Since 1991

No. 13 (1186)

the

MONGOL
MESSENGER
B.Ooluun Compared with its territory, Mongolia is considered to be a country in the world with less water reserve. It said that Mongolia is home to a water reserve of 605 square kilometers. It is reported that there is no surface water in about 70 percent of the area of Mongolia. Due to impacts such as global warming, mining operations and improper treatment of human activity using water carelessly, a number of springs, rivers and lakes have dried up in Mongolia in recent years. They are one of the causes to decrease the reserve of drinking water for the population. This is a troublesome problem facing Mongolia. On March 26, Hydrology experts, drinking water network distribution companies and NGOs specializing in water conservation highlighted the importance of increasing the value of water at a discussion themed Water and Sustainable Development organized in the State House. They urged increasing the cost of water in order to conserve the valuable resource. With the aim of considering water at the national security level, and creating favorable legal conditions, the Parliament of Mongolia adopted a revised law on water that compels the proper use of water, protects saves and restores water reserves, and creates a management of water conservation as well as imposing penalties on individuals and companies who pollute water. Climate change not only threatens the world, but also Mongolia. It brings the threat desertification, water shortage and environmental Continued on page 4 facebook.com/mnmongolmessenger 700 tug. Friday, April 4, 2014

MONGOLIAS FIRST ENGLISH WEEKLY PUBLISHED BY MONTSAME NEWS AGENCY

PM pays visit to Khentii and Gobi-Sumber aimags

Eleven medical centers open in eleven provinces

Misuse of water threatens Mongolias water reserve

Hydrology experts urge raising the price of water

While in Khentii Aimag, the Prime Minister visited some small and medium-sized enterprises. Photo zasag.mn

From March 31 to April 2, Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag paid a working visit to Khentii and Gobisumber aimags. During his visit to Khentii Aimag on March 31, Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag attended a live TV broadcast. S.Purevdorj, Chairman of the aimags Citizens Representatives Khural, and J. Oyunbaatar, Aimag governor, joined the Prime Minister in this broadcast to answer questions. The PM noted that the government has

been paying attention to promoting industrialization in the country and supporting the private sector. Improved livelihoods, eliminating red tape and increased constructional works are the main goals of the government, so the aimag is working to achieve these goals, noted J. Oyunbaatar. The Aimags administration has been running weekly meetings on implementation process of the goals, he added. This July, the aimag will host

the Altargana international festival to promote folk art and culture of the Buryat people under auspices of the Prime Minister, reported Mr. Khuderbaatar, advisor to the PM. Khentii is one of several aimags to implement a construction project for a thousand apartments. The government will render support for the construction of 100-200 apartments this year and the government is also planning to involve private houses in its annual 8 percent mortgage

program, the PM said. On April 1, the opening of 11 Photo B.Tserenjamts medical centers in 11 aimags ran at the same time. While on a working visit to Khentii Aimag, Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag attended the opening ceremony and was connected to other aimags online. The Government spent Tgs50 billion from the PMs budget package to construct these diagnostic centers. Continued on page 3

Two soum centers reconstructed Canadian construction technology comes with a 70-year guarantee
S. Batbayar On March 28-31, 2014, Parliament Speaker Z. Enkhbold worked in Ovorkhangai and Bayankhongor aimags. During his visit, Mr. Enkhbold attended a ceremony to receive a New soum center in Bayanlig and Buutsagaan soums of Bayankhongor Aimag. Under the umbrella of the New soum center project being implemented by the Government of Mongolia in 2010-2016, Bayanlig and Buutsagaan soums of Bayankhongor Aimag were chosen to pilot the project for the first stage. According to the project, they built a new administration unit building in each of these two soums, a 640 student capacity school building, school dormitory for 150 students, a kindergarten for 150 children, a hospital, sport complex, cultural center building, car parking unit, centralized water and heating network infrastructure and housing units. A total of Tgs14.7 billion was spent constructing these buildings in Bayanlig Soum and Tgs14.9 billion in Buutsagaan Soum. All the buildings were newly constructed using Canadian technology that is cost efficient with long-term utilization. Canadian materials are high quality, eco-friendly and meet international standards. Mongolia is the 12th country in the world to introduce Canadian building construction technology. This technology offers a 70 year guarantee. Officials in charge of construction are confident about the quality. At the ceremony, Parliament Speaker Z. Enkhbold highlighted that this project offers local people to work and live in a convenient area. Thanks to close cooperation and partnership between state and private organizations, the project was successfully implemented in these soums. This year, a total of 16 soums will be involved in the New soum center project, said G. Baigalmaa, Vice Minister for Construction and Urban Development. All 21 of Mongolia`s provinces will develop service facilities in soums or small districts of provinces. The service facility is planned to include kindergartens, schools, dormitories, a hospital, a culture and sports center, a development center and a steam boiler. In 2010-2016, the New soum center project will be realized in 331 soums of Mongolia along with a housing project. It is forecasted that migration from rural area to urban area will be reduced and much-needed jobs will be created and retained in rural areas thanks to the New soum center project. From 2010 to 2016, Tgs932,640 million in vestment is needed to implement the Soum center project. During his trip to Ovorkhangai and Bayankhongor aimags, Mr. Enkhbold held meetings with rural residents and introduced law-making activities, policy reform and their results.

Inside

Environment Ministers visit...........p2 Smart UB Program........................p3 Government officials meet with Chinese investors...........................p4 Immigration services consolidated into one organization.....................p5 Economic potential in Mongolia......p7
Bloomberg commodity price 2014/04/03

GOLD COPPER SILVER BRENT CRUDE SUGAR WHEAT

USD/t oz. USD/lb. USD/t oz USD/bbl. USd/lb. USd/bu

1,286.70

302.55 19.88 104.72 16.44 670.00

2 THE MONGOL MESSENGER

neWs
On March 30- April 2, S.Oyun, Minister of Environment and Green Development, paid a visit to the Republic of Czech at an invitation of her counterpart Mr. Richard Brabec. During her visit, Minister S.Oyun held meetings with Mr. Richard Brabec, Minister of Environment, and Mr. Jan Kriz, deputy Minister of Environment. Accompanying delegates were also received by Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Chamber of Deputies of Parliament on Environment and other members

Friday, April 4, 2014

N E W S-IN-B R I E FFrom The MONTSAME AGENCY

lMinister for Foreign Affairs of Mongolia L.Bold received Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Fang Dang Duong in connection with his taking office. Minister L. Bold expressed satisfaction with the development of friendly relations and cooperation between Mongolia and Vietnam. Noting that Mongolia has a great aspiration to become a member state of APEC and a partner state of ASEAN, Minister L.Bold said he is convinced that H.E. Ambassador will cooperate with Mongolia in gaining the support of Vietnam and other member states of ASEAN. Ambassador Fang Dang Duong reassured he would mobilize his efforts to make a contribution to fostering bilateral relations lOn March 24, J.Byambadorj, Head of the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) submitted the 13th national report on human rights and freedom in Mongolia to M.Enkhbold, Deputy Speaker of Parliament. The annual report focuses on making reforms at a policy level with aims to attract attention of parliament, government, their associated bodies and public organizations to urgent problems on human rights, to stop human rights violations and to improve the realization of human rights. Since its establishment, the NCHR has been presenting the annual report to parliament. This years report reflects safety in the construction sector, forced labor, rights of being employed, some matters of womens and childrens rights within family violence, and gender equality. lOn March 25-27, a delegation headed by BrigadierGeneral Pascal Ausseur, Director of the French Defense Ministrys Division of Arming for AsiaPacific Affairs paid a working visit to Mongolia. On the first day of the visit, A.Battor, Mongolias Vice Minister of Defense received the French delegation. Mr. Battor mentioned that Mongolia-France cooperation has boosted in politics, economics and social spheres, and hopes that the visit of BrigadierGeneral P.Ausseur is an expression of the French side to attach great importance to bilateral defense cooperation. He highlighted th e importance of seeking all opportunities to expand cooperation and cooperate closely. Noting that the countries have finally completed a draft agreement of cooperation between the Ministries of Defense, the Vice Minister hopes the sides will sign it in the near future. In response, Mr. Ausseur thanked the Vice Minister for his audience, and briefed him about the French Defense Ministrys Division of Arming and his duties. France is the only country among EU nations to independently carry out this industry; he emphasized, and then expressed willingness to collaborate in it with Mongolia. After this meeting, the French delegation was received by Brigadier-General M.Khurlee, department head of the General Headquarters of Mongolias Armed Forces (GHMAF). lA cooperation contract has been established between the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). On March 24, Mr. Yoshihisa Tawata, head of the Beijing-based branch of JETRO signed the document when the MNCCI chairman was received. In accordance with the document, the parties will cooperate in conducting a joint training-seminar on the learning experience of Japan and other countries on free trade and will mount joint exhibitions. Moreover, JETRO will help the MNCCI select 1-2 appropriate products to export to Japan, and will support MNCCI to launch economic and business collaboration with Japans Hokkaido Prefecture. The parties will exchange information in conjunction with a start of the MNCCI to publish a newspaper in Japanese from the second quarter of this year. lIn 2014, there may be realization for three wind farm projects in the nation, informs the Mongolian Wind Energy Association. One of them is Aydiner Global LLC of Turkey, who is planning to implement a Choir wind farm project in central Gobisumber province. The wind farm will have the capacity of 50 MW and use Vestas 2 MW wind turbines. The Contractor is planning to finance 50-70 percent of the project investments estimated at 95 million USD from bank loans, and put the wind farm into service in 2016. The wind farm is expected to give an annual electricity output of 137 million KW to the central region via a transmission link. A Sainshand Wind Farm project is scheduled to go online in late 2015 to produce 190 GW hours of electricity per year. Well known for its rich underground deposits of coal, copper and gold, Mongolias sun-parched, wind-raked Gobi desert also has considerable potential for renewable energy. Ferrostaal Industrial Projects GmbH, a German industrial services company, will take a major stake in this 52 megawatt wind farm project planned for a remote city in Mongolias Gobi. Mongolia anticipates that by 2020, one-fifth of its energy will come from wind power. Last year, Mongolia opened its first wind farm, a 50 megawatt facility at Salkhit, located 70 kilometers south of Ulaanbaatar. lOn April 16, the Eureka annual scientific
Editor-in-Chief: Givaandondog PUReVSAMBUU English Editor: DAVId BROWN Journalists: Batbayar OOLUUN Demberel MyAgMARSUReN Khashbaatar SARNAI The Mongol Messenger, C.P.O.Box 1514, Ulaanbaatar-15160, MONGOLIA. Telephone: (976-51) 266740, Tel/Fax: (976-11) 325512, E-mail: monmessenger@magicnet.mn mongolmessenger@yahoo.com The Mongol Messenger is operated by the government news agency MONTSAME and is printed by the MONTSAME Sankhuu BATBAYAR Translator: Mishigdorj UNURZUL Layout/design : Nyamdash BAt-SUkH

Minister of Environment pays visit to Czech Republic

to exchange views on matters about relations and cooperation between the two sides. Mongolias delegation witnessed the process of the Takhi (Przewalskis horse) reintroduction to Mongolia and other projects being carried out in frames of cooperation program of development. The Mongolian delegation also visited a control center for petroleum shipping, storage, and pipe line at the Forestry Academy and Charles University.

conference of young teachers and students will run in the State House. The action will bring together the best students and teachers from universities and institutes who qualify in the first-round competitions for scientific reports. For the time being, Mongolian State University (MSU), University of Sciences and Technology, the Universities of Humanity and Agriculture have selected their participants to take part in Eureka. On April 7, sub-meetings will launch under ten topics. lIn June, the Prague zoo plans to transfer four more Przewalskis horses (takhi) to Mongolia, their country of origin, and release them into the wild On March 24, Zoos Director, Miroslav Bobek, posted the infromation on praguepost.com website. The zoo, which focuses on breeding the endangered Przewalskis horse, has released a total of 12 horses to Mongolia since 2011. The institutions assisting in the project are the Czech Environment Ministry and the military, which provides its transport planes. Mongolias Minister of Environment and Green Development Ms. S.Oyuun, a graduate of Pragues Charles University, expressed her appreciation at a joint press conference with Bobek in the Czech Capital. The four horses to be flown to Mongolia in June have been chosen from a Czech center to which they were brought from several European zoos. The military plane will land directly in the Gobi Desert, outside regular airports, so that the horses need not undergo a many-hour journey to the acclimatization enclosure. The transfer will cost between 1.2 million and 1.4 million Kc, Bobek said. The zoo is gathering the money in a public fund raising campaign from sponsors and partly from its revenues from the sale of entrance tickets, he said. The Prague zoo is one of the main organizers of transferring Przewalski horses back to their original homeland. The species almost died-out in the wild 40 years ago. The transfers from Western Europe started in the 1990s and more than a hundred horses have since returned to Mongolia. At present, about 1,900 takhis live all over the world, including some 300 head in two national parks in Mongolia. Bobek said the horses returned to the wild are doing well and have reproduced. He also said the project include support to the local Mongolian population such as reconstruction of a hospital, creation of new jobs, removal of environmental burdens, handling waste and securing drinking water sources. The Prague zoo started breeding the Przewalskis horse in 1932. They have kept the international pedigree book of this species since 1959. lOn March 24, Ulaanbaatar Mayor E.BatUul received a delegation of Austrias FHWien University. The sides exchanged views on founding a university in Ulaanbaatar to prepare city-matter experts together with the University, where the Mayor noted that the quality of some universities does not meet the expectation. Expressing satisfaction with prospects to collaborate with the city in establishing the university, Dr. Christian Kropfitsch, head of the administrative office said, Now we should work out proposals and reach agreements on realizing this work. The Mayor proposed that the university be erected in the citys west side where the city administration will move in 2016. lA council of professional associations has been founded with objectives to enhance mineral policies and legal environment, to develop middle and long-term programs as well as to plan relevant strategies. Besides improving public and private cooperation, the council will also assist public organizations in decision-making. Mining Minister D.Gankhuyag will lead the newly-founded council, established under a cooperation of nearly twenty miningrelated organizations such as National Mining Association, Industry and Geology Union and Exporters Association. At the first meeting, the council is planning to join the Committee for Mineral Reserves International Reporting Standards (CRIRSCO) in order to promote best practices in the international reporting of mineral exploration results and to meet the need for improvement in national reserve classification standards.The Mining Ministry has agreed to conclude a cooperation agreement with the joining associations to reflect their opinions in its decisions. lOn March 24, a parliamentary delegation left for the Philippines to get familiar with the countrys regulations in medicine, laws, legal environment for medicine products and food factories. MPs D.Battsogt, Z.Bayanselenge, D.Sarangerel and Ya.Sodbaatar intend to witness how state policy influences medicine market monitoring, how to set up a regulatory agency regarding medicine, what roles parliament and ministries plaiy in controlling it, and how foods and drugs factories are managed. A multi-functional body regulating medicine expressed willingness to render support to Mongolia in some relevant works. Mongolia has not yet reached big achievements in controlling the flow of medicine, but has been registering their import and export and been adhering to standards for the last 20 years.

Mongolias ambassador meets Myanmars parliament speaker

On March 25, Ch.Battumur, Ambassador of Mongolia to the Republic of the Union of Myanmar met Thura U Shwe Mann, Speaker of Myanmars Federal Parliament and Foreign Ministrys officials of the country. At the meeting they exchanged views on issues of relations and cooperation between the two countries. Mongolian Ambassador also met with Aung San Suu Kyi, Leader of Myanmars National League for Democracy and personally presented her a letter sent by Mongolias President Ts.Elbegdorj.

Ch.Battumur with Aung San Suu Kyi. Photo mfa.gov.mn

Mongolia-Lithuania hold consultative meeting in Vilnius

On March 28, a delegation of Mongolia headed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs D.Gankhuyag participated in a consultative meeting between the Foreign Affairs Ministries of Mongolian and Lithuania in Vilnius. During the consultative meeting the sides exchanged views on issues of mutual interest, including bilateral political, economic, educational, cultural and scientific cooperation as well as regional and international relations. The sides also considered that it is important to sign documents on making conditions easier for citizens mutual travel. Releasing the holders of diplomatic and official passports from visa issuance, supporting cooperation in transport and sport sectors was discussed. In addition, the sides emphasized that cooperation in agricultural takes a significant position in the economics of Mongolia and Lithuania, and that the mutual exchange of delegations, sending representatives to conferences and exhibitions play a vital role in developing relations of the two countries as well as increased participation of the private sector. At the same time, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs D.Gankhuyag met Arijandas Sliupas, Deputy Minister of Lithuanian Transport and Communications and exchanged information on development of Mongolian and Lithuanian transportation. During the meeting, the Mongolian delegation was presented with an invitation to participate in the International Railways Organization Ministerial meeting to be held in June this year in Vilnius. The sides also agreed to study the possibility to cooperate under an initiative of the President of Mongolias From big government to smart government, and cooperate in communications as well as exchange specialists.

Ambassador presents Credentials in Vienna

On March 26, G. Batjargal, Mongolias Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the International Organizations in Vienna presented his Letter of Credence to Mr. Martin Kreutner, Dean of the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA). Following the presentation of credentials, they exchanged views on bilateral cooperation between Mongolia and the IACA. The Permanent Representative G. Batjargal underscored the importance of the Memorandum of Understanding signed last August between the Independent AntiCorruption Authority of Mongolia and the IACA and conveyed an invitation from Commissioner General N. Ganbold to Mr. Kreutner. Mr. Martin Kreutner recalled his attendance at the Ministerial Conference of the Community of Democracies held last year in Ulaanbaatar and praised Mongolias active role in the fight against corruption and its prevention.

Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister pays visit to Albania

On March 25-26, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs D.Gankhuyag paid a working visit to Albania. This was the first ever visit paid by Mongolia to Albania since 1957. Mr. Gankhuyag held official talks with his Albanian counterpart Deputy Minister Sokol Dervishaj and expressed Mongolias aspiration to develop bilateral ties in politics, trade, economics, education and culture. The Mongolian side forwarded a proposal to implement visits of Albanias Parliament Speaker and Foreign Minister to Mongolia in the light of the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and Albania. During the visit, a cooperation memorandum was signed between the Foreign Ministries of Mongolia and Albania. The deputy minister also paid a courtesy call on Ilir Meta, Parliament Speaker of Albania to share views on intensifying Mongolia-Albania relations and cooperation. Mr. Ilir Meta said Albania attaches particular importance to bilateral relations with Mongolia and expressed willingness to visit Mongolia this year to sign several cooperation documents and organize a business forum. Like Mongolia, Albania has huge mineral resources. There are wide possibilities for cultivating productive cooperation in agricultural, mining and tourism

D.Gankhuyag meeting Sokol Dervishaj (L)

which will be conducive to stimulating bilateral trade and economic ties. During his visit to Albania, a ceremony was held to open the Office of Honorary Consul of Mongolia to Albania. Ms. Belma Cela was appointed Honorary Consul of Mongolia to Albania. The event was attended by Deputy Minister D.Gankhuyag, Albanias Parliament Speaker, Minister of Integration, Minister of Education, Deputy Foreign Minister and Parliament Members of Albania. Honorary Consul Belma Cela said she will make every effort to intensify bilateral relations and cooperation, especially in trade, economics and investment.

Ambassador to Finland presents his Credentials

On March 27, Z.Altai, Mongolias Ambassador to Finland, presented his Letter of Credence to Sauli Niinisto, President of Finland. After the presentation of Credentials, the sides discussed issues concerning bilateral relations and cooperation. The same day, Ambassador Z.Altai had meetings with Jaakko Laajava, Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Security Policy of the Foreign Ministry of Finland and officials from the Ministry of Education and Culture of Finland. Ambassador Z.Altai thanked the Government of Finland for implementing investment projects in the fields of geology and forestry in Mongolia. Mongolia is interested in cultivating productive

WEATHER

Sunrise: 06.37 Sunset: 19.22 n Ulaanbaatar and Central Aimags: Night temps between 2oC and -3oC. Day time temps between 13o and 18oC. n Eastern Aimags: Night temps between 4oC and -9oC. Day time temps between 6oC and 11oC. Snow on April 1. n Western Aimags: Night temps between 3oC and -2oC. Day time temps between 12oC and 17oC. n Gobi Aimags: Night temps between 3oC and -2oC. Day time temps between 13oC and 18oC.

Z.Altai presents Credentials to Sauli Niinisto

ISSN 1684-1883

cooperation with Finland in developing fishery and reindeer farms and applying Finnish stateof-the-art techniques and technologies in the mining industry of Mongolia.

Friday, April 4, 2014

GoVernmenT neWs

THE MONGOL MESSENGER 3

Smart Ulaanbaatar program to be implemented in 3 stages

C A B I N E T M E E T I N G
On March 28, the Cabinet discussed the following issues at its regular meeting Domestic military units annulled As the newly adopted law on police service comes into effect, the previous law on domestic military service was annulled. According to the new law, beginning April 1, 2014, domestic military units will operate under new coordination. It was decided to liquidate domestic military units #05 and #805 by April 1 and transferred to the Public Security Department of the General Police Department with their staff, facilities, techniques, budget and others. In connection with the liquidation of military units, servicemen on military service for a definite period will be transferred into the General Authority for Border Protection. Regulations approved According to the revised law on Police service that came into effect on January 1, 2014, titles of policemen have been titles of position, not a military title. However, the government was instructed to make regulations not to reduce the salary of provision of those who work in police and domestic military organizations. At the Cabinet meeting, rules that regulate the abovementioned issues were approved. Some rules, such as the Rule on additional salary of policemen for state special service term were approved, government resolutions #243 in 2005 were annulled, and resolutions #38 and 211 of 1999 were amended. Mongolia invited to participate in AIIB Mongolia accepted a proposal from the Government of China to participate in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) as a founder. In connection, the Cabinet obliged Minister of Finance Ch.Ulaan to work-out and resolve a proposal on attending the AIIB as one of the founders. Just before the October 2013 APEC meeting in Bali, Xi Jinping, President of the Peoples Republic of China announced the creation of AIIB. If the new bank is managed professionally to finance commercially viable investments in economic infrastructure, it can begin to correct a very significant failure of global financial markets. List of important organizations to be under police protection is approved Important organizations that influence public security will have police protection in case they are attacked. At the cabinet meeting, the cabinet approved a new list of organizations that will be under the budget, contract and temporary protection of police organizations. By issuing the resolution, government resolution #91 dated March 16, 2013 has been invalidated. The National Public Radio and Television, Central Office of Radio, Radio and Television Ethereal Studio, Radio and Televisions Technical Center of the Transmission Facility in Khonkhor, MONTSAME News Agency, Mongolian Stock Exchange, National Institute of Forensic Science, National Taxation Administration, Office of Immigration, Naturalization and Foreign Citizens and Altan-Olgii cemetery were removed from the list. These organizations are considered possible to be under contract security service and collaborate with local police if any offence occurs. Erdenet Mining Corporation, explosive substance plant and store, Altanbulag and Tsagaannuur free trade zone that were under contract protection of the domestic military service were decided to be protected by contract police protection. Fourteen organizations including foreign diplomatic representative offices, UN House, General Authority for State Registration, its service offices and civil identity card publishing house, Isotope center, thermal power plants as well as others will be under the budgeted protection of the police. Cabinet reports on activity for the first quarter of 2014 Ch. Saikhanbileg, head of Cabinet Office of the Government informed on this years first quarter actions of the 11 11 Center of the Government. During the last three months, the center has been accessed by over 10 thousand people, mostly requests (about 7,500). Every Wednesday, the center has been holding online interviews with MPs and government members, enabling direct online communication with 36 thousand people. The requests and complaints mainly focused on health and social services, state registration and capital city development. The center submitted the requests to relevant ministries and agencies and received answers to most of them (82 percent). In brief: -The cabinet decided to submit a draft resolution to parliament on a state policy for education. This is an amendment of the state policy on education which was passed in 1995, and reflects long-time policy and directions that meet presentday needs and requirements. -The cabinet decided to submit a revised Bill to parliament on crime and another amended Bill. According to the Bill, 69 contents have been amended with a purpose to make clear some norms and correct some non-understandable terms. -The cabinet discussed a revised Bill on combating family violence, Bills to amend related laws, and decided to submit them to parliament. Adopted in 2004, the law is required to be amended because it neglects a procedure for protecting the security of victims and family members, and makes it difficult to properly tackle this kind of crime. -The cabinet discussed a Bill on Mongolian language initiated by M.Batchimeg MP and other MPs, and decided to convey proposals and conclusion on the Bill to the initiators. Related Ministers put forward 11 principal proposals to the Bill. -In accordance with a cabinet decision, money will be allotted from the package of the Minister of Culture, Sport and Tourism for events of Mongolia-China cultural week in frames of the 65th anniversary of the MongoliaChina diplomatic relations and the 20th anniversary of the Treaty on Friendly Relations and Cooperation.

The program aims at smart governance, economy, people, service, environment and life

D.Myagmarsuren Last week, the Capital City Council discussed the Smart Ulaanbaatar program and approved it by a vote of 75 percent of representatives to be implemented within 6 years. The program was introduced by the Capital Citys Governor E.Bat-Uul. As planned, the program will be implemented in 3 stages. The stages are named as follows: the first stage in 2014-2016 is Electronically developed Ulaanbaatar; the second stage in 2015-2018 is Technologically developed Ulaanbaatar, and the third in 2016-2020 is Smart, Green and Developed Ulaanbaatar. The program has 6 directions as smart governance, smart economy, smart people, smart service, smart environment and smart life. The Smart Ulaanbaatar program aims to create a smart city with good

conditions in terms of infrastructure, understandable rules and swift services, the ability to properly solve issues of urban development trends in the new century, technological progress, residents requests and changes in the business environment. With implementation of the program, citizens will have the opportunity to be provided with over 540 services concerning construction permits, rights to obtain and own land, tender selection and civil registration in easy, electronic ways from home or at work. This year, it is planned to spend Tgs14 billion for the first turn of the program. But it is not yet clear the total amount of money that will be spent for implementing the program. The point is that implementation of the program requires high technology and a lot of money. This year, smart governance will be introduced in 6

directions. In this regard, 50 services rendered by the Governors office of the capital city will be transferred to online form and more than 20 services to the khoroos (the smallest administrative units). As a result of complete implementation of the Smart Ulaanbaatar program, capital city citizens will have an integrated information system, the speed of public service will be increased by 5090 percent, and costs of doing business in Ulaanbaatar will be reduced by 2050 percent. According to a preliminary survey, crime will also decline by more than 20 percent and operational cost effectiveness of local administration offices in the capital city will increase 10-100 times. The Smart Ulaanbaatar program was developed by a working group consisting of 18 specialists based on related studies.

PM pays visit to Khentii and Gobi-Sumber aimags

Continued from page 1 Tgs25 billion was spent on maintenance works of central diagnostic centers and installing medical facilities in 11 aimags. Maintenance work of the Khentii Aimags diagnostic center took Tgs148 million, whilst Tgs1.2 billion was spent on installing medical facilities. The PM underscored that the need to go to the capital city to get medical treatment and diagnosis is eliminated. The installed facilities and equipment were made in Japan, South Korea, France, Italy, China and Brazil to enable advanced, precise diagnosis. Health workerss who work in these centers have been involved in required trainings. On the second day of his visit, Prime Minister N. Altankhuyag saw construction works in the Aimag. He visited the vocational training center where more than 700 students attend. Head of the vocational training center introduced the PM to its activity. The vocational center provides training for 18 professions including, cooking, sewing, interior design, welding and plumbing. The PM got au fait with the training process and met some students. Then, the PM saw the construction process of the Shine Ondor Khaan apartment town under construction in the Khentii Aimag center. The town includes 12 apartment blocks for 720 households, a school for 928 children, a preschool for 80 children, dormitory for 100 children, a trade center and greenery. The PM said, A housing program for 1000 households will be realized in Khentii Aimag. The government can support construction of apartments for 100-200 households. Construction work of the apartments needs to be launched this spring and be complete by the end of this year. They also intend to involve private houses in 8 percent mortgage loans. The most important thing is that this apartment town has to be connected to infrastructure. He also added that a study is underway to involve citizens who bought apartments in the Aimags center in 7 percent mortgage loans. During his visit to Khentii Aimag, the Prime Minister got au fait with activities of some small and mediumsized enterprises including workshops for shoe-making and parquet items. Since 2012, more than 80 small and medium-sized enterprises were established in the Aimag, providing over 5600 citizens with jobs. Concluding his working visit to Khentii Aimag, the Prime Minister headed to Gobisumber Aimag. In Gobisumber Aimag, the PM saw operations of the Shivee-Ovoo coal mine and appraised that the companys authority has reduced industrial costs except for workers wages by Tgs5 billion within a year since they took the office and its plan to work effectively. The company sells over 90 percent of its total coal extraction to Thermal Power Plant #4, but still has receivable debts worth Tgs2.7 billion from some power plants; therefore, they requested help from the PM to resolve this matter. Prime Minister N. Altankhuyag then held a meeting with Gobisumber Aimag citizens. At the meeting, the PM said, The Government for Changes is working openly and has submitted a purpose Lets produce in Mongolia for 2014, aiming to encourage exports and produce import substitution production. Soum development fund and Fund to promote small and medium sized enterprises are issuing credits to citizens. Within a plan to employ people and have income, programs for providing citizens over 40 years old and part-time jobs for students are being implemented. The Prime Minister also introduced them about housing programs to be implemented in all aimags, opening diagnostic centers, construction of roads linking the aimags to Ulaanbaatar and others. He said that all these aim to make every aimag a city and create pleasant conditions for citizens to live in Mongolia.

Photo P.Tuguldur

Parliament Speaker met with APO Secretary-General

of the importance of productivity improvement practices, the Mongolian Government has been supporting all these projects, noted Mr. Enkhbold. He also highlighted the significance of benchmarking and error deterrence processes in productivity enhancement. The Parliament Office has been conducting a re-engineering study to improve productivity at workplaces, he said. Pleased to hear about the ongoing project in the Parliament Office, Mr. Amano urged the Mongolian side to study the experience of other countries and to actively attend relevant meetings and forums organized by the APO. The ongoing project is very similar to what the APO is striving efforts for, except for its name, highlighted the Secretary-General.

Z.Enkhbold and Mari Amano

PM N.Altankhuyag visits the new diagnostic center in Khentii Aimag. Photo zasag.mn

On April 2, Parliament Speaker Z.Enkhbold met with the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) Secretary-General Mari Amano. The Speaker thanked Mr. Amano for joint projects that have been carried out between Mongolia and APO in twenty years time since Mongolia joined the APO. Aware

4 THE MONGOL MESSENGER

economY

Friday, April 4, 2014

ADB: Mongolias economy challenged by external imbalances

A new Asian Development Bank (ADB) report says developing Asia will extend its steady economic growth in 2014 as higher demand from recovering advanced economies will be somewhat dampened by moderating growth in the Peoples Republic of China (PRC),. On April 2, ADBs flagship annual economic publication, Asian Development Outlook 2014 (ADO), released forecasts that developing Asia will achieve gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 6.2 percent in 2014, and 6.4 percent in 2015. The region grew 6.1 percent in 2013. The recovery in major industrial economies is gaining momentum. Combined GDP growth in the United States, the Euro area, and Japan is expected to pick up to 1.9 percent in 2014 from 1.0 percent in 2013 before strengthening further to 2.2 percent in 2015. Growth in the PRC is expected to moderate. The economy slowed to 7.7 percent in 2013 on impacts from tightened credit growth, pared industrial overcapacity, deepening local government debt, rising wages, currency appreciation, and the continuing shift in the governments development priorities away from quantity toward quality. These factors persist, and PRC growth is forecast to slow to 7.5 percent in 2014 and 7.4 percent in 2015. While risks to the international outlook have eased, three areas warrant close monitoring. First, if efforts in PRC to curb credit expansion are too abrupt and excessively undermine growth, a deeper slowdown could drag down prospects for its trade partners, including Mongolia. Second, data on the recovery in the major industrial economies have been mixed; pointing to the possibility that demand for the regions goods from these countries may be softer than envisaged. And third, a further shock to global financial markets from changes in US monetary policy cannot be ruled out. For Mongolia, economic growth is forecast at 9.5 percent in 2014, driven by the start of copper production at the Oyu Tolgoi open pit mine last year, and 10 percent in 2015. Rapidly declining foreign direct investment, falling coal exports, compounded by highly expansionary fiscal and monetary policy have created balance-ofpayment (BOP) pressures. While the depreciation of the togrog has already stabilized, the current account deficit, relieving BOP pressures, stabilizing the togrog and containing inflation will require a tightening of economic policy to rein in domestic demand growth. Mongolias economic prospects also remain highly vulnerable to economic trends in the PRC and the global economy, while current policies offer little buffers to cope with possible external shocks. ADB, based in Manila, is dedicated to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth and regional integration. Established in 1966, it is owned by 67 members 48 from the region.

ADB Executive provides details of the economic report. Photo ADB

Government officials meet with Chinese investors

D.Myagmarsuren On March 27, Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag, cabinet members, and authorities of government agencies, held a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with investors of the PRC who occupy a large place in foreign relations and investment of Mongolia. The meeting was attended by Wang Xiaolong, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of PRC to Mongolia, as well as representatives of about 100 domestic companies that invest in coal, oil, construction, communication, banking and finance. The meeting was jointly organized by the United Association of Mongolian employers and Ambassador of PRC to Mongolia. The participants discussed issues on the investment environment in Mongolia, resources for cooperation, and business activities. Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag said Com panies and economic entities with Chinese investment take an important position in Mongolias economy in terms of their number and amount of investment. The Government of Mongolia wishes to understand pressing problems facing economic entities with Chinese investment in their activities in Mongolia. Also, in connection with a change in the legal environment, our government is taking measures to make relative rules and procedures easier and more understandable, and introduce onewindow services. You, our investors, are able to be provided with many efforts to give support to Chinese companies and improve the investment environment. However, some investors complained that newcomers have obtained more opportunity in the Mongolian market and support for old partners is being neglected, but the investment environment is being improved in the country. They also raised some issues of the quota of the Chinese working force and land disputes obstructing cooperation with Mongolians. In this regard, they enquired whether the government can treat this issue on the basis of a flexible position. There are more than 6000 economic entities with Chinese investment in Mongolia, and 2000 of them run their activities effectively. The majority of these companies operate in mining and construction. The PRC makes up over 90 percent of total the foreign investment of our country. The total amount of investment is made by member-organizations of the Zunhua society in our country and in last 20 years has reached USD4 billion. Mining was one of vital issues raised at the meeting. According to laws being observed in Mongolia, economic entities with the foreign investment should make a tripartite agreement with local administrations and the public to begin exploration and mining activities. However, if one of the sides is resistant to mining, the company loses the possibility to start operations. Thus, companies working in mining face some constraint. The construction sector cannot avoid such kind of difficulties either, said the Chinese investors. According to current law, the quota of the working force recruited from one country shall not exceed 1 percent of Mongolias population. This quota differs in each sector. For instance, in the construction sector, it is permitted to recruit 25 percent of the working force from abroad, and 75 percent in the oil sector. But Chinese people come to work in our country seasonally and they usually return home in the winter. Thus, representatives of Chinese companies requested not to involve these temporary workers in the quota limitation. At the meeting, Mongolians stressed that it is necessary to increase the amount of coal export and reached a relative agreement with PRC in this respect. The Chinese side said Our coal market is not closed up and the amount of export has not decreased. As for Mongolia, the country needs to increase the competitiveness of its coal, and especially improve the quality of its coal. As informed by Zunhua, three years ago, Mongolia exported over 20 million tons of coal to China, plus 576 thousand tons of copper concentrate, 5 million tons of iron-ore, and 2.5 million tons of crude oil. Last year, the country exported 18 million tons of coal to the PRC, thus coal exports declined 20 percent. At the end of meeting, a Mongolia and Chinese joint working group was established and decided to deliver suggestions derived from the meeting to related ministries and agencies of Mongolia

Chinese investors meet with Mongolias top officials in UB

kinds of services through our Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Economic Development. PRC accounts for over 90 percent of export production of the country. Also, Mongolia imports the majority of consumer goods from our southern neighbor. Thus, China is our main partner in foreign trade and investment.

During his visit to China in last year, Prime Minister N. Altankhuyag talked more how to boost activities of companies with Chinese investment and made long-term cooperation agreements for coal companies. The participants from the Chinese side expressed their gratitude to the Government of Mongolia for its

Misuse of water threatens Mongolias water reserve

Continued from page 1 degradation. Water is a countrys strategic wealth and is vital to Mongolias sustainable development. Therefore, it is important to pay more attention to the water issue in coherence with the field of energy and food safety by considering it as a part of essential sustainable development. Everyone needs water. Accordingly, we need to find ways to properly utilize water, help people understand the value of water, save water and re-utilize water. In order to solve these issues, it is necessary to review the issue of todays water cost. This discussion will push an important impetus to make a decisive step towards water conservation, said G.Bayarsaikhan, Chairman of the parliament standing committee on environment, food and agriculture. Nationwide, there are 120 companies offering service of drinking water distribution and sewage today. But they operate at losses of about Tgs270 billion. This matter was introduced to law makers. People living in ger districts buy 1 liter of water for Tgs1 but distribution and transporting cost Tgs 8 per liter. For apartment buildings, installation of water meters is at an unsatisfactory level. Moreover, rusted water is distributed to some customers due to poor water distribution pipeline network. In order to fix these problems, they need to improve cooperation and partnership between state and private entities, stop setting water prices in a tight manner and improve water related techniques, technology and infrastructure. On the basis of research conducted by scholars for many years, Mongolias territory was divided into 29 basins in coherence with water geography and socio-economic development policy as well as future tendency. According to the new law of water, it formulated definite water management. The Ministry of Environment fixed the water payment for entities at various levels. For example, they set the water payment at a high rate in areas where the water reserve is at a shortage, and desertification territory starting in September 2009. Water utilization payment is different depending upon entities service and operation. It was fixed that water payments for food manufactures is low while the mining sector is high. In order to save the underground water reserve, they fixed the cost of underground water 2-3 times more. Previously, the water payment for mining and other factories was Tgs150 per ton, but now they will pay Tgs959 per ton for using underground water. Underlining the possibility of using water in a smart and proper manner, B.Basandorj, Executive Director of the Mongolian Water Partnership NGO, urged parliament to pay special attention to the water issue by creating appropriate cost tariffs for water utilization in order to save water. The Law on Prohibiting Mineral Exploration and Extraction near Water Sources, Protected Areas and Forests gave much benefit to preserve that water reserve, said Ts. Badrakh, Secretary of the National Committee of Water. This law contributes much to environmental conservation, especially in water preservation, he added. Participants of the discussion suggested they support introducing upto-date technology of water sewage, setting up small scale water purifying plants, and creating a standard for recycled water. At the end of the meeting, G. Bayarsaikhan, Chairman of the parliament standing committee on environment, food and agriculture, reminded that the Water national program is being implemented at an unsatisfactory level. Currently, this national program is running at 22 percent. The parliament standing committee will give a direction to the government to intensify the Water national program, he announced.

Photo B.Chadraabal

Photo P.Tuguldur

Mongolia has a water reserve of 605 square kilometers

Friday, April 4, 2014

socIeTY

THE MONGOL MESSENGER 5

Immigration services consolidated into one organization

B.Ooluun On April 1, Mongolias Naturali zation and Immigration Agency, the organization rendering service for foreigners traveling, working and living in Mongolia, started working under a new name, the General Authority of Immigration (GAI) according to law on border checkpoints and decision of the government. As a result of the new organizational structure, some functions of immigration board of the General Authority of Border Protection were transferred to GAI and will be responsible for creating a unified database on the registration of travelers and vehicles crossing the border, taking control over foreign citizens from the period they entered the country to their departure, as well as preventing violation of the rights and freedom of Mongolian citizens during their travel abroad in collaboration with the diplomatic missions of Mongolian in foreign counties. Previously, foreign citizens were provided services through 4-5 government organizations; now these stages are eliminated and foreigners will be able to be provided with services from one government organization. We will strive to operate smartly by introducing an on-line system for receiving visa requests. Also, foreign citizens violating the laws of Mongolia and living illegally in the country will be monitored on the basis of a certain database. In other words, if a foreigner fails to leave the country within the permitted period, officers of the inspection departments will take measures to deport them said the head of GAI B.Purevdorj. In order to create a unified information system on citizenship, migration and monitoring, GAI is trying to complete implementation of the E-immigration project by 2016. With implementation of the project, we will be able to furnish all operations of our services with new electronic techniques and technology. In the framework of the project, databases on vehicles passing through border points and foreign citizens living in the country for a period of over one month will be incorporated, thus the registration of Mongolians and foreigners crossing the border will be more concrete and well-ordered. GAI is also planning to install equipment to accelerate the control and checking process at border points. Today, one inspector processes 2-3 travelers a minute. But by introducing the automatic control system being

Photo B.Chadraabal

Presently, services are provided through 4-5 government organizations

used worldwide, it will be able to let 10-15 travelers pass per minute. Such monitoring equipment that checks fingerprints and geometric data are planned to be installed at border checkpoints at Buyant-Ukhaa and Zamyn-Uud, where the workload is greatest. The newly established GAI is restructured regionally to transfer centralized power to local areas and

establish public services nearer to citizens. Independent branches of GAI operate in west, east, south and north regions, as well as Buyant-Ukhaa border checkpoint and Selenge, Dornogobi aimags. The 86 rules and circulars observed by GAI were scaled down to 42; thus, the inspectors working at the border points are able to solve some issues independently. Over 4.5 millions travelers cross the

border of Mongolia each year. The Law on Border checkpoints was adopted on December 26, 2013 and started being implemented on April 1, 2014. With implementation of the law, activities to develop border checkpoints as a transit control belt as well as economical and business development centers, will be arranged in conformity with the General plan and policy on border checkpoints.

India streamlines visa application process

The Government of India strives to extend better visa conditions for persons travelling to India for various purposes; therefore, Indias Embassy in Ulaanbaatar launched a Centralized Visa system. The new system became effective on April 1, 2014 for all Mongolian nationals and foreigners residing in Mongolia. The new type of visa sticker is different from the previous version and is already being granted. Under the new system, the applicant applies online for the visa by visiting their website at www.indianvisaonline. gov.in. After completing the process including uploading the applicants photograph per the specifications, the applicant should take a printout of the Application Form and visit the Embassy on consular working days (Monday and Wednesday) together with his/her Passport (valid for a minimum period of six months) and all supporting documents. The new system provides the applicant the ease of submitting relevant details to the Embassy at his/her convenience and helps for easier processing of the visa request by the Embassy and clearance by Indian Immigration Authorities. The Embassy hopes that the new online system will be useful to all concerned and encourage travel to India.

Officials of Indias embassy showcase the new process. Photo from the embassy

THE BUSINESS COUNCIL OF MONGOLIA

Tel: 976-11-317027 www.bcmongolia.org

Vacancy Announcement VICE DIRECTOR

BCM has grown from 35 to 250 members with a total of approximately 40,000 employees. We have become a leading business representative organization among Mongolias 1,400 NGOs. BCM is the premier business organization in Mongolia dedicated to meeting its members needs, namely: to get more business such as profits and clients; to obtain information critical to their businesses; to have a legal and regulatory environment conducive to doing business. BCM seeks to recruit a new Vice Director. Qualifications include: Fluency in Mongolian and English; Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; Relevant prior business/communications experience; Self-motivated and resourceful. The Vice Director will participate in management of BCM and lead development of its government relations program. If you, or someone you would recommend, possess the above qualifications, please e-mail CV by April 10, 2014 to tugi@bcmongolia.org. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Aeroflot time schedule for summer 2014

Flight SU-330 SU-331 SU-330 SU-331 SU-3850* SU-3851* Days 2,5,6,7 1,3,6,7 Every day Every day 4,7 4,7 Aircraft -320 A-320 - 320 A-320 B-767 B-767 Destination MOW-ULN ULN-MOW MOW-ULN ULN-MOW MOW-ULN ULN-MOW Departure time 20:00 07:10 20:00 07:10 21:10 09:20 Arrival time 06:10+1 09:50 06:10+1 09:50 07:15+1 11:55 Validity 01APR-30MAY 01APR-31MAY 31MAY-21SEP 01JUN-22SEP 01APR-25OCT 01APR-25OCT

All flights on the route Ulaanbaatar Moscow is codeshare flights *operated by MIATMongolian airlines Before the flight, you can check the departure time on our website www.aeroflot.ru or by calling the airport reference 1980, also on sites www.airport.mn, www.miat.com Representation of Aeroflot Ulaanbaatar, Seoul street 15 Tel.976-11-320720, Fax 323321 e-mail: ulntosu@aeroflot.ru

6 THE MONGOL MESSENGER

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Friday, April 4, 2014

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History Museum

Parliament House

Since 1956, Mongolia Today Magazine has provided readers with information that will aid in the general understanding of a wide range of subjects related to Mongolia, including politics, economics, history, culture, tradition, climate, society, sports and lifestyle. The Mongolia Today was named as Mongolias Best Magazine of the year 2009 by the Confederation of Mongolian Journalists Union. The Mongolia Today, P.O.BOX 1514, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia Telephone: 266740, Tel/Fax: ( 976-11) 325512, Home Page: www.montsame.gov.mn The Mongolia Today is operated by the government news agency MONTSAME and is printed by the MONTSAME.

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THe Mongol Messenger

UB Bank Indra fast food Trade Union

Sukhbaatar Square

Friday, April 4, 2014

mongol sTUDIes

THE MONGOL MESSENGER 7

Economic Potential-Mining in Mongolia

from 2003 to 2010. Japan relies almost 100% on the imported coal and Japan is the largest importer of coal in the world. 62% of Japans coal usage is imported from Australia and 19% from Indonesia totaling over 80 % from these two countries. As for investment to Mongolia, the largest investor in Mongolia for the amount of investment and for the number of corporate entities is China. The amount of investment by China is $3.65Bil and the number of China owned entities are 5,591entities. Korea is the 7th largest investor with the amount of $0.34Bil and 2,159 Korea owned entities. Japan is, however, the 10th largest investor with the amount of only $0.18Bil and only 508 Japan owned entities. Increasing coal demand by Japan Recently deregulated electricity resale including resale to individual homes in Japan will enhance building new coal power plants in the Tokyo area. As an example, a Japanese international trading company called Marubeni announced on January 10th, 2014 that two thermal plants will be built in Tokyo in the year of 2016. The other day, I asked one of the management from a large Japanese steel company whether his company imports coal materials from Mongolia. His company obviously imports large quantity of coal materials, but he responded that he never heard of Mongolias coal materials and he wonders if Mongolia exploits coal materials. The Government officials and representatives from private sector of two countries-Japan and Mongolia got together at the meeting of Development of Mineral Resources last May in Ulaanbaatar to exchange and discuss specific methodology and strategies including new exploiting technology. This will imply even after this meeting that key and important information have not been properly and timely communicated to needed parties. Required quantity of coal materials to produce steels will be estimated to be doubled worldwide in 10 years. That will be six times in China and two times in India. This means that the coal market will become very competitive, especially, between Japan, China and India. At the same time, it will become very important for Japan, China and India from short-term to mid to long-term perspective to obtain coal resources with coal mining Transportation for exploited coal to consuming countries As we all know that there are untapped high-quality coal resources and reserves in Mongolia. It has not been carrying out yet geographical surveys, exploration, and information and data analysis to identify potentiality of coal resources and reserves. Therefore, sooner or later, it would be unavoidable to identify such high quality and large quantity of coal mines. Infrastructure implementation for coal mine development is critical, in addition to water and electricity, the smooth coal transportation from coal mines in Mongolia to consuming countries. It has been discussed among Mongolia, Russia and China for the coal transportation. Discussion has not been, however, reached to an agreement because there are, mainly, the gauge differences of the railways among these three countries. A dual-gauge track is suggested here in order to resolve the gauge differences among these three countries. This suggestion would be the most economical solution and it could be one of the easiest solutions. You may have it considered in the past though. A dual-gauge railway is a line of track that provides trains of two separate gauges. A dual-gauge track configuration consists of three rails-the outer rails give the wider gauge, while one of the outer rails and the inner rail give a narrower gauge. The third rail is common to all traffic. In Japan, the first dual-gauge was installed in Kyoto in 1912. Japan has long-time experiences and technical know-hows. A dual-gauge has been installed in Europe as well. As far as other infrastructures such as electricity is concerned, it will obviously require the nationwide strategy and implementation plan to cover the nation as a whole. This will take time and cost. Therefore, in the meantime, it is suggested that a small scale of wind-power generator with low cost for the specific area from Japan to be introduced for which Japan has researched and developed. One of the richest countries within this century with WIN-WIN relationship Mongolia is enjoying the economic growth with the rate of two digits since 2011. To be specific, 17.51% in 2011, 12.28% in 2012 and 11.78 % in 2013. Nominal GDP growth rates over the previous year are also improving. For example, 31.8% for the year of 2011 vs 2010, 25.8 % for the year of 2012vs 2011, 20.3 % for the year of 2013 vs 2012. Strong worldwide demand for mines will impact Mongolia positively on the domestic economy. The University in Mongolia opened up a new course of the Mining Engineering to educate to be mining engineers for meeting increasing demand of qualified engineers in coming years. It is necessary, first of all, to build the win-win relationship with the boarder nations and to have them support and cooperate with Mongolia. Railway tracks must be set to allow trains with coal passing through the boarder nations for the purpose of distributing to consuming countries. A number of exporting countries and quantity of exporting amounts must be increased. High-quality of coal with competitive prices are expanded. More foreign investments into Mongolia are aggressively accepted. For this purpose, Japan can play a very important active role because Japan is independent from the boarder nations. For example, Mongolia and Japan would be able to set up a venture arrangement at WIN&WIN basis with another country for the purpose of jointly build steel mill, manufacture and distribute steel. If the above is satisfactorily done, Mongol, then will become like Saudi Arabia and Qatar before not too far in the future. This lecture was given by professor Sampei Nakao on April 2, 2014 at Institute of International Economics and Business, Mongolia

The lawyers advice

Hanns Seidel Foundation

In cooperation with Hanns -SeidelFoundation Project Mongolia and its Legal Education Academy

Professor Sampei Nakao lecturing in Mongolia. Photo from the Institute

Sampei Nakao, US CPA, guest professor, Institute of International Economics and Business Mongolia Key obstacles to achieve economic growth What does Japanese picture when we are asked about Mongolia? We certainly picture the Empire of Mongol led by Genghis Khan, Equestrian People, Fertile Grassland-Forest and/or Ger Quarters ? I was not an exception with other Japanese. However, as I researched the country and visited Mongolia as I did today, and as I got to know the people here and the environment surrounded the country of Mongolia, I began to realize that the country Mongolia has the super-super future potential for the growth financially and economically because the country has the world largest and richest mineral deposits, especially coal, copper and gold which are not yet exploited. At the same time, however, with this bright future, there are a number of tough obstacles to over-come before the country enjoys these financial and economic benefits. For example, you need 1) to improve various infrastructures, 2) to have good ports, 3) to expand domestic consumer market and 4) to improve financing market. These are by no means unique to Mongolia though. These obstacles to a certain degree are the same with other countries such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar, for which the countries enjoy the growth benefits. Success Stories of Saudi Arabia and Qatar Do you know the people in Japan believe that the day will come for your country Mongol to become like Saudi Arabia and Qatar in the near future? Here are some success stories: In 1938, Saudi Arabia found oil reserves in the Al-Hasa region and in 1949 after the World War II, oil production has begun. Until then, Saudi Arabia was one of the poorest countries in the world, relying on limited agriculture and pilgrimage revenues. After over 60 years since then, the country became the world largest oil exporter and became one of the top 20 most powerful countries. Saudi Arabia is also one of the most fast-growing countries with a high per-capita income

of $24,523 for the year of 2012 which is the 31st highest in the world. The oil cost per barrel in Saudi Arabia is also one of the lowest in the world which is $4 per barrel, comparing with $60 per barrel in Mexico and $46 per barrel in Africa. Qatar was one of the poor countries in the world before the discovery of oil in the 1940s. Until then, the country was known mainly as pearl hunting and fishing. Qatar has now the worlds third largest natural gas reserves which led the country to the largest natural gas exporter in the world. The country had very aggressive marketing strategy and activities in the Asia including Japan and had very aggressively built the gas processing plants. The country has a population of 1.84 million compared with Mongolias 2.83 million. Labor forces are heavily relied on foreigners who live in the country. Per-capita income for the year of 2012 is $104,756 which is the 2nd highest in the world. The country maintains close relationship with Western and Eastern powers, and bridges the gap between Muslim and non-Muslim countries. A close relationship with Iran is a good indication how the country maintains politically with anti-US countries. New relationship with Japan In recent years, foreign investors are aggressively seeking for the opportunity of investing in the development of mining in Mongolia. Since coal trade with Mongolia is very important for Japan, I will focus more on coal trade. But before discussing coal trade with Japan and Mongolia, let me explain briefly about coal trade worldwide: The largest coal exporter in the world is Indonesia amounting to 383 Mt which is 32.8% of the coal supply worldwide. The second largest is Australia amounting to 302 Mt which is 25.9% of the coal supply worldwide. On the other hand, the amount of coal export by Mongolia is only 22 Mt which is only 1.9% of the supply worldwide. Coal generates 40 % of the worldwide energy demand. It is expected to be 1.5 times more than current of 40% by the year of 2035. China used to be an exporter of coal trade but instead, China became an importer of coal since 2009. The amount of coal imported by India is 4.2 times more during 7 years

Cooperation agreement signed to promote tourism

On April 2, MONTSAME the National News Agency of Mongolia and Ulaanbaatar Tourism Department, the Implementing agency of the capital citys governor, signed a cooperation agreement. At a press conference held in the Information center of the News Agency, A.Baatarkhuyag, Director General of MONTSAME and E.Battulga, Head of Ulaanbaatar Tourism Department highlighted that the purpose of the two organizations cooperation is to publicize Mongolia abroad. The National News Agency MONTSAME exchanges information with more than 40 news agencies from 33 countries. Thus, the Tourism Department of the Capital has a broad opportunity to disseminate news and information concerning the capital citys development and tourism destinations through the MONTSAME news network. On June 1, the sides plan to release a Ulaanbaatar guide book in Mongolian, English, Chinese, Japanese and Russian languages as a travel itinerary for tourists arriving in Ulaanbaatar. MONTSAME Director General A.Baatarkhuyag said, We are working together to ensure the coordination of government organizations activities. The agreement obliged our agency to distribute the tourism products of Ulaanbaatars Tourism Department worldwide through our information channels. For example, on April 3, MONTSAME, as a member of OANA (the Organization of Asia-Pacific News Agencies) will post a short documentary about Ulaanbaatar made by Ulaanbaatar Tourism Department on the comprehensive network of the organization (www.oananews.org). About 92 percent of tourists coming to our country tour around the capital city and visit the Gandan Monastery, Zaisan hill and 60 percent of visitors visit the natural Gorhi Terelj complex and Chinggis Khaan complex.

MONTSAME Director General A.Baatarkhuyag and E.Battulga, Head of the UB Tourism Department

Therefore, the tourism and culture program Hospitable UB developed by the Tourism Department will be implemented commencing this year. In addition, Asias next UB marketing campaign directed to the countries of northeast Asian region has started and

marking service standards for hotels and motels will be updated this month. At the end the press conference, video promotional items for winter tourism, prepared by the Tourism Department was shown to journalists. D.Myagmarsuren

-What assistance or support is provided for persons with disabilities? -As stated in the Law on Social Protection of Persons with Disabilities, a person with a disability means any person who has a physical, mental, psychological or neurological impairment, and due to this condition, his/her capacity for participation in social relations is fully limited or limited for more than 12 months. As this law specifies, the following assistance and allowances are provided from the social welfare fund to persons with disabilities: one-time annual cash grant to full blind, deaf, mute or dwarf persons and persons who fully lost their labor capacity and need permanent care for their housing payment, and if they live in houses or gers without central heating, for their fuel purchase; a one-time 100 percent refund for domestically made prosthesis payment every 3 years, and for disabled children up to 18 years; a one-time 100 percent refund for domestically produced prosthesis payment every 5 years to disabled persons with no right created for receiving allowances from an industrial accident or occupational disease insurance fund; a one-time 100 percent refund for domestically produced or purchased special equipment payment such as orthopaedics or wheelchairs every five years for children up to 18 years and to disabled persons who have not created their right to receive allowances from an industrial accident or occupational disease insurance fund for prosthesis production or rehabilitation; a one-time annual transport discount for a disabled child and his/ her caretaker or guardian travelling to and from his/her special school; if a disabled child who needs medical treatment and care, or a person who fully lost his labor capacity and has not created his right to receive allowances for making a prosthesis or rehabilitation from the industrial accident and occupational disease insurance fund go to a sanatorium, he/she shall be refunded 50 percent of one-way transport and certificate expenses once a year; a discount in the payment for kindergarten food of a child with a disability or of one child of a person who lost fully his labor capacity; a discount in the payment for communication expenses of a fully blind person of major age; if a person with a disability resides 1,000 km or more from the capital must be treated or receive analyses in the capital by a decision of a professional medical expertise commission, that person shall be refunded one-way transport expenses once a year; free delivery in the country of Braille letters, postcards and prints, and packages up to 10 kg, free delivery in the country of equipment and materials for blind persons; if a fully blind person needs to travel between a province (aimag) and the capital for medical treatment or resort care at the conclusion of a professional medical body, he/she shall be refunded 75 percent of the two-way transport expenses incurred for this purpose once a year; if a child with a disability goes to a childrens camp to rest, he/she shall be refunded 50 percent of his/ her pass price once a year; if a single person with a disability who has not created the right to receive a funeral benefit according to the social insurance legislation dies, cash assistance shall be granted from the social insurance fund which equals 75 percent of the funeral benefit. Moreover, persons with disabilities are ensured public transportation free of charge in the capital and aimag centres regardless their local citizenship. Priority is given to persons with disabilities in commerce, transport, communication, health services and public service organizations.
Address : Sukhbaatar District, Khoroo 6, Sukhbaatar Street 11-2, Office of the Legal Education Academy (inside the court of the Childrens Art Center, in the right side) Tel : 321294

Photo B.Chadraabal

8 THE MONGOL MESSENGER

sPorT & arTs

Friday, April 4, 2014

ARTS COUNCIL OF MONGOLIA Lest We Regret: Reduce, Rethink, and Recycle!

The world cannot handle waste art exhibition

From March 19 to April 2, the Arts Council of Mongolia (ACM) presented Lest We Regret Reduce, Rethink, Recycle! exhibition with the support of Rio Tinto LLC at ACMs Red Ger art gallery. This exhibition showing environmental issues through creative ways including photos and videos was designed to prompt self-awareness of viewers. ACM worked with D. Sodoo, D.Batkholboo, D.Batzorig, Sh.Ikhbayar, U.Odmaa, T. Sarangoo and T.Khulan, 7 of the brightest young artists and sculptors in the country today, and asked them to express the issues in our city that are detrimental to the environment in their own voices. We could have called this project Save the Planet, or Green Innovation & Art Initiative, but we decided to give it a long title, like a law, a Bill, or an act of the government that also wears an obligatory long name. The reason is that the project advocates a cause that is, like its title, urgent and important. It is not an issue that can be expressed and addressed with a cute tagline or casual call for action. It is grave and it is serious. Lest We Regret. So we do not regret todays actions in the future. Our actions today determine the future, so it is urgent and important. Art is a direct line to our consciousness, so we are using art to speak directly to you. What can we do so we dont regret? The works by the artists hold no answers, but they start a conversation and bring the issue to the forefront of public consciousness. We are not here today to critique the artwork, but consider the ideas they evoke. These works came from the hearts and minds of the artists, and we hope they find their way into yours. Lest we regret... Artist: Sodoo. D Name of Art: Sharing the Wonders Material: Plastic bottles My artwork is called Sharing the Wonders. I believe that wonders exist in every single person. I wish others to acknowledge the wonders of their own, expose them in reality in any way and share them with others. These wonders are kept in human hearts and by sharing we flourish our lives together. For this reason, I wanted to see garbage with different eyes. I saw colors and freedom that gently fly in my soul rather than treating garbage as useless or dirty, and attempted to expressed it in reality. I described trees and colorful butterflies in my artwork. The butterflies are described on bloomed trees and flying high off the trees. The trees fully support the ecosystem by making soil sparse, making the air fresh, conserving water resources, and becoming home for insects, and animals. A tree fully makes restorations and always shares its marvelous generously, with all. Therefore, I illustrated the tree as it represents restoration; and appealed for recycling and restoration of garbage which we created ourselves, by taking an example from the trees. I attempted to express my view through blossoms and butterflies, that if we recycle garbage, eco-friendly and beautiful things would sprout as a result, rather than harmful things. Not to regret later on, Recycle! Sculptor:Batkholboo. D Name of Art: WasteCity Material: Scrap iron As for me, it is important to sense how space, shapes, patterns and arts are created and perceived by others. We

approach to things with our views every time we act, tune them with our lifestyle and rhythm, and exchange information with the environment we live in and with everything we have. Keeping the environment that surrounds us clean starts from our consciousness. Who litters? Garbage is made by us. When one litters, more is added on. Eventually, heaps of garbage accumulate. One day, we are surprised to see such a mountain of garbage wondering where it came from. Our future begins from todays actions. We have been pursuing worthless things, seeking for our own, yet have forgotten others. Nevertheless, we still have time to realize and reason. One more word to say. Shall we have no garbage? Not to regret later on, Consider! Artist: Batzorig. D Name of Art: UB=2013 Material: Glass UB=2013 was intended to show that ecological balance is being disturbed and spiritual connection of human to nature and animals is being separated. Materials such as glass, plastic, plastic bags, and tin cans, are made with chemical compositions and considered as human intellectual inventions. They do not dissolve and disappear in the soil for a long period of time. For this reason, they become garbage and result in the emergence of social frustration and discontent. I wish you, as a man of consciousness, would consume those eco-unfriendly materials appropriately. Not to regret later on... Think! Artist: Odmaa. U Name of art: Become mature Beginprocessing rial: Plastic bags Plastic bags might seem to be the most useless or ineffective material. As a matter of fact, they could be the most valuable and useful things. I would like to deliver a message to people that garbage is a recyclable raw material, let us process and create something new and remind that we would need a positive attitude, a proper way and good habits. Changing our attitude would not require any time, money, or pressure. First, building the right habits for yourself and your family is sufficient. For instance, we look at our children as a normal action when they litter. This is because we act the same way. Such wrong habits built-up in our lives. As a consequence, our health and environment, which are the most valuable things for mankind, are being damaged. How to change it? Very simple. Not littering through a car window, in the streets or anywhere else, and passing this discipline on to your children would be a positive step toward change. The next step would be for all to see garbage as recyclable and processable raw material, then a clean and garbage-free environment in our city would become reality, not a dream. People should never dispose of things that they consider useful. By choosing A SPINDLE

as a main object which is a primary heritage of human culture, an object that could illustrate a reprocess and a process of a new product and bring remembrance of life to peoples mind, I wanted to reflect the idea that garbage reprocessing is simple and applicable for those who think it is not their business. Not to regret later on... Avoid from over-consumption! Artist: Khulan. T Name of art: A ripened tree Material: Wastepaper In modern times, it is almost impossible to exist without advertisements in society. Every day we are faced with over 3500 banners, each of which declares its own brand feature. Although those advertisement banners illustrate the characteristics of their companies in their time, when the time ends, they become trash to pollute Mother Nature. We seem to be announcing the garbage production movement on a timely manner, living for the garbage, advertising to litter, selling garbage, buying it, and when we lose interest, we entitle it with this UGLY name GARBAGE and keep adding to the amount of waste. Wastepaper keeps piling up this way. Not to regret later on Recycle it, once you have cut off! Artist Sarangoo. T Name of art: The earth cannot bear its garbage. Material: Waste material I assume humankind is a child of Mother Earth and she loves us. Humanity is her own child. Hence, she forgives and loves us even when we are digging out her beauty, cutting off the trees, burying toxic

substances, taking out what we need from her body and using her parts for our own good; yet she has the power to rotate her giant body on her axis. At best, we could return a little favor by planting a few trees like making tea with dew drops. It is argued whether the egg or the chicken came first, we did not create the earth; I believe the cosmos created the earth; otherwise, why was it not put closer to the sun? The earth is in a pitiful condition to humankind like a captive soldier. We are ruling and mistreating her. However, we are living on her body. We are taking all we need, breathing its air, drinking its water, eating its plants and animals. We cannot fully return the favor. If we control our greed, frugally will consume its resources and not pollute it and we will make a little contribution. Our descendants will benefit. The little child of the cosmos will live little longer. Because the Earth cannot bear its garbage anymore, mankind is littering space today. Intending to live on a different planet after the Earth is destroyed, is like throwing our trash over a neighbors yard or not caring our parents when they become bedridden. We are the intellectual mankind who has the potential to create and discover a lot. What should we do? We comfort children when they are crying although there are many harder situations in life. We lift them up when children fall down. We care for the sick before death. We never leave them alone even if death is unavoidable. I am addressing this question to you who are now reading it and looking at my artwork. Why does mankind seek humanity and benevolence? What shall we do? The Earth is in a pitiful condition as if were held captive by mankind. Not to regret later on Control your greed!

Graphic illustration of the worlds waste problem

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