fireworks—these expenses also need to be shown. Although the journalists present did not ask about this, and the PM didn't mention it, the public is neither blind nor deaf. If one can earn such vast sums simply by producing content for one company, this raises suspicions about possible money laundering. Therefore, people are now demanding scrutiny into the finances of "Hero Entertainment" (of which the PM owns 50%) and “Khüleg Content” (100% his). Hero Entertainment, known for producing political stories and “staged shows,” also broadcast a costly, exclusive festival during the Covid-19 pandemic. There is plenty for law enforcement to investigate. Trying to get away with addressing only the ring expense was naive, given how many threads are connected to this web. The PR and creative team appear to have underestimated the public. STATEMENTS FROM PARTY LEADERS: Last week, journalists sought opinions from party leaders and some parliament members about the PM's son's luxury lifestyle. The leaders of parties in the coalition government staunchly defended him. Democratic Party chair L.Gantumur said, "Stop politicizing children. Even though he is an adult, the father isn't responsible for him. I myself have grown-up children; how would I know what they use? Would you know what your child does once grown? How do you or I know what income a 20-year-old should have? How do I know whose money it is?" When pressed that citizens are simply asking for proof of expenses beyond official income, he replied, "Obviously, there must be a backer." Despite calling him an adult, they still claim it's politicizing children. After finally securing a ministerial position after eight years, he is clearly terrified of losing power and defends the PM at all costs. Ironically, this is the head of the Democratic Party. Rather than safeguarding democracy, he is complicit in its erosion. KhUN party leader T.Dorjkhand also defended the PM, saying, "I don't think he would lie or steal." Other party leaders and some MPs said the PM should give an explanation. MP A.Ariunzaya even suggested, “Maybe the son got wealthy through cryptocurrency.” However, we heard the official story: he makes money through content creation. ATTEMPTS TO NEUTRALIZE THE PROTEST: Although random events began to be organized on Sukhbaatar Square after word of the protest spread, they haven't been able to stop the youth movement. Rumors persist that the MCS Corporation or Ts.Elbegdorj are backing the young people demanding the PM’s resignation. Ruling party-affiliated women, who usually defend the government at protests, were also present, jeering at and spitting vitriol at the youths gathered against injustice. But the public is now able to discern who represents which interests. The youth are organizing their protest in a disciplined manner, with set times and programs, and provide an open platform for citizens to express their views. Last Saturday, during a protest speech, someone threw flour at Libertarian Party founder D.Amartuvshin and ran off—an attempt to disrupt the demonstration, but one that did not catch on. According to Article 43 of the Constitution, holding the Prime Minister to account requires a motion supported by at least one-fourth of MPs (32). So far, only Ch.Lodoisambuu, J.Bayarmaa, and Sh.Byambasuren have signed onto the motion. Aside from the first two, MP T.Enkhtuvshin also attended the protest. Although some MPs show public opposition, they have not signed the petition to remove the PM. In reality, their duty is not to stand on the square but to officially discuss the issue and uphold accountability. It is surprising that they have failed to do so. Since the MPs are not stepping up, citizens have begun collecting signatures online at https://www.uih.mn/ to support the Prime Minister's removal—44,555 people had signed by yesterday. There was even an attempt to shut down the site temporarily. While waiting for an explanation, the government has tried multiple methods, such as having MPs and coalition party leaders defend the PM, muddy the protest, and smear O.Ulambayar, the executive director of "Noorog Media Group," which is leading the movement. These efforts are ongoing. Most citizens just want the mega projects the coalition government is championing to succeed and become reality. However, the requirement for the PM’s son to prove the source of money used to shower his girlfriend with gifts well above his annual income is a separate issue. Instead of clearing things up, the PM seems to be further entangling himself with each comment. With higher taxes, more debt, and a retreat from the principles of democracy, citizens are demanding accountability and his resignation. Instead, the PM has insulted his critics by linking them to mega-project interest groups and even calling them "flies." “Let me say to these flies: don’t expect anything,” he declared. It seems our PM lives in a vacuum, constantly avoids direct questions, and gives vague answers to both citizens and MPs. Those insulted as flies are now gathering in greater numbers at Sukhbaatar Square. Given this, it’s clear that calling critics “flies” contained a deliberate message—urging them to "bear their burden" (in Mongolian, the word "fly" sounds like "burden"). Citizens have started turning this back at the PM, demanding that he take responsibility and bear his own burden. Despite the government's repeated attempts at damage control and smearing, the movement continues and cannot be silenced. The situation has escalated, and citizens are voluntarily uniting to demand accountability. As a result, there are now reports that discussions have begun within the MPP itself about removing L.Oyunerdene without imposing criminal liability. In short, it seems the truth is catching up with him. There is even speculation about who the next Prime Minister could be. As he himself said, “There is a time to come into politics, and a time to go.” If he truly regrets letting the public down, he should accept his incompetence and step down, potentially leaving future career paths open.

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Participants of the 37th National Book Festival Joined the "Resignation is Easy" Protest

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Foreign and local writers and readers participated in the National Book Festival, making it a large-scale event. This year, writers and publishers from Russia, China, and South Korea took part in the "Book Festival." The event, held under the motto "Let’s Read More," aimed to promote reading nationwide, enrich library collections, and support the learning ambitions of children and youth. In this context, the winners of the "Book Grant" award were selected. Specifically, journalist R. Oyunjargal’s work "The Blue-Eyed Old House" was chosen as the best book. Her daughter, T. Dulguun's English-language book "Authentic Mongolia," which internationally promotes Mongolia, was also named the "Wise Book." Additionally, Nepko company was recognized as the best publisher, and the "Munkhada" project was selected as the best library. Seventh-grade class 7A students from the "Tsaihun" school in Darkhan-Uul aimag were named the best reading class. Moreover, publishers and authors also joined the "Resignation is Easy" protest, displaying related information at the entrances of their booths. For instance, "AUM Publishing," "Tagtaa Publishing," the "Philosophy" bookstore, the "Khasui Creative" development center, and writer Ts. Oyungerel all joined the protest. Incidentally, in our country, about 4,000 works are newly published or reprinted annually. In the past five years, over 18,000 books and works have been made available to the public. Of these, 22 percent are fiction, about 10 percent are educational, 13 percent are biographies and history, and the remainder consists of books and works in other fields and sciences.

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Kh. Nyambaatar: We will move towards a principle where the mayor is directly elected

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

Kh. Nyambaatar, Governor of the Capital City, provided information to journalists on current issues. He stated, "I have disclosed the company I am affiliated with in my asset declaration. I have never won any government tender. By working based on business principles, my company pays around 300 million tugriks in taxes annually on average. You are free to check; this is open information. Also, there are no government appointments made under my authority. The appointments made before I started serving as a representative of Ulaanbaatar City to Seoul, Tokyo, and Moscow remain unchanged. I personally worked on the Law on the Legal Status of Cities and Villages. We are moving towards a reform where the city mayor will be chosen directly. A city citizens' assembly will also be established. In the first stage, the mayors of 14 cities in Ulaanbaatar will be elected. I will not be responsible for the city division; the Cabinet Secretariat and relevant ministries will handle this work." Regarding matters related to the Prime Minister, he said, "I was with the Prime Minister when he made his statement. The Prime Minister will prove his income as he said. The worst type of politics is to involve one's family and children." When asked if he was related to Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene by blood or family, he declined to answer.

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Member of Parliament Kh. Temuujin expresses that he will support the motion to dismiss the Prime Minister, if brought to Parliament

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

Members of Parliament have begun signing a petition calling for the dismissal of Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene. As of now, MPs J. Bayarmaa, S. Tsenguun, Ch. Lodoi-Sambuu, and J. Zoljargal have signed the petition, and MP Sh. Byambasuren has also expressed his intention to sign the demand for the Prime Minister's dismissal. Meanwhile, MP Kh. Temuujin has stated that if the issue of Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene's dismissal is brought to Parliament, he is prepared to support it and press his button in favor. He said, "A Member of Parliament must express his opinion through his vote. If the issue of dismissing the Prime Minister is brought to Parliament, I will support it and press the button," he stated.

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Report: The 'Difficult' Days at the Main Square, with Tents and Democracy Activists

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

In the central square of Mongolia's capital Ulaanbaatar, many events and occurrences have overlapped in recent months. Amidst a wave of activities, programs, and events that leave little time to get lost, puzzled, or doubtful, several noteworthy happenings took place during the past weekend. A SMALL CORNER FOUND FOR THE "FLIES" EXPRESSING THEIR OPINIONS In a quiet corner behind many tents with green grass and colorful boards, citizens of democratic Mongolia have united with their opinions, expressing the difficult times by peacefully presenting their demands over five days. While well-known figures, politicians, and social media stars participate in the "Easy to Resign" protest, the main characteristic is that this time most of the organically participating protesters are youth and teenagers. Though the Prime Minister mockingly referred to them as "flies," these young people urge each other to remain peaceful in their struggle and demands. People who came to support the protesters noticed that everyone acted in a civilized manner: offering encouragement, sharing slogans and drinks, and expressing their opinions clearly through speakers. This peaceful protest, which highlights the avoidance of violence and disorder, is set to continue for 27 days. The protesters carry placards reading "Hard to Prove Income, Easy to Resign," "Difficult to Support the Nephews of the 'Difficult'," and "Prime Minister: Prove Your Income." Through speakers, protesters remind people of the reasons why Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene should resign and are gathering signatures from citizens. Their main reasons include: 1. Failure to effectively fight inflation and rising prices. 2. Unemployment and poverty have not decreased. 3. Despite passing a historically high budget, spending remains non-transparent. 4. Formation of a coalition government has undermined the role of the opposition. 5. According to the Democracy Index, the country has moved to the "Electoral Autocracy" category. 6. Freedom of the press has been curtailed. 7. The Prime Minister's inappropriate attitude towards MP J. Bayarmaa seriously violates women's rights and parliamentary culture. 8. The unclear sources of the Prime Minister's son O. Temuulen's luxury expenses. Some citizens, either intentionally supporting the protest or observing out of curiosity as they pass by the square, expressed dissatisfaction that only a small portion in the far back of the square was allocated for the protesters. BOOK FESTIVAL PARTICIPANTS ALSO EXPRESS RESIGNATION DEMANDS The 37th Book Festival was particularly special this year. Many of the tents at the festival joined the "Easy to Resign" demand. Even though the central square barely left room for people to gather in large numbers, festival participants nevertheless expressed their protest and demands within their capacities during the event. People voiced their opinions, enjoyed book shopping, and found their own spaces to observe, relax, and spend time, keeping the square lively throughout the past weekends. Alongside book, sweets, food, and small handicraft fairs, children could be seen enjoying their new books, so engrossed in reading on the green grass that they hardly noticed the crowds passing by. Book reading introduces us to reading culture, live interaction, literature, adventure, and the vibrant blue world. The annual Book and National Script Days, held under the auspices of the President of Mongolia each year, attracted visitors who appreciated the well-organized event, meaningful tent introductions, and who shared their impressions with each other. The festival, held under the slogan "Let's Read More," aims to encourage public reading, enrich library collections, support children and youth's desire to learn, and spread the value of knowledge. Organizers noted that the festival undoubtedly achieved these goals with a highly accessible setup. IS THE GIANT TENT ATTRACTING TOURISTS REALLY A SHIELD TO MAINTAIN ORDER? On the other hand, suspicions are emerging that one tactic to keep the central square busy every day may lie behind the giant tent occupying most of the square. Even though no major event is currently scheduled in the tent, it will remain until the end of the month to attract tourists. Some in the square speculated that its main purpose could be to block citizens from gathering. The huge tent covering the front of the square and the many smaller tents, constantly rearranged without any breaks, may all be calculated to leave only a small empty space. According to some citizens, this arrangement was premeditated. Ulaanbaatar city mayor Kh. Nyambaatar noted that the square would be crowded throughout the summer. The capital plans to organize various types of events in the central square to attract both citizens and tourists. Even though officials claim the arrangement of tents is not meant to disperse protests, organizing food festivals, circus days, and small and medium enterprise fairs every day without removing the tents is, in a suspicious light, an event that prevents gathering and protests.

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EVENT: The Chairman of the Democratic Party and First Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, L. Gantumur, to Receive a Demand

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

At Sukhbaatar Square, from 17:00 to 20:00, the “Resigning is Easy” protest will continue for the 7th day. At the State Palace, at 10:00, meetings of the Democratic Party (DP) and Mongolian People's Party (MPP) caucuses will be held. At 14:30, a discussion on discrimination and human rights will take place. At the west entrance of the State Palace, at 10:30, members of the Democratic Party who are highly critical of the current political situation will deliver a demand to B. Tsogtgerel, the Democratic Party caucus leader in the State Great Khural, to the 42 Democratic Party members in parliament who represent the ideas and principles of democracy through popular election, as well as to the Chairman of the Democratic Party and First Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, L. Gantumur. In the UN Hall, from 10:30 to 11:30, an event for "Journalism Friendly to Children" will take place. The National Emergency Management Agency will hold a briefing at 11:00. Notice: Media organizations (TV, Radio, social media, and websites) are strictly prohibited from fully or partially using our information in any form, except with explicit agreement and by citing the original source (ikon.mn).

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"Inability to Plan Development Policy is Due to Instability in Human Resources"

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

A discussion titled "Establishing a Results-Based Evaluation and Monitoring System" was held at the State Palace. More than 120 officials responsible for oversight, evaluation, and monitoring in government organizations and ministries participated in the event, which was organized by the Secretariat of the State Great Khural (Parliament) and supported by the European Union. Opening the discussion, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Kh. Bulgantuya noted that the implementation of national development policies for 2024 ranged from 34% to 67.7%, indicating the need for acceleration. Furthermore, she stated that the government's report on the fulfillment of obligations and instructions mandated by laws and parliamentary decisions by the end of 2024 averaged 53.9%, meaning they are in the process of implementation. If we consider the parliamentary decisions that have not been reported to Parliament as not implemented, the overall implementation rate nationwide would be 30%. While whether a specific measure has been implemented is important, it is even more crucial that these measures lead to tangible results, achieve the goals and objectives of development policy, and thus contribute to human, social, and economic development and improve the quality of life for citizens. After the main presentations, a panel discussion was held on the topic "Challenges, Solutions, and Coordination in Results-Based Evaluation and Monitoring." D. Enkhbold, Director and Chief Auditor of the Performance and Compliance Audit Department of the National Audit Office, stated, "When developing a development policy document, it is imperative to prioritize the implementation order. Our country does not yet have enough resources to develop all sectors equally. However, the government has been spreading the budget and funding thinly across all areas." He also pointed out that when the National Audit Office conducts audits, it is often impossible to measure the implementation of development documents. The criteria are unclear, and the planned measures are overly generic. He continued, "The primary reason why the government cannot carry out proper planning is the instability in human resources. Every time we go to conduct an audit, the person responsible for the job has changed. Another issue is that the reports and recommendations from the National Audit Office are nominally discussed by Parliament. Each audit report gives conclusions and recommendations to the ministries. Only by discussing the subsequent implementation of these recommendations at the parliamentary level can a results-based evaluation and monitoring system be established." Source: National Audit Office

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Economy

Economic Growth Slows Due to Disrupted Coal Exports

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Mongolia's economy grew by 2.4 percent in the first quarter of this year, which sector analysts and experts consider a sign of crisis. Last year, the economy grew by 4.9 percent. As a result, international organizations made optimistic forecasts for 2024, raising growth estimates by 1–1.5 percentage points. For example, the World Bank predicted Mongolia's economy would grow by 6.5 percent in 2025, and the Asian Development Bank forecast a six percent growth. However, the current situation suggests these projections may not be realized, and has highlighted the need to pay special attention to foreign trade and coal exports in the coming months. The slowdown in economic growth is directly linked to coal exports. Last year, Mongolia exported 80 million tons of coal for the first time in its history and aimed to boost this to 83 million tons this year. However, due to declining global demand and falling prices for mining products, only 22.9 million tons of coal were exported in the first four months of this year, which is 1.6 million tons less than the same period last year.

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Development Bank to Independently Make Project Financing Decisions

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The "Development and Renewal" forum was organized last Friday by the Development Bank of Mongolia. During the event, the bank's representatives presented policy reforms aimed at improving the legal environment and aligning its governance and management with international standards. Opening the forum, Mongolia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development, L. Gantomor, stated, "As the Ministry of Economy and Development exercises the rights of the shareholder of the Development Bank, we have submitted to the government plans to strengthen the bank’s financial capacity and improve its legal environment, which have resulted in initial progress. Simply improving financial strength is not enough to ensure normal operations for the Development Bank. Therefore, a revised draft law on the Development Bank of Mongolia has been developed in line with international best practices and publicly reviewed, and is now ready to be submitted to parliament. Once enacted, the bank will make independent decisions on financing foundational infrastructure projects that support economic growth." He also noted, "With Z. Narantuya appointed CEO of the Development Bank, many reforms and initiatives have been implemented. We are doing our best to work efficiently. The Development Bank has played a significant role in Mongolia’s development and will continue to do so. By directing our export capacity towards mining, other products, manufacturing, and high tech, we can stabilize the country’s economy." The revised draft law on the Development Bank of Mongolia consists of 10 chapters and 46 articles. Significant changes have been made regarding the bank’s duties and responsibilities, including aligning its operations with international best practices and standards, ensuring openness and independence. For instance, project financing decisions will be evaluated not only based on economic efficiency but also on social, environmental, and regional impact and benefits. The bank will not finance projects that can be independently supported by the national budget. It will provide direct, joint, syndicated, and intermediary lending as stipulated. FINANCING FOR GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT At the forum, CEO Z. Narantuya delivered a keynote presentation on "Development Bank: Mongolia’s Path of Development and Renewal." She noted, "Between 2011 and 2022, the Development Bank of Mongolia mobilized $4.36 billion in funds and financed various projects and programs. Of this, 33% went to government-initiated projects and programs, 22% to state-owned enterprises, and 45% to support the private sector. Looking at the breakdown, 47% of finance substituted imports and boosted exports, 24% supported economic and social development in the capital, and 17% stimulated economic and social development in the provinces. As a result, Mongolia has implemented major energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects and programs. For example, the bank financed four major energy projects, increasing electricity production by 312 MW and thermal energy by 348 MW, and helped build four large cement factories covering 80% of domestic demand. The bank has fulfilled its mission and made tangible contributions to the economy and society. However, due to various factors, it has not yet fully achieved its original objectives, with financial indicators deteriorating: assets soon dropped to 2.2 trillion MNT by the end of 2024 from a previous 3.7 trillion, and the loan portfolio reduced to 2.27 trillion MNT. Therefore, the draft law also addresses issues like governance improvement and expanding financial services." She added, "The government has made two important decisions to improve the bank’s financial capacity. Problematic loans associated with state entities have been clarified and assigned, and the bank has been relieved of certain contingent liabilities. As a result, around 430 billion MNT in loans have been resolved and 500 billion MNT in guarantees removed. The bank’s capital has increased as shareholders fulfilled their obligations and boosted statutory funds, leading to improved financial indicators. Currently, we are initiating talks to issue a green bond on international markets, aiming to allocate up to 10% of the portfolio to green finance and support sectors promoting sustainable development. The bank will provide funding for social target sectors and green businesses based on technology. An investment fund management team has been formed. We will not finance every project solely from our resources but will partner with domestic and international financial institutions. Development and EXIM banks have different institutional roles: one supports targeted development programs, while the other provides trade finance. We will use both models as appropriate." "RELIABLE FUNDING ENABLED A SUCCESSFUL PROJECT" During his presentation on "Financing and Lessons from State Infrastructure Projects,” ADB urban development specialist Raushan Mamatkulov emphasized, "Development banks should not compete for profit like commercial banks. The projects and programs they support must have benefits that are equitably distributed across society." G. Galbadrakh, Head of R&D at Thermal Power Plant 4 (TPP-4) JSC, gave a talk on "Development Bank Funding and Outcomes." He shared, "TPP-4 alone supplies 58.7% of the central region's electricity and 54% of Ulaanbaatar’s heat. With funding from the Development Bank, our installed capacity was expanded by 123 MW and our turbo generators upgraded. The country’s energy demand is rising each year. Since TPP-4 was commissioned in 1983, there was high risk for turbine failures. Reliable financing enabled successful project completion and improved supply stability." Parliamentarian and Chair of the Economic Standing Committee, R. Seddorj, commented, "The Development Bank financed the TPP-4 expansion by 123 MW. The Tavantolgoi Power Plant project aims for 450 MW. Four more expansions like those funded by the Development Bank would provide generation equivalent to Tavantolgoi. We can tackle Ulaanbaatar's air pollution using electric power." ALIGNING GOVERNANCE WITH INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS During the forum’s panel discussion on “New Directions for the Development Bank in Mongolia’s Growth”, B. Anar, Director General of the Investment Policy and Regulation Department at the Ministry of Economy and Development and Chair of the Board at the Development Bank, remarked, "For the past 23 years, people have talked only about the bank's shortcomings, but haven’t sufficiently recognized its positive impacts on the economy, such as contributions to Mongolia's roads, transport, and energy sectors. From 14 years of experience, the revised law aims to regulate what kind of loans the bank should provide and which market segments to serve. The law also clarifies decision-making, policy setting, and supervision based on international best practices. Unnecessary requirements are being removed by this reform." Economist J. Delgersaikhan highlighted three main points in the revised law: the relationship with politics, improvement of the governance structure, and specifying the scope of the bank’s operations. Globally, about 70% of development banks are entirely state-owned like Mongolia’s, but they face challenges in ensuring political and financial independence and mitigating political risks. It is critical to guarantee the executive team’s independence rather than allowing the Board to make day-to-day operational decisions, which is not the standard for either commercial or development banks worldwide. The total amount lent by the Development Bank in the past 14 years is a little over 7 trillion MNT, which is small compared to the government's 12 trillion MNT in project spending over just four years. Development Bank projects should not be conflated with the government budget; for example, building a metro could be financed by the bank without burdening the state budget. Representatives from parliament, government, embassies, academia, national manufacturers, and international financial organizations participated in the forum. The next panel, "Development Partnerships and Cooperation," ensued. Marius Vismantas, Senior Financial Sector Specialist at the World Bank, said, "The World Bank has worked closely with Mongolia's Development Bank for years, and will continue to do so. The Development Bank needs to define the scope of its EXIM bank products and services." S. Baasansuren, Senior Banker at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, agreed. Forum participants acknowledged the importance of policy reforms to take the Development Bank to the next level and noted that financing major projects has significantly contributed to Mongolia’s economic growth. It is also worth mentioning that following government resolution, the Development Bank’s statutory fund increased by 1.5 trillion MNT, making its equity stock rise fivefold to 1.95 trillion MNT; the non-performing loan ratio decreased from 57.38% in 2023 to an anticipated 27.4% this year. Equity adequacy improved from 9.46% to 45.49%, greatly enhancing financial stability.

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Parliament Did Not Approve the Bill to Impose Import Tax on Flour and Wheat

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The State Great Khural (Parliament) did not support the bill to impose import tax on flour, wheat, and animal feed. In connection with the hardship of winter and spring, the parliament had approved a law last April to exempt these products from customs duties. As a result, conditions were created for the tax-free import of flour, wheat, and animal feed, which led to the domestic flour factories being on the verge of closure and the agricultural sector facing difficulty. Consequently, the government submitted a draft law to the parliament to repeal this law, which was discussed during last Friday's regular session but resulted in this outcome. The Minister of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry, J. Enkhbayar, stated, "Today marks a dark day in the history of the agricultural sector. As a sector minister, I view this as a decision seriously detrimental to the national interest and security of Mongolia. Most regretfully, the Speaker of the Parliament directed and managed the opposition to this from the parliamentary podium, which is disheartening. We have come to the situation of importing ready-made flour and animal feed worth millions of US dollars from abroad. The parliament did not support the policy to correct and rectify this situation. A similar decision, consisting only of an import-based policy, was made in the mid-1990s. As a result, Mongolian agriculture fell into decline—all land was left uncultivated and overgrown, and all cooperative and state farms were dissolved. To escape this national humiliation, in 2008, during the government of S. Bayar, the 'Atar-III' campaign was initiated, and efforts to revive agriculture began. Considerable time, effort, and financial resources were spent on this. This new law nullifies all that labor and dedication, making it meaningless," he said.

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B.Buyankhishig: The Capital Market Should Be the Second Pillar of the Economy

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Although the capital market in Mongolia is developing rapidly, it still has not established a strong enough position within the financial system. We spoke with B.Buyankhishig, Executive Director of the Mongolian Securities Dealers Association, about this issue and what policy changes are needed to create a more investor-friendly environment. – Please briefly introduce yourself and let our readers know about your work. My name is B.Buyankhishig. Since 2022, I have been serving as the Executive Director of the Mongolian Securities Dealers Association. Before this, I worked in the business sector related to the capital market. Our main mission is to protect the interests of the securities companies participating in the market, improve the legal environment, and introduce international practices. – Could you highlight the main activities your association has been working on lately? The most significant event this year is that we are organizing the 30th meeting of the "Asian Securities Forum" in Ulaanbaatar this September for the first time. This event will bring together stock exchanges, professional associations, and regulatory agencies from the Asian region to discuss each country's pressing issues and investment opportunities and solutions. We believe this event will open up opportunities to introduce the Mongolian capital market internationally, expand cooperation, and attract investment. – What progress and challenges exist in the domestic market? By the end of 2024, the Mongolian capital market's valuation reached 13 trillion tugriks, with the total trading volume amounting to 10.5 trillion tugriks. The securities trading alone reached 1.5 trillion tugriks, which is double that of the previous year and 24.2 times that of 2020. However, beyond the numerical growth, strengthening the market's credibility and building an investor-friendly environment remain real and immediate goals. The capital market is not just a platform for securities trading; it also provides a significant financing channel for macroeconomic development. – How do you think the government should support the capital market? The banking sector has been directly and indirectly supported by state policy since the 1990s. However, the capital market has not yet received the same level of support. As a result, the banking sector currently dominates over 90% of the financial system, limiting its risk-bearing capacity and diversity. – In what forms could real support for the capital market be implemented? Government concessional loans and project programs are still channeled only through banks, which is a one-sided arrangement. In countries like South Korea, there are established practices of financing these programs through the capital market. Moreover, to increase investment potential, the tax environment must be reconsidered. Currently, individuals who invest in higher-risk securities are subject to unfavorable tax conditions compared to savings interest. – What changes do you propose for the tax environment? We have made the following three key proposals: 1. Eliminate the tax on bond coupon interest for a certain period—without discrimination between public and private offerings. While the government, the city, and the Development Bank's bond interest income is tax-exempt, local bond interest is not. This goes against the principle of fair tax policy. 2. Temporarily eliminate double taxation on dividends—when a business becomes a joint-stock company and operates under public scrutiny, their profitability and governance improve. We believe all domestic businesses and state-owned or state-supported entities should become joint-stock companies. Therefore, to increase the number of joint-stock companies and encourage shareholder risk, such taxes could be suspended for a period. 3. Cancel taxes withheld from securities sale income and use the transition period to improve infrastructure—sometimes the cost of collecting such taxes is excessively high and calculation errors are common. Bringing the financial registration part of the capital market infrastructure up to international standards will take time. This category of tax should therefore also be reconsidered. – Some say that tax concessions can burden the state budget. What is your position? Our preliminary estimates show that these types of taxes contributed about 40 billion tugriks to the budget in 2024. The share of budget revenue loss would be very small, and the long-term return would be significant. As investment increases, new businesses will raise funds, employment will rise, and the resultant economic returns to the country will be many times greater. – Lastly, how do you see your association positioning the capital market in the future? The capital market should be the second pillar of the financial system. Currently, banks dominate, but it is time to significantly increase the participation, influence, and policy support for the securities market to create a multi-faceted financial system with strong risk-bearing capacity. Thank you for the interview. Notice
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Diplomacy

Cooperation with the Republic of Turkey in the Field of Disaster Protection to be Expanded

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Major General G. Ariunbuyan, Head of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), received Her Excellency Mrs. Basak Genc Yuksel, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Turkey to Mongolia, and discussed expanding cooperation between the two countries in the field of disaster protection. During the meeting, Major General G. Ariunbuyan provided information about the operations of the emergency organizations and the cooperation between the two countries in the field of disaster protection. He expressed gratitude for the support and assistance provided by the Turkish people during difficult times. NEMA is studying the experience of Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority in information technology renewal and the development of a unified disaster management information database, as well as the experience of the General Directorate of Forestry in fighting forest fires. The Ambassador stated her satisfaction with the cooperation between NEMA and Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority and expressed her commitment to further expanding this cooperation. The partnership between the Government of the Republic of Turkey and the Government of Mongolia in the field of disaster protection began following discussions at the fourth session of the Joint Economic and Trade Commission in 2005.

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Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg to Make Official Visit to the Republic of the Philippines

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg will make an official visit to the Republic of the Philippines at the invitation of the country's Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Enrique A. Manalo, from the 18th to the 20th of this month. This visit is significant as it is the first official visit by a Mongolian Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Republic of the Philippines since 1984, after a period of 41 years. It is also notable as a reciprocal visit, following Secretary Enrique A. Manalo's official visit to Mongolia in 2024. During the visit, Minister B. Battsetseg will call upon the President and the Senate President of the Philippines, hold official talks with Secretary Enrique A. Manalo, and issue a joint statement. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the main goals of this visit are to further expand and develop friendly relations and cooperation with the influential ASEAN member, the Philippines; to activate political dialogues; to enhance cooperation between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs; and to exchange views on issues of mutual interest in international and regional cooperation.

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Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg Paid a Courtesy Call on the President of the Republic of the Philippines

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg paid a courtesy call on Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines. Minister B. Battsetseg conveyed the warm greetings of the President of Mongolia U. Khurelsukh and ceremoniously delivered a letter addressed to President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. The two sides emphasized the broad opportunities to expand bilateral economic cooperation by deepening partnerships in the agricultural sector and supporting small and medium enterprises. In particular, they held productive discussions on increasing exports of agricultural products from Mongolia such as wool and hides, and attracting investment to the industrial sector. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. noted that the traditional friendly relations between the two countries have developed steadily over the past 50 or so years, and expressed his commitment to actively support the enhancement of Philippines-Mongolia cooperation across all fields over the next half-century. The parties also agreed to intensify tangible cooperation in areas such as improving the legal framework for labor and social protection, supplying highly skilled labor tailored to the labor market needs of both countries, and implementing English language teacher exchange programs. Minister B. Battsetseg highlighted the importance of opening an air route and establishing direct flights between the two countries, as this would increase people-to-people exchanges as well as promote trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. Additionally, both parties agreed to work towards opening the doors and supporting the activities of Mongolian start-ups and young businesses interested in fintech, artificial intelligence, and digital innovation in the Philippines. She also expressed confidence that the government of the Philippines will continue to pay attention to protecting the rights and interests of Mongolian citizens studying, working, and living in the country. The two sides exchanged productive views on implementing joint projects and programs by aligning Mongolia's "One Billion Trees" initiative with the Philippines' "5 Million Trees by 2028" program, in order to collectively contribute to reducing the negative impacts of climate change and ensuring the sustainability of ecosystems. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this visit holds significant importance in expanding relations and cooperation with the Philippines as part of Mongolia's foreign policy towards Southeast Asian countries.

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Mongolia and the Philippines Note Steady Expansion of Bilateral Relations

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Mongolian Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg held official talks with Enrique A. Manalo, the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines. The two foreign ministers exchanged views on a wide range of topics focusing on expanding and deepening the traditional bilateral relations and cooperation, which are based on common values such as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The discussions were held in a friendly and warm atmosphere. Both sides noted that in recent years, relations between Mongolia and the Philippines have steadily expanded in the fields of agriculture, education, labor, environment, culture, and tourism. They agreed to further intensify and enrich cooperation in trade and the real economy in the future. Foreign Minister Enrique A. Manalo emphasized that this official visit to the Philippines by Mongolia’s Foreign Minister is the first at this level and marks a new stage in the two countries' traditional friendly relations. During the visit, Minister B. Battsetseg initiated efforts to adopt the Philippines' regional development experience in Mongolia. Both sides signed an exchange of notes to implement English language training programs, financed by the Philippines, to strengthen the capacity of rural citizens, a move that is vital in supporting long-term regional development goals. The ministers also agreed to actively work together to open direct flights between Ulaanbaatar and Manila based on the air services agreement between the two countries. They noted that this would contribute significantly to further expanding trade and economic cooperation and strengthening people-to-people ties, thus shaping the prospects for the next 50 years of cooperation. The sides decided to intensify cooperation within the framework of Mongolia's national movements "Food Supply and Security" and "Healthy Mongol Citizen" by leveraging the strengths of both countries. They agreed to soon conclude a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministries of Agriculture of their respective countries. Minister B. Battsetseg also noted the importance of signing a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the labor sector, which would contribute to mutually supplying professional labor to meet the needs of the labor markets of both countries and legally ensuring the protection of the rights and interests of citizens working abroad. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to further develop cooperation within the United Nations and other international organizations. The Philippines highly valued Mongolia’s efforts to strengthen regional dialogue and expressed its continued support for Mongolia’s goal to become a Dialogue Partner with ASEAN. Additionally, the Philippines pledged to send representatives to support the Forum for East Asia-Latin America Cooperation (FEALAC), and the 10th International Conference on Northeast Asian Security Dialogue to be held in Ulaanbaatar this year. As part of Mongolia's regional development support policy, Foreign Minister B. Battsetseg and Philippine Secretary Enrique A. Manalo agreed to implement an English language training program, funded by the Philippines, to train young professionals and government officials from rural areas of Mongolia. An exchange of notes was signed to this effect, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Dundgovi: Ambassador Shen Minjuan Visited Dundgovi Province

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to Mongolia, Shen Minjuan, visited Dundgovi province and held an official meeting with the local government leaders. During the meeting, the parties discussed various areas of cooperation including education, healthcare, agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, environment, renewable energy resources such as solar and wind power, and desertification. Specifically, they discussed involving students and young people in scholarship programs of the Chinese Government and the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, implementing joint programs in the fields of education and health, establishing a Confucius Institute in Dundgovi province to promote Chinese language and culture, having native Chinese speakers teach the language, expanding friendly cooperation with Bayan Nur city, planting trees and implementing afforestation and anti-desertification projects within the framework of the national movement "Billion Trees," supporting housing and infrastructure development, and collaborating in renewable energy sectors. Further, they discussed supporting the development of Mandalgovi city as an environmentally friendly city with green spaces. Additionally, the sides exchanged views on supporting the establishment of processing plants for agricultural products, wool and cashmere, and meat, as well as implementing short-term capacity-building programs for herders and civil servants.

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Infrastructure

If There Are No Disputes or Problems with the Tuul Expressway Tender, Construction Will Begin in June. ₮2.3 Trillion Funding Has Been Secured

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

It has been decided to build an expressway through the center of Ulaanbaatar city. The tender for the construction of this road will be opened on the 25th of this month. Previously, a tender was announced in January 2025, but since the participants did not meet the requirements, the tender to select the contractor for this road's construction was announced again. Regarding this, the city governor Kh. Nyambaatar stated: "The tender to select the contractor for the 33-kilometer Tuul Expressway will be opened on May 29. The selection will be carried out according to the government procurement law, and if there are no disputes or problems, the construction and assembly works will begin within June. Of the Tuul Expressway, 13 kilometers will be built as a bridge structure; it will have six lanes and will be capable of handling the west-to-east traffic load of the city, and it will not be regulated by traffic lights. The expressway is planned to be built in 20 months and then opened for traffic. This road will be constructed using capital from the city budget and the Road Fund, totaling ₮2.3 trillion. The funding has been secured with the condition to be paid over three years." When the road is completed, it will enable traffic from the western to the eastern part of the city to pass through the southern part of the city without having to go through the city center. Warning: Media organizations (Television, Radio, Social media, and Websites) are strictly prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form, and are only permitted to do so by mutual agreement and with proper source attribution (ikon.mn).

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City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar to Establish a New 'Ger District Development Fund' Financed by the State Budget, Allocating Funds for Land Clearance and Reducing Heat Loss in Households

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar has drafted the “Law on Reducing Traffic Congestion in Ulaanbaatar and Housing Ger Districts,” which was passed by Parliament in December 2023. We previously reported that amendments and changes are now being made to this law. R. Erdeneburen, Head of the National Committee for the 20-Minute City, is currently introducing these amendments to Parliament. THE 'GER DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT FUND' WILL BE FINANCED BY THE STATE BUDGET The main goal of these amendments is to establish a new "Ger District Development Fund" in addition to the government's 26 special funds. This fund will be utilized for developing infrastructure in sub-centers like Selbe and Bayankhoshuu, specifically for housing projects. Specifically, the draft law explains, “The fund’s resources will be used to pay compensation for citizens and legal entities affected during land clearance for ger district redevelopment, to finance projects and programs that provide insulation and reduce heat loss in homes and households, to demolish and reconstruct public apartment buildings that do not meet operation requirements, and to pay the interest difference on bonds issued for financing housing policy.” SOURCES FOR THE GER DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT FUND INCLUDE: - The state and local budgets - Donations from domestic businesses - Income from the fund’s own activities - Other sources as provided by the draft law. Moreover, project and program funding from this fund will be allocated by decision of City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar. SELBE SUB-CENTER APARTMENTS TO BE RENTED WITH OPTION TO OWN Apartments built at Selbe and Bayankhoshuu sub-centers will be offered to citizens on a rent-to-own basis without a down payment, and the necessary funding for this will come from the new fund. The draft law specifies that sources for these funds, including their interest costs, will be covered by the state budget, the Bank of Mongolia, or by issuing bonds. According to the draft law, “If calculated at current costs, the total subsidy of 24.4 billion MNT for the interest difference on bonds issued for these programs is equivalent to 122 apartments (50 sq.m, 2-room). Resolving the subsidy for the interest difference on these bonds increases access for households to enter housing by 13 times, as 1,597 citizens could be provided apartments instead of only 122. The repayment of the bonds, excluding interest subsidies, will be collected from the residents who move into the apartments. The fund will also be crucial for resolving land clearance issues during ger district redevelopment and implementing governmental housing policy for civil servants.”

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"Erdenes Mongol" Company to Pay 15% Advance for $750 Million Ring Expressway Project

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

With special permission from MPA Agency The mayor introduced the progress of the First Ring Expressway project, which will be implemented in the city. According to him, the road will be built for approximately $750 million, and "Erdenes Mongol" company has agreed to pay 15% of the project advance, using one percent of its corporate income tax. Based on today’s US dollar rate from the Bank of Mongolia, this amount equals 2.6 trillion tögrög. Regarding this, Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar noted: "The development of the Technical and Economic Assessment (TEA) for the First Ring Expressway is about 80% complete. We are expediting the work this month, and in the first week of next month, it will be approved by the Road Transport Development Center, Building Development Center, and the Science and Technology Council. After approval, three packages for tenders to build the road will be announced. The section starting from Yarmag Bridge is the first package, the tunnel section is the second, and the rest is the third package. The total length of the Ring Expressway is 25.7 kilometers. In the area around Tsambagarav Mountain to the west of Bayankhoshuu Mountain, a tunnel will be constructed for over two kilometers. Elevated sections will use tunnels for higher ground and bridges for lower sections, keeping the road on a single level. The highest number of bridge structures will be built in the section from the Shargadn Colony intersection to the Tuul Expressway, because there is no room for land clearance, so many bridges will be constructed there. The plan is to complete the construction of the First Ring Expressway within 28 months. According to the latest valuation during the completion of the TEA, the project budget is approximately $750 million, with further evaluations to come. The 15% advance of the project budget will be paid by "Erdenes Mongol" company using one percent of its corporate income tax and transferred to the Road Fund. The remaining 85% of funding will be secured by the contractor through low-cost sources, and a tender will be announced under EPC+F (Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Financing) conditions," he said. It is estimated that traffic congestion in Ulaanbaatar will decrease by 55% after the Tuul Expressway and First Ring Road are built and put into operation. Notice: Media organizations (TV, radio, social networks, and web pages) are prohibited from fully or partially using our information in any form, unless agreed upon and citing the source (ikon.mn).

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Preparations Underway to Build Reservoir to Store Peak Flood Flows of Selbe River

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Work is about to begin on the construction of a reservoir to store the peak flood flows of the Selbe River. According to the Agency for Geodesy and Water Structures, "It is planned to build a reservoir with a capacity of 1.3 million cubic meters to store the peak flood flows of the Selbe River, covering Bayanzurkh District's 29th khoroo and Sukhbaatar District's 13th and 14th khoroos. As part of this project, the individual plots of land affected by the route are being identified, and preparations are being made to start construction." Last year, the city governor Kh. Nyambaatar said, "Ulaanbaatar, with a population of nearly two million, does not have even a single surface water reservoir for regulating the city's rivers. Only a few gates exist on the Selbe River. In 1987, a feasibility study was developed to build five reservoirs with regulatory functions, which would control the surface water of the Tuul and Selbe rivers. Under this plan, five sites downstream of the Terelj section of the Tuul River were to be dammed, regulating the river water, and from these regulated reservoirs, the potable water needs of Ulaanbaatar city would be met in collaboration between the state and private sector. The city cannot move forward while people are breaking river ice, transporting it, piling up soil, and protecting their dams this way. As the era of water approaches, it is planned to carry out engineering works to create reservoirs for storing water." Meanwhile, a tender with a budgeted cost of 17.9 billion MNT to expand the existing 6,000 cubic meter reservoir in the northeastern region to a total of 30,000 cubic meters was opened on February 17 of this year. Warning: Media organizations (television, radio, social and web pages) are prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form, and may only use it with permission and by citing the original source (ikon.mn).

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DP: The Mayor Will Introduce 24 Mega Projects

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

The regular session of the Democratic Party caucus in the State Great Khural is being held today. The caucus plans to discuss a total of three issues. These include a presentation on the draft law regarding the Mongolian Development Bank, receiving information about the progress of 24 mega projects to be implemented in the capital city Ulaanbaatar, and a report on the guidelines for process re-engineering (PRI) to implement a people-centered, proactive government service. Among these, the most attention-grabbing issue is the progress of the 24 mega projects to be implemented in the capital, on which the city governor, Kh. Nyambaatar, is expected to provide information.

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"Laws Are Not Enforced in the Construction Sector, Leading to Loss of Lives"

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

A specialist from the Ministry of Urban Development, Construction, and Housing provided information regarding a recent tragic accident that resulted in the deaths of construction workers in Khovd province. "We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the families of those affected by the construction accident. Laws are not being enforced in the construction sector. The Law on Urban Development and the Law on Construction are not being implemented. According to the Law on Urban Development, people should live in a healthy and safe environment. However, for many years, it seems as though this law does not exist. At the same time, in some provinces, the construction sector operates very well, following general plans and standards. For example, in Darkhan, Erdenet, and others. However, in provinces with small populations and remote locations, they are not aware of or do not follow the laws and regulations at all. A construction project must pass through 13 stages of design approval before a building permit is issued. But now, as soon as land approval is given, construction starts immediately. According to unofficial information, the building in Khovd province where the accident occurred did not have a construction start permit. Despite the need to stop the construction, on April 16, 2025, the Land Relations, Construction, and Urban Development Agency came to inspect and found it 25% complete and allowed the work to continue. By law, that construction work should have been stopped. Because we did not follow the laws and regulations, people's lives were lost. If laws and regulations are not implemented, such tragic accidents will continue to happen. Despite repeated warnings to the construction company, a scaffold collapsed, leaving eight people in intensive care and resulting in the unfortunate deaths of 3-4 people. By rule, every four years the chief architect should be appointed through an open competition. Today, there are 2,000-3,000 architects working nationwide, but none of them can participate in such competitions," he said.

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Society

Demand to Stop the Detention and Deportation of Mongolian Citizens

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia has demanded that the South Korean side cease the practice of unjustly detaining Mongolian citizens who possess valid visas to enter the Republic of Korea, as well as confiscating their mobile phones and other belongings, invading their personal information, and forcibly deporting them without justified reasons. The ministry has also requested the cancellation of the regulation imposed by the Embassy of South Korea, which restricts the right to reapply for a visa for six months for those Mongolian citizens whose visa applications have previously been rejected. Furthermore, since applicants cannot retrieve their passports until their visa application results are known, the ministry has proposed the use of either a notarized copy or a reference from Mongolia’s unified electronic government system “E-Mongolia” as a substitute. In addition, the ministry is demanding that Mongolian citizens traveling to South Korea for medical treatment, as well as their caregivers, be exempted from visa requirements for up to 30 days, and that the issuance of multiple-entry visas to executives of Mongolia’s top enterprises be increased. To further assist Mongolian nationals, the Embassy of Mongolia in South Korea has started stationing a diplomatic staff member at Incheon International Airport.

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As of this year, issuance of visas and visa permits is at 98.1%

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

The Immigration Agency reported that for the first four months of 2025, a total of 25,582 applications for visas and visa permits were received, of which 98.1% or 25,094 individuals were granted visas and visa permits, while 1.9% or 488 individuals were denied. Additionally, within the framework of the government’s tourism development policy, an inter-ministerial order from the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs approved a list of countries whose citizens are eligible for Mongolia’s e-visa system. Currently, citizens of 99 countries may obtain four categories of e-visas, with an issuance rate of 87.1% so far this year. Specifically, during the first four months of this year, the Evisa.mn online system received a total of 19,434 applications, from which 16,930 visas were issued to citizens of 53 countries, while 2,282 applications were denied. In comparison to the same period last year, e-visa issuance rates have decreased by 0.44%. By country, the number of e-visas issued to foreign nationals is as follows: China – 15,135, Taiwan – 710, India – 427, South Korea – 352, and 306 citizens from other countries. The majority of applications denied for visas and visa permits were due to reasons such as failure to submit the required documents, negative recommendations from relevant authorities, or the inviting individual, business, or organization not fulfilling their legal obligations.

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The case involving the shooting death of a Chinese national at Khushig Khundii has been sent to court with charges filed against the suspects

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

It was previously reported that on the night of December 4-5 last year, an incident occurred near Khushig Khundii airport where Chinese nationals shot one another, resulting in the death of one individual. The legal authorities have now completed their investigation and have forwarded the case to court. Specifically, Chinese nationals Sh.Kh, L.B, and Mongolian citizens A.D and A.T are accused of demanding 1 million yuan from two Chinese nationals, threatening them to obtain property, applying force and violence, and in the process of committing the crime, shooting and killing one of the victims. Charges have been filed under Article 10.1 (sections 2.4, 2.5, 2.11) of the Criminal Code /Murder/, Article 13.3 (section 2.2) /Kidnapping/, and Article 17.6 (section 1) /Threatening to obtain another's property/. The case has been transferred to the primary district courts of Bayangol, Khan-Uul, and Songinokhairkhan for preliminary criminal hearings.

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DCS-3 Might Explode

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The turbine at DCS-3 is on the verge of exploding. Jokingly, you could say the turbine is as old as our head of state—it dates back to 1968. After being patched up and maintained for over sixty years, it has now passed the point of repair. The funds allocated for repairs have often been used instead for other purposes, such as building fences to prevent ash from blowing away (costing one billion MNT) or transporting ash to Emeelt (for up to ten billion MNT), turning the turbine into a "leaky ladle" that has barely managed to function up to today. We will discuss later how ash has become a money-laundering tool for certain groups. For now, let's focus on the turbine. Because of the indecision of a few people who need to sign off, the plant has already experienced a shortage of 50-60 MW of capacity. They can't operate two turbines simultaneously, and cannot put one of the boilers into operation. The issue is that the company "Erchist Mongol" has not responded. The budget requirement is only around 18 billion MNT, which is ready in the DCS-3 account, but it only needs the right signatures. It's unclear whose signature is required: is it the Cabinet Secretariat Chief N. Uchral, "Erchist Mongol" LLC's CEO G. Amartuvshin, Energy Group Director G. Munkhtsoodol, or the State-Owned Property Policy Agency Chief B. Tsengel? Most recently, on February 8, the Minister of Energy B. Choijilsuren was notified in writing, but no response has come. Even if the minister wants to resolve it, "Erchist Mongol" does not act, and above it is the Cabinet Secretariat. Thus, the process is stuck. Because it is unclear who needs to sign, the plant is preparing to halt operations between March 2-6, and there's even the risk of explosion before then. Let me explain. The turbine needs to be dismantled and its massive cylinder repaired and refitted. The cylinder should rotate 2800-3000 times per minute to generate electricity by turning the rotor with steam. The cracks in the turbine's cylinder have deepened to 25-30 mm, and under high pressure and speed, if the generator fails, it could drag down the substation, resulting in a complete explosion of the plant. If this happens in winter, the whole city could be left freezing. Should such a disaster occur, citizens of the capital will have to live without electricity or hot water, and argue amongst themselves about why the available 18 billion MNT was not used for these critical repairs. Moreover, repairing it later will require many billions more and a lot of time. Of all the turbines, this one is in the worst condition. The issue of upgrading turbine equipment has been discussed for years. Every time a solution seems near, the lack of a signature presents an excuse and stalls progress. People have grown indifferent and weary of hearing the same story from everyone, time after time. Is DCS-3, a state-owned company, really short of money? No, since they are planning to spend 37.5 billion MNT to dig a pit and bury collected ash from the ash yard at Emeelt, covering 55 hectares. This year, the first 10 billion MNT will be used for this. The ash transported to Emeelt is radioactive. From DCS-3 to Emeelt, the radioactive ash is loaded onto trucks, covered somehow, and then buried at Emeelt. This sort of operation has never been done before; previously, radioactive content was reduced and ash was properly managed in ponds to prevent harm. In the mid-1990s, a JICA study concluded that it was not safe for people to live near the present "Buddha Villa" at Zaisan, as ash from the third and fourth power plants, containing radioactive elements, would drift there and affect human health over 30-40 years. That finding was kept quiet while residential complexes were developed in the area. However, ash can be used productively in the economy. For example, 20-30% of materials for asphalt roads and concrete blocks use ash as a binder. In other words, ash is money. There are many safe and practical solutions for using it. The city has begun issuing tenders for highways; both domestic and foreign construction companies want to buy ash from the power plant—including companies from China, South Korea, Germany, and Japan. Yet, because the plan mandates transporting ash to Emeelt, they claim they cannot sell it. Thus, the plan to spend 37.5 billion MNT (with 10 billion this year) to transport and bury the ash at Emeelt serves the interests of a small group. Specifically, during Altankhuyag's government, a company associated with former Deputy Minister O. Purevbaatar and some current officials have profited by constructing substandard pits under the guise of standards and pocketing the money. Meanwhile, the plant itself is 15 billion MNT in deficit, with no real ambition to become profitable. When new solutions are proposed—such as reducing annual maintenance wages (currently at 9 billion MNT per year) by switching to contracted, as-needed service like foreign plants—no one supports them. Human resource policies are failing; appointees are increasing, wage expenses are bloated, and the most critical workers in difficult, hot conditions make only 1.4 million MNT per month. Turnover is high as employees leave for DCS-4 or the Booroljuut plant. Although energy tariffs have increased, wasteful spending and lobbying outpace the effect. If "Erchist Mongol" LLC and the Cabinet Secretariat remain indecisive and distracted, DCS-3 may just explode.

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SendMN X LIME: Announcing Collaboration for Mongolians Living Abroad

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

International money transfer company SendMN and communications innovator LIME, which allows users to use their Mongolian phone number from anywhere in the world, have announced their collaboration to make international money transfers and communication easier for Mongolians living, studying, and working abroad. The main goal of this partnership is to offer smarter and more cost-effective solutions to Mongolians living overseas. E. Temuulen, Director of Marketing and Sales at SendMN LLC, stated: “Our goal is to fully meet the needs of our citizens living abroad for money transfers and communications, helping them stay closer to their families. Users who register with their LIME number can accumulate more bonus points when making money transfers and access more affordable transfer services.” Ch. Munkhdelger, Director of Business Development at Online Network LLC, said: “Mongolians living abroad need to stay in regular contact with their family and friends and access government and financial services quickly and conveniently from wherever they are. Through this collaboration, we aim to create real value for our users and make our products and services more accessible.” Benefits for users under this collaboration: - LIME number: Every user who orders foreign currency using the SendMN app will receive a Mongolian virtual operator number from LIME, which can be used anywhere in the world for 90 days and includes 1,000 units. - Additional bonus points: Users registered with SendMN using their LIME number will accumulate 20% more SendMN bonus points for every money transfer. - Special promotions: Various discounts, exclusive offers, and additional gifts for users of both platforms. Going forward, SendMN and LIME plan to announce a range of new offers and promotions specifically for Mongolians living abroad, aiming to make a tangible impact on their lives. SendMN is a national company that has been providing international money transfer services under a special license from the Financial Regulatory Commission of Mongolia since 2016. LIME is a virtual operator company that provides an app with a Mongolian phone number usable from abroad, allowing users to stay connected directly with family and loved ones from anywhere and access all government, banking, and domestic services seamlessly. More information: SendMN NBFI
Head Office: Ulaanbaatar city, Sukhbaatar District, 1st khoroo, Chinggis Avenue 17, Central Park Building, 7th floor
Phone: 7000 0909
Email: info@send.mn
Website: https://send.mn/
Download SendMN app: onelink.to/jmdtpb Online Network LLC
Head Office: Ulaanbaatar city, Khan-Uul District, 15th khoroo, Chinggis Avenue 6, Regis Place, 5th floor, room 502
Phone: 7211 7211
Email: info@lime.mn
Website: https://onlime.mn/
Download LIME app: https://onlime.mn/limeapp Notice
Media outlets (TV, radio, social media, and websites) are prohibited from fully or partially using our information in any form, except by explicit agreement and only by citing the source (ikon.mn).

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TODAY: Discussion on 'Discrimination and Human Rights' to be Held

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Summary of today's events: - The parliamentary group meetings of the MPP and DP will take place. - At 10:30 AM: The launch of the "For Child-Friendly Journalism" campaign will be held at the UN office. - At 2:30 PM: The discussion "Discrimination and Human Rights" will be held at the State Palace. - The creative team of the Mongolian State Academic Drama Theatre will stage the historical play "Asarin Undur" on the theatre's stage. - The "Spectrum of the Living World" special biology exhibition will continue at the Chinggis Khaan National Museum until June 1. - The Mongolian Association of Nurseries and Landscaping Professionals, in cooperation with others, will organize the "Modlog Garden Expo"—a 60-day reforestation and landscaping exhibition and sale at IC Park, Yarmag, until the end of June. In the countryside: - The "2025 National Sports Festival" second-round competitions for citizens will be held in Uliastai from May 19 to 22. - The 9th Festival of Senior Citizens' Art will be held in Mandalgovi, Dundgovi province. - At Arkhangai province museum, the temporary exhibition "Nature Up Close" will be on display until July 28. - The Selenge province public library has announced an online meme creation contest for all ages, in anticipation of National Script and Culture Book Days. The contest runs May 1–20. Abroad: - The international exhibition "Chinggis Khaan" is being held at the National Museum of the Czech Republic until June 22.

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Schedule for Hot Water Suspension Starting Tomorrow, May 20

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The summer maintenance and renovation of heating pipelines in the capital city has been underway for four days. Since May 15, hot water supply in Bayangol district has been suspended for repairs. Starting tomorrow, May 20, hot water will also be suspended in the following locations for maintenance: Specifically, under the repair plan, hot water to households, enterprises, and organizations in Khan-Uul district, the "Buyant-Ukhaa" 1 and 2 apartment complexes, and the Nisekh area will be limited from May 20 to 27. During this period, the heating main involved in the redevelopment and multi-level road crossings at Nisekh intersection will be altered, thermal insulation will be restored on 109 meters of pipelines, the exterior of 950 meters of insulation will be covered with iron, and routine maintenance work will be carried out, according to Ulaanbaatar District Heating Company (UBDS). You can view the detailed schedule by clicking HERE. Notice: Media organizations (television, radio, social and web pages) are prohibited from using our information in any form, fully or partially, without permission. Usage is only allowed with consent, provided the source (ikon.mn) is cited.

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B.Enkhbayar: I said that if my only option left was to 'die', I'm not going to accept everyone 'dying' together as a principle

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The Mongolian People's Party (MPP) parliamentary group held a closed meeting today, attended by the party leader. According to Member of Parliament B.Enkhbayar, the Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene repeated what he had said on Saturday when explaining the current situation to his party members. When B.Enkhbayar was questioned further about his position on ongoing events, he said, "At the beginning of the group meeting, I suggested that the issues raised by the youth and the surrounding political matters should be discussed internally within the party with the participation of the party leader and its executives. Demanding ethical responsibility and accountability for a politician's words and actions is a right open to the people. Discussing political accountability is something that should be open within the party. That's why I suggested we talk about this issue. The party leader raised the issue of convening the Party Conference and the Executive Committee soon. I clarified that if these meetings are to discuss issues related to your family or your children—which are issues of political ethics—then I cannot accept that. You are trying to draw the parliament and party members into an issue that should be decided within the political sphere. This is not an issue for the party members. Party members are not the ones who should be held accountable. I cannot accept that. How can it be that nobody expresses their position for such a long time? All the members are hesitant, not knowing what to say. They are worried they’ll be blamed for supporting or defending the party leader. It’s become ridiculous. This has turned into a farce in the Parliament. Strange explanations are being given, and it has become a joke from the start." When a journalist asked him, "Does this mean the Prime Minister is refusing to take responsibility?", MP B.Enkhbayar replied, "Well, that's what it seems. The leaders of the MPP, the Democratic Party, and the National Labor Party, all of them, are just sitting there as if nothing is happening. This is not a parliamentary issue. In the end, if it comes to me having to 'die', but you want to adopt the principle that everyone must 'die' together, I said I will not accept that." Warning: Media organizations (TV, Radio, Social, and Web pages) are strictly prohibited from using our information wholly or partially in any form unless agreed upon; in such cases, the source (ikon.mn) must be cited.

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WARNING: Since the beginning of the year, 64% of 2,112 recorded building fires were caused by citizens’ negligence

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) held a press conference on current issues. The briefing was given by Colonel T. Bayarkhuu, Secretary of the National Emergency Commission; Colonel Ts. Nyambayar, Head of the Firefighting Department of NEMA; and Major Sh. Ankhtuya, Head of the Preventive and Public Relations Department of NEMA. As of today, there have been 2,112 cases of building fires nationwide. Of these, 64.6% were caused by citizens’ negligence, 25% by electrical issues, 6.6% from undetermined causes, 2% due to mechanical or operational faults of vehicles and equipment, 1% from intentional acts, and 0.9% from other causes. By ownership form, the majority – 76.5% – occurred in private property, while 15.9% were in state property. Of all reported fires, 67.1% (1,418 cases) occurred in the capital city, while 32.9% (694 cases) occurred in the 21 provinces. The majority of building fire incidents in the provinces were registered in Selenge, Darkhan-Uul, Orkhon, and Tuv aimags. Regarding wild and forest fires, 89 cases were registered in 58 soums of 12 provinces and in 3 districts of the capital, which is a 31.4% increase compared to the same period last year. When comparing the locations of the fire outbreaks with the risk levels of wild and forest fires, 30% of the fires occurred in areas assessed as “very high” risk. In risk-prone areas, 60% of the fires were in medium, 8% in low, and 2% in high risk zones. Therefore, authorities urge citizens and the public at large to remain alert and cautious to prevent the outbreak of wild and forest fires in high-risk areas.

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A Case Has Been Opened to Investigate the Death of Three People in a Construction Hoist Accident

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: isee.mn

A tragic incident occurred at a construction site in Khovd province, resulting in the deaths of three workers. According to Senior Specialist of the General Police Department, Police Major S. Bayarbilgee, 11 people were working on a new five-story residential building designed for 40 households when they fell and were injured. Two workers died at the scene, and one more died after being transported to the hospital. Currently, three people remain in critical condition and are receiving medical assistance while unconscious. The cause of the accident was determined to be the breaking of the hoist cable at the construction site. Construction work on the building had started in April 2024. A case has been opened, and an investigation is ongoing. If any violations of labor safety are found, those responsible will be held accountable.

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Environment

Uranium Project Halted Until Establishment of Accredited Laboratory

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: news.mn

Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat of the Government, N. Uchral, announced that the uranium project will be halted until an internationally accredited laboratory is established. Specifically, he posted on his social media page: The intergovernmental committee meeting between Mongolia and France was successfully held in Paris, after an 11-year hiatus. This year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The French side was led by Secretary General of the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Madame Anne-Marie Descôtes, while I, as Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat, headed the Mongolian side. In this context, several mutual agreements were reached. These include: - We proposed to the French side, and reached mutual agreement, to halt the uranium project in Dornogovi Province until an internationally accredited laboratory is established. The uranium project has been stopped until there is a real possibility to study the risks to humans, livestock, animals, and the environment at a world-class level in the local area. - Citizens will establish a monitoring council. This independent council will ensure public oversight, create conditions for transparency and openness, and guarantee the public's right to information. - The two countries will expand and deepen cooperation in emergency helicopters and equipment assistance, diversification of energy sources, as well as in education and culture. - To commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and France, joint events and a series of educational and cultural activities will be organized. To recall, the Government of Mongolia signed an investment agreement for the uranium project with France’s Orano Mining company on January 17th of this year. As a result, the uranium investment project, which had been stalled for many years, started to move forward. However, following the signing of the agreement, Mongolian civil society organizations demanded the establishment of an international laboratory to analyze uranium. Subsequently, the Government of Mongolia decided to establish a world-standard laboratory and a citizens' monitoring council. Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat N. Uchral led the working group and participated in the Mongolian-French intergovernmental committee meeting in Paris, reaching the above mutual agreements.

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Damage from Forest and Steppe Fires Amounts to 4.3 Billion Tugriks

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

As of last Friday, a total of 2,086 fire incident calls have been registered nationwide. Of these, 310, or 14.8 percent, were related to runaway fires caused by burning dried grass. Out of these, 246 cases, or 79.3 percent, occurred within the territory of Ulaanbaatar city. Furthermore, since the beginning of this year, 88 forest and steppe fires have been recorded across 58 soums of 12 provinces and three districts of the capital, representing an increase of 34.1 percent compared to the same period last year, according to the National Emergency Management Agency. Preliminary data shows that 47,071 hectares of forest, 701,731 hectares of steppe, a total of 748,802 hectares, five houses, 49 yurts, four cars, seven motorcycles, 99 livestock pens, 12 winter shelters, 5,934 sheep and goats, 395 cattle, 7,230 bales of hay, and 80 sacks of feed were burned, resulting in 4.3 billion tugriks in damages. The forest and steppe fire that broke out on the 29th of last month in Yeruu soum, Selenge province, was brought under control after 19 days, on the 17th of this month. The fire’s front, east, and southeast sections were completely extinguished, and the northwest section was contained. Preliminary figures show that 11,915 hectares were affected. Also, the fire that occurred at the location known as Gachuurt Ovoo in Dadal soum, Khentii province, was fully extinguished as of yesterday.

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Implementation of Standardized Environmental Sector Program Begins

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

By order of the Minister of Environment, the "Standardized Environmental Sector Program" has been approved. A working group responsible for supporting the productivity activities of the ministry organized a morning meeting to discuss the need for coordinated action to improve, newly develop, and implement sector standards, foster positive public attitudes towards following standards, enhance monitoring, improve management, and increase the knowledge, skills, and productivity of employees and officials. Secretary Ts. Urtnasan noted the importance of strengthening unified management, reducing environmental pollution and degradation, using natural resources and wealth prudently, mitigating climate change, and establishing a nationally resilient society, economy, and model of green development. In this context, emphasis is placed on incorporating managerial approaches and methodologies such as "Green Productivity" into activities, which aims to promote economic growth, improve competitiveness, protect the environment, and ensure sustainable development. Within the framework of the program, the following objectives are set: to implement change management in the environmental sector, establish a culture and attitude towards standards, carry out research-based natural resource management, enhance national capacity to mitigate and adapt to climate change, expand public and private partnerships, and establish a multi-source funding system.

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Agreed to Establish an Accredited Laboratory for Uranium Project Implementation

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The uranium mining project to be jointly implemented with the French Republic is led by N. Uchral, Head of the Cabinet Secretariat of the Government of Mongolia, on the Mongolian side. He visited France as part of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and France this year and participated in the intergovernmental commission meeting between the two countries. He shared the following on social media: "After 11 years, the Mongolia-France intergovernmental commission meeting was successfully held in Paris. This year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The French side of the meeting was led by Mrs. Anne-Marie Decottignies, Secretary General of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, and the Mongolian side was headed by myself, the Head of the Cabinet Secretariat. Mutual agreements were reached on the following issues. These include: The proposal to establish an internationally accredited laboratory in Dornogovi province to conduct dual monitoring and analysis of the radiological impact of radioactive minerals on humans, livestock, animals, and the surrounding environment. The investor parties agreed to support the establishment of such an accredited laboratory. It was also agreed to establish an independent oversight council within the project involving civil society organizations, professional associations, and representatives of local citizens to ensure public oversight and transparency, as well as guaranteeing the public’s right to information. The two countries will expand cooperation in emergency helicopter and equipment support, diversification of energy sources, education, and culture. During the working group meeting, the Civil Aviation Authority of Mongolia and the Civil Aviation Authority of the French Republic signed a 'Technical Cooperation Agreement on Civil Aviation.' France also agreed to participate and support the 17th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, which will be held in Mongolia in 2026." Notice: Media organizations (TV, radio, social and web pages) are prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form unless agreed upon, and must only use it with source attribution (ikon.mn).

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Establishing an Internationally Accredited Laboratory and Ensuring Double Oversight

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

The third meeting of the Mongolia-France intergovernmental working group took place in Paris on the 15th of this month. The parties noted that Mongolia-France relations and cooperation have been actively developing in recent years and stressed that this session, held within the framework of the 60th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between the two countries, is the result of reviving the meeting after an 11-year hiatus. During the meeting, the two sides discussed cooperation in politics, economy, trade, investment, minerals, emergency situations, people-to-people exchanges, energy transition, and other sectors, and exchanged views on their positions on international and regional issues. They also praised the progress of the work and joint projects agreed upon as a result of high-level mutual visits and meetings, and affirmed their commitment to accelerating their implementation. Minister N. Uchral mentioned the necessity of establishing a Citizens’ Oversight Council and an internationally standardized laboratory for measuring and analyzing radioactive impact on humans, livestock, wildlife, and the environment, in order to ensure transparency and accountability in uranium projects and to create mechanisms for public oversight. The parties expressed mutual understanding on this issue. They also expressed their intention to expand and intensify Mongolia-France cooperation in all areas of mutual interest and to fulfill their shared goal of elevating bilateral relations to a strategic partnership level. Mongolia emphasized the importance of contributing to global efforts to combat climate change and desertification and protecting the environment, and highlighted the need for active cooperation with the international community. France confirmed its support and willingness to cooperate in successfully organizing the 17th session of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP17) in Mongolia in 2026. During the working group's meeting, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Mongolian and French Civil Aviation Authorities to cooperate in technological upgrades for air navigation services. The meeting was chaired on the Mongolian side by Minister and Head of the Cabinet Secretariat, N. Uchral, and on the French side by Secretary General of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Anne-Marie Decôtes, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Innovation

5G Technology Will Contribute Up to 4% of Mongolia's GDP

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Mongolia has officially launched its 5G network, ushering in a new technological era. This is one of the main tasks that the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications is planning for this year. With the introduction of this network, significant advancements will be seen in sectors such as communications, industry, education, healthcare, and mining. The availability of fast, reliable internet will not only help bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas but will also enable herders and rural residents to access online education and digital services. It will also encourage the development of specialized industrial zones in the Gobi region and promote distance learning and telemedicine. Although Mongolia’s sparse population and vast territory require significant investments in 5G infrastructure, operator companies have successfully conducted 5G network trials and have begun a phased rollout. During the launch of the 5G network, Minister Ts.Baatarkhuu of the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications stated, “5G technology is not just fast internet; it is the foundation for new economic and technological progress-driven industrial development. It will enable children and youth living in remote areas to access social services in a timely manner. For example, rural residents will be able to receive medical advice and assistance from hospitals in the capital, and children can take the world’s best lessons online. The mining sector will be able to adopt driverless transport and increase exports. According to research, by 2030, 5G technology will contribute 1-4% to Mongolia’s GDP, generating economic growth of 800 billion MNT annually.” In Mongolia, the average cost of 1GB of data is $0.60, which is cheaper than the world average of $4.20. Along with 5G development, access to data services is expected to increase while prices decrease. As part of the government's goal to become a "Digital Nation," the E-Mongolia system currently provides 1,264 types of services to 1.3 million users. At present, over 130 countries worldwide have launched 5G mobile services, and 623 operators in 186 countries are testing, acquiring frequency licenses, building networks, and starting services. According to Ericsson, in the past year, 5G accounted for 34% of mobile data traffic, and by 2030, it is expected to deliver up to 80% of total mobile data traffic.

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Mobicom Introduces the Fastest 5G Network

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

Mobicom, the leading mobile operator in Mongolia, has officially launched its next-generation 5G network after a phased preparation and successful testing with its customers. As a result, it has started offering users high-quality, reliable, continuous, and high-speed internet services, along with more optimal technological solutions and performance. Koji Kurushima, CEO of Mobicom Corporation LLC, said, "5G is a technology that opens up new opportunities for digital development. Mobicom began the 5G implementation project in 2022, and after phased trials, it has now officially launched. We have rolled out Mobicom’s 5G network in Ulaanbaatar, Darkhan, Erdenet, and the centers of all 21 provinces, and we aim to expand nationwide based on user demand," he emphasized. As of October 2024, more than 600 operators in over 180 countries worldwide are actively investing in, testing, obtaining licenses for, and deploying 5G technology. Mobicom is aligning with this global trend by establishing next-generation telecommunications infrastructure at the national level and making a real contribution to Mongolia’s digital development. For detailed information about the coverage, advantages of the 5G network, and whether your mobile phone is compatible, click HERE. Notice: Media organizations (TV, radio, social, and web pages) are prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form without agreement, and must cite the source (ikon.mn) if used after obtaining approval.

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Health

NCCD: 2,296 Confirmed Measles Cases Registered Nationwide

Published: 2025-05-19 | Translated from: ikon.mn

The National Center for Communicable Diseases (NCCD) has released information about the current situation regarding measles. A total of 2,296 confirmed cases of measles have been registered nationwide. Of these, 1,556 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospital. However, 369 people are currently receiving treatment at home, and 371 people are receiving inpatient treatment at the hospital. Measles is highly contagious but can be prevented through vaccination. Most of the measles cases are concentrated in general education schools. Therefore, children, students, and staff are advised to get vaccinated against measles to protect themselves and others from the disease. For further information or clarification, contact 89016199 or 75103100 as announced by the NCCD. Warning: Media organizations (television, radio, social networks, and web pages) are prohibited from using our information in whole or in part in any form. Usage is allowed only with prior agreement and must cite the original source (ikon.mn).

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Today's Stories

Politics

Economy

Diplomacy

Infrastructure

Society

Environment

Innovation

Health

Politics

URGENT: President U.Khurelsukh tells Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene to “resign yourself”

Decisions Taking Effect from June 1

LIVE: 'Resigning is Easy' Protest Continues for the Fifth Day at Sukhbaatar Square

Member of Parliament D.Ganbat joins protest calling for Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene’s resignation and announces he will sign the demand

If 32 Members Sign the Motion to Dismiss Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene, It Will Be Discussed in Parliament

Ch. Lodoi-Sambuu: The Prime Minister said, "A government that is not based on the Constitution cannot go on. I am ready for anything"

The MPP Group to Discuss the Amendment of Tax Law

President U. Khurelsukh Meets with Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene to Discuss the Current Political Situation

The President Has Demanded L.Oyun-Erdene to Submit His Resignation

The Revised Draft Law on Accreditation of Standardization, Technical Regulation, and Conformity Assessment Submitted

PHOTO: Around 80,000 Citizens Have Signed to Demand the Prime Minister’s Resignation

The MPP, DP caucuses and HUN Party's council are meeting to discuss the Government and current political situation

Prime Minister Candidates

D. Ganbat: The Prime Minister Should Take Responsibility, and If the DP is a Group, It Must Discuss the Government Issue

Former Head of Zamyn-Uud Free Zone A.Enkhzul, Now Under Investigation by the Anti-Corruption Agency, Granted Land to 16 Businesses in the Zone

The MPP to Convene its Board and Conference to Discuss the Political Situation from Multiple Perspectives

A "Ruling Class" that Squanders the People's Money Has Emerged

Is the Prime Minister Being Cornered by the Truth?

Participants of the 37th National Book Festival Joined the "Resignation is Easy" Protest

Kh. Nyambaatar: We will move towards a principle where the mayor is directly elected

Member of Parliament Kh. Temuujin expresses that he will support the motion to dismiss the Prime Minister, if brought to Parliament

Report: The 'Difficult' Days at the Main Square, with Tents and Democracy Activists

EVENT: The Chairman of the Democratic Party and First Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, L. Gantumur, to Receive a Demand

"Inability to Plan Development Policy is Due to Instability in Human Resources"

Economy

Economic Growth Slows Due to Disrupted Coal Exports

Development Bank to Independently Make Project Financing Decisions

Parliament Did Not Approve the Bill to Impose Import Tax on Flour and Wheat

B.Buyankhishig: The Capital Market Should Be the Second Pillar of the Economy

Diplomacy

Cooperation with the Republic of Turkey in the Field of Disaster Protection to be Expanded

Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg to Make Official Visit to the Republic of the Philippines

Minister of Foreign Affairs B. Battsetseg Paid a Courtesy Call on the President of the Republic of the Philippines

Mongolia and the Philippines Note Steady Expansion of Bilateral Relations

Dundgovi: Ambassador Shen Minjuan Visited Dundgovi Province

Infrastructure

If There Are No Disputes or Problems with the Tuul Expressway Tender, Construction Will Begin in June. ₮2.3 Trillion Funding Has Been Secured

City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar to Establish a New 'Ger District Development Fund' Financed by the State Budget, Allocating Funds for Land Clearance and Reducing Heat Loss in Households

"Erdenes Mongol" Company to Pay 15% Advance for $750 Million Ring Expressway Project

Preparations Underway to Build Reservoir to Store Peak Flood Flows of Selbe River

DP: The Mayor Will Introduce 24 Mega Projects

"Laws Are Not Enforced in the Construction Sector, Leading to Loss of Lives"

Society

Demand to Stop the Detention and Deportation of Mongolian Citizens

As of this year, issuance of visas and visa permits is at 98.1%

The case involving the shooting death of a Chinese national at Khushig Khundii has been sent to court with charges filed against the suspects

DCS-3 Might Explode

SendMN X LIME: Announcing Collaboration for Mongolians Living Abroad

TODAY: Discussion on 'Discrimination and Human Rights' to be Held

Schedule for Hot Water Suspension Starting Tomorrow, May 20

B.Enkhbayar: I said that if my only option left was to 'die', I'm not going to accept everyone 'dying' together as a principle

WARNING: Since the beginning of the year, 64% of 2,112 recorded building fires were caused by citizens’ negligence

A Case Has Been Opened to Investigate the Death of Three People in a Construction Hoist Accident

Environment

Uranium Project Halted Until Establishment of Accredited Laboratory

Damage from Forest and Steppe Fires Amounts to 4.3 Billion Tugriks

Implementation of Standardized Environmental Sector Program Begins

Agreed to Establish an Accredited Laboratory for Uranium Project Implementation

Establishing an Internationally Accredited Laboratory and Ensuring Double Oversight

Innovation

5G Technology Will Contribute Up to 4% of Mongolia's GDP

Mobicom Introduces the Fastest 5G Network

Health

NCCD: 2,296 Confirmed Measles Cases Registered Nationwide

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