Mongolia Brief November 6, 2014
Over
20 Ambassadors and Senior Diplomats from EU Member States Accredited to
Mongolia Visit Ulaanbaatar
November 6
(infomongolia.com) From November 05-07, 2014, the new European Union Ambassador
to Mongolia, Mr. Hans Dietmar Schweisgut, is leading a group of over 20
Ambassadors and Senior Diplomats from EU Member States based in Beijing and
accredited to Mongolia, to join the four EU Member States Ambassadors resident
in Ulaanbaatar, for their annual meeting with Mongolian officials in UB.
At the start of
the visit on November 05, the new EU Ambassador presented his credentials to
President Ts.Elbegdorj in a ceremony at Government House. During the credential
handing ceremony, EU Ambassador H.D.Schweisgut said, "Having previously
served as Austrian Ambassador to Mongolia, I am honoured to be back here again
as EU Ambassador, especially during the 25th anniversary year of EUMongolia diplomatic
relations.
Over the past
25 years our relations have grown and deepened, culminating in the signing last
year of a comprehensive EUMongolia Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA),
which sets a legal framework to enhance political dialogue and promote further
economic and sectorial cooperation. I hope to continue to build on this
partnership during my tenure and lay firm groundwork for the next 25 years of
our relations".
During their
visit, the EU Ambassadors will meet with President Ts.Elbegdorj, Speaker of the
Parliament Z.Enkhbold, Chief Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission
J.Byambadorj, Mayor of UB E.Bat-Uul and other high-level Mongolian officials.
The discussions
will centre on further strengthening EU-Mongolia relations and cooperation in
many areas such as trade and economy, but also political and people-to-people
issues. The EU Ambassadors will also meet with the European business community
in Mongolia as well as international organizations.
Last year, a
group of over 20 Ambassadors and Senior Diplomats from EU Member States was led
by then EU Ambassador to Mongolia, Mr. Markus Ederer.
Ambassadors
from Congo, Egypt, EU, Hungary and Cyprus to Mongolia Present Letters of
Credence to President Ts.Elbegdorj
November 6
(infomongolia.com) On November 05, 2014, Ambassadors from the Republic of the
Congo, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the European Union, Hungary, and the
Republic of Cyprus handed their credentials to the President of Mongolia,
Tsakhia ELBEGDORJ.
After the
ceremony President Ts.Elbegdorj received the newly accredited Ambassadors.
Ambassador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Congo to Mongolia, Mr.
Daniel Owassa conveyed the Congolese President’s greetings to President
Ts.Elbegdorj and noted, “Mongolia and the Republic of Congo enjoy traditional
bilateral relations. Although, relations between our two countries slowed in
the last few years, as an Ambassador I will work to enhancing traditional
relations”.
President
Ts.Elbegdorj wished Mr. Daniel Owassa success in his further work and expressed
his belief that the Ambassador will pay close attention to enhancing bilateral
relationship.
Mongolia and
the Republic of the Congo have established the diplomatic relations on December
31, 1966.
Ambassador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Mongolia,
Mr. Magdy Mahmoud noted, “The people of Egypt know that Mongolia is a shining
example of a successful democratic transition. This year Mongolia and Egypt
mark the 51st Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and we
will further move forward to expand the relations”.
President
Ts.Elbegdorj underlined that in 2015 Mongolia will celebrate the 25th
Anniversary of democratic parliamentary elections and conveyed his sincere
greetings to the President of Egypt Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.
Mongolia and
the Arab Republic of Egypt have established the diplomatic relations on April
02, 1963.
Ambassador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the European Union to Mongolia, Mr. Hans
Dietmar Schweisgut said, "Having previously served as Austrian Ambassador
to Mongolia, I am honored to be back here again as EU Ambassador, especially
during the 25th anniversary year of EU-Mongolia diplomatic relations. Over the
past 25 years our relations have grown and deepened, culminating in the signing
last year of a comprehensive EU-Mongolia Partnership and Cooperation Agreement,
which sets a legal framework to enhance political dialogue and promote further
economic and sectorial cooperation. I hope to continue to build on this
partnership during my tenure and lay firm groundwork for the next 25 years of
our relations".
President
Ts.Elbegdorj noted, "Within the 25 years of cooperation, Mongolia and the
European Union have successfully developed the bilateral relations within the
third-neighbor policy. The EU has become Mongolia’s third biggest trading
partner.
In April 2013,
the EU-Mongolia Partnership and Cooperation Agreement was signed and it was a
great pivot to enhancing mutual cooperation. I would like to convey my warm
greetings to Mr. Jean-Claude Junker on the occasion of his election as the
President of the European Commission”.
Mongolia and
the European Union have established the diplomatic relations on August 01,
1989.
Ambassador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Hungary to Mongolia, Mrs. Andrea Cecilia
Szilas emphasized that in 2015 Mongolia and Hungary will mark the 65th
Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relationship and noted that
Hungary is planning to reopen its Embassy in Ulaanbaatar. Ambassador mentioned
about the successful visit of President Ts.Elbegdorj to Hungary and said that
she will be committed to implementing projects and works considered during the
President’s visit.
Mongolia and
Hungary have established the diplomatic relations on April 28, 1950.
During the
meeting with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of
Cyprus to Mongolia, Mr. Agis Loizou, President Ts.Elbegdorj noted that there
are ample opportunities of cooperation in trade and investment sectors, for
instance, two countries have great potential to expand partnership in the
education field.
Mongolia and
the Republic of Cyprus have established the diplomatic relations on December
19, 1973.
“Russian
Tourists and Ulaanbaatar” Workshop Aims to
Attract
Russian Travelers to Mongolia
November 6
(infomongolia.com) During the Russian Presidential working visit to Mongolia
held on September 03, 2014, the Governments of Mongolia and the Russian
Federation have signed on 15 documents including Intergovernmental Agreements,
Memorandums of Understanding and Protocols.
One of the
documents inked was an Intergovernmental Agreement on reciprocal visa-free
travel between citizens of the two countries and the Agreement effectiveness
enters into force from November 14, 2014.
Under the
Agreement, nationals of the two countries will be eligible to travel up to 30
days, but not to exceed 90 days in any 180 day-period and for a stay of more
than 30 days, a traveler must apply for an appropriate visa.
Due to
approaching date, the Capital City Administration in association with
affiliated organs are organizing a workshop themed “Russian Tourists and
Ulaanbaatar” at the Khangarid Palace, Ulaanbaatar on November 07, 2014.
The meeting
will bring representatives from local tour operators, hotels, restaurants,
commercial centers, hospitalities, therapy and recreation centers, as well as
cultural and art places interested to welcome Russian travelers, and will focus
and given advices by experts on Russian tourists’ behavior and interests, what
they prefer to go sightseeing, shopping and other services to like, because as
soon as visa-free term enters into force, it expects more travelers from Russia
are to visit Mongolia.
Moreover, as
part of preparations, a website for Russian tourists will be launched soon and
at the tomorrow’s meeting this issue will be discussed comprehensively, besides
travel brochures, Russian-Mongolian conversation handbook and guides are being
prepared. Also, in order to attract Russian travelers, a TV series about UB and
country destinations will be broadcasted on main TV channels of Irkutsk,
Ulan-Ude and Chita cities of the Russian Federation.
Mongolia
and Czech agree on cooperation in social welfare
November 6
(news.mn) Mongolia and the Czech Republic signed a memorandum of
understanding on cooperation between the Ministry of Population Development and
Social Welfare of Mongolia and the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs in
Prague, on Wednesday.
The MoU was
signed by State Secretary for the Ministry of Population Development and Social
Protection B.Otgonjargal and First Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Affairs
Petr Šimerka.
State Secretary
B.Otgonjargal noted during the MoU signing ceremony, “This MoU will play an
essential role in extending bilateral cooperation in social welfare between the
two countries, and play an active role in building an intergovernmental
agreement on bilateral cooperation in welfare,”
Ambassador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to Czech Republic D.Zumberellham
and other government officials were represented at the meeting.
The parties
also exchanged opinions on the implementation of projects in accordance with
the MoU, and on how to intensify bilateral cooperation between the Mongolian
Ministry of Population Development and Social Welfare and the Ministry of
Labour and Social Affairs in Prague.
Related:
Mongolia
and Czech Republic to Cooperate in Social Welfare – Montsame, November 6
Mongolia's
Initiative on Think-Tank for LLDCs Reflected In Vienna Action Plan
By B.
Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar
/MONTSAME/ Mongolia's initiative on establishing an international Think-Tank
for Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) in Ulaanbaatar was supported at the
Second UN Conference for LLDCs and has been reflected in the Vienna Action plan
for 2014-2024.
The conference,
which completed on November 5, developed the Vienna Action Plan after careful
observations over the Almaty Plan for the last decade. General issues outlined
in the Plan are the matters of infrastructure, facilitating trades, economic
diversification, value-added production industry, agricultural development and
a development of regional integration. The Plan aims to improve sustainability
and sufficiency in the development of LLDCs.
Reflecting the
initiative on the Think-Tank in the Plan is of great importance in terms of
supporting its establishment in our city, studying unique needs of LLDCs,
protecting their interests on international arena.
A head of the
Department for International Organizations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
and Economic Cooperation of Mongolia G.Ganbold attended a sub-conference themed
“Linking LLDCs to the regional infrastructural network” to present our
Government's measures for the transportation, energy and information
technology. Our delegates also held meetings with some representatives of other
LLDCs and touched upon matters of cooperation in establishing the International
Think Tank.
Mongolian
Students of University of Agriculture to Conduct 6-Week Practice in Netherlands
November 6
(infomongolia.com) On November 05, 2014, Mongolian State University of
Agriculture (MSUA), the University’s Department of Agricultural Industry and
Economy, and Dumons Farm LLC have established a trilateral Memorandum of
Understanding to collaborate.
Under the MoU,
selected 10-15 students of the MSUA will be conducting an industrial practice
in the Netherlands for the period of 6 weeks, where agrarian sector in the
country is highly mechanized and the food-processing industry accounts for 21
percent of the Netherlands' total export value, the second worldwide in value
of agricultural exports.
Last year,
former Dutch State Secretary at the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture
and Innovation, Mr. Hinderk Bleker visited Mongolia in July 2013 and during the
visit, he pledged to support Mongolia’s livestock farming.
In this regard,
the above three parties have negotiated to implement a project introducing
Holland style livestock farming in some Sums of Tuv Aimag including Sumber Sum.
Under this project, Mongolian authorities strive to create a proficient staff
in the animal husbandry sector and thus, the trilateral MoU is set to carry out
the project.
"LookWe”
Special Edition Published for Diplomatic Relations
By B.
Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar,
November 6 (MONTSAME) Such an edition of the Chinese magazine has been
published at support from its agency and Mongolia’s Embassy in Beijing
dedicated to the 65thanniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations
between Mongolia and the People’s Republic of China.
The two countries
have been realizing various works in culture, tourism, economy and investment
spheres in a scope of the “Year of Mongolia-China Friendly Exchanges”. As
one of these actions, the special edition contains articles about
Mongolia’s history, tourism, economy, investments and a development of
relations with China.
Minister
Meets UNICEF Regional Director
By B. Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar,
November 6 (MONTSAME) The Minister of Health N.Udval received Thursday the
regional director of UNICEF for East Asia and the Pacific Mr Daniel Toole and
the Resident Representative of the regional office Roberto Benes.
This meeting
was arranged in frames of the visit of Mr Toole to Mongolia. The Minister spoke
mainly of three matters and proposed cooperation. She said the Government
announced 2014 as a Year of Mothers and Children health promotion,
"maternal and infant health is a vital issue of Mongolia’s health sphere,
it should be regulated by a specific law. So we are developing a draft law on
Health of Mothers and Children, and a great support is needed from high level
decision-makers are necessary for adoption of this law".
Ms Udval noted
that an excessive air pollution of Ulaanbaatar reached a harmful level for
children’s development and yet the adequate solution to this problem has not
been found. Thus, it urges the Ministry to act, said the Minister and proposed
cooperating in this. Another proposal was for collaboration in reducing the
risks of children’s death from injuries.
The Regional
Director said he sees that a situation is always better when people who care
for children heath are women. Mongolia is one of the fewest countries that
reduced child mortality rate five times. “I always share your practices with
regional countries, and I instruct them to do a good work, but I praise
Mongolia on the good works telling you 'let's do better”, said the regional
director and expressed a readiness to cooperate.
Ambassadors
Present Letters of Credence
By B.
Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar,
November 6 (MONTSAME) Mongolia's President Ts.Elbegdorj received on Thursday
credentials from Ambassadors of the Republic of Namibia, the Republic of
Columbia, Qatar, the Kingdom of Bahrain, and the Bolivarian Republic of
Venezuela.
The President
received them after the ceremony. The Namibian Ambassador H.E. Mr Ringo Abed
noted the marking of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic
relations of the two countries this year, and promised to put all efforts to
intensify those relations. To this, the President expressed Mongolia’s
satisfaction with its relations with the South African countries, especially
with Namibia that has a rapid economic growth. He recalled the time he attended
the International Parliamentarians’ Conference in late 1990’s in Namibia. He
said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Economic Cooperation and the Office of
the President will support him.
Columbia's
Ambassador H.E. Mr Tito Saul Pinilla mentioned about intensifying the students’
exchanges between the State University of Mongolia and the National University
of Columbia and about the opportunities of cooperation in business sphere. He
also said that the visits of Vice FMs and the consultative meeting between the
Foreign ministries were important steps for bilateral ties. The President
conveyed his sincere greetings to Columbia's President and agreed with the
Ambassador on cooperation in educational and business spheres. He said
Mongolia-Columbia relations can be intensified as our country sited its Embassy
in Brazil.
At a meeting
with the Ambassador of Qatar H.E. Mr Sultan bin Salmin Said al Mansuri, our
President emphasized an expansion of bilateral relations in sectors of
defense and infrastructure, and further opportunities of cooperation in
economy, infrastructure and investments. He also said high level interactions
between the countries will be an impetus to prosperous relations.
The President
told the Ambassador from the Kingdom of Bahrain that the bilateral relations
have been developing well since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1998.
The two countries should cooperate in trade, economy and oil sectors, he added.
The President conveyed sincere greetings to the King of Bahrain Sheikh Hamad
bin Isa al Khalifa.
The Ambassador
of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to Mongolia H.E. Mr Ivan Antonio Zerpa
Guerrero conveyed greetings of his President Nicolas Maduro to Ts.Elbegdorj. He
also sounded Mr Maduro’s dearest will that instructed his Ambassador to develop
and intensify the relations in the next 25 years. The Ambassador also expressed
a gratitude for Mongolia’s kind support for Venezuela on international arena,
especially for Venezuela’s candidature to the Security Council as a
non-permanent member. He added that he intends to present a proposal on
establishing a Venezuela-Mongolia group in parliament of his country. To this,
the President thanked the Ambassador for his commitments and conveyed greetings
to Mr Maduro and a success to the Ambassador.
Mongolian
Entrepreneurs' Forum Approaches
By N. Khaliun
Ulaanbaatar,
November 6 (MONTSAME) This measure will run on November 10-11 at Chinggis Khaan
Hotel in Ulaanbaatar.
It will be
co-organized by the School of Business of National University of Mongolia, the
Ministry of Labor, "Start up Mongolia" NGO, supported by the
Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, United Association of
Mongolian Employers NGO, and JCI-Mongolia.
The forum is
expected to be a platform for promoting knowledge about entrepreneurship, to
take entrepreneurship education (courses and research) to a new level, to
improve a legal environment for new businesses, to build a national strategy on
developing entrepreneurship, to link organizations in the field, and to seek
ways to solve challenges Mongolian entrepreneurs face.
Mongolian
Film Presented at International Film Festival
By B.
Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar,
November 6 (MONTSAME) A Mongolian feature film “Remote Control”, directed by
S.Byambaa, has been presented at the Third Dharamshala International Film
Festival (DIFF), which ran October 31-November 2 in Dharamsala of India.
Over 40 films
from India, Mongolia, France, Arab Emirates, Spain, the USA, Canada, Finland,
Lebanon, Germany, South Korea, China, Argentina, Poland and Sweden have been
shown.
The “New Wave”
award-winner of the Busan international film festival, the “Remote Control” has
gained positive evaluation from the Mongolians who live and work in India.
Present at the
event were the director S.Byambaa and an honored guest to the DIFF the
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to India S.Bayaraa.
Documentary
about Wedding Traditions Created
By B.
Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar,
November 6 (MONTSAME) Aimed to conserve and advertize intangible cultural
heritage of Mongolia, a documentary about wedding traditions of Bayad ethnicity
was developed.
The art
director of the film P.Temuujin has opened a "Land of Northern Bayad"
exhibition at the “Art House” gallery of 50 photographs taken during the film
making.
The film script
is based on the doctoral work of E.Erdenetsetseg, a head of Department for Art
Studies of the University of Art and Culture. A director is J.Norolkhoo, the
State Honored Figure of culture. Initiator of this project culturist
A.Altangerel said our traditions and behaviors are changing as the society
changes, and that this thought led him to create this film. "There is no
Mongolian documentary that presents cultural heritage. A greater part of the
wedding traditions of the Bayad is similar to those of other Mongolian groups”.
Related:
Documentary about wedding customs
of Bayad tribe premieres – UB Post,
November 6
Who
is Mongolia’s next Prime Minister?
By S. Batzaya
November 6
(Mongolian Economy) There are many blaming the ruling Democratic Party for the
fall of the current Government. Although the opposition Mongolian People’s
Party had repeatedly made demands for the dismissal of the Prime Minister, the
ruling party retained enough power to hold onto its own authority. That is
until yesterday, when Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag—the longest tenured DP Prime
Minister in history—was dismissed as head of government, in a vote in
Parliament that passed 36 out of 66.
The Democratic
Party has 31 seats in parliament. In addition to their ruling status, they had
maintained a majority alliance with a partner in the Justice Coalition, an
additional ten members. Despite a powerful block, there were many splintering
factions within the Democratic Party. After back to back years of economic
failures that most blame on the government, internal party squabbles finally
reached their breaking point this week. Eleventh hour discussions over the past
few days and nights fell short of reaching a party consensus. The fracturing of
the factions was clear in yesterday’s vote, when seven members of the DP did
not show up for the proceedings, while eight more who were present voted
against the party line in favor of the Prime Minister’s forced resignation.
MP S.Bayrtsogt
says: “Back in 1996, When the DP was the ruling party, they took their government
down a few times during their term. Now the DP must be responsible for the
consequences of the situation. I hope that this is not the beginning of a deep
political crisis.”
Independent
parliament member Ts. Davaasuren says: “Sustainability is the priority, and
needs to be supported more than anything else. Being stable does not mean no
control and no responsibility. Ongoing preservation of sustainability should be
the majority of the DP’s focus”
All sides are
agreed—the new government must be responsible and ensure stability, for the
PM’s resignation alone won’t save Mongolia from its current economic
difficulties. Yet for now, DP members remain more concerned with slicing the
cake evenly amongst themselves until their term ends. Meanwhile, time is running
out on the status quo.
MP S.Oyun says:
“I see that N.Altankhuyag is trying hard. But it is not politically sound for
the majority party to support a measure brought up by the opposition group to
be used against their own. This is not healthy progress—for the minority of
parliament to decide the resignation issue.”
Deputy Minister
and Acting Prime Minister D.Terbishdagva says: “the DP should consider whether
the government resignation is in step with national interests or whether it
will deepen the economic and social crises that have already spread now.”
For better or
for worse, the Democratic Party took down their government with their own
hands. Who’s next for PM? Some publications suggest that parliament speaker
Z.Enkhbold might be up for the job, but he has so far stayed mute on the issue.
If actions speak louder than words, however, the fact that during yesterday’s
vote his Shonkhor faction friends weren’t present might suggest an action
signaling ambitions.
It is now up to
parliament to choose the Prime Minister and Cabinet members, as directed by the
Government Law of Mongolia. There is expected to be a new wave of cronyism as
ministry appointments at the top are reshuffled. Weakened and needing allies,
the Democratic Party must decide whether to cooperate with the Justice
Coalition or the Mongolian People’s Party to achieve their aims. Expect
negotiations, hard compromises, and the unexpected. Policymakers have 30 days
to make the appointments—let’s hope they can all make up their mind quickly, so
that they can return to their real job of helping the country move forward.
Stock
Exchange news for November 6
By B.
Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar,
November 6 (MONTSAME) At the Stock Exchange trades on Thursday, a total of
3,228 shares of 13 JSCs were traded costing MNT 10 million 887 thousand and
330.00.
"Merex”
/1,000 units/, “E-Trans Logistics” /950 units/, “State Department Store” /515
units/, “Darkhan Nekhii” /261 units/ and "Sor” /140 units/ were the most
actively traded in terms of trading volume, in terms of trading value were
"Darkhan Nekhii” (MNT four million 799 thousand and 720), "UB-BUK”
(MNT three million 84 thousand and 480), “Gobi” (MNT 898 thousand and 480),
“Atar Orgoo” (MNT 680 thousand) and "APU” (MNT 463 thousand and 600).
The total
market capitalization was set at MNT one trillion 548 billion 938 million 700
thousand and 850. The Index of Top-20 JSCs was 15,477.02, decreasing 22.15
units or 0.14% against the previous day.
Opposition
party votes from 26 ousted the Government's ruling party of 50
November 6
(news.mn) The 27th PM of Mongolia has been ousted, two years and three months
since forming the "Reform Government".
PM
N.Altankhuyag was defeated by 36 MPs, with 54.5 percent of the votes of no
confidence, out of 66 MPs who attended the vote.
Twenty-six of
those MPs who voted no confidence were opposition MPP caucus members and
another 10 MPs were DP caucus members, including R.Amarjargal, R.Burmaa,
J.Batzandan, Kh.Battulga, M.Zorigt, B.Narankhuu, and L.Erdenechimeg, and
Justice Coalition members G.Uyanga, D.Battsogt, and L.Tsog, who pressed the
reject button. Just one day before the motion for a no confidence vote, DP
caucus members agreed to vote in favor of the PM to retain the Government, but
showed no confidence for the PM on voting day. The DP rules include articles to
dispel members if a vote by a caucus member results in the ousting of a DP led
government.
Now there are
questions about whether or not the party will dispel members or reform the
government with other parties and coalitions.
Seven members
of the DP caucus, whose votes were vital to retain the PM, were absent from the
vote.
In the past two
years, petitions calling for the resignation of the PM and the Government have
been submitted five times. Four of them were submitted by the MPP opposition
party.
April 12, 2014
- Demand for the resignation of PM N.Altankhuyag
July 12, 2014 -
Demand for the resignation of Finance Minister Ch.UIaan and Economic
Development Minister N.Batbayar,
April 7, 2014 -
Demand for the resignation of Justice Minister Kh.Temuujin by MP O.Baasankhuu
May 29, 2014 -
Demand for the resignation of Economic Development Minister N.Batbayar
October 17,
2014 - Demand for the resignation of PM N.Altankhuyag
Parliament
spent 93 working days discussing these issues.
PM
N.Altankhuyag appeared to be in disbelief about the ousting until the last
reject button was pressed. Until then, he was the head of the government of the
ruling party with 50 seats.
N.Altankhuyag
did not win in the 2012 parliamentary election. But became the majority leader
with 34 seats in parliament. He formed the Reform Government, along with 11
Justice Coalition members, two members of the Civil Will-Green Party, and three
independent members, and the opposition MPP of 26 was left out of the
government. But the opposition MPP of 26 made the Reform Government the ruling
party, with 50 seats lost.
After his
ousting, N.Altankhuyag handed down the State Stamp to Deputy Prime Minister
D.Terbishdagva, who will head the government until a new PM is appointed.
Deputy Prime
Minister D.Terbishdagva said, “The Reform Government worked successfully in a
short period. I hope the next generation will keep the values that have been
created in the time of our cooperation. The people of Mongolia value everything
you did for the country.”
Government
Bond auction results
By B.
Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar,
November 6 (MONTSAMEO Auction for three years maturity Government Bond was
announced November 5 at face value of MNT 30 billion and each unit was worth
MNT one million.
Face value of
13.0 billion /out of 43.0 billion bid/ Government Treasury bill was sold to the
banks at premium price and with average yield of 16.750%.
Results
of Government Securities Auction
By B.
Amarsaikhan
Ulaanbaatar,
November 6 (MONTSAME) Auction for 52 weeks maturity Government Treasury bill
was announced November 5 at face value of MNT 60.0 billion.
According to
the Bank of Mongolia (BoM) news published the same day, face value of 30.0
billion /out of 30.0 billion bid/ Government Treasury bill was sold at
discounted price and with weighted average yield of 16.347%.
Hunnu
Air halts Hong Kong flights amid economic downfall
November 6
(news.mn) The Hong Kong –Ulaanbaatar flight by Mongolian domestic airline Hunnu
Air was delayed on November 3rd. Local reports say that the domestic
airline has been unable to pay the aircraft lease rentals for months, due to a
severe financial crisis being faced by the company.
Hunnu Air made
a statement, saying, “The company apologizes to our passengers for delaying the
Hong Kong-Ulaanbaatar flight on November 4th, 2014. The company will arrange
hotel stays and flights to take the delayed passengers on a MIAT flight on
November 4th."
The company
commented about the delay, saying it was caused by a misunderstanding and
disagreement between the renter and rental company.
It refused to
give details, as the company is under negotiations with the rental company in
Hong Kong.
The company
announced it has halted its Hong Kong flights amid the economic crisis, on
Wednesday.
Related:
Hong Kong flight cancelled due to
airplane rent disagreement – UB Post,
November 6
The
collapse of the ‘New Government for Changes’
By B.
Khash-Erdene
November 6 (UB
Post) The self-proclaimed “New Government for Changes” collapsed, as Parliament
voted to dismiss Mongolian Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag on Wednesday for
alleged corruption and “messing up the economy”.
During the
session, 54.5 percent (36 parliament members) voted to dismiss Mongolia’s 27th
Prime Minister, including eight members of his own Democratic Party, and 10
declined to vote. All the parliament’s members of the Mongolian People’s Party,
the opposition, were present for the session and voted against Altankhuyag.
Mongolia’s
economy grew by 17.5 percent in 2011, the year before Altankhuyag took office,
but growth has since slowed to 6.3 percent this year. Altankhuyag’s advisor,
L.Gansukh, is currently being investigated for corruption by the Independent
Authority Against Corruption.
Deputy Prime
Minister D.Terbishdagva has temporarily been placed in charge until a new prime
minister is elected. Altankhuyag handed in his official seal to Terbishdagva on
Wednesday.
Mongolia’s
politics are at a sensitive stage, as the dismissal damages confidence in the
Mongolian economy among international mining companies and other major
investors, which Mongolia is heavily reliant on.
Shortly before
his dismissal, Altankhuyag started a controversial reshuffling of the cabinet,
which was met with six resignations by former ministers. Parliament has also
yet to finalize next year’s budget, the plan for which has been seen as being
too lavish by most MPs.
The obvious
question now is who will become the next Prime Minister of Mongolia, but key
candidates don’t seem too eager for the job, especially after the abysmal
performance of the previous cabinet.
Rumors have spread among the public that Speaker of Parliament Z.Enkhbold would become the next prime minister, which was swiftly rebuked by Enkhbold himself, who said, “I have no desire to become Prime Minister.”
Rumors have spread among the public that Speaker of Parliament Z.Enkhbold would become the next prime minister, which was swiftly rebuked by Enkhbold himself, who said, “I have no desire to become Prime Minister.”
As the ruling
party, the Democratic Party of Mongolia must form a new cabinet within 14 days,
under Mongolian law. The party’s policy also states that the head of the party
is to be appointed as Prime Minister. This prompts Altankhuyag to also give up
his position as the head of the Democratic Party, since his party members
played a pivotal role in his dismissal, most of whom were from the “Shonkhor”
faction.
Other favored
candidates include Cabinet Minister Ch.Saikhanbileg, who is deemed most likely
to follow the policies of Altankhuyag’s cabinet. Rumors within the Democratic
Party also point to E.Bat-Uul, Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, who is one of the key
individuals that helped shape the Democratic Revolution of Mongolia in 1989. He
is seen by many to have transformed Ulaanbaatar for the better in just two
years, despite his much criticized “green garbage bag” plan, which failed to
clean up Ulaanbaatar streets as promised. But some think that would not win an
election among the Democratic Party’s National Coordinating Committee.
Another
favorite candidate, who has displayed his vast ambition numerous times is MP
“Genco” Kh.Battulga, who gave up his position as the Minister of Agriculture
and Industry in Altankhuyag’s cabinet in support of the “Double Deel” bill,
which hoped to eliminate multiple posts in Parliament and cabinet. This move
has been viewed by some in his party as a betrayal, meaning he has few friends
left to support him. Nevertheless, Battulga is viewed as the candidate most
likely to form a mixed cabinet of members from the Democratic and People’s
Parties.
In all this
speculation, most local media believe that there is a deeper plot behind the
overthrow of Altankhuyag, and suspicions of conspiracy among the ruling and
opposition parties.
J.Bayarmagnai:
To reduce air pollution, data and information related to air quality is
critical
November 6 (UB
Post) The following interview is with
expert of air quality at the National Agency Meteorology and The Environmental
Monitoring J.Bayarmagnai, about the air quality in Ulaanbaatar and what the
agency is doing to reduce air pollution.
How was the air quality in Ulaanbaatar last
October?
According to
the data of last October, the average amount of sulfur dioxide in Ulaanbaatar
was in the average level, which is 9 µg/m3, the amount of nitrogen dioxide was
above the average level, at 41 µg/m3, the amount of big dust particles was
higher than the normal level by 1.8 fold, at 184 µg/m3, while the amount of
small dust was below the normal level, at 54 µg/m3. The amount of ozone
and the carbon dioxide were in the normal level.
Between October
13 to 25 in Ulaanbaatar, the air was more polluted than other days, especially
in the area of ger districts. People can get information about the air quality
by visiting the websites www.tsag-agaar.mn and www.agaar.mn.
What is your agency doing to reduce air
pollution?
In Ulaanbaatar
and in the biggest settlements in provinces, we measure the amount of six
substances that are common pollutants, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen
dioxide, dust and carbon dioxide. According to this measurement, we collect
some data about the major sources and substances that pollute the air, the
location where pollution appears a lot and the time when the pollution has
highest and harmful to human body. These information and data help us do some
works to reduce the air pollution. Every year our agency collects all those
data and we summarize the results. I think these kinds of data are an important
information to fight and reduce air pollution. If we could make some analysis
on the results of air quality, it would help solve the problem.
Is the measuring standard same as highly
developed countries?
In Mongolia, we
use two general methods, chemical analysis and automatic measurement that
determine two to six substances that pollute the air. Overall, 10 employees
work and monitor the automatic measurement, while four experts analyze the air
quality by chemical analysis. In rural areas, 23 experts determine the amount
of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide through chemical analysis, while in some
provinces, big particle dust and carbon dioxide are determined by an automatic
apparatus. In the future fully automated working condition is required.
When is the highest rate of air pollution
observed?
During cold
days, from October to April people start using their stoves and the usage of
stove lighting increases. As a result, the amounts of sulfur dioxide and dust
increase drastically. Especially in December, January and February, air
pollution is highest. In the morning, from 7-11a.m. and in the evening from
5-12 p.m., the substances that pollute the air reach its peak point.
We all know that air pollution affects
negatively on humans health. As you are an expert, what would you recommend to
protect ourselves from pollution? Is it possible?
At the times I
mentioned above, children, the elderly and people who have respiratory and
cardiovascular diseases should spend less time outside and must wear protective
masks. People who spend most of their time at home and at the office should
plant plants and clean the air in the room as much as possible. In all seasons
children must play away from the areas where dust occurs a lot, for example big
roads, when they are outside. And I would like to say that if people can use
the air quality data and information in their daily lives, they can protect
themselves from pollution to a certain extent.
What can people do to contribute to
reducing air pollution in the city?
It is very
important that each person be involved in air pollution problems because
pollution affects us all. There are some ways to fight air pollution. For
example, to use fuel that releases less harmful gases, if possible buy newer
cars, get the car serviced regularly, use public transportation, and save
electricity. People who live in ger districts must follow the proper instruction
when using their stoves, get involved in the projects related to reduction of
air pollution, minimize the heat loss of their houses, and if possible, use
electricity as well as processed fuel.
Organizations
must use more eco-friendly technology and install smoke filters. That way, if
we work together, we can reduce air pollution.
Source:
Undesnii shuudan
Sh.Ulziibayar:
I only wish to create compositions that’ll promote Mongolia globally
November 6 (UB
Post) This is an interview with
internationally recognized composer of the Mongolian State Philharmonic
Orchestra, Sh.Ulziibayar, about his achievements, career and other related
topics.
Sh.Ulziibayar regularly participates in
international competition as a representative Mongolian composers. He is a
graduate of the Mongolian State University of Culture and Arts (MSUCA) and his
latest achievement was the special prize won from the Second International
Competition of Contemporary Music – Composer of the XXI Century. He previously
won third place at the 16th 2 Agosto International Composing Competition held
in Bologna, Italy and a special prize at the Fourth International Competition
named after S. S. Prokofiev, organized in Moscow.
Sh.Ulziibayar’s works have been received
well globally but his home country isn’t giving him any attention as Mongolia’s
cultural and arts policy haven’t been effective for some time, no longer
rewarding composers. He continues to compose while adjusting to current
conditions and opportunities, without demanding systematic reform for young
composers.
Since 2010, songs and compositions by
Sh.Ulziibayar have been selected for Morin Khuur Festival as well as the Golden
Autumn Festival. He has even seized the coveted “Goo Maral” award.
With which composition did you win the
Second International Competition of Contemporary Music – Composer of the XXI
Century?
I participated
with my concerto for morin khuur and symphony orchestra that was composed in
2010. This piece won the Golden Autumn Festival. Morin khuur player of Domog
Band, D.Shinetsog, won first place at the International Franz Schubert Choir
Competition in Vienna, Austria by playing this piece. Later, he played it at
the State Palace of Mongolia. It is a successful piece, performed in many
places.
I heard about
the Second International Competition of Contemporary Music – Composer of the
XXI Century from fellow composer Ts.Erdenebat. After hearing about his
participation, I also tried sending my composition. My first concerto won a
special prize for successfully infusing traditional music with contemporary
music.
To partake in competitions, do composers
have to go to the respective country? Can they just send their video?
Yes, we can
only send our videos. I sent my music sheet with a video uploaded on Youtube.
This competition has six judges. The general judge is Sergei Slonimsky, the
best composer living in this generation. He’s 80 years old and composed 30
symphonies. He is currently teaching at Saint Petersburg Conservatory.
Have you composed any new music pieces this
year?
I wrote my
second concerto for morin khuur and symphony orchestra. This piece has three
classical episodes. Musician of Morin Khuur Ensemble D.Jijiddorj performed it
with folk artist Ts.Batchuluun as conductor. This summer, I composed two movie
soundtracks, “Tsen Togoruu” (White-naped cranes) and “Home Country Calls Me”.
Last year, I wrote “Orgilluun Orchestra” introductory for Morin Khuur Ensemble,
the Mongolian Symphony Orchestra and Bayan Mongol Jazz Orchestra.
Did the Mongolian State Philharmonic
Orchestra have composers before? Since when did this position become available?
The Mongolian
State Philharmonic Orchestra did have this position before. Composer
Jantsannorov worked in this position. No one was hired for this position for
some time until I received an offer and began working in 2012.
Since you work at the biggest integrated
orchestra establishment for professional music arts in Mongolia, you must have
more advantages over other composers, right?
It is an
affluent establishment consisting of three different orchestras. I feel closer
to Morin Khuur Ensemble because I used to play morin khuur when I was young.
It’s beneficial for me since I get to know more about symphony orchestra music
and write music for it. Composers have to be knowledgeable about symphony
orchestra music and be capable of composing music for it. Lately, I’ve been
interested in jazz music. It’s wonderful to be able to connect and work with
all of them in some sort of way.
This year, the Golden Autumn Festival will
not be organized. It must be disappointing for composers?
This is the
first time in history that it’s been cancelled. This is a tragedy. Composers
used to harvest their works only once a year and the best among them were
chosen and bought by the National Foundation. A total of 50 million MNT is
spent in total, which is the price of one composition. Mongolia takes five to
six compositions a year for this price. We did discuss about increasing this
money before. Yet even the festival isn’t going to happen. The Golden Autumn
Festival was included in the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism’s cut back
on extra expenses.
Is the Golden Autumn Festival a small
festival that can be included in cut backs?
It’s a large
scale event and has significant value. This is the only opportunity in the year
that lets composers get their large pieces played by an orchestra and have the
audiences listen. These sorts of pieces aren’t public songs that can be played
anywhere or be played by a musician by themselves. Within the framework of the
Golden Autumn Festival, the symphony orchestra performs compositions without
payment from composers only once. I think it’s very regrettable.
To composers, what competitions are
considered equivalent to something like the Olympics and World Championships
for athletes?
I’ve already
won that sort of competition.
Do you mean the Composer of the XXI Century
competition?
I seized third
place at the 16th 2 Agosto International Composing Competition held in Bologna,
Italy in 2010 with my “Toccata Variation” piece for piano and orchestra. The
general judge for this competition was famous Italian composer Ennio Morricone.
This competition wasn’t included in the government resolution attachment so nobody
in Mongolia cared. Mostly sport competitions were written on that attachment.
For arts and culture, only M.Glinka and P.I. Tchaikovsky’s competitions and
circus competitions were included. It didn’t have a single competition for
music composers.
Can’t this regulation be renewed?
At the time, I
thought it should be renewed and after researching, I submitted a list of
competitions for composers. However, it wasn’t put to work. Composer Ser-Od had
also submitted a similar list.
In recent years, your compositions have
been put in the National Foundation, haven’t they?
That’s right.
My works are being included whenever the National Foundation purchases my
compositions.
Which music piece did you sell for the
highest price?
The National
Foundation spent 10 million MNT from its annual limit of 50 million MNT for
purchasing compositions on my “Duruu” contemporary ballet music. Overall
allotment is equal but symphony, opera and ballet music are valued higher.
You seem to absorb national musical
instruments and melody in your work. Can this be described as the defining
feature of your compositions?
That’s the
reason why my pieces are acknowledged at international competitions. They
attract attention because they infuse national culture and traditional
characteristics into contemporary music. It will not be great if it consist of
one quality.
Where do you get your inspirations from?
I travel and
study. I learn many things from being close to nature.
When do you work most actively? Most
Mongolian composers create their best pieces when they’re young.
If I find a
piece to work on, I am absolutely hooked on it and work hard to complete it. If
I don’t get new ideas, I will carry on doing nothing for some time.
Is there a composition you started but
haven’t completed?
Yes. Pieces
with bad starts really don’t progress.
Can you clarify on bad starts?
It means it
can’t be develop further. Compositions will flow well if the right notes are
found. These sorts of instances are common. Only those who’ve tried composing
will understand.
Do you compose on request? Is it difficult
to write music consistent to people’s requests?
More than the
difficulty, more responsibility is given. I give my best not disappoint the
person that entrusted me with a request. I consider this as a good opportunity
for producing a good piece while getting paid. I wrote my first concerto for
morin khuur and symphony orchestra for D.Shinetsog at his request. Although I
didn’t get a prize money, this piece won the Golden Autumn Festival and
achieved an award at the International Franz Schubert Choir Competition.
To compose a concerto, symphony, opera, or
ballet, how much time and effort do composers dedicate?
General
planning can be developed quickly but the mechanical works take up a lot of
time. Everything must be adjusted to every symphony and orchestra music. We
have to calculate if the melody we want to portray is overwhelmed by other
sounds. Considerable amount of time is spent on this procedure. A month or more
is required. Large pieces aren’t written through emotional stimulus like songs.
The effort dedicated for making large pieces can’t be measured because you have
to work precisely, drown deeply into the music, and be fired up about it
emotionally. We have to listen to large pieces over and over again, which sort
of makes you lose the initial feel.
Can composers produce good pieces with only
talent?
Education is
important. It’s necessary to be capable of viewing things from the bigger
perspective. There are people who’ve created fantastic, mind-blowing melodies
but don’t develop them further and there are composers who don’t have fantastic
melody but see the bigger picture. Composers have to have a broad-range of
feel.
What kind of music do you want to compose?
I want my
pieces to be useful to others. I want musicians to play my music and the media
to broadcast their concerts so that many people can \ listen to them. I used to
listen a lot of Russian composers’ works when I studied in Russia. Since
returning to Mongolia, I’ve been listening and learning from the best Mongolian
composers such as B.Sharav, N.Jantsannorov and Z.Khangal. I mainly listen to
classical music from the second half of the 20th century. I also listen to new
and unique music but not the ones that are too avant-garde.
Source:
mongolnews.mn/1cns
Athletes
leave for the 4th Asian Beach Games in Thailand
By B. Tungalag
November 6 (UB
Post) The farewell ceremony for Mongolian athletes who will participate in the
4th Asian Beach Games, to be held in Phuket, Thailand from November 14 to 23,
took place on November 5.
President of
the Mongolian National Olympic Committee D.Zagdsuren, Vice President of the
committee J.Khatanbaatar, President of the Mongolian Sports Press Union
Ch.Otgonbaatar and Head of the Sports Policy Management Department of the
Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism N.Bakyetjan participated in the
farewell ceremony and wished them luck.
Athletes of 45
countries will compete in 17 sports categories at the Phuket 2014 Asian Beach
Games.
The Mongolian
team includes 50 athletes and officials. Mongolia will take part in eight
sports events including beach wrestling, beach basketball, ju-jutsu, kurash,
muay thai, sambo, petanque, and beach modern pentathlon.
Mongolian
athletes will compete in Muay thai, beach modern pentathlon and pentaque for
the first time.
During the
farewell ceremony, N.Bakyetjan underlined the new rule in government resolution
no.64 to grant cash prizes to the team that takes part in the Asian Beach
Games.
N.Bakyetjan
handed the Mongolian national flag to wrestler Ts.Azbileg.
Representatives
of the City Council need to remove their ‘Double Deel’
November 6 (UB
Post) Representatives in the Ulaanbaatar City Council are employing a “double
deel” standard, not just ministers and members of the parliament.
The concept of
“double deel” means one person is appointed to two different roles that create
a conflict of interests.
In accordance
with the law, the City Council is a legal subject that has who are elected
through free elections and are responsible for resolving social and economic
issues in the best interest of citizens.
The City
Council has the authority to approve the City Governor’s action program,
discuss reports and evaluate them, check the fulfillment of decisions made by
the council, approve the city budget, and set the amount of some taxes and
fees. But today, many representatives of the City Council are leading executive
level government organizations that have to report their activity to the
council.
It is a big
concern because the City Council has 45 members, but more than half of them are
working in executive governance and running their own businesses in addition to
their City Council work.
For instance,
City Governor E.Bat-Uul, his five deputies and advisors working in the City
Council. How fair can the evaluations and conclusions drawn about the
Governor’s work be?
More money is
spent on double deel employees because the representatives of the City Council
receive monthly cash bonuses. They also have extra expenditures, including
private cars, cell phones, assistant officers, and advisors.
The President
initiated a bill to ban members of Government from becoming Members of
Parliament. The bill was discussed several times and was not approved.
Recently, another Member of Parliament was appointed to a position, but
voluntarily resigned due to his position on the “double deel”.
Consequently,
inter-governance principles fail and the work of the state is lost.
City Council
representatives wearing a “double deel”
1.
Ulaanbaatar City Governor E.Bat-Uul
2. Deputy
Head of Roads, Transportation and Infrastructure of the Ulaanbaatar Governor
N.Gantumur
3. Deputy
Head of Employment and Social Protection of the Ulaanbaatar Governor
Ts.Buyandalai
4. Deputy
Head of Ecology and Green Development of the Ulaanbaatar Governor T.Bat-Erdene
5. Deputy
Head of Urban Development and Investment of the Ulaanbaatar Governor S.Ochirbat
6. Deputy
Head of Social Development of the Ulaanbaatar Governor Ts.Enkhgerel
7. Director
of the State Housing Corporation A.Gantulga
8. Deputy
Head of Trade and Development Bank D.Khurelbaatar
9. Head of
Water Supply and Sewage of Ulaanbaatar S.Unen
10. Deputy Minister
of Health and Interim Advisor of Ulaanbaatar Governor J.Amarsanaa
11. Governor
of Sukhbaatar District D.Badarsan
12. Deputy
Head of the Ulaanbaatar Heating Network Company and Executive Committee Member
of Ger District Re-planning L.Naranbaatar
13. Head of
the Ulaanbaatar City Investment Authority L.Narantuya
14. Governor
of Bayangol District D.Orosoo
15. Head of
the Public Transportation Corporation Ts.Odontungalag
16. Interim
Advisor of Domestic Inspection of the Ulaanbaatar Governor Ts.Altantsetseg
17. Director
of the National Auto Transportation Center T.Boldbaatar
18. Head of
the Ulaanbaatar Incorporated Company D.Enkhsaikhan
19. General
Director of APU Trading D.Enkkhsaikhan
20. Head of
the Auto Trade Complex D.Baidrag
21. Head of
Finance Department at APU Trading B.Tuvshin
22. Project
Manager of the Urban Services and Ger Area Development Program and Manager of
Khan Ger Resort L.Saintugs
23. Governor
of Chingeltei District D.Ganbold
24. Deputy
Governor of Songinokhairkahn District R.Dagva
25. Director
of the National Park B.Saranchimeg
Source:
http://mongolnews.mn/1cvm
State
budget debate leaves Parliament desperate to find 40 billion MNT
November 6
(UB Post) The renewed 2015 state budget draft is facing many issues, despite
only having ten days until the time limit for passing next year’s budget. The
State Budget Standing Committee ended their second meeting on Tuesday.
Revenue of
7.2 trillion MNT and expenditures of 7.6 trillion MNT were estimated for next
year’s balanced budget report. A deficit of some 490 billion MNT was approved,
as equivalent to two percent of the GDP. The economic climate has changed
drastically within the past year and the state budget hasn’t yet reached its
estimated balance.
The
government made amendments to the framework of the 2015 state budget report and
state budget perspective for 2016-2017, and came up with methods for reducing
the gap between revenue and expenditures in the newly submitted draft, which
were ultimately rejected.
The
parliament demanded that the government find ways to raise 40 billion MNT for
tallying budget revenue in next year’s budget report.
The Vice
Minister of Finance, S.Purev, explained the ministry’s position regarding the
state budget, which is being discussed without the Minister of Finance, stating
that the ministry “tightened its belt” as much as it could. A working group of
the Economic Standing Committee proposed increasing funds for mining, energy
and the portfolio of the Minister of Finance by specific amounts. Some members
opposed, saying that the ministry’s belt has actually been loosened. The
working group suggested some amendments, since it’s impossible to change the
budget report in order to conform to the budget draft.
MP and
Minister for Mining D.Gankhuyag asked, “The parliament gave the government
rights to issue a five billion MNT bond. The other side isn’t increasing its
debt or renewing the Fiscal Stability Law. Bond debt can’t be issued as
expenditure because it was announced that changes to the law can’t be made.
Wouldn’t this create conflict? Next year, how many jobs will become available?”
Vice
Minister of Finance S.Purev answered that jobs will grow by 2,200, as several
schools and kindergartens will become operational in 2015.
MP
S.Byambatsogt inquired, “Remaining bond interest payments will be paid starting
in 2017; 703 billion MNT must be paid in interest next year. What kind of
savings will be established for this? Is it consistent with the law to discuss
a state budget that isn’t consistent with its budget report or perspectives?”
General
Auditor of the Mongolian National Audit Office (MNAO) A. Zangad replied that
the MNAO reviewed the budget draft, reported conclusions and provided
recommendations. The conclusion, sent to the parliament, mentioned violations
against the law on fiscal stability and the 2015 state budget report. He then
informed that the government didn’t fix their error when they resubmitted the
state budget draft. According A. Zangad, it’s possible to correct this error
during meetings.
Vice
Minister S.Purev added, “Bond debt was issued as expenditure in next year’s
budget. This made GDP loss seem as if it had reached seven percent so the
parliament rejected. This was included in related laws, but to do this, it’s
necessary to make changes to the Fiscal Stability Law. Five hundred billion USD
has to be paid for bond debt in 2018. Eight percent of this amount, equivalent
to 56.4 million USD, will come from the state budget and the remainder will be
provided with funds from projects that were funded by the Development Bank on
repayment terms.”
On the other
hand, MP S.Demberel commented that opportunities for earning revenue were well
mobilized and it would be difficult to raise an extra 40 billion MNT. He warned
about the potential risk of revenue shortfall if this situation continues, and
claimed the economy would improve if the state budget isn’t approved with
deficits.
“The
Minister of Finance aims to approve balanced budgets. This way, savings will be
created. We cut back on enduring costs when developing the draft. On top of
savings, recurrent cost was increased by some 900 billion MNT. Sixty percent of
this amount will be allotted to salaries,” said S.Purev.
MP
L.Enkh-Amgalan strictly questioned, “The state budget is designed to overcome
an economic crisis with little loss. Has this objective been fulfilled, or was
it pushed onto the parliament to resolve? Can’t the 30 percent of recurrent
cost used for the government’s Special Fund be reduced? There were 20
organizations that increased their expenditure, determined in the 2014 state
budget, by 76 billion MNT. What’s the reason for this? Isn’t this a corrupted
budget? [In the draft] it says 210 billion MNT will be raised from monitoring
and penalties. When it’s been said that monitoring will be reduced to lessen
burden on businesses, do you think this is possible?”
S.Purev said
the previous draft wasn’t accurate and had to be reapproved. He explained that
budget expenditure was increased because some projects weren’t included.
According to MP A.Zangad an audit is being conducted, especially on operations
of the government’s Special Fund, and in total, six funds were reviewed this
year. She claimed a similar number of audits will be conducted next year.
MP
Ts.Nyamdorj suggested some ways to cut down on budget costs: eliminate the
ineffective Local Development Fund, which isn’t monitored; reduce the number of
members of the extremely large Judicial General Council of Mongolia; and
liquidate Erdenes Mongol LLC, state-owned Mon Atom LLC and Takhar Authority.
Later, a vote was organized. The majority of members supported suggestions to
match budget revenue to next year’s budget report by increasing it by 40
billion MNT, recalculate actual economic growth and expenditure estimates, and
lastly, boost the portfolio of the Minister of Finance by 980 million MNT.
Source:
mongolnews.mn/1cvn
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