Mongolia Brief December 9, 2014



Standing Committees Back Ministers Candidatures
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) At its meetings on Tuesday, the parliamentary Standing committees on Security and Foreign Policy and on Social Policy, Education, Culture and Science discussed matters on appointing new Ministers proposed by the "Justice" coalition's faction.

Chaired by N.Enkhbold MP, the meeting of the Standing committee on Security and Foreign policy, with a participation of 52.6% of members, considered an appointment of Tsolmon Tserendash as the Minister of Defense. A presentation of Mr Tsolmon’s profile was made by the PM Ch.Saikhanbileg. He said Tsolmon is an engineer and a diplomat with "Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary" title, he has served as a member of the government and Ambassadors to countries.
There were no inquiries from the committee members, so a majority of the gathered backed Mr Tsolmon's appointment.
The same day, the Standing committee on Social Policy, Education, Culture and Science discussed a matter on appointing G.Shiilegdamba the Minister of Health and Sport. This candidacy was presented by the PM and was questioned by Yo.Otgonbayar, G.Bayarsaikhan, J.Batsuuri, Z.Bayanselenge, L.Erdenechimeg, S.Odontuya and Ts.Oyungerel MPs. "Our country’s health sector is in poor condition, so you must dramatically improve its legal environment and run reforms in it," they stressed.
A plenary meeting of the parliamentary session is discussing the appointment of new Ministers.

French State Minister Visits Traumatology Nat'l Center
By B. Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) The National traumatology center received December 7 Mr Matthias Fekl, the French Minister of State for foreign trade, promotion of tourism and French nationals abroad, and accompanying him officials. 
The Minister got au fait with an implementation of the project on improving a quality of emergency services, funded under easy-term loan of the Government of France. The guests also exchanged opinions on the operating of the medical equipment supplied in a scope of the project and specialized trainings provided for physicians of the center.
Mr Fekl said the health sector relations between the two countries have been intensifying and noted an importance of further deepening of such ties.
He was accompanied by the French Ambassador to Mongolia Mr Yves Delaunay.

D.Oyunkhorol MP Becomes Minister
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) At the morning session on Tuesday, parliamentarians discussed an appointment of Ms D.Oyunkhorol MP the Minister of Environment, Green Development and Tourism. Her candidacy was backed by 92% of the MPs.
After the approval Oyunkhorol promised to start her duties with air pollution-related actions.  
She was born in 1963 in Tosontsengel soum of Zavkhan aimag, she graduated from Tov aimag’s secondary school in 1981, State Institute of Pedagogy in 1986 majoring in mathematics teaching. In 2003, she completed Mongolian State University majoring in law, has defended PhD degree and assistant professor title. She worked as a math teacher in 26th secondary school in 1986-1987, and as a class in 1987-1989. The she was a secretary of the youths’ union of “Tuul” committee in 1989-1990, a manager of the 32nd secondary school in 1990-1991, a director of "Otgontenger" private university in 1991-2000. Oyunkhorol was elected member of parliament in 2000. She became MP again in 2008, served as a head of the Standing committee on social policy, education, culture and science until 2009. By the 2012 parliamentary election, she was elected as a MP third time.
She was awarded the Polar Star Order in 2000, a title of State Honored Teacher in 2011.

Mongolia, China and Russia hold tourism research conference
December 9 (news.mn) A trilateral tourism research conference between Mongolia, China and Russia was held in Huhhot, Inner Mongolia.
Previously, the conference was organized under the name "Conference on Border Regional Tourism between Mongolia and China". Starting this year, the conference has expanded to include Ulaanbaatar and Zabaykalsky Krai in Russia.
At the trilateral conference, the parties agreed to launch a road trip on a route from Northeastern China-Chita-Ulan-Ude-Irkutsk – Ulaanbaatar-Arkhashaat, and a tourist train trip called “Steppe Star” on a Huhhot-Ulaanbaatar-Ulan-Ude route. They discussed the opportunities to expand a trip for youth in Inner Mongolia and  Zabaykalsky Krai to Ulaanbaatar, and promote and advertise a “Tea Road” trip currently operated by the three countries to attract tourists from Zabaykalsky Krai.
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S.Bayartsogt Appointed as Head of Cabinet Secretariat
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) A member of parliament S.Bayartsogt was appointed the head of the Cabinet Secretariat for Government after a voting at a plenary meeting of parliamentary session on Tuesday by 75 percent of 48 MPs gathered.
Mr Bayartsogt Sangajav finished the 1st secondary school of Selenge aimag’s center in 1984, graduated from the State University of Moscow in 1989 and International Trade Academy of Germany in 1996, Mongolian State University (MSU) in 2003. He is an economist, teacher and lawyer.
Bayartsogt worked as the secretary of the Youth Union in 1989-1990, as a deputy chair of the Central Committee of Mongolian Revolutionary Youths’ Union in 1990-1991. He was also a member of both People’s Great Khural and State Conference in 1990-1992. He worked as the president of the Union of Mongolian Youths (UMY) in 1991-1997, as a scientific worker and teacher at the Education Academy of Politics in 1992-1994. He was elected MP in 1996, served as a deputy chairman of the Social Democratic Party in 1996 and 1999. He was elected the Minister of Environment in 1998 and the Minister of Finance later.   

PM Wants Reports about 106 Mining Licenses
By B. Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) Prime Minister Ch.Saikhanbileg on December 8 obliged the acting Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs D.Gankhuyag to present to the cabinet some issues concerning foreign investors and individuals.
The Premier considers that it is necessary for the Government to express its position on the matters about a reputation of Mongolia, "because the reputation has been damaged by a few individuals who spread words about some investors being 'trapped' in Mongolia".
He also instructed the acting head of the Authority for Minerals D.Uuriintuya to make presentation for the Cabinet on issuance of new licenses on 106 sites for exploration and exploitation, for which the previous licenses had been cancelled by the court decisions. 

Japanese photographer commemorates the events of 25 years ago
December 9 (news.mn) On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the democratic revolution in Mongolia, a photo exhibition by Japanese photographer Hiroyuki Usami, "Mongolian Democracy in the Japanese Press", opened at the Government House on Monday, December 8th.
Hiroyuki Usami was reminded of the events in Mongolia, recalling during the opening ceremony for the photo exhibition, “I was worried about being able to take photos at - 26C. But now, I am glad I captured the events of that time in Mongolia, 25 years ago.”
Usami, Speaker of Parliament Z.Enkhbold, Acting Minister of Education and Science L.Gamtumur, one of the first representatives of the Mongolian Democratic Union Dari Sukhbaatar, and B.Khishigbat cut the ribbon for the opening of the photo exhibition.
Usami's "Mongolian Democracy in the Japanese Press" photo exhibition features about 70 photos of the Mongolian democratic revolution and news stories and documents about Mongolia which were published in Japanese newspapers like Sankei, Yomiuri, Nikkei, Asahi, and Mainichi between 1989 and 1996.

The Second Mongolia-France Intergovernmental Working Group Meeting Successfully Ends in Ulaanbaatar
December 9 (infomongolia.com) The Second Intergovernmental Working Group Meeting between Mongolian and the French Republic was successfully organized in Ulaanbaatar at the Foreign Ministry on December 08, 2014.
Mongolian side was chaired by Deputy Foreign Minister D.Gankhuyag and the other part was chaired by Minister of State for Foreign Trade, the Promotion of Tourism and French Nationals Abroad, Mr. Matthias Fekl, where representatives from both sides’ Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Environment, Economy, Energy, Agriculture, Labor, Population Development and Social Protection, Education and Science as well as authorities from Government Agencies and officials from state-owned entities were present encompassing about 40 attendees to discuss and exchange views on bilateral cooperation in agriculture, infrastructure, energy, environment and cultural spheres.
During his stay in Ulaanbaatar, French Minister of State Matthias Fekl visited the National Traumatology and Orthopedic Research Center (NTORC) on December 08, where Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to Mongolia, Mr. Yves Delaunay, Deputy Minister of Health J.Amarsanaa and other officials accompanied him.
At the NTORC, parties exchanged views on project implementation being carried out at the Center, where the French Government has provided a 5 million and 50 thousand EUR soft loans, of which 80% is planned to spend on supplying medical equipment and 10% on staff training program.
Moreover, Minister of State Matthias Fekl was received by Prime Minister Ch.Saikhanbileg and held a meeting with Advisor to the President L.Purevsuren.
Mongolia and the French Republic are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment the diplomatic relations in 2015, which was inked back on April 27, 1965.
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Civil servants who neglected income declaration charged
December 9 (news.mn) The Anti-Corruption Authority investigated and revised the declarations of income of 385 civil servants, uncovering conflicts of interest.
Thrity-five officials were charged for the offenses, 12 officials received warnings, and 17 officials were fined 30 percent of their salary for three months.
Six officials stepped down from their positions or were fired. Head of the Department at the Ministry of Health Ch.Munkhdelger, and Head of Dornod Province's Department of National Auto Transport Center State Owned Enterprise P.Munkhtur were dismissed.
Expert at the UIaanbaatar City Tourism Department B.Jargalan and Deputy Director and General Engineer of the Water Supply and Sewerage Authority of Ulaanbaatar D.Erdenebat were imposed with fines of 30 percent of their salaries for three months for their failure to accurately declare their income and for conflicts of interest.

Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Elects Its New President as B.Lkhagvajav
December 9 (infomongolia.com) On December 08, 2014, Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) held its 19th Assembly Meeting at the Central Cultural Palace in Ulaanbaatar, which usually takes place once in four years.
At the Meeting, attendees reviewed and summarized the last four-year’s report and determined the future tasks and goals, moreover, made some amendments in the structural issues, where participants held its meeting until five o’clock in the morning and discussed the new leadership of the MNCCI for 2015-2018 by electing new President of MNCCI.
In the nomination for Board Director or President of MNCCI, three candidates promoted their nominees namely current Chairman S.Demberel, President of “UFC Group”, Mr. O.Amartuvshin and Director of “Urbanek” JSC Mr. B.Lkhagvajav, but incumbent Chairman S.Demberel withdrew his name and following the poll, Baatarjav LKHAGVAJAV was elected as the President of MNCCI.
However, the Assembly Meeting lasted too long, attendees agreed to continue today at 05:00 pm and revise other candidates for MNCCI leadership.
Candidates for MNCCI Director:
1. M.Oyunchimeg
2. B.Khash-Erdene
3. V.Otgondemberel
4. B.Munkhtselmen
Candidates for MNCCI Vice Director:
1. Ts.Yansanjav
2. Ch.Nergui
3. T.Zolboot
4. M.Sarandavaa
5. S.Bat-Erdene
Candidates for MNCCI Secretary General:
1. E.Oyuntegsh
2. S.Munkhbat
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China-Russia-Mongolia’s closer trilateral relations
By D. Ochir
December 9 (Mongolian Economy) Chinese, Russian and Mongolian deputy foreign ministers pledged boost trilateral cooperation and exchanged of views to maintain the strategic relations among the three countries at a high level.
Delegates led by Mongolian Deputy Foreign Minister D. Gankhuyag, his Chinese counterpart Cheng Guoping and his Russian counterpart I. V. Morgulov participated in the first deputy foreign minister-level consultative meeting of Mongolia, Russian Federation and People's Republic of China, held in Mongolian capital city of Ulan Bator.
During the meeting, the deputy ministers exchanged views on boosting bilateral relations and trilateral cooperation as well as on organizing the next high-level meeting among the three heads of state.
The three parties agreed to develop and boost trilateral cooperation and exchanges of views in various sectors including trade, economy, transportation, infrastructure construction, mining, tourism, humanitarian work and environmental protection.
Also, the deputy ministers expressed their commitment to rendering supports on the issues concerning each other's sovereignty, security and fundamental interests.
To prepare for the next high-level meeting of the three presidents, scheduled in July, 2015, the second deputy foreign minister-level consultative meeting will be held in next February in Beijing, China, according to the three sides.

Speaker of Parliament Z.Enkhbold Meets with German Delegation Led by Bundestag Member Manfred Grund
December 9 (infomongolia.com) On December 08, 2014, Speaker of the State Great Khural (Parliament) Z.Enkhbold received in his office a member of the German Bundestag, Chairman of Thuringian Committee of the CDU/CSU and German-Central Asian parliamentary groups in the Bundestag, Mr. Manfred Grund.
At the meeting, Chairwoman of Petitionary’s Standing Committee, Chairwoman of Mongolia-Germany parliamentary group, MP R.Burmaa, Head of Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) Office Mongolia, Johannes Rey and newly to succeed the Office Head Mr. Daniel Schmucking and other officials were present.
At the beginning of meeting, Mr. Grund extended his congratulation to the Speaker Z.Enkhbold on being elected as the Head of Democratic Party and noted Mongolia has been showing a good sample on sustainable development of democracy, where some countries such as Kyrgyz and Myanmar have expressed their interests to study Mongolia’s experiences. The KAS has been closely collaborating with the ruling Democratic Party of Mongolia, said M.Grund and invited the Speaker Z.Enkhbold to pay an official visit to Germany in 2015 and deliver a lecture at the headquarter of Konrad Adenauer Foundation.
In response, Parliament Speaker and Head of DP, Zandaakhuu ENKHBOLD underlined Mongolian Parliament has been actively developing cooperation with German Bundestag at all potential levels and further noted that Democratic Party will be establishing a Coalition Government with other political parties in the Parliament like German two main conservative parties of CDU/CSU, the Christian Democratic Union of Germany (CDU) and the Christian Social Union of Bavaria (CSU).
On the same day, the German delegation comprised of Bundestag member Manfred Grund, KAS Head of Northeast Asia Office Mr. Tomislav Delinic, KAS Office Mongolia Head Johannes D. Rey, newly appointed Office Mongolia Head to succeed Johannes D. Rey, Mr. Daniel Schmucking and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Germany to Mongolia Gerhard Thiedemann were received by the Chief of Staff of the Office of President of Mongolia P.Tsagaan.
During the meeting, parties exchanged views on Germany-Mongolia Conference being organized today (December 09) on the occasion of celebrating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) is a German political party foundation and globally, the KAS has 78 offices and runs programs in over 100 countries, where Office in Mongolia has been operating since 1993.

The Second Mongolian Sustainable Finance Forum 2014 Approaches
December 9 (infomongolia.com) Mongolian Bankers’ Association (MBA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Green Development, Central Bank of Mongolia (Mongol Bank), International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Dutch Development Bank FMO are organizing the Mongolian Sustainable Finance Forum 2014 themed "Sustainable Finance: Creating Sustainable Development Through Collaboration" in Ulaanbaatar at Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel on December 16, 2014.
Although Mongolia is a mining-driven economy, other important sectors include agriculture/livestock and associated products (cashmere, wool, meat); construction and real estate development; and transportation. The 95% of investment funding in Mongolia comes from the banking sector. A number of challenges associated with these sectors include air pollution, climate change and water scarcity, as well as a need for inclusive development. All this amounts to increasing pressure on business and the banking sector to consider ways to balance economic, environmental and social considerations.
Last year in May, authorities of Government Agencies and Financial Institutions hosted the first Mongolian Sustainable Finance Forum in Ulaanbaatar to discuss how they can work together towards a green civilization for Mongolia. The Forum featured a CEO Roundtable at which all the participating banks expressed a desire for shared learning and collaboration, and agreed on the need for more awareness and capacity building - for bank staff as well as clients.
In accordance to that, the participating CEOs agreed to establish a Working Group for sustainable finance, convened by the Mongolian Bankers' Association, which worked for the past 15 months to develop the Mongolian Sustainable Finance Principles addressing the key E&S issues in Mongolia. Together with the Principles, the Working Group has been working to develop principle guidance notes and 4 sector (Mining, Agriculture, Construction and Manufacturing) specific guidelines that will be applicable across the industry. By implementing the Mongolian Sustainable Finance Principles, banks will integrate environmental and social considerations into business decisions, promote green initiatives, services and products as well as consider E&S issues of their own operations.
As the Mongolian banking sector is preparing for the implementation of the Mongolian Sustainable Finance Principles and Sector Guidelines from January 2015, it is an appropriate time for bankers, policy makers, industry players, clients, environmental experts and international representatives to gather together to discuss the upcoming changes in the Mongolian banking sector related to sustainable finance as well as share views on the further development of sustainability and green economy in Mongolia.
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Sustainable Finance forum approachesMontsame, December 9
 
L.Purevsuren Becomes Foreign Minister
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) A former advisor to the President on security and foreign policy Mr Purevsuren Lundeg was elected the Foreign Minister of Mongolia at a plenary meeting of the parliamentary session on Tuesday, with 93.3% votes of MPs.
After the voting, the parliamentarians obliged Mr Purevsuren to focus a great deal of attention on  some specific matters, for example, on a preparation of professional staffers of the external relations and on relations with our two neighbours and the Third neighbour countries.
The preceded FM L.Bold emphasized that Mongolia has gained big achievements in the foreign ties under leadership of the President and appreciated that the name of the Ministry is coming back.
Mr Purevsuren graduated from Gobi-Altai aimag’s secondary school in 1983, Moscow State Institute of International Relations in 1989, he also completed various courses in Germany, New Zealand and the USA. He speaks English, Russian and German.
He worked as an attaché in the Administration Section of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in 1989-1991; as a translator at Germany’s Embassy in Mongolia in 1991-1993; as an attaché at the Europe and American Department of the MFA in 1993-1995; as second and first secretary of  Mongolia’s Embassy in Bonn in 1995-2000; as the first secretary and the Councilor of the MFA’s European Department in 2000-2009; and as an advisor to the President on foreign relations policy in 2009-2012. Since then, he served as an advisor to the President on security and foreign policy.   

Kazakhstan's PM Congratulates Saikhanbileg
By B. Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) The Prime Minister of Mongolia Ch.Saikhanbileg received a congratulatory letter from Mr Karim Massimov, the Premier of Kazakhstan on December 9.
He congratulates Mr Saikhanbileg on being appointed the Prime Minister and says the relations between Kazakhstan and Mongolia have been strengthening and diversifying, and highlights his firm l confidence in the further development of such ties in favor of the two peoples, mentioning that there are plenty of opportunities to intensify the cooperation.
Kazakhstan Premier wishes the head of Mongolian executive power a health and success and invites him to the consultative meeting of the leaders of member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization which will run in Astana this December 14-15. 

New Minister of Finance: I Will Boost Economy by Supporting Wealth-Makers
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) At a plenary meeting of the parliamentary session on Tuesday, parliamentarians discussed whether to appoint J.Erdenebat MP the Minister of Finance and then backed by 93.1% votes this proposal.
Mr J.Erdenebat admitted that the national economy is in hard condition and pointed out a necessity of working out a plan in order to overcome these difficulties. "This plan must be realistic," he added and noted that the very first work of him will be a clarification of the 2015 budget.
"We will fulfill all these works as much as possible, we must take all measures in order to overcome the crisis. Our economy will improve when we support our wealth-makers. Moreover, we will receive their views in case of taking assistance from foreign organizations," Erdenebat stressed.
Mr Erdenebat Jargaltulga graduated from secondary school of Selenge aimag’s Mandal soum in 1991, Institute of Trade and Industry in 1995 majoring in economist, Institute of Professional Accountants and Management Academy. He worked as a head of the Finance, Economics and Policy Regulation section of Selenge aimag’s aministration in 2000-2004; as deputy governor of Selenge aimag in 2004-2005; in 2008-2012, he was governor of Selenge aimag, and was elected MP in 2012.
He speaks English.   

Mongolia at ASEF Meeting
By B. Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) Ambassador of Mongolia and a Governor to the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) B.Delgermaa from Mongolia took part in 32th Board of Governors’ meeting of the ASEF on December 4-5 in Singapore. The ASEF is the main operating mechanism of Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM).
The Ambassador expressed Mongolia’s position over the cooperation of Asia and Europe and exchanged opinions with other governors on the sub-conferences expected in frames of the 11th ASEM Summit which is to run on the occasion of its 20th anniversary in Mongolia.
At this regular meeting, a vice president of the Board, an Asian representative in the Executive Board, and a director for Finance and Audit were selected. Adopted were the ASEF Operations’ Report for 2014, action plan and budget for 2015, also project and programs to be implemented in political, economic, social and cultural spheres.
The Governors from 47 countries congratulated Mongolia for being appointed the host of the ASEM Summit on the anniversary of such a milestone. The EU member states’ representatives highly spoke of Mongolia’s commitments to the collaboration with the ASEM during the recent years, and advised to organize the 11th Summit in creative and innovative manner as expected by all.

Vice FM Meets German Bundestag Member
By B. Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) The acting Vice minister of Foreign Affairs D.Gankhuyag met Tuesday with a member of the German parliament–Bundestag Manfred Grund.
Mr Grund is also a head of the German-Central Asian parliamentary group. The sides discussed the bilateral political relations and cooperation and exchanged opinions, in particular on the opportunities to boost inter-parliamentary cooperation.
Mr Grund is attending the 12th Mongolia-Germany forum for the marking of the 40th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between Mongolia and Germany.

International Anti-Corruption Day
December 9 (news.mn) Mongolia is observing International Anti-Corruption Day today, December 9th.
The annual observation was designed to raise public awareness of corruption worldwide, prevent corruption, and promote effective anti-corruption measures.
Transparency International has issued the Corruption Perceptions Index for the past 20 years, an analysis of state organizations and agencies around the world based on data from independent institutions specializing in governance and business climate analysis.
According to the 2014 Corruption Perceptions Index, Mongolia scored 30 points and ranked 80th among 175 countries. The ranking is 0 to 100, with 0 being "highly corrupt" and 100 being "very clean".
In recent years, Mongolia's ranking has changed regularly. Mongolia ranked 94th in 2012, 83rd in 2013 and now 80th in 2014.

State Supreme Court refuses to register Party of Independence and Unity
December 9 (news.mn) The State Supreme Court reviewed the request for the registration of the Party of Independence and Unity filed by the chair of the party, Ts.Bayanbileg, on December 9th. 
The State Supreme Court has refused to register the Party of Independence and Unity, stating that the enclosed documents - including its action plan, and party rules - do not meet the requirements of the law on political parties.

The Nutcracker comes to Ulaanbaatar in December
December 9 (news.mn) The Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet will stage The Nutcracker in December, with support from the Capital City Governor's Office.
Solo ballet dancer from the Boston Ballet, D.Altankhuyag will star in a new version of the popular ballet at Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.
The Nutcracker is always pure pleasure to experience, both for children and adults. It will be performed at 7:30 p.m. between December 24 to 28.
The theatre will also offer interesting and sweet treats to young visitors, leading them through Drosselmeyer's world.  Young theatergoers will also be able to take photos with Clara and the Nutcracker.
Sweet fairies from the Nomads chain of restaurants and California Restaurant will also be on hand with desserts.

At This Moment, Deputy Prime Minister, Head of Cabinet
Secretariat and Three Ministers Approved by Parliament of Mongolia
December 9 (infomongolia.com) Last Friday on December 05, 2014, Prime Minister of Mongolia Chimed SAIKHANBILEG submitted a bill to the Speaker of the State Great Khural (Parliament) Zandaakhuu ENKHBOLD on promoting some candidates for the Members of Government and Heads of 15 Ministries of new Coalition Government namely "Shiidliin Zasgiin Gazar" (Shiidliin - lit. Resolving, Solving, Deciding or Ruling).
To note, the previous Government chaired by former Prime Minister Norov ALTANKHUYAG used to name as the “Government for Changes”.
In order to complete the new Government structure, two candidates were promoted from the ‘Justice’ Coalition merged from MPRP and MNDP. However, these two candidatures were not revised at the affiliated Standing Committee-level last Friday due to late suggestion; therefore the Security and Foreign Policy Standing Committee discussed these two nominees’ issue today on December 09, 2014.
At the Standing Committee meeting, attendees accredited the nominations of Mr. Tserendash TSOLMON for the Minister of Defense and Mr. Gankhuyag SHIILEGDAMBA for the Minister of Health and Sports and agreed to submit for further-level of discussion at the plenary session of Parliament, which is scheduled today on December 09, 2014.
At the today’s morning session meeting, the first issue ratified was an approval of Mr. Sangajav BAYARTSOGT as the Head of Cabinet Secretariat as well as further discussed and approved three nominees are Minister for Environment, Green Development and Tourism of Mongolia as Mrs. Dulamsuren OYUNKHOROL, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Mongolia as Mr. Lundeg PUREVSUREN and Minister for Finance of Mongolia as Mr. Jargaltulga ERDENEBAT out of newly formed 15 Ministries of Mongolian Government Structure.
To remind, the Deputy Prime Minister was ratified as Mr. Ukhnaa KHURELSUKH during the plenary session meeting held on December 05, 2014.
At this moment, the Parliament is revising the rest 14 Members of Government, of which 1 Minister of Mongolia (without portfolio) and 13 Heads of Ministries.

P.Tsagaan meets Bundestag delegation
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) Head of the Presidential Office P.Tsagaan Monday received a visiting delegation of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG).
The delegation included Mr M.Grund, a member of Bundestag (parliament), manager of both the Christian Democratic Union of Germany and the Christian Social Union and a head of the Germany-Central Asian inter-parliamentary group; and Tomislav Delinic, a manager of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation’s (KAF) Northeast Asian branch. Present was also Mr Gerhard Tiedemann, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Germany to Mongolia.
Mr Grund said a Germany-Mongolia forum is taking place here in frames of the bilateral diplomatic relations and emphasized that Mongolia is one of the few countries to continue the traditional friendly relations with Germany at a high level of trust. The KAF has been successful in Mongolia, he added.
Expressing a satisfaction with meeting with the delegation, especially with the KAF’s representatives, Mr Tsagaan said the cultural ties between the two countries turned over 100 years and that Mongolia ranks high in the region by a number of its German speaking people. The 25th anniversary of the Mongolia-Germany diplomatic relations has been celebrated, he said and thanked the German side for being the very first European country to support Mongolia’s democracy and for assisting in running political and economic transitions.
"Government and the people of Germany, also KAF and other international foundations have made significant contribution to Mongolia's peaceful democratic transition, so on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Democratic Revolution of Mongolia I convey my sincere appreciation to the state and the people of Germany. Thank you for your cooperation with the Office of the President of Mongolia," Mr Tsagaan said.

Foreign Ministries of Mongolia and Russia discuss Press
By B. Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) Press and communications’ departments of the Foreign Ministries of Mongolia and the Russian Federation held their first consultative meeting on December 9 in Ulaanbaatar.
The meeting was chaired by G.Amartuvshin, the vice director of the Department for Policy Planning and Research of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, and by A.M.Bikantov, the head of the Press Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia. The sides noted that the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries are intensifying, and agreed on the fact that activating of the interactions of the press departments and increasing of the journalists’ exchanges will assist in improving the peoples’ knowledge about each other and in the relations of the two countries.
After this, the Russian delegates were received by B.Boldbaatar, the State Secretary of the Ministry.

D.Dorligjav becomes Minister of Justice
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) A former Prosecutor-General D.Dorligjav was elected the Minister of Justice during a plenary meeting of the parliamentary session on Tuesday. His candidacy was supported by 94.9 percent of the MPs.
Mr Dorligjav Dambii was born 1959 in Zuungobi, Uvs aimag. He graduated the Khovd aimag-based Agricultural Training Center in 1978, Moscow Institute of Military and Politics in 1983, and School of Law at the Mongolian State University (MSU) in 1987. He is a vet doctor and lawyer.

D.Erdenebat appointed as Minister of Industry
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) A member of the State Great Khural D.Erdenebat was elected the Minister of Industry with 96.6% votes of MPs at a plenary meeting of parliamentary session on Tuesday.
A profile of Mr Erdenebat's background was presented by B.Garamgaibaatar, a head of the Standing committee on economy.
Born 1959 in Zuunkharaa of Selenge aimag, Mr Erdenebat Dondogdorj graduated from secondary school of Zuunkharaa in 1977 and Institute of Politechnics of Russian Irkutsk in 1983, majoring in auto-engineer and mechanics master. He was elected twice the governor of the city’s Baganuur district. Between 2008 and 2012, he served as the secretary-general of the Democratic Party, was elected MP in 2012. 

Mongolia-Germany forum runs its conference
By B. Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Federal Republic of Germany, the 12th session of "Mongolia-Germany relations-40: youth, education, economics: future trends" conference ran with a support of Konrad-Adenauer Foundation on Tuesday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia.
The forum has focused on concrete matters of bilateral political and economic relations, on development of recommendations based on the discussion on democracy-oriented market economy concept, on practice and some development issues, and on drawing attentions of the Governments and civil societies to these issues.
The Mongolia-Germany forum was established in 1999 under auspices of the two President, its first chairman was the first president of Mongolia P.Ochirbat.
German guests present at the event were Manfred Grund, a member of Bundestag; Tomislav Delinic, a director for Asia of the Konrad-Adenauer Foundation; Johannes D.Rey, the permanent representative of the Foundation to Mongolia; Dr Daniel Schmucking, the candidate representative to Mongolia. Present were also the first President of Mongolia P.Ochirbat, the German Ambassador to Mongolia Gerhard Thiedemann, the former FM L.Bold MP, the Secretary-General of the Forum Ambassador L.Udval, and a leader of the Forum Ambassador-at-large Dr Kh.Bekhbat. 

Two Ministers appointed
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) A former State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs D.Tsogtbaatar was elected the Minister of Construction and Urban Development, and Ts.Tsolmon MP--the Minister of Defense at a plenary meeting of the parliamentary session on Tuesday.
During the discussion of the latter, D.Arvin MP obliged Mr Tsolmon to pay attention to the social welfare matters of military servicemen and officers. J.Enkhbayar MP emphasized that the new Minister must give a conclusion over a present defense field of Mongolia, and that the country must renovate military techniques.
Mr Tsogtbaatar Damdin was born in Ulaanbaatar. He completed the UB-based former Soviet 14th secondary school; Moscow State Institute of International Relations; National University of Australia. He has been also involved in mid-career trainings in Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and the USA.
Mr Tsolmon Tserendash was born 1953 in Tsetserleg soum of Arkhangai aimag. He finished secondary school in Arkhangai in 1970, Institute of Politechnics of Russian Irkutsk in 1976, graduated from the Institute of Political Party and Diplomacy Academy of Moscow. He is an electric engineer and also  had a title of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.

UN Secretary-General delivers message on Int’l Anti-Corruption Day
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) The Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon has delivered a message on occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day which is celebrated on December 9.
“Corruption is a global phenomenon that strikes hardest at the poor, hinders inclusive economic growth and robs essential services of badly needed funds. From cradle to grave, millions are touched by corruption’s shadow.
On this year’s observance of the International Anti-Corruption Day, we call again on people everywhere to get involved in “Breaking the Corruption Chain,” the message says.
“Next year the world will agree a new post-2015 sustainable development agenda. Our aim is to empower individuals and catalyse governments, the private sector and civil society to help lift millions out of poverty, protect the planet and achieve shared prosperity and dignity for all. Eliminating corruption and its harmful impacts will be crucial to our future well-being.
To dismantle corruption’s high walls, I urge every nation to ratify and implement the UN Convention against Corruption. Its ground breaking measures in the areas of prevention, criminalization, international cooperation and asset recovery have made important inroads, but there is much more to do.  Public services must uphold the highest standards of integrity and ensure that appointments are driven by merit. Public servants, as well as elected officials, must be guided by ethics, transparency and accountability,”
“The private sector also has a crucial role. Good behaviour is good business. Business groups can convert anti-corruption action into firm support for sustainable development,
I call on everyone to help end corruption, and come together for global fairness and equity. The world and its people can no longer afford, nor tolerate, corruption,” it says.

Statement of UNODC Executive Director on Int’l Anticorruption Day
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) On occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day on Tuesday, the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Mr Yury Fedotov delivered a speech.
“Corruption reaches into boardrooms, government, law enforcement, education, healthcare and sport, among many other areas.
No country, region or field of endeavour escapes the pull of this crime. Corruption drives up prices, erodes business credibility, diverts public funds and undermines equity and fairness across societies.
But its influence has rippled outwards. Once considered to be the simple cost of doing business, corruption is now the destructive price paid by millions of citizens, especially the poor.
It may be seen in missing tracts of forest, lost classrooms, absent hospitals and unbuilt roads. Corruption, today, represents a serious brake on the forward motion of sustainable development and building effective institutions.
Just as significantly, corruption oils the wheels of other damaging crimes, including illicit trafficking in drugs, people, animals, timber and guns.
In the face of these challenges, our global resistance to corruption hinges on every country ratifying and implementing the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), as well as entering into its peer review mechanism.
This essential tool, founded on the mutual trust of nations working side by side has proven to be a transformational experience for participating countries and is delivering tangible results. These range from meaningful reform to the strengthening of anti-corruption institutions all over the world.
But others also have a nurturing role. Business, and business groups, need to speak out, and in doing so, acknowledge that a company’s brand is driven by good practices, ethical behaviour and sound procurement rules.
Civil society is also working to ensure that corruption is confronted. This work is crucial and UNODC will continue to work closely with civil society in the future.
Next year, the Sixth Conference of the States Parties to UNCAC will be held in St. Petersburg. It offers an opportunity to further strengthen global anti-corruption action and deliver the message that corruption has no place in our world.
On the International Day against Corruption, I welcome the tremendous efforts against corruption undertaken by governments, UN agencies, the private and public sector, civil society, academia and the media.
I pledge that UNODC will continue to work with its partners to help eliminate corruption, and to support the wider UN’s work in the area of protecting and promoting sustainable development,” the message says.

Stock Exchange news for December 9
By B. Khuder
Ulaanbaatar, December 9 (MONTSAME) At the Stock Exchange trades on Tuesday, a total of 6,079 units of 11 JSCs were traded costing MNT 208 million 505 thousand and 282.00.
"Binse HK” /2,615 units/, “Khokh gan” /1,010 units/, “Remikon” /130 units/, “Tavantolgoi” /130 units/ and "Baganuur” /50 units/ were the most actively traded in terms of trading volume, in terms of trading value were "Binse HK” (MNT one million and 569 thousand), "Tavantolgoi” (MNT 528 thousand and 102), “Gobi” (MNT 355 thousand and 200), “Baganuur” (MNT 162 thousand and 500) and "Khokh gan” (MNT 110 thousand and 600).
The total market capitalization was set at MNT one trillion 436 billion 437 million 760 thousand and 669. The Index of Top-20 JSCs was 14,789.10, decreasing 304.73 units or 2.02% against the previous day.

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