Mongolia Brief April 30, 2014



Minister L.Bold Meets with Estonian Counterpart
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) In a scope of an official visit to Estonia, the Minister of Foreign Affairs L.Bold Tuesday met with his Estonian counterpart Mr Urmas Paet.

At the meeting, the sides inked the visa waiving inter-governmental agreement Mongolia and Estonia. After this, the FM L.Bold visited the “Mektory” business center, a new initiation of the Tallinn University of Technology and participated in an opening ceremony of Mongolian painting and sculpture exhibition at the university.
During his visit, the FM L.Bold will be received by Mr Eiki Nestor, the president of Estonian Parliament /Riigikogu/ and also visit the Estonian ICT Demo Center to study experiences.


Our Delegation Participates in Congress of Asian Constitutional Courts and Equivalent Institutions
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) A delegation led by J.Amarsanaa, the Chairman of the Constitutional Court of Mongolia, participated in the second Congress of the Asian Constitutional Courts and Equivalent Institutions on April 28-30.
Our delegation team consisted of member of the Constitutional Court D.Ganzorig, analyst R.Anar and interpreter P.Amar.
At the action, the Academician J.Amarsanaa delivered a lecture themed “Relations between the Constitutional Court and Parliament, its present situation and ways to resolve”, and the discussion on related matters ran among the participants.
During the conference, the Academician J.Amarsanaa met with delegates of Turkey, Russia, North Korea, Kazakhstan, Armenia and Malaysia as well as Nepal, Tajikistan and the European Union /EU/ to exchange views on bilateral cooperation and the matters relating to strengthening and protecting rules of law, human rights and democracy.
At the end of the meeting, the participants joined in the three-point Istanbul Declaration.


First Deputy Premier Meets Pupils
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) The First Deputy Prime Minister D.Terbishdagva Tuesday hosted a forum of graduate pupils from secondary schools of the city’s Songinokhairkhan district. This forum is held in frames of the traditional campaign called “Let’s see off our 11th spring” by the First Deputy Premier.
Terbishdagva made the opening remarks at the forum with a motto “Disciplined Mongolia shall lead the world”, saying that finishing the secondary school is very important for pupils to begin a new step in their life. He highlighted that graduate students always must develop themselves by reading many books and learning foreign languages, and then spoke some lessons about making independent decisions. “You pupils should absorb in your mind ideology of being proud of motherland and conserving the earth,” he said.
In frames of the campaign, several contests such as essay writing contest titled “My role in a development of district”, a Mongolian language Olympiad and a basketball competition among pupils and teachers took place.
At the forum, a head of the “Magnet of intelligence” NGO P.Buyandelger delivered a report themed “Welcome to life!”; and a teacher of the “Otgontenger” university U.Amarbat--a report titled “Psychology for success”.


Mongolians Deliver Presentation at UN Meeting in Geneva
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) Mongolian representatives are attending the sixth session of Investment, Enterprise and Development Commission of   the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in Geneva, Switzerland from April 28 to May 2.
UNCTAD's Investment Policy Review of Mongolia was discussed at the intergovernmental level during the sixth Session of the Commission on Investment, Enterprise and Development. The Government of Mongolia was represented by a high-level delegation headed by Mr Ochirbat Chuluunbat, Vice Minister of Economic Development, and Mr Javkhlanbaatar Sereeter, Director General of Invest Mongolia Agency.
The Commission provides the opportunity for member States and investment and development stakeholders to discuss key and emerging issues in the area of investment and enterprise and their implications for sustainable development, as well as policy solutions.
This year's session will address two main themes: Entrepreneurship and productive capacity-building and Technology and innovation for inclusive development.
A high-level panel has been convened on the first day of the Commission to discuss how to create jobs through enterprise development. Under the same agenda item, policymakers, investment promotion agencies and private sector representatives were given the opportunity to exchange concrete experiences and views during the second day of the Commission devoted to the presentation, at the ministerial level, of the Investment Policy Reviews of Bangladesh, Mongolia and the Republic of Moldova.


L.Bold Meets Estonian President
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) Foreign Minister L.Bold is paying an official visit to Estonia these days.
During his visit, Minister L.Bold met with the President of Estonia Toomas Hendrik Ilves, held official negotiations with his Estonian counterpart Urmas Paet, and met Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications Urve Palo.
At the meetings, Mongolia expressed its willingness to study Estonia’s experience in developing e-governance and opportunities for cooperating in the shale processing industry. The Estonian side expressed its readiness to share its experiences.


Press release: Best suppliers win the Gobi Gem awards
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia – April 29 (Oyu Tolgoi) Oyu Tolgoi LLC today recognised and celebrated the success of its best Mongolian suppliers. The fifth Gobi Gem - Supplier Recognition Awards ceremony took place at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre in Ulaanbaatar with nine companies named as Oyu Tolgoi’s best suppliers.
Last year, Oyu Tolgoi commenced shipments of copper concentrate, establishing a new brand of Mongolian mining product and becoming a leading national operating business. This success is rightly shared with Oyu Tolgoi’s suppliers, some of whom have been working on the project us for nine years.
In 2013, Oyu Tolgoi LLC spent US$538.1 million on procurement in Mongolia which constitutes almost 76 per cent of total procurement. We are proud that our national suppliers have created a total of 35,000 jobs. Last year, we worked with a total of 949 national suppliers.
During the supplier recognition ceremony, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Oyu Tolgoi LLC G.Batsukh said: “All of you have every right to feel proud since in addition to suppliying goods and services you have learned and introduced to Mongolia the very best of international standards of quality, safety and labour relations. This is one example of the real benefits of working with Oyu Tolgoi and the benefits of living in Mongolia, learning in Mongolia and creating value in Mongolia.”
Mr.Tumen-Ayush, CEO of Khasu Megawatt, the winner of the Grand Prix award said: “Our company started as an energy company and our operations tended to be seasonal in nature. After we started working with Oyu Tolgoi, we switched to permanent operations. Our hard-working staff have been meeting international standards of performance which in my view helped form a long-term relationship with Oyu Tolgoi. Also, through Oyu Tolgoi, we worked with a sewing company, Gobi Uran Shaglaa LLC from Umnugovi aimag to order work uniforms for our employees at the mine site. In future, we plan to use them for uniforms for our employees working in other industries as well. I think it is right for Mongolian companies to support each other.”
The Gobi Gem awards celebrate the success of suppliers in the following nine categories.
Best supplier for safety performance - Bambai LLC,
Best new supplier– Khangurd LLC,
Best supplier (Khanbogd) – Uguumuur Gaviluud,
Best new supplier (Umnugobi) – Buyant Galba LLC,
Best supplier (Umnugobi) – Goviin Anir LLC,
Best supplier for employee development performance – Major Drilling LLC,
Best supplier for social responsibility performance – Mekhlopat LLC,
Best supplier for supply chain improvement - SLS Bearings LLC.
The Grand Prix award was won by Khasu Megawatt LLC.
Kh.Munkhbat, Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) and community relations manager of Major Drilling LLC said: “Our company complies with Oyu Tolgoi’s six life saving rules as well as following our own 10 safety rules based on the specifics of our operations. We are working to put these rules into a manual in order to make it a daily routine in our work. We use environmentally friendly substances and tools in our drilling. Young workers from Major Drilling also performed a world record drilling attempt at the Oyu Tolgoi mine”.
Oyu Tolgoi’s procurement principles of openness, transparency and cost efficiency are contributing to the growth and competitiveness of national and Umnugovi suppliers. We also continue to fulfill our commitment to strengthen South Gobi businesses. For example, in 2010 we procured only US$0.5 million worth of goods and services from South Gobi suppliers which in 2013 this figure rose to US$9.1 million, and in 2014 we are planning to increase this even further to US$32 million. We all should feel proud that Oyu Tolgoi LLC managed to create an independent and internationally competitive national supplier network which can contribute in a reliable, sustainable and efficient manner to Mongolia’s economic growth. Our sincere congratulations go to winners of Oyu Tolgoi LLC supplier recognition awards.


Children in Mongolia Can Now Lodge Complaints with United Nations
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) At this year’s first regular meeting, Mongolia’s Child Rights Group, comprised of UNICEF, World Vision Mongolia, Save the Children and other organisations, expressed their appreciation to the Government of Mongolia for signing the Third Optional Protocol to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), and their confidence that the Government will make efforts to ratify this important legal instrument, said unicef.org on April 23.
The Third Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) on a Communications Procedure entered into force on 14 April 2014, after the required 10 countries ratified it. In countries where the new protocol has been ratified, children and their representatives can submit their complaints about violations of children's rights to the expert Committee on the Rights of the Child, if they have exhausted all legal avenues in the country.
Mongolia, one of the first countries to sign and ratify the Convention on the Rights of the Child in July 1990 and signed the Third Optional Protocol in October 2013. It has ratified its previous two optional protocols on the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child Pornography and on the involvement of children in Armed Conflict in 2003 and 2004 respectively.
 “The new optional protocol gives children a legal voice, opening a new era for children’s rights as we mark the 25th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child in November this year,” said the members of the Child Rights Group.
Under the Third Optional Protocol, the state parties have an obligation to make complaint mechanisms accessible for all children, with special efforts directed at those most vulnerable to rights violations, especially excluded and marginalised children, such as children with disabilities, indigenous and minority children.
The Group drew particular attention to the millions of children who are silent and invisible victims of violence and abuse across the globe. In the context of Mongolia, despite all the achievements, issues of violence against children still remain. While acknowledging the achievements of the Government of Mongolia, the Child Rights Group recognized that much work remains to be done, as children’s rights continue to be violated on a daily basis, including through violence, exploitation and abuse.
The Child Rights Group expressed their readiness to support the Government of Mongolia to accelerate the process towards the ratification of the Optional Protocol hoping that this new Optional Protocol will soon reach universal ratification. This will ensure that Mongolia complies with their obligations and face any scrutiny concerning individual allegations of child rights violations that may emerge.


Mongolia to support Chinas Infrastructure Investment Bank
April 30 (news.mn) Prime Minister of Mongolia N.Altankhuyag received the Finance Minister of China Lou Jiwei on Monday April 29th.
At the start of the meeting, Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag applauded the progress made so far in bilateral financial and economic cooperation as a result of the large project launched after the visit by the head of the Government of Mongolia to China in 2013.
Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag continued to say that he is satisfied with the successful agreements and Memorandum of Understanding on mutually beneficial trade and financial cooperation signed during this visit by China`s Finance Minister Lou Jiwei to Mongolia.
At the meeting China`s Finance Minister Lou Jiwei expressed thanks to Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag for approving to establish the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank in Mongolia that was initiated by China`s Chairman Xi Jinping.
The Government of Mongolia decided to support China`s initiation to encourage infrastructure development establishing the bank in Mongolia as it thinks infrastructure development is essential for economic cooperation of landlocked countries.
In the scope of the bilateral financial cooperation, Mongolian and Chinese central banks agreed on a currency swap arrangement. The currency swap agreement, which plays an important role facilitating bilateral trade and investment and maintaining financial stability, expired last March. It now needs to be renewed as well as adding an increase to the amount of the bilateral swap.
Minister Lou Jiwei as China`s Finance Minister asked for Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag`s support and attention to solve the issue as soon as possible.
At the meeting, talks were also held on bilateral financial and economic conditions and measures that are being taken.


Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi Press Release on Chalco Agreement
April 30 (business-mongolia.com) Despite the down cycle of the coal market, ETT operations are continuing and the company is performing its duties before its contractors and partners. Also, it is increasing its production and export volume every year.
However, number of politicians spreading false accusations regarding our ETT’s operations and the Agreement with Chalco Trading Hong Kong Limited that has been established in July of 2011. For example, MP L.Enkh-Amgalan stated without any concrete basis that ETT worsened the Agreement by decreasing the sale price from USD70 to USD38. This creates misunderstanding among public. The base USD70 price was USD20 lower than the market price. In addition, the agreement stated that the price will be established seasonally based on the index price of 4 exchanges located in People’s Republic of China. Coal price dropped continuously after the establishment of the agreement by 40% comparing to 2012 and 2013.
Without the changes in the agreement mentioned above, ETT would be losing USD10 every ton. Therefore, ETT stopped its sales to Chalco in accordance with the Board of Directors’ decision and entered into a difficult negotiation with the company. During the negotiation sides understood each other’s mutual interest and because of the change in pricing mechanism ETT prevented a loss of MNT17 billion.
In 2013 ETT commenced production in West Tsankhi marketed 30% of 2.5 million tons with profit. Moreover, production cost has been decreased by establishing customs area in East Tsankhi enabled the transportation go directly to Chinese Gants Mod port. It allowed us to market coal USD60-65 per ton. It contributed to decreasing transportation cost and increasing export volume. In regards to these reasons ETT made MNT28.8 real profits from its operations.
We would like to caution that misstatements about Chalco Agreement will cause confusion among public and disrupt our relationship with our partner.
Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC
2014.04.29


"Little Stars’ Miracle” Circus in Ulaanbaatar
April 30 (infomongolia.com) Upon the invitation of Mongolian National Circus commonly referred as to ASA Circus, the only famed in the world - dwarf circus will be performing a "Little Stars' Miracle" in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from May 25 to June 01, 2014.
This time, a team of 35 actors will be enjoying spectators, besides more than 20 animals including bear, dogs, sheep and goats are also to stage together with Mongolian circus actors. 
About 20 years ago from now, talented dwarf artists first performed in Ulaanbaatar.


National Security Council of Mongolia to Announce Chinggis Bonds Expenditure on May 06, 2014
April 30 (infomongolia.com) At its regular meeting of the National Security Council of Mongolia (NSC) held on April 30, 2014, NSC members revised the Government’s expenditure of the fund sourced from "Chinggis" bonds.
On December 03, 2012, Government issued a comprehensive list of the recommendations to implement on “Chinggis” bonds, consequently, the NSC resolved at today’s meeting to introduce officially the bonds’ expenditure, balance report, repayment sources and schedules at its next meeting dated on May 06, 2014.


Mongolia-China Business Cooperation Council Established
April 30 (infomongolia.com) On April 29, 2014, Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) announced a “Mongolia-China Business Cooperation Council” is established. The new Council aims to support Mongolian entrepreneurs, expand businesses and protect its rights, besides to support bilateral organizations and partner enterprises’ activities.
The Council consists of nine Board Members and MP S.Byambatsogt is promoted as the President of Mongolia-China Business Cooperation Council.
Chairman of MNCCI, MP S.Demberel noted, “Mongolia and China entrepreneurs should have an equal terms, but such body was not formed to date in order to regulate intercommunications. In order to adhere the foreign policy of Mongolia as a priority, the economic mechanism was necessary, thus it was decided to establish the Council. Today, Russia-Mongolia-China, a trilateral neighboring relation is followed in our country and furthermore Russia-Mongolia and China-Mongolia Business Cooperation Councils should interoperate”.
The Council is free from any governmental organ and shall have a private and independent status, but will follow decisions issued from the intergovernmental commission regarding business areas. In the frameworks of implementations, the Council is obliged to develop and deepen bilateral trade and economy, and help to promote and acclimatize Mongolian businesses on China market, moreover to interlink Mongolian enterprises with China governmental and non-governmental organizations under mutual beneficial cooperation and equal terms.
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National Security Council’s Regular Meeting Held
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME)The National Security Council (NSC) held on Tuesday a regular meeting and discussed issues related to the Genggis Bonds of the Mongolian Government.
At the meeting, NSC members decided to make an introduction on the implementation of their recommendation on the Genggis Bonds at the regular meeting on May 6.


Permanent Representative of Mongolia to UN Makes Statement on Nuclear Disarmament
April 30 (infomongolia.com) The Preparatory Committee for the 2015 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) is holding its third session at the United Nations Office in New York from April 28 to May 09, 2014.
This meeting is the third of three sessions prior to the 2015 Review Conference that aims to prepare for the Review Conference in terms of assessing the implementation of each article of the NPT and facilitating discussion among States with a view to making recommendations to the Review Conference.
On April 28, 2014, Permanent Representative of Mongolia to UN, Mr. Od OCH made a statement noting important initiatives and developments that seek to address the security challenges of our times, including the Conference on humanitarian impact of nuclear weapons held last February in Mexico, as well as the Nuclear Security Summit held in Hague.
Mr. O.Och said that Mongolia is confident that establishment of September 26 as an International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapon will definitely promote accountability for disarmament obligations and absolutely enhance public awareness and education on the threat posed by nuclear weapons to humanity and necessity for their total elimination.
Saying that Mongolia is pursuing its efforts and contribution to this cause, through advancement of its NWF status and support of nuclear-weapons-free zones, Mr. O.Och noted that last September, during the High-Level Meeting of the UN General Assembly on Nuclear Disarmament, the President of Mongolia proposed to undertake a second comprehensive study on the establishment NWFZs in all its aspects and expressed hope that the parties to the treaty would provide broader support.
As of July 2011, 189 states are recognized as parties to the treaty and Mongolia was ratified on May 14, 1969.
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Local Governor Meets with UNDP Deputy Resident Representative
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) The governor of eastern Dornogobi province P.Gankhuyag has received Mr Thomas Erikkson, the Deputy Resident Representative of the UN Development Program /UNDP/.
The sides talked matters relating to local governance improvement, protection development of special protected areas, and viable projects and programs in the country.
After this, the UNDP staffers ran training for local members of the Citizens' Representative Khural.


Banks Grant Mortgage Loans to 18,339
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) Commercial banks of Mongolia have received so far re-financing requests for low interest mortgage loans totaling 846.3 billion togrog.
Since commencing the annual 8% mortgage program last June, the banks have received requests to refund already awarded housing loans of 846.3 billion togrog, which have been delivered under the Government program to stabilize the mortgage system of the nation. Refunding requests for the loans totaling 518.7 billion from 18 thousand 166 citizens have been approved by the commercial banks. 
During the same period, the commercial banks have received low interest mortgage loan applications totaling one trillion togrog. After a careful consideration over the new requests, the banks decided to grant mortgage totaling one trillion 25.8 billion togrog to 18 thousand 339 applicants.


Immigration Agency Chief Works at ‘11 11’ Center
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) A chief of the Immigration Agency B.Purevdorj worked in the ‘11 11’ center of the Government on Wednesday.
Amid an interview with an officer of the center, Mr Purevdorj explained ongoing reforms in this sector that include changes in the agency’s name, structure and actions, establishment of an united database for border passes, and cooperation with diplomatic representatives of Mongolia in foreign countries.
Today, Mongolians travel to over 200 countries around the globe, he said. The Foreign Ministry of Mongolia is now able to inform on visa duration and other related issues to make fellow citizens abroad aware of in time.


Mongolian Scouts to Gather
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) The Scout Association of Mongolia is planning to organize the fifth National Jamboree in Eco Scout camp at Tov province on this July 2-8.
This annual measure will bring together more than 1500 scouts of Mongolia and also from countries of the USA, England, Denmark, Hong-Kong, Norway and Taiwan.
During the event, the participants will be involved in many kinds of sport and cognitive activities and will learn many new abilities as well as will become friends with international scouts.
Organizers say, Mongolian traditional games will be particularly promoted at the action under a motto of “Let's join and participate for good deed”.
In Scouting, a jamboree is a large gathering Scouts who rally at a national or international level.


Special Schools Get Lift-Equipped Buses
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) UB city's special schools acquired lift-equipped buses for children with disabilities on Wednesday.
A sum of 700 million togrogs was covered from the State Fund and the Ministry of Education and Science supplied these buses to schools needed.
The measure was attended by L.Gantomor, the Minister of Education and Science.


Mongolian Young Wrestlers to Head for Thailand
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) Mongolian young wrestlers are planning to compete at Asian Cadet free-style wrestling championships in Chon Buri province of Thailand on May 8-11.
The championships will be held in three categories of boys’ freestyle, boys’ Greco-Roman and girls freestyle. Champions of 46 kg, 54 kg, 63 kg, 76 kg and 100 kg of boys’ tournaments, and of 46 kg, 52 kg, 60 kg and 70 kg of girls’ tournaments will be awarded with rights to compete at the Nanjing 2014 Youth Olympics on August 16-28.


Mining Employee Number Reaches 20 Thousand
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) The number of people working in the mining sector of Mongolia has reached to 20.4 thousand in the last month, showing a 13% increase compared to the same period of previous year, says the National Statistical Commission.
A 46% of all mining workers are provided with employment in metal ore production, while 40.7% of them are engaged with coal exploration, and 5.5% are employed in oil production. The statistics show a 52% increase in the oil sector employment, and 8% in the coal sector.


Drama Theater to Stage ‘Sorry, Wrong Number’ by Lucille Fletcher
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) Within its ongoing playlets project, the Drama Theater is planning to stage ‘Sorry, Wrong Number’ play written by Lucille Fletcher commencing from this Wednesday.
The play follows ‘the Crow Grove’ by A.Vampilov and Lullaby by N.Gankhuyag to become the third play to be staged within this project at which seven Mongolian directors will stage less-known or not-staged-before plays, including also ‘the Open Couple’ by Dario Fo and ‘Mannequin’ by Nikolai Kolyada.
Sorry, Wrong Number tells the story of a woman who overhears a murder plot.


Opera and Ballet Theater Releases May Program
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) In this May, the Opera and Ballet Theater is planning to present a rich-as-usual program to their audiences.
Its May program will open on May 3 with ‘Il trovatore’ (the Troubadour) opera in four acts by Giuseppe Verdi, which began a victorious march throughout the operatic world since its premiere in 1853, a success due to Verdi's work over the previous three years. Il trovatore will be staged again on May 10.
On May 4, the Theater will stage two ballets - ‘Francesca da Rimini’ by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and ‘Girls of Jewels’ by Z.Khangal. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's symphonic poem Francesca da Rimini: Symphonic Fantasy after Dante, Op. 32, was composed in less than three weeks during his visit to Bayreuth in the autumn of 1876. It is dedicated to his friend and former pupil Sergei Taneyev. In this fantasia, Tchaikovsky presents a symphonic interpretation of the tragic tale of Francesca da Rimini, a beauty who was immortalized in Dante's Divine Comedy. These two ballets will close the monthly program on May 30.
The program also includes another ballet by Tchaikovsky -Swan Lake- to be performed on May 11 and 18.Swan Lake is a ballet composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in 1875–1876. The scenario, initially in four acts, was fashioned from Russian folk tales and tells the story of Odette, a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer's curse. The choreographer of the original production was Julius Reisinger. The ballet was premiered by the Bolshoi Ballet on 4 March 1877 the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow.
In this May, opera enthusiasts may see two other operas in the theater –Don Giovanni by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart on May 17, and Madama Butterfly by Giacomo Puccini on May 24-25. Don Giovanni is an opera in two acts with music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Italian libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte. It is based on the legends of Don Juan, a fictional libertine and seducer. A staple of the standard operatic repertoire, Don Giovanni is currently tenth on the Operabase list of the most-performed operas worldwide. It has also proved a fruitful subject for writers and philosophers.


New Exhibition to Open in Red Ger Art Gallery
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) A “Red Ger” Art Gallery of the Mongolian Art Council is to display a new exhibition themed “Flow” by a young artist E.Enkhzaya on May 1.
Young painter Enkhzaya said, she intended to describe human inner world, close relationship between mankind and nature as well as unification power by her works.
Furthermore, viewers will enjoy video and installation arts works of young artist.
This exhibition will be on public show until May 12.


Mongolian Student Becomes Winner at College Television Awards
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) The USA-based Mongolian student N.Monkhtsetseg took the third place prize from the College Television Awards, last week.
This year's College Television Awards were held at the Television Academy's Leonard H. Goldenson Theatre on April 23.
Our Monkhtsetseg worked on “I'm possible” animation as a producer and received this award in animation category.
She received winner cup from famous actor Bob Bergen, known as the voice of “Porky Pig” and “Tweety”.
Currently, Monkhtsetseg is studying at Savannah College of Art and Design.


Discussion on Alcohol control legislation
April 30 (news.mn) In the scope of a campaign to renew “Alcohol beverage control law” draft law, there will be a discussion among medical specialists and staff in the Civil hall at the Government house at 14.00 pm today on April 30th.
The discussion will cover endurances that might arise when the law is practiced and problematic issues and definite suggestion from the discussion will be reflected in the law.
Parliamentarian L.Erdenechimeg will deliver an opening speech and   and health specialist of Ministry of Health B.Byambatogtokh will give speech on “Alcohol consumption and health outcomes” and Legal policy expert of Ministry of Justice N.Bat-Erdene will give presentation on renewed draft of “Alcohol beverage control law”.


Day of non-violence against children
April 30 (news.mn) Today, April 30th is observed as the day of non-violence against children; no-hitting, no-smacking, no spanking of children.
The day of non-violence against children has been marked for the 9th year in Mongolia with the support of the Save the Children Fund along with public attendance. This is a call for good behavior to deal with children.
Psychological studies prove that abused children eventually become abusers themselves.
The day of non-violence against children was initiated in the US in 1998 to give widespread attention to the need to end corporal punishment of children and the day has been marked in other countries since 2001.
In Mongolia, for the first time in 2006, the day of non-violence against children was observed, initiated by Save the Children who organized a number of campaigns targeted to stop violent punishment of children.
In 2006, over 20 amendments were made to the Law on Education of Mongolia relating to children's rights and child protection measures with a key role being played by Save the Children.
This year, the “campaign against child punishment” by Save the Children is being launched at 58 kindergartens in Ulaanbaatar city and 30 sums in Arkhangai, Uvurkhangai, Dornod, and Sukhbaatar aimags.
Media and local televisions in 21 aimags and 9 districts in the City, Mongolian Children`s Palace, Urguu and Tengis cinemas also joined the campaign calling for public awareness broadcasting adverts for non-violence against children.


Top 10 Albums of Week: April 21-27, 2014
April 30 (infomongolia.com) The "Hi-Fi Records" music chain store releases the Top 10 best selling albums on weekly basis. Below the chart list of albums led on April 21-27, 2014.
Top 10 albums of the week: April 21-27, 2014
1. “Mungun Shunu” (Silver Night) by UBS TV (Top participants of the "Universe Best Songs" Contests) - 10,000 MNT (Tugrug)
2. “Namuun Baigali” (Quite Nature) - 18,000 MNT
3. “Mongolchuudyn Tsakhim Tuukh” (E-History of Mongols) by historian D.Ulziibaatar - 4,000 MNT
4. "Geeometry" by rapper Gee - 10,000 MNT
5. “Mongol Kinony Duu” (Songs of Mongolian Movies) by UBS TV - 18,000 MNT
6. “Mongol Eej” (Songs dedicated to Mongolian Mothers) by Kh.Lkhagvasuren, lead singer of “Kharanga” group - 20,000 MNT
7. "2014" by “Kiwi” - 15,000 MNT
8. “Burkhan Khaldun” by music composer N.Jantsannorov - 23,000 MNT
9. “Chi Mini Baigaa Bolokhoor” (Because You Are) DVD by D.Otgonbayar, lead singer of “Khurd” group - 30,000 MNT
10. “Sodon Ayalguu” (Unique Melodies) by Ts.Chuluunbat, music composer, singer and guitarist of “Kharanga” group - 30,000 MNT


Prime Minister Introduces “100 Days to Strengthen Economy” Plan-Project to Foreign Representatives in Mongolia
April 30 (infomongolia.com) On April 30, 2014, Prime Minister of Mongolia, Mr. Norov ALTANKHUYAG hosted a roundtable meeting among representatives of Diplomatic Offices, International Organizations and foreign resident correspondents in Mongolia introducing his initiated the "100 Days to Strengthen Economy" program, which was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In his statement Premier N.Altankhuyag noted, “The New Government for Changes submitted the “100 Days to Strengthen Economy" plan-project, which is being under discussion at the State Great Khural (Parliament) these days. Within the scope of the project, over 50 jobs in 5 directories will be intensively implemented with 100 days as soon as the Parliament ratifies the draft and it’s planned to undergo for revision and approved at the next week Parliamentary plenary session.
The plan-project targets on large-scale projects relevant to international cooperation and focused to increase foreign investments and activate minerals output, which is one of main export products of Mongolia.
In order to attract foreign investments, we should carry out some measures, for examples:
- to introduce a new system on debt management;
- to free bank institutions from interest tax, when they importing foreign capital;
- to annul profit taxes, if a non-bank financial institution is drawing a fund of over 100 thousand USD;
- to attract investments on free economic zones;
- to provide investors with favorable visa conditions;
- to arrange specific meetings with investors;
Regarding the mining sector:
- to permit on allocating exploration licenses by amending the Law on Minerals of Mongolia;
- to resolve some controversial licensing issues;
- to commence Asgat silver deposit;
- to increase coal export;
- to support gold mining;
- to start oil refinery plant;
- to provide preparations works for Mongolia-China coal gasification plant;
Also, we should forward domestic development programs simultaneously such as to support national manufacturers and businesses by providing flexible services on taxes, credit and leasing. In order to monitor all these tasks that should perform coherent and prompt execution, an Economy Strengthening Council under Prime Minister’s Office is formed”. 
Following his introduction, Premier N.Altankhuyag answered on interested questions forwarded by foreign representatives and resident correspondents.
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World Clean Coal Conference - Mongolia to Take Place in Ulaanbaatar on May 28-29, 2014
April 30 (infomongolia.com) The World Clean Coal Conference, a series of events in response to the new challenges and opportunities facing clean coal industry worldwide, is being organized in China, India, Indonesia and Mongolia, and this time it is brought to gather in Ulaanbaatar on May 28-29, 2014.
The event is aimed to introduce the leading coal companies, power utilities, oil & gas companies, chemical and fertilizer producers’ innovative experiences, addressing the major challenges in government policy, regulation and industrial standards, delivering latest developments in technologies that help clean coal industry build new business model fitting into a low carbon and sustainable future. This year’s conference, themed “Unlocking Mongolia Clean Coal Potential”, intends to highlight the growth potential of Mongolian coal conversion industry and strives to provide meaningful coverage on current trends in the clean coal industry landscape. To this end, discussions on policy incentives and investment strategies for clean coal, coal gasification and CTL developments, evolving technologies, and international and regional best practices, among others, are woven throughout our comprehensive conference program.
Key topics to be discussed:
- Uncovering the Government’s strategy & vision for the coal conversion industry to provide an exclusive update on the industry;
- Discussion on the outlook and the future for Mongolia clean coal sector to ensure sustainable long-term development and growth;
- Reviewing the drivers and forecasts for domestic energy demand to understand how best to create clean coal portfolio; 
- Deciphering what foreign investors need to know about making investments in Mongolia clean coal industry;
- Assessing the potential opportunities and challenges and uncovering how to successfully operate in country;
- Evaluating the financing challenges and investment opportunities in the clean coal sector of Mongolia;
- Setting up the scheme for environment conservation and exploring cost-effective technologies for a green footprint in Mongolian clean coal sector;
Over 120 participants including senior government officials, clean coal project developers and leading technology licensors from Mongolia, Korea, USA, Germany, Japan, China, France, Denmark and Australia as well as executives from international development agencies, consulting groups, investment banks and international media will be attending.
Who will attend:
- Zandaakhuu ENKHBOLD, Speaker of the Parliament
- Ochirbat CHULUUNBAT, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Economic Development
- Bayanjargal BYAMBASAIKHAN, Chairman of the Business Council of Mongolia
- Yaichil BATSUURI, CEO of Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC
- Christopher J. Hagedorn, Chief Development Officer, Peabody Energy Corporation
- Kim Jae-seok, Senior Vice President of Gas & Coal Chemical Business Department, POSCO
- Jargalsaikhan ZOLJARGAL, Director of Aduunchuluun CTL Project, Mongolyn Alt (MAK) Corporation
- Janchig NARANGEREL, Chief Researcher, Mineral and Mining Experimental Laboratory, Mineral Resource Authority of Mongolia
- Dr. Heon Jung, Project Leader of CTL Project, Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER)
- Barnasan PUREVSUREN, Academician, Institute of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences
- Gerhard Beysel, Vice President, Air Separation Plants, Linde AG
- Kerry McKenna, Practice Leader Gasification and Coal to Liquids, Hatch Air Liquide Global E&C Solutions Siemens CB&I
- Kev Garner, Managing Director, Ascot Energy Holdings Ltd
- Enkhsaruul BYAMBAJAV, Professor, National University of Mongolia
- Randolph S. Koppa, President, Trade & Development Bank of Mongolia
- Elisabeth Ellis, Managing Partner, Minter Ellison
The World Clean Coal Conference, Mongolia 2014 offers an excellent opportunity to broaden your vision and ideas for wide eminent speakers from across the world with innovative and advanced clean coal industry technologies and project development. We believe that your attendance will get you the first hand information upon clean coal industry. Kindly let us know if this is something that would be of interest to you.
The World Clean Coal Conference, Indonesia was held in Bali on April 09-10, 2014 and the World Clean Coal Conference, India is scheduled to take place in Delhi on September 10-11, 2014.


Workshop Held on Biological Weapons Convention
April 30 (infomongolia.com) A workshop on national implementation of the Biological Weapons Convention and Chemical Weapons Convention was co-hosted by the Department of International Organizations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia and UN Office for Disarmament Affairs in Ulaanbaatar on April 28-29, 2014.
Attended by representatives of the ministries, government agencies, Mongolian Academy of Sciences and civil society organizations, the workshop discussed over ten reports on the history of chemical and biological weapons, the development, goals, structures, and principles of conventions on the prohibition of these weapons, activities of the national services of the parties to the conventions, assistance provided to and collaboration issues.
The attendees focused on opportunities for training national staffs, supplying necessary equipment, developing programs of actions, improving border and customs control and laboratory capacities, and receiving technical assistance from UN and other international organizations, reports the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia.
Related:
Training on biological weapons heldMontsame, April 30



Children of Bangkok to visit UB
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) Head of the Citizens’ Representative Khural of Ulaanbaatar D.Battulga has said the capital city of Mongolia is to organize a trip for ten pupils and teachers of Thailand’s secondary schools to Ulaanbaatar city.
This tour will take place from July 15 to August 1 in frames of an exchange programme of children between Mongolia and Thailand. Mr Battulga said it during a meeting on Tuesday with his counterpart Pipat Lappratana within a visit to Thailand.
In the next turn, Mongolian pupils will visit the capital city of Thailand to history, culture and lifestyle of the country, and all the expenses for the trips will be sponsored by the recipient, he said.
Highlighting an importance of getting familiarized with history, culture and lifestyle of any country to know each other, the cities’ authorities hope that these measures will significantly contribute to expanding the bilateral collaboration.
Expressing a satisfaction with establishing the document on the programme, Ms Lappratana said the programme is expected to continue.


Director of Consular Department visits Switzerland
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) Director of the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sh.Sukhbaatar paid a working visit to Switzerland on April 24-26.
In frames of the visit, Mr Sukhbaatar held a meeting with Sylvain Astier, a division head of the Federal Migration Service, exchanging views on returning those Mongolians who were refused to migrate in Switzerland. He obtained information about aid to be rendered to the people who have voluntarily applied for returning home.
These people has a right to apply for the Switzerland’s visa without any obstacles, but those migrants who are forced to leave the country or committed crimes are restricted to apply for the visa in at least five years, the Swiss Migration Service says.
After this, Mr Sukhbaatar met with Mongolians in Switzerland, hearing opinions and requests from them. He also held a meeting with the Assistant-Secretary of State of the Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and shared views on appointing an Honorary Consul of Switzerland in Mongolia.


Stock exchange news for April 30
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) At the Stock Exchange trades held Wednesday, a total of 69 thousand and 337 shares of 24 JSCs were traded costing MNT 704 million 336 thousand and 688.00.
"Darkhan nekhii” /39 thousand and 852 units/, "Remikon” /20 thousand and 120 units/, "Mudix” /3,301 units/, "Merex” /2,000 units/ and "Moninjbar” /910 units/ were the most actively traded in terms of trading volume, in terms of trading value--"Darkhan nekhii" (MNT 665 million 528 thousand and 400), "Mudix" (MNT 26 million and 408 thousand), "Tavantolgoi" (MNT three million 315 thousand and 150), "Remikon” (MNT three million 018 thousand and 055) and "Gobi" (MNT two million 571 thousand and 975).
The total market capitalization was set at MNT one trillion 599 billion 573 million 400 thousand and 226. The Index of Top-20 JSCs was 15,522.61, decreasing by MNT 273.22 or 1.73% against the previous day.


Mongolians at AIPS Congress in Baku
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) The president of the Mongolia’s Association for Sports Journalists (MASJ) Ch.Otgonbaatar and the vice-president B.Tsagaanbaatar are taking part in the 77th congress of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) which opened April 27 in Baku, Azerbaijan.
This year’s congress is coincided with the 90th anniversary of the AIPS, and the President of Azerbaijan Mr Ilham Aliyev attended the opening ceremony. The head of state addressed the event, and congratulated members of the International Sport Press Association on its 90th anniversary.
The 77th Annual Congress of AIPS will run until May 1.
Founded in 1924 by six journalists during the Paris Summer Olympics, the AIPS has become a big international association in the world, joining some 160 countries so far.
The AIPS’s bears the goals to enhance the cooperation between its member associations in defending sport and the professional interest of their members; to strengthen the friendship, solidarity and common interests between sports journalists of all countries; and to assure the best possible working conditions for the members.


Training on fencing sport runs
Ulaanbaatar, April 30 (MONTSAME) Headquarters of the Mongolian National Olympic Committee (MonNOC) Tuesday hosted training on essential knowledge for fencing coaches.
The MonNOC vice president Ts.Damdin; and the secretary-general of the Mongolia’s Fencing Federation (MFF) attended the training.
Conducted by D.Ganbaatar, the MFF’s general coach, this training involved 16 coaches from the capital city, Baganuur district and Orkhon aimag. They were given lessons on primary knowledge of the sport.
According to the MFF’s authorities, the federation plans to invite coaches from Russia, and this training is held for preparing for this.

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