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Wednesday, May 18, 2016
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ASEM 11
PM Saikhanbileg checks ASEM preparation progress
May 16 (ASEM Mongolia) The 11th Asia-Europe Meeting Summit (ASEM11) has been scheduled to be organized in Ulaanbaatar mid-July. Currently, A total of 5,000 delegates is expected for ASEM11, including Presidents of 15 countries, Prime Ministers and Foreign Ministers of 21 countries, leaders of international organizations and media delegates.
Prime Minister Ch. Saikhanbileg, who leads the National Council to oversee the ASEM Summit, visited the ASEM Office of Mongolia on May 14 and assigned the staff to finish the preparations as soon as possible.
The locations that the Prime Minister toured were the Press Center in Shangri-La Hotel, Chinggis Khaan International Airport, its transit hall, Chinggisiin Khuree, and ASEM Villa complex. Accompanying the PM were the Foreign Minister L. Purevsuren, the Roads and Transportation Minister M. Zorigt, the Defense Minister M. Zorigt, and the Ulaanbaatar City Governor and Mayor E. Bat-Uul.
During the tour, ASEM's six working group heads accompanied and briefed the Prime Minister on their respective areas.
The National Council to oversee and organize the ASEM Summit meets every Wednesday, its sub-working groups meeting with the same frequency. The government and the National Council plans and oversees the budget and action plans for ASEM-related preparations. The Prime Minister apprised the preparations as going as scheduled, with human resources planned evenly.
"We Mongolians must organize this large-scale event to create prestige around it. Only after our private, public and non-governmental sectors are cooperating, can we get behind this daunting task. Many enterprises are actively supporting our activities, this is good. I would like to encourage the citizens to cooperate with the government," said the Prime Minister Ch. Saikhanbileg, on finishing ASEM preparations.
ASEM Officer to Be Appointed at Each Ministry
May 17 (ASEM Mongolia) The ASEM Office of Mongolia and the Cabinet Secretariat held a consultative meeting on May 16 on seeking support in the refurbishment of ASEM Villa, Press Center, Mongol complex, and the Ger township dedicated for bilateral meetings. It also considered issues of mobilizing additional vehicles to serve the delegates.
The meeting was attended by relevant officials from ministries, agencies, and state-owned business entities. The meeting attendants exchanged information and have agreed to work together in collaboration.
Opening the meeting, S. Bayartsogt, Chief Cabinet Secretary made a briefing on the status of the preparations for the ASEM Summit while L. Purevsuren, Foreign Minister, spoke about the progress of the ASEM Summit and its side-event meetings. They called on the participating sides to make their contribution to the organization of this major event in the country which would have an important significance in further elevating the prestige of Mongolia on the international arena.
A Press Center for foreign and local journalists to cover the ASEM Summit would be located on the B1 floor of the Shangri-La Mall and accommodate more than 600 journalists. It has been agreed that furniture and equipment sets necessary for the Press Center would be borrowed temporarily from the state organizations. The ministries and agencies also announced that vehicles and drivers can be assist the Summit motorcade when necessary. The meeting concluded with a decision to appoint a temporary ASEM officer in each ministry, who would be coordinating ASEM-related collaborations.
ASEM Senior Officials Discuss Improving Connectivity Between Asia-Europe Peoples
ASEM Senior Officials' Meeting, one of the nine side events of the 11th Asia-Europe Meeting Summit in Mongolia, has been held in Ulaanbaatar on May 12-13.
The meeting was attended by over 170 representatives from 51 ASEM partner countries, the European Union (EU), Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF).
"Mongolia, as the host of the 11th ASEM Summit, attaches special importance to this meeting of senior officials," said the State Secretary of the Foreign Ministry and the Head of ASEM Office D. Gankhuyag on his opening remark, "which will focus on the future of ASEM, on celebration of its 20th anniversary and on other issues related to the preparation for the Ulaanbaatar Summit, including discussions of the draft Ulaanbaatar Declaration and Chair's Statement".
During the Senior Officials' Meeting, the officials discussed commitments to improve connectivity between Asia-Europe peoples, 20th anniversary of ASEM, and cooperation status in 16 fields, and the direction of the future 10 years. Also the officials held discussions to delineate the Chair's Statement, which will be available at the end of the 11th ASEM Summit, as well as the Ulaanbaatar Declaration.
The ASEM Senior Officials hold regular meetings for coordination work on ASEM activities, including reaching consensus on decisions to make at the ASEM Summit and Ministerial meetings. Another Senior Officials' Meeting in Ulaanbaatar is expected to be held in July 12-14.
For more pictures: http://asem11.mn/?p=4345&lang=en
ASEM 11 preparations checked by advanced teams of member countries
May 17 (ASEM Mongolia) More than 60 officials from 19 ASEM partner countries visited the key sites of the 11th Asia-Europe Meeting Summit (ASEM11) on May 16. The security and protocol staff from countries, such as Luxembourg, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, Republic of Korea, and the European Union, made visits to Shangri-La Hotel and Mall, ASEM Villa, Chinggis Khaan International Airport and Chinggisiin Khuree complex.
ASEM Villa is almost completed
The ASEM Villa, which will accommodate all the heads of state during the Summit retreat, consists of 53 modern villa houses. The Mongolian ASEM officials explained that the villa construction and interior furnishing have been completed, and that the landscaping and gardening would be completed by the end of June.
Airport expansion and renovation completed
As regards to the Chinggis Khaan International Airport, nine additional aircraft aprons of 4C class have been built, bringing the total aprons to 34. A new transit lounge capable of handling 1,200 passengers in an hour has been built anew, and the repair and maintenance of the business class lounge, baggage handling, and departure halls, as well as the air bridges, have been completed.
Venues ready, Press Center in progress
The meeting venues at the Shangri-La Hotel are ready, and the ASEM Office is working on setting up the Press Center at the Mall for foreign and local journalists.
The 11th Asia-Europe Meeting Summit (ASEM11) will be held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on July 15-16.
TRQ closed Tuesday +2.85% to US$2.89
Pentwater Capital Decreased Stake in Turquoise Hill by $24.43 Million as Shares Rose
May 16 (Bibey Post) Matthew Halbower decreased its stake in Turquoise Hill Res Ltd (NYSE:TRQ) by 10.49% based on its latest 2016Q1 regulatory filing with the SEC. Pentwater Capital Management Lp sold 12.21M shares as the company's stock rose 2.01% with the market. The hedge fund run by Matthew Halbower held 104.17M shares of the precious metals company at the end of 2016Q1, valued at $264.59M, down from 116.38M at the end of the previous reported quarter. Pentwater Capital Management Lp who had been investing in Turquoise Hill Res Ltd for a number of months, seems to be less bullish one the $5.70 billion market cap company. The stock decreased 0.35% or $0.01 during the last trading session, hitting $2.81. About 2.76M shares traded hands or 13.58% up from the average. Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd (NYSE:TRQ) has declined 5.69% since October 8, 2015 and is downtrending. It has underperformed by 7.33% the S&P500.
In 2007, Matthew Halbower created Pentwater Capital. The firm provide services in event-driven investing and merger arbitrage. Before creating Pentwater, he used to provide strategic services for event-driven and distressed asset trading at Deephaven Capital. Pentwater Capital Management Lp is a Illinois-based hedge fund that was founded by Matthew Halbower. It had more than $5.28 billion assets under management in September, 2014. Taken from Pentwater Capital Management latest Adv, the fund reported to have 30 full and part-time employees. Among which 13 performing investment advisory and research functions. The hedge fund had between 11-25 clients.
Mogi: sooooo, contract mining for debt? Cabinet meeting memo was published in the morning. 1878 closed -3.2% to HK$1.5. SGQ -13.33% to C$0.26
SouthGobi to settle Mongolia tax verdict by working on TT
May 17 (gogo.mn) The proposal of the Ministry of Finance, based on the decision of the Court of Mongolia, to settle liabilities of SouthGobi Sands Resources Ltd (SGS) were discussed and finalised at the cabinet meeting.
The Court of Mongolia decided to be paid MNT 35.3 billion to the state budget by SGS. Specifically, the court decided to settle MNT 15 billion to be paid in 2016, 2017 by MNT 7.5 billion respectively and agreed on the proposal to settle remaining MNT 20.3 billion by mining in Tavantolgoi deposit at lower cost with their own expense and employees. The Court of Mongolia assigned Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC to establish executive agreement with the SGS.
SGS will be responsible for the all expenses related to the mining including transportation, salary, social insurance, accommodation, food, electricity and technical maintenance. Any additional costs will not be incurred by the Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC.
With this decision, Mongolia will not suffer a loss and collect total liabilities imposed on SGS while operation of SGS will not be halted.
ERD closed flat at C$0.50
Erdene Names Dr. Anna Biolik and David Mosher as Nominees to its Board of Directors
HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA--(Marketwired - May 17, 2016) - Erdene Resource Development Corp. (TSX:ERD) ("Erdene" or "Company") is pleased to announce that Dr. Anna Biolik and David Mosher will be included as nominees for election to its Board of Directors at the Company's upcoming Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders to be held on June 14, 2016.
"As we advance our core gold projects in southwest Mongolia, the expertise required at the board level is moving from exploration and finance experience to mining, business development and government relations. We believe that Dr. Biolik and Mr. Mosher provide industry leading strengths in these areas internationally, and are very strong candidates for the Erdene board," said Peter Akerley, Erdene's President and CEO. "Anna is among North America's leading authorities on business and diplomacy in the Central Asian region, having acted as Canada's first resident Ambassador in Mongolia, while David is a gold mining executive with decades of experience in mine and company building in foreign jurisdictions, including Russia. They will be included on the slate of Management's nominees in addition to all of the existing Directors."
Dr. Anna G. Biolik
…
Mr. David Mosher
…
CG closed Tuesday +2.34% to C$7.86
Centerra Gold Announces Election of Directors
TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - May 17, 2016) - Centerra Gold Inc. (TSX: CG) ("Centerra" or the "Company") announced that the eleven nominees listed in the management information circular for the 2016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the "Meeting") held earlier today were elected as directors of Centerra. The vote for director nominees was conducted by ballot. 211,931,501 shares were voted at the Meeting, representing 87.57% of Centerra's issued and outstanding common shares. The detailed results of the vote are set out below:
Nominee | | Votes For | | % Votes For | Votes Withheld | % Votes Withheld | % Votes For Excluding Kyrgyzaltyn Vote |
Richard W. Connor | | 126,837,770 | | 60.29 | 83,555,975 | 39.71 | 95.37 |
Raphael A. Girard | | 132,217,891 | | 62.84 | 78,175,854 | 37.16 | 99.42 |
Eduard Kubatov | | 209,147,645 | | 99.41 | 1,246,100 | 0.59 | 99.06 |
Nurlan Kyshtobaev | | 209,148,935 | | 99.41 | 1,244,810 | 0.59 | 99.06 |
Stephen A. Lang | | 129,372,703 | | 61.49 | 81,021,042 | 38.51 | 97.28 |
Michael Parrett | | 132,490,821 | | 62.97 | 77,902,924 | 37.03 | 99.62 |
Scott G. Perry | | 129,747,938 | | 61.67 | 80,645,807 | 38.33 | 97.56 |
Sheryl K. Pressler | | 132,396,234 | | 62.93 | 77,997,511 | 37.07 | 99.55 |
Terry V. Rogers | | 131,634,888 | | 62.57 | 78,758,857 | 37.43 | 98.98 |
Bektur Sagynov | | 206,847,322 | | 98.31 | 3,546,423 | 1.69 | 97.33 |
Bruce V. Walter | | 129,440,721 | | 61.52 | 80,953,024 | 38.48 | 97.33 |
In connection with the voting for the election of directors, Centerra notes that Kyrgyzaltyn JSC ("Kyrgyzaltyn") is wholly owned by the Kyrgyz Republic and owns approximately 32% of the outstanding common shares of Centerra. Kyrgyzaltyn is the Company's largest shareholder and it withheld its votes from the election of all director nominees other than Messrs. Kubatov, Kyshtobaev and Sagynov. The director nominees other than Messrs. Kubatov, Kyshtobaev and Sagynov received, on average, over 98% of the votes cast in favour of their election (excluding the votes attached to the shares of Kyrgyzaltyn).
Final voting results on all matters voted on at the Meeting will be filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
MSE Trading Report: Top 20 -0.59%, ALL -0.47%, Turnover ₮18.5 Million Shares
May 17 (MSE) --
Historic low ₮2,050.85/USD set March 28, 2016. Reds are rates that set a new low at the time
BoM MNT Rates: Tuesday, May 17 Close
5/17 | 5/16 | 5/13 | 5/12 | 5/11 | 5/10 | 5/9 | 5/6 | 5/5 | 5/4 | 5/3 | 5/2 | 4/29 | 4/28 | 4/27 | ||
| USD | 1,991.54 | 1,998.70 | 2,003.01 | 2,012.16 | 2,017.93 | 2,020.06 | 2,021.40 | 2,021.03 | 2,020.79 | 2,019.89 | 2,017.26 | 2,015.41 | 2,011.84 | 2,009.41 | 2,005.71 |
| EUR | 2,256.22 | 2,261.33 | 2,271.41 | 2,296.08 | 2,298.02 | 2,300.44 | 2,307.83 | 2,306.80 | 2,321.48 | 2,321.86 | 2,332.66 | 2,309.76 | 2,290.78 | 2,279.17 | 2,271.67 |
| JPY | 18.21 | 18.38 | 18.44 | 18.46 | 18.56 | 18.58 | 18.79 | 18.89 | 18.87 | 18.90 | 19.06 | 18.93 | 18.75 | 18.57 | 18.04 |
| GBP | 2,888.93 | 2,870.83 | 2,885.14 | 2,901.94 | 2909.55 | 2,912.62 | 2,913.75 | 2,926.65 | 2,931.96 | 2,938.84 | 2,972.43 | 2,947.44 | 2,944.13 | 2,927.81 | 2,927.13 |
| RUB | 30.89 | 30.80 | 30.76 | 30.91 | 30.48 | 30.52 | 30.82 | 30.64 | 30.63 | 30.28 | 31.13 | 31.18 | 31.23 | 30.82 | 30.61 |
| CNY | 305.49 | 306.26 | 307.07 | 309.14 | 309.68 | 310.01 | 310.84 | 310.73 | 310.90 | 310.87 | 311.65 | 311.31 | 310.46 | 310.25 | 309.00 |
| KRW | 1.70 | 1.70 | 1.71 | 1.72 | 1.72 | 1.73 | 1.73 | 1.73 | 1.74 | 1.75 | 1.77 | 1.77 | 1.76 | 1.77 | 1.75 |
| SGD | 1,456.60 | 1,458.96 | 1,456.47 | 1,469.53 | 1,473.59 | 1,475.14 | 1,482.07 | 1,486.49 | 1,492.73 | 1,492.29 | 1,504.63 | 1,501.52 | 1,497.57 | 1,496.49 | 1,486.76 |
| CAD | 1,550.56 | 1,546.68 | 1,556.04 | 1,563.81 | 1,558.97 | 1,560.61 | 1,564.67 | 1,567.97 | 1,576.53 | 1,587.40 | 1,616.39 | 1,606.61 | 1,606.39 | 1,601.12 | 1,590.32 |
| AUD | 1,464.48 | 1,457.95 | 1,459.99 | 1,473.81 | 1,481.87 | 1,483.43 | 1,488.26 | 1,488.39 | 1,517.01 | 1,514.82 | 1,531.10 | 1,534.43 | 1,539.56 | 1,536.50 | 1,526.65 |
| HKD | 256.56 | 257.44 | 258.05 | 259.34 | 259.97 | 260.25 | 260.48 | 260.40 | 260.40 | 260.29 | 259.98 | 259.75 | 259.35 | 259.06 | 258.57 |
| CHF | 2,037.90 | 2,048.27 | 2,057.75 | 2,069.91 | 2,078.41 | 2,080.61 | 2,083.81 | 2,087.84 | 2,110.38 | 2,114.29 | 2,120.20 | 2,099.82 | 2,088.92 | 2,075.30 | 2,064.23 |
Bank USD rates at time of sending: Khan (Buy ₮1,998 Sell ₮2,010), TDB (Buy ₮1,990 Sell ₮2,005), Golomt (Buy ₮1,995 Sell ₮2,010), XacBank (Buy ₮1,998 Sell ₮2,010), State Bank (Buy ₮1,995 Sell ₮2,014)
MNT vs USD (blue), CNY (red) in last 1 year:
SMI, May 2016: Mongolia's Recession Bottoms Out
· Sales and Market slowdown eases
· Price deflation steadies in May
· Weakening Tugrik remains a concern for businesses
May 17 (World Economics) The ongoing recession gripping Mongolia entered its 27th month in May but strong indication are emerging that business 
conditions are likely to improve over the coming months. Up to 36.9 in May from 34.0 in April, the World Economics Headline Sales Managers' Index (SMI) for Mongolia indicates easing business conditions across the country. Business confidence remains low, but is clearly on an upward trend.
Sales Managers' Index Trends
| Speed | Direction |
SMI | Slow | Falling |
Business Confidence | Slow | Falling |
Market Growth | Slow | Falling |
Sales Output | Slow | Falling |
Prices Charged | Slow | Falling |
Staffing Levels | Slow | Falling |
…
Link to release ($495 a year or to see the full thing now)
Subsidized Mortgage Report: ₮84.7 Billion Issued at 5%, ₮234.6 Billion at 8%, ₮29.6 Billion Transferred to 5%
May 16 (Bank of Mongolia) As of May 13 banks received ₮374 billion (₮276.4 billion as of April 22) mortgage requests of 6,045 citizens (4,479 as of April 22), of which ₮84.7 billion (₮56.6 billion as April 22) of 1,784 citizens (1,205 as of April 22) have been approved at 5%, ₮234.6 billion (₮169.7 billion as of April 22) of 3,508 citizens (2,548 as of April 22) at 8%.
Also, ₮29.6 billion mortgages (₮23.9 billion as of April 22) of 731 borrowers (587 as of April 22) who bought housing in Ulaanbaatar ger area redevelopment zones, satellite districts Baganuur, Bagakhangai, and Nalaikh, new capital housing zones, and 21 aimags have been transferred to 5%.
Link to release (in Mongolian)
Key Banking Indicators, April 2016: Deposits, NPLs +27.2%, +11% MoM, +33.5%, +43.6% YoY, Loss ₮17.6 Billion YTD
May 17 (Bank of Mongolia) --
/in million of togrogs/
Assets | 4/30/2015 | 6/30/2015 | 9/30/2015 | 12/31/2015 | 3/31/2016 | 4/30/2016 |
Bank reservers | 1,901,156.00 | 2,009,193.00 | 2,096,368.90 | 2,064,802.20 | 1,995,463.70 | 2,537,508.20 |
Central bank bills | 316,311.60 | 1,150,480.30 | 628,681.10 | 1,024,770.80 | 691,696.60 | 276,623.60 |
Foreign assets | 807,647.80 | 933,597.80 | 1,034,485.90 | 977,926.20 | 1,379,075.80 | 1,596,371.30 |
Government securities | 2,115,626.70 | 2,291,034.00 | 2,141,525.60 | 2,543,100.80 | 2,532,738.10 | 2,505,851.60 |
Other securities | 477,838.30 | 791,068.60 | 604,210.50 | 762,088.60 | 1,032,197.70 | 1,176,166.10 |
Loans | 12,237,222.50 | 11,881,967.30 | 11,873,157.60 | 11,633,582.60 | 11,764,551.50 | 11,564,647.30 |
In domestic currency | 9,342,935.60 | 9,009,262.30 | 8,986,030.40 | 8,857,639.70 | 9,053,513.20 | 9,004,777.40 |
In foreign currency | 2,894,286.90 | 2,872,704.90 | 2,887,127.20 | 2,775,942.90 | 2,711,038.20 | 2,559,869.90 |
Non-performing loans | 745,479.40 | 771,939.90 | 850,227.00 | 867,288.70 | 964,396.50 | 1,070,353.80 |
Total Assets | 20,498,826.80 | 21,861,631.60 | 21,316,424.70 | 21,521,242.50 | 22,042,486.60 | 22,185,774.20 |
| | | | | | |
Liabilities | 4/30/2015 | 6/30/2015 | 9/30/2015 | 12/31/2015 | 3/31/2016 | 4/30/2016 |
Current Accounts | 2,109,284.10 | 2,298,855.50 | 2,248,819.00 | 2,208,520.60 | 2,114,696.00 | 2,356,233.50 |
In domestic currency | 1,088,734.90 | 1,233,720.20 | 1,206,297.80 | 1,226,775.50 | 1,156,950.60 | 1,173,630.40 |
In foreign currency | 1,020,549.30 | 1,065,135.20 | 1,042,521.20 | 981,745.10 | 957,745.40 | 1,182,603.10 |
Deposits | 7,160,322.70 | 7,262,890.40 | 7,230,539.00 | 7,339,720.70 | 7,529,373.60 | 7,586,534.70 |
In domestic currency | 5,072,054.00 | 5,244,138.00 | 5,135,099.10 | 5,390,685.40 | 5,424,466.00 | 5,424,467.00 |
In foreign currency | 2,088,268.70 | 2,018,752.40 | 2,095,439.90 | 1,949,035.30 | 2,104,907.50 | 2,104,908.50 |
Foreign liabilities | 2,471,017.80 | 3,526,325.80 | 3,158,428.20 | 3,595,478.10 | 3,762,953.40 | 3,644,960.30 |
Government deposits | 1,384,956.10 | 1,357,006.60 | 1,466,673.90 | 1,453,863.80 | 2,247,310.70 | 2,337,269.50 |
Total Liabilities | 18,238,770.90 | 19,535,743.50 | 18,937,145.90 | 19,094,433.40 | 19,647,892.50 | 19,769,966.40 |
Capital | 2,260,055.80 | 2,325,888.10 | 2,379,278.90 | 2,426,809.10 | 2,394,594.20 | 2,415,807.80 |
Profit/loss of current year | 103,228.20 | 179,045.60 | 176,135.30 | 218,253.80 | -7,689.30 | -17,613.00 |
MP Erdenechimeg submits revised Tavan Tolgoi draft resolution
May 17 (Mongolian Economy) L.Erdenechimeg MP submitted the draft resolution of the parliament on usage of the Tavan Tolgoi (TT) coal deposit to the speaker. Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC was assigned the task of establishing the state-owned enterprise to exploit the TT deposit in cooperation with domestic and foreign investors. The draft also determined that the partner company will own no less than 51 percent of the venture.
Furthermore, it was decided that Mongolian Railways JSC would own no less than 51 percent of the company that will own the build-use-own-transfer concession for the new railway to be built in Mongolia.
Furthermore, the draft annuls government resolution 181, which stated that the owners of the 1072 shares in Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi JSC, the citizens of Mongolia and domestic entities, do not have voting rights. It considered in breach of the constitution. Thus, the new resolution protects the interests of the citizens and entities that own the shares.
MP L.Erdenechimeg said "ask the Speaker of Parliament" in response to journalists who asked whether the new draft resolution will make it in the spring agenda of parliament.
Related:
L.Erdenechimeg MP submits 'Tavantolgoi' draft resolution – gogo.mn, May 17
Tavan Tolgoi draft bill presented – news.mn, May 17
Elbegdorj: Politicians involved in offshore leaks should leave politics
May 17 (gogo.mn) On May 15, President of Mongolia Ts.Elbegdorj visited Darkhan-Uul aimag to meet with citizens and expressed his stance on people with offshore accounts.
He ran Q&A with citizens and stated that those people should leave politics starting this year.
"Specifically, I told S.Bayartsogt as a friend, if there is any truth to this, don't run for an election. That is better." said president Ts.Elbegdorj.
During this meeting, he briefed Darkhan-Uul aimag citizens about his past works and answered some 40 written questions.
Cabinet to submit $1 billion India Exim Bank loan to parliament for approval
Ulaanbaatar, May 17 (MONTSAME) The cabinet meeting held Monday decided to submit to parliament a draft resolution on a general credit agreement which was established on April 28, 2016 between the government of Mongolia and the Exim Bank of India.
During his state visit to Mongolia on May 16-17 of 2015, the Prime Minister of the Republic of India Narendra Modi expressed a readiness to grant Mongolia a loan of one billion US dollars, with an aim to help promote our social-economic development and tackle challenges.
As the sides agreed, the credit from India with 20-year term is granted with annual interest rate of 1.75%, and the first five years the Mongolian side will not pay the loan's basic payment.
A working group was set up to propose India projects and programs for funding with the loan.
Cabinet nominates state secretary Lambaa (DP) for health minister
Ulaanbaatar, May 17 (MONTSAME) Minister of Justice D.Dorligjav MP submitted Tuesday to parliament a proposal on appointing S.Lambaa as the Minister of Health and Sport in accordance with the Constitution of Mongolia, the laws on government and on regime of parliamentary regime.
Former Minister of Health who served in 2008-2012, Lambaa Sambuu is proposed to be appointed on the vacant position of Minister of Health and Sport taking into account of his career experience and professional skills to perform governmental goals.
The same day, Dorligjav MP submitted to the Speaker bills on ratifying credit agreements established between the government of Mongolia and the Asian Development Bank concerning extra financing for two projects on urban development in southeastern Gobi region and settlement development near border regions; and on upgrading border services. He also submitted an intergovernmental agreement on convict share with Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China.
L.Erdenechimeg MP submitted to Speaker Z.Enkhbold a draft resolution of parliament on exploitation of Tavantolgoi coal deposit, while S.Oyun MP presented a draft law on the rights of people with disabilities.
Spring session could end in May, says SGK secretary
May 17 (news.mn) It has been two months since the spring session of the State Great Khural – or Mongolian Parliament started. Unlike the last three years, this year a parliamentary election is scheduled. We, therefore, clarified as to when the spring session will end from the Secretary of the Parliamentary Administration Mr B.Boldbaatar.
-The annual spring session ends before the Naadam Celebration. But this year, the session should end earlier than this. What is the legal context?
-According to the law, the spring session of Parliament lasts from the 5th April to 1st July. The Law on Parliament has a provision which states: "The Parliamentary Speaker can close the spring session 30 days before a (parliamentary) election taking into consideration the decision of the Speaker's Council. This year, the parliamentary election is scheduled for the 29th June.
-So, does this mean that the session will close at the end of May?
-I assume that the session will close at the end of May or the beginning of June. First, Parliament will discuss the matter. Depending on their decision, the Council of the Speaker will debate this issue, following which, the Speaker will issue the relevant protocol. According to the Electoral Law, this year's electioneering period is very short. So far, however, the issue of closing the session has not been discussed officially.
Diaper attack on MPRP 'deserters'
May 17 (news.mn) On Monday 16th, a sensational press conference took place at the Mongol News media center. During the press conference a number of members of the Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party (MPRP) announced the reasons why they are leaving the party.
The press conference was then interrupted by some very vocal older members of the MPRP who demanded that they stop speaking. With shouts of "You have been bought by the MPP", the older members hurled diapers at their former colleagues. The noisy interruption bought the press conference to an end.
The members who are leaving the MPRP included the Deputy Chairman for the Bayangol district D.Batmunkh as well as D.Enkhjargal, A.Uurtsaih and others. They explained their reason as being the behaviour of MPRP Chairman N.Enkhbayar. They also criticized MPRP policy, saying that the party could have had the chance of securing 25 parliamentary seats if it had co-operated with the Mongolian People's Party (MPP). The Chairman of MPRP, however, took a decision on his own, without respecting the members' position on this issue. It was said: "The MPRP has become like N.Enkhbayar's private company." It was at this point that the party old guard began the diaper attack.
Workshop begins on 'Governmental role in mega resources projects'
May 17 (gogo.mn) Ministry of Foreign affairs' 'International cooperation foundation' and 'Canadian International Resources and Development Institute" are co-organizing international workshop on 'Governmental role in mega resources projects' between May 15-18 at the 'Concession' hall at Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During this workshop, participating countries' delegations will share their experience on governmental role to successful mega mining projects and discuss policies and solutions to solve the many challenges.
The workshop is attended by specialists from Ministries of Mining of Afghanistan, Kyrgyz, Laos, Myanmar and Mongolian along with agencies and executives of state owned corporations.
Delegations will visit and take study tour at the Oyu Tolgoi mine site.
Cabinet to submit Paris Agreement to parliament for ratifying
Ulaanbaatar, May 17 (MONTSAME) At its meeting held Monday, the cabinet decided to submit to parliament a draft law on ratifying the Paris Agreement, a document within the framework of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) dealing with greenhouse gases emissions mitigation, adaptation and finance starting in the year 2020.
When passed, the law builds up legal grounds for Mongolia to implement the UN Framework Convention and opens up more opportunities to provide socio-economic inclusive growth, protect environment, develop industries with less emission of greenhouse gas, boost green development as well as promote international and regional initiatives in response to climate changes, implement pertinent projects and programs after getting access to multilateral financial mechanisms and to introduce progressive technologies.
The cabinet also backed a bill on ratifying the Doha Amendment to the Kyoto Protocol. In accordance with the law on international contracts, it will be consulted with a relevant Standing committee of parliament.
Bill on joining Amendment to Marrakesh Agreement on WTO to be submitted
Ulaanbaatar, May 17 (MONTSAME) The cabinet decided Monday to submit to parliament a draft law on joining the Protocol amending the Marrakesh Agreement on establishment of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
According to 2015 survey by the World Bank on business, Mongolia spends approximately USD 2,745, on exporting one container products, whereas it is only USD 864 for Asia-Pacific countries. An approximate shipping duration from Mongolia takes about 44 days, while it is only 20 days for Asia-Pacific nations. The Mongolian index of trans-boundary trade has been ranked 173rd in the world.
Mongolia believes the document will bring noticeable progress in minimizing shipping duration and saving trade costs.
Cabinet approves Italy defense agreement, backs amendment to DBM law
Ulaanbaatar, May 17 (MONTSAME) The cabinet approved Monday a state policy on demographic development, and obliged S.Erdene, the Minister of Population Development and B.Bolor, the Minister of Finance, to adopt an action plan for realizing the state policy and to monitor its implementation.
- The cabinet approved a Mongolia-Italy intergovernmental agreement on defense cooperation, which was signed in Rome, Italy on May 3, 2016.
- The cabinet backed in principle a draft amendment to the law on the Development Bank of Mongolia (DBM), and then decided to submit it to parliament after reflecting proposals from cabinet members in the draft.
- Cabinet members reviewed a report on resolving people's requests and complaints addressed to central and local administrative bodies and state servants.
Cabinet approves action plan for 'World Mongolians' diaspora program
Ulaanbaatar, May 17 (MONTSAME) The Minister of Foreign Affairs and head of the "World Mongolians" council L.Purevsuren was obliged to approve a plan of actions for implementing "World Mongolians" program and to put control over its implementation.
The plan is designed to create database of Mongolian citizens and civil organizations in abroad and a system of assisting their employment after return home.
The program provides for activities aimed to create legal environment for facilitating travel conditions, residing and running businesses in Mongolia for those Mongolians who have assumed foreign nationality.
Russia-Mongolia-China international trade fair Altanbulag Expo to be held May 21-22
Ulaanbaatar, May 17 (MONTSAME) International forum and trade fair "Altanbulag expo-2016" will be held in Altanbulag free trade zone on May 21-22. The purpose of the event is to expand investment cooperation, increase trade turnover, and develop trans-boundary infrastructure and transport of Mongolia, Russia and China.
During the international event, panel sessions will be held on global tendency for developing free trade zones, potentials for developing transportation and logistics, possibility for exporting meat to Russia through the free trade zone, investments and customs duties.
Mongolia is set to promote its export products such as meat and meat products, wool and cashmere items at the trade fair.
Weekend road closures announced at Niseh intersection and Japan Town
May 17 (gogo.mn) Road construction and repair have started in UB. Road closures at Niseh intersection and Japan town will be effective during the weekend (May 21-22) due to road paving.
Specifically,
250 meters of roads in front of Niseh intersection will be closed from May 20 at 10 pm to May 22 at 10 pm.
Moreover, roads from Japan town intersection to back passage of Orgil center will be closed during from May 20 at 11 pm to May 22 at 11 pm.
Mongolia Grateful for DPRK Backing Ulaanbaatar Dialogue Initiative
Ulaanbaatar, May 17 (MONTSAME) Mongolia is grateful to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) for backing an initiative on the Ulaanbaatar Dialogue, and aspires to bring bilateral cooperation with North Korea closer through the dialogue.
The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to the DPRK S.Tsoggerel said it after presenting his diplomatic credentials last week to Kim Yong-nam, President of the Presidium of the DPRK Supreme People's Assembly.
The Ambassador conveyed greetings of the Mongolian President Ts.Elbegdorj to Kim Jong-un, the Supreme leader of the DPRK, First Secretary of the Worker's Party and Supreme Commander of Korean People's Army; and to Kim Yong-nam. He noted that he is pleased be appointed as the Ambassador of Mongolia to the DPRK in times of increasing development of the Mongolia-DPRK friendly relations and intensification of the cooperation in political and economic spheres.
Chairman of the Presidium of Supreme People's Assembly Kim congratulated Tsoggerel for taking on his duty, and conveyed his greetings to the Mongolian President. He pointed out that North Korea is ready to support initiatives and proposals from the governments of both countries and other bodies concerning expanding the bilateral relations and cooperation.
President of the Supreme People's Assembly wished successes to the Mongolian Ambassador in his diplomatic mission to contribute to the friendly ties and cooperation.
Mongolian and Russian journalists reconvene after 28 year break
May 17 (news.mn) Yesterday, May 16th, the "1st Mongolian-Russian Journalists' Forum" was held in Ulaanbaatar. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Mongolian Journalists' Union and All-Russian State Television and Radio were responsible for organizing the forum. In total, 17 Russian journalists and 45 Mongolian journalists participated in the event.
The forum attendees agreed that since 1990, Mongolian-Russian media co-operation has fallen into decline. In other words, 28 years have passed since Mongolian and Russian journalists last gathered at one place; that occasion being the 1st Mongolia-Soviet Journalists' Forum on the Ecological Situation of Lake Khuvsgul back in 1988. This happened before the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Therefore, the forum attendees expressed their gratitude to Foreign Minister L.Purevsuren for making the event possible, taking Mongolian-Russian media co-operation to a new level and restoring the relations which came to an abrupt halt so long ago.
During the forum, the journalists exchanged their opinions on organizing this forum on a regular basis in the future, supporting media co-operation in all ways, jointly implementing large projects and continuing to develop warm bi-lateral relations.
Related:
Mongolian and Russian journalists to expand their cooperation – Montsame, May 17
Mongolian kid reaches semis at London public speaking competition
Ulaanbaatar, May 17 (MONTSAME) 10th grade student of the "Orchlon" school B.Odmaa successfully competed in the 36th International public speaking competition which was held on May 5-13 in London, UK.
She reached the semi-finals at the competition that was attended by youths aged 16-20 years old selected from 50 countries.
In the finals, a competitor from Mexico took the 1st place, who was followed by a participant from the Philippines.
Odmaa's success at the competition affirms that English language knowledge and skills of reporting among Mongolian youths have reached international standards.
Mongolian stamps telling its history
May 17 (MONTSAME) About 4050 kinds of postage stamps on over 1000 topics are available in the Museum of Postage Stamps at the Mongolian Post company. The stamps ranging from the first stamp "Eldev Ochir" which was issued in 1924 to the latest issues are displayed in chronological order.
Besides the stamps, catching eyes are special envelopes for stamps, 35 kinds of envelopes, an envelope with signature of Dalai Lama, old letters, maxicard and several rarest envelopes. There is also a stamp which was banned from selling during the socialist period for ideological reasons.
In support of global combat against terrorism, the Mongolian Post company has released 40 thousand packages of stamps featuring World Trade Center Twin Towers, thereby income from the selling the stamps were donated to the reconstruction of the World Trade Center.
Mongolia is also the home to the largest in size postage stamp which features Mandal, the God of Peace. Its size is 135mmx185mm.
The most common shapes of the stamps are triangle and quadrangle. In Mongolia you can find round-shaped stamps as well as stamps printed out on golden and silver foil and silk.
The Museum of Postage Stamps of Mongolia brings visitors to various periods of time to witness historical events, beautiful nature, endangered wildlife, amazing flora, cultural events and sports competitions, as well as to make a little journey to the history and culture of many other different countries of the world.
Visitors even can have their own stamp by visiting the Museum which offers such a service.
Three new trees planted per every Mongolian since 2010
May 17 (news.mn) In 2010, by decree of the President of Mongolia a public tree planting program started. The nationwide four-pronged program began successfully in Ulaanbaatar and nine provinces, namely - Orkhon, Bayankhongor, Govi-Sumber, Dornogovi, Tuv, Dornod, Umnugovi, Khovd and Khuvsgul.
In 2013, President Elbegdorj issued an order to set up parks with trees in the administrative centers of provinces and soums as well as UB itself. In the Arkhangai, Bayankhongor, Darkhan-Uul, Dundgovi, Khuvsgul and Khenti provinces run-down parks are being restored; in other provinces, namely, Bayan-Ulgii, Bulgan, Dornogovi, Dornod, Uvurhangai, Sukhbaatar, Tuv, Uvs and Khovd totally new parks and gardens have been planned and are being laid down.
In 2015, companies and other organizations planted 643,300 trees and bushes around their buildings and created a total of 4500 hectares of gardens bearing the names of their organizations. Local teams and city districts have made 209 micro gardens totally 1700 hectares.
According to information from the Ministry of Environment Green Development and Tourism, between 2010 and 2015, a total of 143,100 people and 49,100 companies and organizations have planted 9.1 million trees under the National Tree Planting Day initiative.
Two silver, one bronze for Mongolia at Almaty Judo Grand Prix
May 17 (news.mn) The Judo Grand-Prix, Almaty 2016 took place on 13th-15th May in Kazakhstan. The Mongolian judo team which has 11 judo wrestlers participated. As a result, Ts.Tserennadmid took silver medal in the female 63kg category; Ts.Naranjargal silver medal in the female 70 kg and D.Amartuvshin took bronze medal in the male 60 kg. In addition, S.Nyam-Ochir was placed at the 5th in the male 73kg and A.Tsolmon and O.Javzmaa was placed 7th place in the female 52kg and 78 kg.
Silver medal winner Ts.Naranjargal was sadly unable to climb the medal stand, because of an injury she received in the finale duel with Eve Gahie from France.
As a team score, France led the Judo Grand-Prix with three gold and two bronze medals. The Georgian and Cuban teams returned home with two champions. Nevertheless, Mongolian G.Otgontsetseg who competes for Kazakhstan took a gold medal of in the 48kg female category.
LGBT Centre organizes annual IDAHOT 2016 visual arts exhibition
May 17 (gogo.mn) The LGBT Centre Mongolia has been organising dedicated events in Ulaanbaatar for the IDAHOT which stands for International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, since 2011.
IDAHOT-2016: the various projects by the graduates of the Centre's Youth Leadership Programme - 2016 as well as art works submitted for the 3rd IDAHOT visual arts competition initiated by the Centre in 2014 is being presented at the exhibition. The projects by young leaders and the art works encapsulate the spirit and reality of what it means to be LGBTI in Mongolia, as well as the extent to which are all able to enjoy, or not, our right to and freedom of expression around sexual orientation and gender identity and expression.
The exhibition is taking place from 10am, May 17 to 6pm, 22 May at the Pearl Art Gallery. The exhibition is open to all who support LGBTI rights. No entry charge.
The official opening of the exhibition to start at 5 pm.
For more information, please click HERE.
Video: New UB Airport Construction Progress, May 15
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