State Circus Privatized

The privatization of the State Circus, which was meant to have been resolved before the New Year, has taken place. At a meeting of State Property Committee members, the interim handover to ACA was approved for a period of two years. If ACA fulfils all its requirements, it will be fully theirs at the end of two years. The ACA team consists of E. Dorj, the head of the Circus, sumo-wrestling champion Asasheryo D. Dagvadorj, Dagvadorj’s brother and Mongolian wrestler D. Serjbudee and Kh. Purevdavga. (Daily News)

Zorig prosecutor to be replaced

The prosecutor currently overseeing the Zorig murder case, who is due to retire soon, is going to be replaced. D. Dariijvav from the State Prosecutor’s Office will be replaced by C. Damchaasuren from the Capital City Prosecutor’s Office. Several changes have been made to the police and intelligence departments’ working groups investigating the murder of MP S. Zorig. However, there has been a lot of criticism from different sectors about the lack of progress that has been made. Zorig’s sister, MP S. Oyun, has appealed unsuccessfully many times to have an international expert and investigator assigned to the case. (Today)

Students protest against Mobicom

N. Nyamjargal, senior professor at the Army University’s communication department which is under the University of Defense, is going to leave for the West Sahara on 1 January, 2007, with senior lieutenant B. Bat- Erdene. Previously studying in America, she will be working as an army international observer for the UN peace force. She is the first female military personnel to be sent from Mongolia on an international operation. (Mongolia Today)

Ts. Tumengerel’s case ready to be submitted to prosecutor

The criminal case of Ts.Tumengerel, owner of savings and credit union “Ger district construction” who murdered B. Badraa, Director of Financial Regulatory Commission last June is now ready to be submitted to the prosecutor. Policemen checked Ts. Tumengerel two different ways. He was investigated like that because his murder was related to the case of his bankrupt savings and credit union. Policemen are currently working on the case of his savings and credit union and MNT 6.9 billion of immovable property and items were impounded based on the case of this savings and credit union with MNT 11.7 billion. The savings and credit union has 1,957 victims who were possessors of savings. But it only had 93 lenders. (ARDIIN ERKH)

“Altan gadas” boycotted

An additional protocol on not spreading nuclear weapons was passed during the parliament session on April 24, 2004. Yu. Feng and Ye. Shilkin, responsible inspectors who are in charge of the implementation of the contract in Mongolia have made a three day of inspection from December 6-9. ‘Isotope’ center of the Nuclear Energy Commission (NEC), Nuclear Research Center at NUM, department of radiation control at the National Inspection Office and facility which reserves nuclear equipments and isotopes were inspected. S. Enkhbat, deputy director of NEC and Ts. Damdinsuren, responsible secretary of NEC have participated in the inspection process and shared their opinions on the results and the issues to pay attention to in the future. (Centennial News)

Report on foreign trade considered to be profitable

The foreign trade goods turnover has reached US $2.7 billion through the first 11 months of this year, increased by US $770 million which is 40 percent higher than this time last year. In other words, the exports increased by US $1.38 billion in total or 53.3 percent, and the imports by US $1.33 billion which is 27.8 percent. This is a huge success that has not been seen in the last decade, according to the statisticians. (Centennial News)

Project of US $14 million to be implemented

German Technical Cooperation and ADB are implementing a new project with funding of US $14 million in the agricultural sector starting from January, 2007. The project activity is mainly directed to those industries which do not have possibilities to obtain bank loan and run exports and process raw materials of agriculture. In other words, manufacturing of products which includes added value will be supported. Therefore many factories which manufacture products with agricultural raw materials will be involved and it has an objective to supply good quality raw materials, to improve processing technology and to develop export marketing. (TODAY)

Partners of the Korean L- Systech Company, who satisfied all criteria and proposed the lowest price for the open, international tender on supplying the herder families with 50 WT solar converters, have appealed to the police to have the related officials from the Ministry of Fuel and Energy investigated. They consider that some of the authorities haven’t selected the project performer within the valid time, creating confusion in the tender process using their positions and have violated several articles of tender and criminal laws. (Ardiin Erkh)

Credit project for small and medium sized industries to be implemented

Two projects invested by the Japanese government’s preferential credits, “Developing small and medium sized industry” and “Protecting the environment,” will start to be implemented from this month. Mongolian government will support these projects and banks such as Golomt, Zoos, Capitron, Khaan and the Trade and Development bank will participate as intermediary financial organizations. The whole amount of the credits for small and medium sized entities is US $25 million; the amount of credits for one entity will depend on its credit demand. The project is technologically, commercially and financially reliable and satisfied all the criteria, according to officials. (Ardiin Erkh)

Mongolian sportsmen who won medals return to Ulaanbaatar

Five days are remaining in the Asian XV sports festival \ and some of our sportsmen have come back to their homeland. Owners of the first medals of the Doha, Qatar sports festival landed at the Chinggis Khan airport on Friday night. Our country’s best team participated under management from Ch. Nasantogtokh and Kh. Boldbaatar, the merited judo trainers. Mongolian judo wrestlers participated with its complete team and obtained six medals in total. Kh. Tsagaanbaatar, merited wrestler and D.Nyamkhuu, an international master received gold medals in the 66 kg and 81 kg categories, respectively. D. Tserenkhand, the merited sportswoman also received double silver medals in the weight class of 78 kg. (Daily News)

An airplane ‘Fokker-100’ of ‘Aero Mongolia’ which took-off with passengers from Ulaanbaatar to Khovd could not continue its flight and had to return to Ulaanbaatar in an unplanned landing. Oxygen masks dropped down throughout the passengers’ seating area. After the airplane landed, the Civil Aviation Authority and Department of Security of Flight and Technique conducted an inspection and made a conclusion that because an outgoing valve of the altimeter system was frozen and was not closed, the oxygen masks dropped. Freezing was caused because the airplane was not kept in a warm airplane hanger. The company does not have any warm garages to keep their airplanes in. Company officials said that the airplane is now under normal operation and is ready to perform flights again. (Ardiin Erkh)

“Government has to be transparent”

The Open Society Forum organized a forum called ‘Government’s transparency: Social wealth allocation’ yesterday in order to assess activities implemented by the government and citizens, to define difficulties and to discuss ways of further implementation. The Mongolian government, civic society and representatives from local and international businesses have participated in the forum and discussed numerous important subject areas, including: transparency which is a peer principle of democracy, legal and judicial framework to provide transparency of law, state budget and process of tenders, Ulaanbaatar city land issuance and transparency of the extractive industry. (Today)

The State Supreme Court organized a press conference yesterday introducing about serious criminal cases that frightened society and shocked everybody. They informed about almost 20 savings and credit unions. Cases of savings and credit unions have been transferred to the relevant courts. For instance, even cases of the ‘New Bolor Orgil’ union which was transferred to the court, was returned back to more investigations by police. J. Altantuya, G. Bolormaa and R. Lkhamsuren, directors of ‘Oyu Alt’ were sentenced to 10 year prison sentences. Cases of ‘Globe Credit’, ‘Jiguur Invest’ and ‘Buun White lakes’ unions have not been resolved yet and are still under police investigation. They informed about the cases and requested journalists to write fairly about them. (Daily News)

Russians started contracting for the sake of Tavan Tolgoi

Tavan Tolgoi, a big coal deposit has attracted not only Mongolia’s attention but also the world’s attention during recent times. There is hearsay that our northern neighbor is the most interested. Recently Russian companies united and expressed that they are interested in investing in Tavan Tolgoi. Other Russian companies announced that they have established a consortium. However Russian media says that the Russian government is taking more tactical actions. The Kremlin considered that it is correct that a state-owned company should invest in Tavan Tolgoi instead of private companies. Russian press says that it causes contradiction when state owned companies are interested in Tavan Tolgoi besides private consortiums who want to invest in Tavan tolgoi. (Ardiin Erkh)

Mongolia drops down two places in human development

The UN Development Program produces the World human development report every year. Human development is defined under three criteria that are health, education and level of living upon which the report is based. This year’s World human development report has the title of ‘Authority and power behind the water shortage and world water crisis’. Mongolia placed 116 out of 177 countries. This indicates that our country has stepped back two places compared to last year’s study. Mongolia was placed after Bolivia and Moldavia. Our country placed in 65 out of 75 countries by the measurement of gender skills which was mentioned in the report. (Centennial News)

“There are several reasons that 30 gold mining companies out of 130 are not paying the taxes. Some of them are hoping that the law on windfall profits tax will be invalid after a while, thus they are not selling their gold, otherwise, some companies are selling their gold to the Mongol bank, but not paying taxes. Thus, the Mongolian Tax Authority decided to appeal those companies to go to court. 1.2 tonnes of gold sold by the gold mining companies is MNT 52.5 million in total. ‘Erdenet Alt’, ‘Gachuurt’, ‘Tsagaan Tsahir Gold’, ‘Zolotoi Viktoriya’. ‘Erel’, ‘Gazar Holding’, ‘Ulaan Nachin’ and big mining companies such as ‘Altan Dornod Mongol’ etc are in the list of tax-dodging companies,” says L. Zorig, director of the Mongolian Tax Authority. (Daily News)

Confusion about tender on ‘Gobi’ company privatization?

Three consortiums including a cooperative consortium of ‘Toshisooke Investment’ bank and ‘HS Electronics’ Co.,Ltd, ‘BLJ’ corporation, and ‘Mon It’ consortium have submitted their tender materials to the State Property Committee (SPT) on December 4. But ‘Mon It’ consortium did not have their materials accepted. “Representatives from ‘Mon It’ consortium came late because they were irresponsible. We warned all the companies before to come at the correct time,” says B. Sarangerel, a worker at SPT. But ‘Mon It’ claims they came at 5:58 pm, 2 minutes before the time. “It’s an illegal action in order to cast the tender to confusion. Thus, we will submit our official application to SPT,” said Batdorj, director of Buligaar company. (Unen)

“Mongolian State not to accept boycotts on law”

A windfall profits tax law on sales of gold when the world prices rise above US $500 per ounce and $2600 per ton of copper was passed by the parliament last May. Just after that, the speaker of parliament said, “The state of Mongolia will not change the law just because of somebody’s oppression,” when many gold mining companies expressed their opposition. Ts. Nyamdorj, the speaker, had to repeat his word recently for the reason that the government formulated a project to change the threshold price up to US $650. He blamed the government for coming under the influence of others, while doing nothing to implement the law. (Centennial News)

A project on the construction of 3 open-cast coal mines and power station complexes was introduced by the delegates from ‘China State Electric Grid’ and B. Erdenebat, Ministry of Fuel and Energy to M. Enkhbold, the Prime minister of Mongolia. “Research is being done on installing 6x600 MW power plant and extra-high-voltage cables with ability of 3600 MW. The whole investment for the project is USD 3 billion, USD 1.6 billion out of it will be dedicated for power plants, USD 500 million for annexes of Shivee-Ovoo mine, 900 million for related stations and equipments according to the preliminary account”, says the statement made by the press representative of the Prime minister. (Unen)

Budgetary law may be vetoed by President

The budget article on MNT 250 million for each MP which faced opposition in and out of the parliament was passed by transforming into ministers’ package. The law will be submitted to the President N. Enkhbayar, after his arrival from Russia. “The President would undeniably impose a veto to this law,” says an official source from Parliament. According to the law, he should ban the law within 5 working days. The President is fighting against corruption intensely, thus we hope that he will ban this indirect corruption for each MP. (Ardiin Erkh)

Citizen dies in church building fire

Yesterday, a fire broke out at a Christian church building located behind the office of ‘General Authority for Border Protection’. Fire stations # 10 and #63 extinguished the fire, but a death of a man whose name and address is unknown was reported to the local police office. Last Friday, there was another case of fire on train in Zamiin-Uud which was because of Christmas related products, and the Emergency Authority has warned the public about this kind of fire. (Daily News)

Victims of bankrupted savings and loan credit unions are going to continue the hunger strike at the building of the Ministry of Justice and Home affairs starting today. In addition to two citizens who are having a hunger strike at the 7^th Health center of Bayangol district about ten more people are going to join with them. According to Kh. Oyuntsetseg who is one of the victims and previous hunger striker at the district hospital, M. Enkhbold, Prime Minister, D. Odbayar, Minister of Justice and Domestic affairs and Bayasgalan, State secretary of the Ministry committed to recover half of their loss when they met with victims on the 17^th of past month who were having a hunger strike and sent them to Khan-Uul district hospital. However their commitment has not been fulfilled until today. (Daily News)

“Soums to be integrated”

In total 85 representatives from 10 soums of 5 aimags, gathered together and had a discussion under the topic ‘Innovation in administrative territorial entities of Mongolia’, in the government house for 2 days and reached an agreement to integrate some soums (territorial unit subordinate to an aimag). The representatives agreed and passed the consolidation of the following soums: center of Bayankhongor with Bayan-Ovoo, center of Bulgan with Otgon, Zuunmod with Sergelen, Bayantumen soum of Dornod aimag with Kherlen, Bayankhutag soum of Khentii aimag with Kherlen. “The government chose the soums which are close to the center of the aimags on the first hand. The name of the more historical soums will be kept”, said a statement made by S. Batbold, director of the Governmental Affairs Office at parliament. (Ardiin Erkh)

Fuel prices reduced

M. Enkhbold, the Prime minister of Mongolia, and administrations from “Petrovis”, “Magnai Trade”, “Sod Mongol” and other petroleum companies have made contract and reached an agreement on petroleum supplication with the China National Petroleum Corporation, during their official visit to PRC. In result, the fuel price has decreased by MNT 30-80. They could reduce the price of fuel imported from Russia, therefore USD 100 is reduced from a ton of fuel from China. There are resources for only 22 days of use by today, but the fuel is starting to be imported from China. (Today’s Mongolia)

The list of strategically important deposits which was discussed by the government as a secret issue has been released. Totally 49 deposits including 7 added during last week were on the list. In the list, deposits of Oyu Tolgoi, Tavan tolgoi, Tumurtei are considered to be the biggest ones which can have influence on Mongolia’s economy, and Gatsuurt, Tsagaan suvarga,Shivee Ovoo, Nariin sukhait etc are counted to have influence on local economies. By determining these deposits as strategically important, the State’s participation may be up to 50 percent and may own jointly when the state invests monetarily, and up to 34 percent of private funded deposits. (Centennial News)

Head of DP requested a clarification on ‘MNT 250 million’

Ts. Elbegdorj, the head of DP has submitted a request of clarification to Ts. Nyamdorj, the speaker of parliament yesterday. “We want a clarification from you on how the proposal of MNT 250 million for districts is included in the 2007 budgetary law. Executive council of DP had a meeting and considered that it is not correct to grant money for districts from the election budget and talked about this during the last discussion on budget. Information is being broadcast that the proposal of MNT 250 million has been changed to the package of entities who rule and spend the budget. We are requesting you to give a full understanding on how this issue is decided finally to the public, citizens and electors. Also we hope you will give clarification to DP about the issue”, the request states. (Centennial News)

Problem of Shivee-Ovoo license appealed to be resolved immediately

Related organizations’ officials discussed regarding the import of electricity from Mongolia during M. Enkhbold, Prime Minister’s, visit. Ministry of Fuel and Energy is cooperating with Chinese State electricity officials with respect to the project called ‘To export electricity establishing coal mining deposits and power station complex’ at the Shivee-Ovoo deposit. The current management of the mining deposit has a license to extract 16 tones of coal from a 91 hectare area out of 35 thousand hectares. A different company has a license for the rest of the area. Project implementing company has requested the Minister to solve this contradiction of the deposit. (Today)

Khaan Bank will support small and medium sized industries by implementing a special crediting system and other financial services in 2007. “The number of credits that we granted for business owners, especially small and medium sized business owners was higher than any other Mongolian bank in the last few years. Small and medium sized business owners have a great ability to create working places and they have much influence to the economy” says J. Peter Morrow. Khaan bank has opened the ‘Incubator’ for effectiveness which will be giving advice and organizing seminars and conferences for businessmen. (Centennial News)

Temperature to fall drastically

The Hydro-Meteorological Institute warned it will snow with severe storms in some places in the far east of Mongolia December 1, and in northern parts of the west the next day. Thus, the National Emergency Authority warned the herders to prepare for the winter and to be careful. The temperature will reach -31 to -36 degrees in the nights and -10 to -24 in the days in mountainous areas of Khangai and Khuvsgul, and in Ider, Tes, Kharaa, Yuroo, Muul, Kherlen, Khalkh river’s basins. The temperature will be -17 to -22 nightly and -5 to -10 daily in the inner gobi area of Altai. But from December 2, the temperature will increase a little in western parts and in the other areas later on. (Ardiin Erkh)

Was the MIAT plane hijacked?

Yesterday, news that a plane from Dalanzadgad was “hijacked” created confusion among many. Though officials explained it was a training which was not announced before hand, passengers complain because they were “affected” by this training emotionally and even one woman got hurt. “There were about 40 passengers in the plane. People saw 4 guys seated in front were drinking vodka during the flight,” according to a passenger’s statement. Therefore, 3 MPs elected from Umnugobi made their comments. MP Ts. Bayarsaikhan said they are preparing to submit an inquiry to the Prime Minister regarding this issue. “It is still unclear from where this training was organized, if it was really a training they should have informed before.” Statements made by MP B. Munhktuya. D. Bat-Erdene, the a third MP from Umnugobi, said it was not a training to prevent from assault, but it was an experiment on how to commit terrorism.” But Ts. Onon, responsible for a press release from the Prime Minister said, “Road, Transport and Tourism Minister Tsengel informed us that it was one of the General Intelligent Department’s regular activities. It’s incorrect information that normal citizens were affected by this challenge.” (Ardiin Erkh)

See also http://www.terrycom.net/blog/ the website of Eagle TV's Managing Director

Debt to pay China might be written off

M. Enkhbold, Prime Minister just made an official visit on 22-27 of this month to People’s Republic of China by the invitation of Wen Jiabao, Prime Minister of the Government’s Council of China. Mongolian side raised and discussed issues regarding the two countries’ communication, in particular commercial and economic cooperation. Also Prime Minister expressed his position on loans and grants being issued by China. Thus the Chinese side expressed that they will be seriously considering about invalidating the debt of transferable RMB 28.3 million and Swiss frank 5.6 million according to our Prime Minister’s request. (Centennial News)

The fundamental direction to develop the Mongolian economy and society in 2007 was passed by Parliament last week. Hydro power stations of Durgun and Taishir in the western region will be put into operation and the construction work of Egiin river hydro power station was reflected into the fundamental direction. Many social issues are also reflected into the fundamental directions. Every 0-18 year old child will get MNT 100,000 per year from the state development fund in addtion to the monthly MNT 3,000. 1-4th year students of primary school will be involved in the ‘Lunch’ program and the salary of civil servants and retirement and allowances will increase 20 percent and 15 percent respectively. It was planned that the minimum amount of wage increase will be 1.3-1.5 times. (Today’s Mongolia)

Customs department people who were accused under corruption case will be judged tomorrow

The Court of Appeals which will judge Kh. Baatar, former chairman of the Customs department who was found guilty by the primary court will take place tomorrow at the Capital city court building. Ten claimants of B. Davaadorj, Head of Bichigt port, B.Uvgunkhuu, a former MP, O.Erdenebat and B. Mandakhbayar, customs department officers besides Kh. Baatar who were accused by the primary court. They will be judged in eight clauses of criminal law such as giving bribes, taking bribes, passed throughout the state border and took advantage of their job positions. Y. Sagsai, and T. adambaa, Capital city prosecutors were appointed to work as the state prosecutors yesterday. (Ardiin Erkh)

“The historical event in 1924 proved the results of Mongolians’ fight for freedom which lasted for 200 years, national independence in 1911, 1921, and the stubborn struggle for the change in state and society establishment. The adoption and implementation of the Constitution put the foundation of modern legal environment based on freedom and justice. And also it created values such as public involvement in political life, rights to elect, to be elected and rights of publication. Therefore it led to creation of many governmental and public organizations which reflected the characteristics of Mongolian politics, society and economy. The first article of the new Constitution says, ‘Mongolia is an independent, Republic country’. And I hope this phrase is in the heart of every individual. Now we are following the regular democratic system where the state is formed by public elections. And this gives the public opportunity to elect and to be elected, but also a very high responsibility. People’s understanding and sensibility on controlling the government’s activity is being increased. This is a clear manifestation of democratic development” said N. Enkhbayar, the President, on the occasion of the 82nd anniversary of the adoption of Mongolia’s first Constitution and Independence Day. (Ardiin Erkh)

Asashoryu won at makuuchi, the highest ranking at his 19 times

The November competition of professional sumo has been completed. Asashoryu, the big champion won without any defeats and received his 19th Emperor’s cup. It was a specific success that the champion satisfied conditions to win before the competition ended, which he has done 12 times. He said “I will be wrestling with effort in next year’s competitions. Thank you for everyone who supported me.” People who have interests in wrestling were happy because Mongolian wrestlers won on the last day of the competition. Main action was that Kyokushuzan (D. Batbayar) decided to retire from sumo. (Centennial News)

M. Enkhbold, Prime Minister of Mongolia who is making an official visit to the People’s Republic of China made an official negotiation with Wen Jiabao Prime Minister of the Government’s Council of the PRC. After two hours of negotiation between the two governments both parties signed on eight documents. Agreements ranged from oil and mineral exploration to export/import tariffs and social reform. He said that the Government of Mongolia is running a policy to provide comfortable judicial environment and to support foreign investment in Mongolia in all ranges. (Today)

Ship sinks in Khuvsgul Lake

One ship sank in Khuvsgul Lake which is one of the purest water resources in the world about ten days ago. The bottom of the ship called ‘Dyubovksy’ under the name of A.A.Hutaev, a Russian citizen, had a hole while it was moored up at the beach of Khankh soum territory and when it sank the fuel of the ship spilled, spreading throughout the lake. Locals of Khankh soum had a shortage of drinking water and did not receive any feedback from the state, even if they informed relevant departments. Individuals and enterprises imported about ten ships from the Russian Federation for tourism but those ships are old and were not in use. Locals said that the Emergency authority did not know about it. (Daily News) 

China will give US $300 million for hydroelectric power station

On the first day of his visit to China, Prime Minister M. Enkhbold had an official negotiation with Wen Jiabao, the Prime Minister of State Council. During the negotiation which lasted for an hour, the contract on preferential credit amount of US $ 300 million for ‘Egiin gol’ hydroelectic power station was signed. M. Enkhbold took part in an opening of the  meeting between Mongolian and Chinese businessmen, and gave a speech on his second day in PRC. (Centennial News)

MIAT is an official member of the International Air Transportation Association (IATA). According to IATA’s recommendation to all its members, MIAT has sent requests to auditing companies and made a contract with ACS from Australia which was recommended by BOEING in Beijing. Advantages of its cheaper price and working experience with Asian countries were the reason of their choice. MIAT has lots of work to be done such as, formulating new safety rules, know-now activity with other air companies and organizing trainings for the employees to pass the audition successfully, said statements made by L.. Tsoodol, director of the auditing and safety operation department of MIAT. (Mongolia Today)

Voice of Mongolian youth will reach UN

Resident Representative Office of the UNFPA has now established a Youth Advisory Committee under itself. They will direct their activities in order to deliver voices of Mongolian youth to the world and to reflect their problems and needs confronting them to the program of UNFPA. The Committee consisting of seven members representing urban and rural young people held a recent meeting and they stated that they are available to cooperate in resolving youth education, health and other confronting problems. The Committee members will currently give information about HIV/AIDS and other STIs to teenagers in order for prevention. (Today)

Science will be privatized and scientists will have property

Corporations of Science and Technological industry are now ready to be privatized from December 1. Four corporations under state property are now going to be privatized. These are the Food Scientific research ‘FoodTech’, Electronic Technique and machine survey corporative, Agricultural technique corporation and ‘Energy’ corporative of Scientific and Technological industries. According to the job description under the law, the Intellectual Property Authority is working on assuring the above corporations’ non-objective capital and intellectual property evaluation. There is enormous and bright future of export and strengthening the country’s development in Science and Technological industrial sectors. Mongolian men are well-known by their body power in the world. This privatization could enable Mongolia to be proud of technological industry and intellectual powers as well. (Centennial News)

The list of strategically important deposits, which is waiting for its turn to be discussed by the parliament and the Standing Committee will be determined soon. The Ministry of Industry and Trade has formulated a special method to estimate the mineral deposits and more than 700 deposits were classified by 10 parameters. 40 of them were accepted as strategically important, plus 10 mineral deposits which were proposed by citizens’ movements. These 50 deposits may be included in the list, but the final decision will be made by parliament. Deposits which are influence in state security, state and local economy, social development and which can supply more than 5% of GDP are included. (Unen)

Illegal hunting and trade found

108 Mongolian saiga antelope horns were found from a heavy-duty truck ZIL 130, UBM 92-39, which was about to move from Chandmani soum, Khovd aimag to the southern border by officials from the inspection authority. G. Altangerel, a native Mongolian, is the owner of the truck. From results of the inspection made regarding the case, illegal hunting and trans-border trade by a group of 13 people was detected. They caused a damage amount of MNT 216 million to the faunal resources of Mongolia. Therefore, the “Irves-3”, team against illegal hunting, detected people who hunted female saiga and collected their guns, knives and bullets on the 4th of this month. (Daily News)

Given information about Savings and Credit unions related cases

The working group for checking Savings and Credit union’s wrong operations gave information to a Parliament session. Now, there are 28 SACU related cases which are being investigated. 19 cases with 4775 victims, 565 borrowers, MNT 44.78 billion in losses, said the report sent to the prosecutor. Three other cases were sent to the prosecutor the same day as well. Now three cases are under investigation. 1529 petitions and complaints from citizens and corporations have been received and investigated from June 22, 2006 to November 17, 2006. They also examined 22 Savings and Credits unions with the Tax Authority and Financial Regulatory Committee. (Unen)

According to the law, parliamentary sessions should be on Thursdays and Fridays, but they decided to convene on Tuesday.  The Office of Parliament said it is because of discussion on the budget being late. Also Prime Minister M. Enkhbold’s visit to China was another reason why the session was brought forward. The law on budget needs to be approved before December 1, after being discussed for four sessions. If the parliament doesn’t approve it within time, it should be dissolved according to the law. The reason for the lateness is because the basic orientation on economy, society and the monetary policy haven’t been approved yet. (Ardiin Erkh)

Three die in train crash

A freight train carrying coal to Zamiin-Uud which had stopped crashed with a locomotive which was coming to lend assistance. It happened at the #361 railroad junction between Khangai and Chuluut relay-stations, 95 km away from the city. Thus, a machinist and assistant machinist who were in the locomotive car which came to help and the head of the railroad junction died at the scene. The railway line of that area was curved and there wasn’t enough light and the train, coming to help could not stop in time. Railway station managers, Intelligence Authority, National Emergency Authority and Police Department worked in the place. Some passangers were taken on buses to Ulaanbaatar. According to officials the rail is closed until clean up efforts are complete. (Centennial News)

D. Sukhbaatar died from excessive consumption of alcohol

The diagnosis results made from the corpse of D. Sukhbaatar, the head of Intermediary bureau was done yesterday at 5 pm, states G. Dagiimaa, director of forensic medicines. “D. Sukhbaatar died from alcohol poisoning and his old chronic illnesses including hepatopathy influenced his death. We also determined that the decedent was lightly drunk when he died. 10 days is not too long for this kind of diagnosis to be done, it’s the result of our immediate work,” she said. (Ardiin Erkh)

The ZiJin Mining group Co., Ltd, one of the leading mining companies of China has just opened its branch in Mongolia, R. Khishgee, Director General of the branch was recently interviewed. He said that ZiJin group mainly operates in gold, silver and valuable metals and the company extracted 13 tonnes of gold in 2004 and was 22nd place in the world by this indicator. Mongolia and China have a relationship lasting hundreds of years. He said that the two countries relation has been improved more during the past years and investment from China has been increasing as the relationship increases, so our company decided to invest in Mongolia. (Centennial News)

Mongolia became ASEM member

Goeffrey Barett, organizer of ASEM, visited Mongolia according to its membership in ASEM last September. They showed that they are focusing on Mongolia a lot by visiting our country first as a full-member. Barett noticed that ASEM is showing interest in Mongolia’s membership and they gained much experience on relationships with South and North Korea. Other members of ASEM follow the same politics on fighting against corruption and poverty, and protection of human rights, like Mongolia. (Daily News)

Worker dies in accident at Oyu Tolgoi

A man died from an accident at Oyu Tolgoi’s exploration shaft. The accident happened at 9:05 am, on 18 November. They gave an immediate call to the police, and policemen are working to find out the reason at the scene of the accident. “We have only one exploration shaft. ‘Red Path’ performs the drilling work. So we haven’t received any information on what’s going on about the accident or how many people were working there,” says Odgerel, press employee of Oyu Tolgoi project in a statement. (Today’s Mongolia)

R. Gonchigdorj, Chairman of Standing Committee on Security and Foreign policy met with World Bank senior specialist Mr. Salvador Rivera and senior Mining officer Mr. Charles Husband yesterday. The bank specialist said that the mining sector is the flagship sector which provides economic growth and it is possible to improve its efficiency by defining strategic investment and government participation policy correctly. They exchanged their opinions with the Standing Committee chairman and discussed that the World Bank will continue its negotiations with relevant organizations regarding cooperation with Mongolia in this sector in the future. (Centennial News)

68 men will protect Government house annex

Government special security authority will protect the Government house annex after its completion. Security guards of the authority work only in two shifts and have a shortage of guards. Thus the authority started protecting buildings of the Ministry of Road, Transport and Tourism and Constitutional court of Mongolia in addition. The authority officials said that because the number of guards to protect the Government house annex is not enough it is required to add more staff. Even though the Government special security authority submitted a request about adding salaries and positions for 68 security guards into the 2007 budget to the Standing Committee on Legal affairs, the request has not been accepted because more time is required . (Today)

Participants National Development Policy competition meet with President

‘Monitoring center’ NGO with D. Oyun, a team leader which participated in the competition to develop a National Development policy visited N. Enkhbayar, President of Mongolia. The team calculated on what level the country’s fundamental indicators will be in 2021 based on statistics and figures and documents. Influence of amendments made to the tax law, growth in mining sector and change on foreign market price in case Oyu tolgoi is implemented was calculated in different versions with individual factors. Given the final result of this research GDP will grow in 2007-2009 and since Oyu Tolgoi extraction increases GDP will grow 8-19.8 percent so that our country will be on same standard of average income countries. (Daily News)

Amendments and changes to implement during air freight were made for the bilateral negotiation about liberalizing international air transportation in 2004. The standing committee on Security and Foreign policy has discussed yesterday whether or not the Mongolian Government is going to unite for this negotiation. But during the meeting of the standing committee they talked about MIAT. Members criticized that MIAT has two airplanes but it has 500 – 600 employees. The reason that tourism sector is not developing in Mongolia is because of MIAT, from one side. They said the issue of privatizing MIAT has been discussed during Parliament sessions for many years, but has never happened. (Centennial News)

Candidate for the chairman of anticorruption organization

Ch. Enkhee, a defense lawyer has delivered his request to the President, State Ikh Hural, and Prime minister for becoming the chairman of the anticorruption organization. “It wouldn’t fit, if someone who was working at the Legal and Control authority or State organizations, was appointed as a chairman of the anticorruption organization. However, if it happens it would be an organization that protects each other like the Ethics and Discipline commission and Prosecutor’s office,” he considered. He expressed his opinion in detail about this issue. (Today’s Mongolia)

Metallurgical factory is operating in downtown

The decree of the Capital city Governor was passed in May and metallurgical factories are prohibited to run their operations in downtown under the decree. Currently only one metallurgical factory moved to Nalaikh district. Others are continuing to run their operations. Also 2-3 factories have additionally been established. Even though actions like cutting off their electricity and imposing fines are taken they keep up their operations by connecting electricity secretly. Two of these factories are Mongolian and the others are Chinese invested companies. (Unen)

A draft of the decree about approving the fundamental direction of developing Economics and society of Mongolia in 2007 has been discussed on Parliament session on Tuesday afternoon. Representing members of each standing committee read their conclusions. The DP and MPRP factions in Parliament read and introduced their conclusions as well. It is mentioned in the conclusion of the MPRP faction that MNT 3,000 will be given to children and families from the state budget and additional MNT 100 thousand will be issued once year from the Mongolian Development fund in 2007, but the DP made a proposal to give MNT 10,000 for children and the DP faction considers that the proposal is going to be implemented as a valid proposal. (Daily News)

Curvet will help to build a road in Mongolia again

Mongolia might have an opportunity to export meat to Qatar. “There is also an opportunity to send Mongolian students to Qatar for studies,” the Minister of Foreign Affairs told journalists yesterday. Qatar is interested in working with Mongolia in the economic and investment sectors. The Qatar Sheik expressed his opinion about this issue and requested to have a bilateral joint economical and investment commission. The ministry of Foreign Affairs brought invitation letters from the Qater emir and Curvet Sheik for the Mongolian president to visit the countries officially. However, Muhammad Ali Sabah, the Curvet Sheik is visiting Mongolia in 2007. The paved road between Darhan and Erdenet was done with funds from Curvet. The minister of Foreign Affairs asked for help to build a paved road between Unit and Murun during his meeting with Muhammad Ali Sabah, the Curvet Sheik. The curvet Sheik received the request and advised to do technical and economic justifications. The Ministry of Road, Transportation and Tourism already has the technical and economical justifications of the road prepared. (Today)

The minister of Education, Culture and Science, O. Enkhtuvshun, is going to bring 30 million dollars for the field he leads. These days he is participating at the meeting, “initiative partnership for reaching goals quickly,” in Cairo, Egypt. Minister Enkhtuvshin made a presentation and discussion about the Mongolian education system. Mongolia is a member of this partnership, so there will be opportunities to get aid and donations from donor countries. “30 million dollars in non-refundable aid would be decided at this high-up level meeting and it will be used to implement the Educational master program,” ministry officials said. (Daily News)

If there were no outside influences the case will be closed

A heart attack wasn’t the last diagnosis of D. Sukhbaatar’s death, the chairman of the Intermediary bureau. “His corpse was autopsied by the coroner’s office and the results will be done within 10 days,” said a related official. The report, “Soon after his death four people in police uniform tried to break into his house and do rummage,” was denied. This case will be investigated under an article of “causing someone to commit suicide,” a police official commented. If it is approved that it happened without other influences, the case will be closed. (Unen)

Hunger-stikers want to meet the Prime Minister

The hunger strikers have been forced to have medical treatments at the city health center since Friday night. However, three of the 13 hunger-strikers refused to have the medical treatments. However, those three people have started to have the medical treatments since yesterday. Although they are having treatments they are not eating smash soup and rice juice, so that there has been no improvement. The victims turned to vice chairman of the government office, M. Tungalag to pass on their request of meeting the Prime minister. (Centennial News)

D. Sukhbaatar, head of the Intermediary bureau sending work forces to foreign countries which has attracted the public’s attention, died suddenly during the night between Saturday and Sunday. He came after he had a serious surgery in a foreign country and he was sent to the hospital while losing consciousness and having high blood pressure when policemen made a search for evidence at his office. He died at 2 o’clock in the morning. It is considered that there is no outside affect for the death of the deceased but the reason will be defined after a detailed inspection and testing. (Ardiin Erkh)

Number of posts at the Anti-Corruption agency has been increased

It is reflected on the draft proposal of the Standing Committee on Legal affairs that эху number of positions at the Anti-corruption agency is to be 90 and эху budget is to be MNT 900 million. This has been increased two times more than the previous one. Even though the Anti-Corruption law has been passed no one has been appointed as head of the agency. The issue of appointing the head will be discussed after discussion and approval of the structure and number of positions by a Parliament session. (Today)

Hunger Strikers have been involved in compulsory treatment

The decision to involve the citizens who are announcing hunger strike on the Sukhbaatar square was made by the Capital city Health Department. In accordance with this decision Ch. Odbayar, Minister of Justice and Domestic Affairs met with hunger strikers on Friday. Urine and blood tests were done for the hunger strikers at the Khan-Uul district hospital. They have been involved in compulsory treatment during Friday night because their health condition was determined as poor. They said they will not stop the hunger strike even if their health is deteriorating. (Зууны Мэдээ)

N. Enkhbayar is leading by 29.9 percent in the capital city and by 36.4 percent in the countryside within politicians’ rating, according to the result of the research conducted by Sant Maral foundation. According to the previous research results, Prime Minister M. Enkhbold and S. Ganbaatar, Head of the National Soyombo movement were included in the list of the first leading ten. On the question about whether or not political system organizations are trustworthy, 14.5 percent voted for the President, 5.4 percent for Parliament and 2.8 percent voted for legal and judicial organizations, while 13.5 percent voted that the President is not and 12.8 percent and 22.1 percent voted that Parliament and legal organizations are not trustworthy, respectively. (Today’s Mongolia)

Customs authority causing losses to cigarette importers

It seems that discussions, a few days ago, about not letting cigarettes to be imported by customs patrol now have been performing in reality. Issues about licenses for cigarette imports have been discussed within the Ministry of Industry and Trade since last March and it has reached today delaying to be discussed for a Government cabinet meeting. State Inspection authority and General Customs departments made a decision about not to import cigarettes by customs borders until a decision is made by the cabinet meeting. However the decision was made October 31 and it is unknown when this issue which has been resolved since last March will be delayed until. (Daily News)

Anthrax found in animals in Bulgan Province

Infection of anthrax disease was found in Lkhavgadorj’s animals, herder of the 4th baga, Bulgan soum of the above mentioned province. It was defined that one sheep and one goat kid were infected with anthrax according to an advanced inspection and actions of stopping the spread of the disease further have been taken by related authority. Total 17 people of three families of the area and 1145 livestock were involved into the anti-anthrax vaccine. Currently five officers from emergency department and three officers from police department are appointed at the anthrax area and three posts of quarantine are under operation. (Centennial news)

Ts. Nyamdorj, Parliament speakerь met with the President of the Chinese branch of the US ‘Peabody Energy’ company which is well-known in the world in coal extracting sector yesterday. The company official introduced that the company has been operating well for the indicators of usage of environment-friendly technology during extraction, rehabilitation of nature, local community efficiency and development and working place safety. Parliament Speaker stated that the most important thing is that it must be a project to be beneficial to Mongolia with respect to utilizing Mongolian natural resources and to be efficient to both sides, the company and Mongolia. (Centennial News)

If an election takes place tomorrow…

A research on public opinions conducted by the ‘Sant Maral’ foundation during October-November, 2006 for the Mongolian social, political and economic situations is now being introduced. 1,775 citizens of Ulaanbaatar, Khovd, Dornogovi, Dornod and Bayanhongor provinces were involved in the polling. The research covered the period from October 27 until November 3, 2006. The result of the research has been shown in comparison of Ulaanbaatar and countryside. In response of the question ‘If election takes place tomorrow, will you vote’ 52.8% in the countryside and 57% in Ulaanbaatar supported the vote and figures are shown in details in the tables. 34.1% said they would vote for the MPRP while only 29.2% said they would vote for the DP. (Today’s Mongolia)

Oil refinery factory to be built

Officials of the Mineral Resource and Petroleum Authority discussed the issue of establishing a 500 thousand ton capacity oil refinery at Tamsagbulag in 2012 at the recent meeting of Petroleum extracting companies and enterprises. Over 150 holes will be drilled at this site and there is a plan to extract 100 thousand tones of petroleum. By doing it, our country will be extracting petroleum and will be counted as an oil exporting country. Nowadays MNT 6 billion has been centralized from petroleum exports into the state budget. One barrel of oil costs US $58 on the international market. (Today’s Mongolia)

The US ‘Stoneline’ company runs operation in investment, real estate and financial markets in America and Asia Pacific region. Representatives from the company were interested in the Government’s 40000 households’ apartment program studying Mongolian situation in banking and financial sector. George Chalmers, Director of ‘Stoneline’ company expressed their opinion about financing the program. (Today)

MNT 150 billion will be centralized in the Development Fund this year

A draft decree regarding passing the procedure of utilization of the property of the Mongolian Development fund has been discussed in a meeting of Parliament Standing committee on Budget. Revenue generated from the windfall profits tax is being centralized into the fund and MNT 150 billion is expected to be centralized by the end of this year. It was said that MNT 217 billion will be centralized next year. The development fund is one component of budget and it is mentioned in the procedure that the income generated within the year will be utilized in the following year. Fund income will be utilized for three purposes: in case of budget revenue decreasing, support to children and families and constitution of pleasent environment of business to enterprises and companies. (Daily news)

National Human Right’s Commission will not support hunger strike

S.Tserendorj, Chairman of National Human Right’s Commission met with the representatives of SCU victims who have been on a hunger strike on Sukhbaatar square for 24 days. He introduced about recommendation and its submission to Government ‘to define the policy to recover the full loss of savings possessors and to inform to the public’ based on the Constitutional law article ‘Citizens have the right to be provided by the cost recovery of loss caused illegally by others’ considering the situation and the large amount of loss caused for thousands of people. But he advised victims to stop hunger striking and taking care of their health while he expressed that he is not supporting it. (Ardiin Erkh)

124 enterprises, organizations and citizens have extracted 7710.9 kg of gold within the first ten months period of 2006 and sold to Mongol bank. The figure decreased by 5529.9 kg in comparison to the same period of last year. ‘Altan Dornod Mongolia’, ‘Monpolimet’, ‘Shijir Alt’, ‘Gatsuurt’ and ‘MGH’ companies were leading enterpises in amount of gold extraction. Mongol bank informed that 136 citizens have sold 472.1 kg of gold which is 1117.2 kg less than last year’s. (Unen)

SCU Victimis seek political asylum from the US

Savings and loan Credit Unions Victims wrote an application letter seeking political asylum and immigration to the US President and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the US in Mongolia. The letter was written by over 160 families who are victims of ‘Contsruction and Development Fund’ SCU. It was mentioned in the letter that authorities are violating our rights stringently ignoring article 4.2.7 of the law on Civil servants, ‘Loss caused from fault of civil servant while he was performing his full authority will be recovered by the government’ and please grant immigrants’ right and political asylum for us. (Daily News)

It is possible to decrease loan interest rate by economic methodology: Ts.Nyamdorj

Ts. Nyamdorj, Parliament speaker and D. Lundeejantsan, Parliament Vice speaker, met with the A. Batsukh, Mongol Bank governor. A. Batsukh introduced about the progress of discussions on ‘Fundamental direction of monetary policy of Government in 2007’ and exchanged their views and comments. Parliament speaker recommends A.Batsukh to work hard on and pay attention to making the legal and judicial framework of the central bank, other banks and financial organizations advanced. Thus he advised that it is likely to decrease interest rates of loans in case of close cooperation with commercial banks and other organizations. (Centennial news)

Mongolian President N. Enkhbayar is going to pay an official visit to the Russian Federation in the coming month. The main topic of discussion before his departure is Tavan Tolgoi. According to a source, Deptuy Premier M. Enkhsaikhan, head of a working group involved in preparations for the visit, said: “It is right to give Tavan Tolgoi to the Russians by getting back Tavan Tolgoi from its licence-holders.” But Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Ts.Tsolmon disagreed: “No, it needs to be given to the Chinese. They will show a more effective influence for the Mongolian economy than the Russians.”  (Ardiin Erkh)

All People’s Congress spreads to aimags

The Mongolian Democracy Association has said that it will support the All People’s Congress. When Kh. Battulga, the head of the Mongolian Democracy Association, was asked what that participation would be, he replied: “We have officially informed about our participation to the congress. This is an action which must exist in Mongolia. By doing this, we deliver a message about human rights that are part of the Constitution that are being violated and the problems in our society.” Mongolian Democracy Association branches in Orkhon-Uul, Huvsgul and Uvs aimags are planning to organize demonstrations. (Daily News)

Mongol Bank starts repurchase trading

On November 1, Mongol Bank started trading long-term government bonds to commercial banks with repurchase conditions. The bonds, which the bank owns owns, were created in relation to the debt to be paid to the Russian Federation. This repurchase trading is a new tool of monetary policy which limits internal price growth. In some instances, it can be used to replace the security of the Central Bank. In effect, government security will be a financial tool which is quickly saleable and actively purchased on the financial market, in particular the monetary market. (Centennnial News)

The Open Society Forum has organized a training yesterday for the employees of 16 non-governmental organizations who united to the coalition for the sake of Extraction sector transparency. N. Dorjdari, Open Society Forum manager and International lawyer Joe Bell gave lectures on Extraction sector transparency innovations and mining agreements and stabilibity funds, respectively. Participants agreed to control on making Companies operating in the mining sector of Mongolia to announce transparently about their extraction and industries to the public at least once per year. (Ardiin erkh)

Woman members of Parliament met with female hunger strikers

It has been 19 days since victims of Savings and Credit Unions started their hunger strike on Sukhbaatar square. Doctors tried to involve them into compulsory medical treatment by forcing them to stop the hunger strike. S. Oyun, D. Tuya and B. Munkhtuya, who are MPs met with the women who are participating and expressed that those MPs are supporting them psychologically and they also advised them to take care about their health. Thus they expressed their position that it is correct to recover the loss from the government but there is a need to negotiate how that is going to work. (Ardiin Erkh)

It is said that elders are prepared to go on vacations during Ikh Huraldai days

The Mongolian National Front stated the above. MPRP members made a schedule to send elders of their election districts to vacation places and this has been one of different actions to nuetralize Ikh Huraldai during the past periods. Heads of movement said, “Even though people in authorities are trying to take actions nuetralizing the Ikh Huraldai they can not stop us, many people are supporting us.” 10 thousand pass cards are being published and distributed to the participants. Organizers of Ikh huraldai has started operating 4 digit poll taking hotlines in order to run a poll for the public. (Daily News)

A 69 year old Japanese citizen was brutally murdered in his apartment and found yesterday. A volunteer of Public Radio and TV and employee of “JICA” International organization he rented an apartment in Sukhbaatar district. He was found with his hands tied and his mouth was scotch taped. Policemen found him in his place as he was killed. Money and valuable items were missing from his apartment. No suspicious criminal is currently detected but it seems police has got some assumptions. (Daily News)

Goats poisoned from the lake water were compensated

It’s been informed that 64 goats died drinking poisoned water because of the Chinese ‘Tsahir White gold’ company which extracts gold from Honhor ders of Bayan-Ovoo soum, Bayanhongor province. The area was impacted by using ammonite in the lake that they wash their extracted gold in. The company has compensated the loss of the families by paying MNT 60,000 per goat. The operation of the company mining has been stopped for the time being and water in the lake has been under inspection and the lake is under protection. Government officials said that they needed special permission to use such substances, but didn’t have any. (Today)

Citizens Will party appealed to make the number of ministries nine

The Citizen Will Party and Shadow Government organized a press conference yesterday and expressed their position on economic growth and the state budget. One of the total eight items that the Shadow government proposes is the issue of decreasing the number of ministries since there are too many. The Shadow government is proposing to decrease the number of government ministries and to erase overlapping and duplications of their duties and responsibilities and to centralize the development policy into one point. (Ardiin Erkh)

A movement named ‘Ikh Mongol’ has announced its birthday yesterday and denied civic movements. Led by S. Baatar, retired Lieutenant and Lieutenant Kh. Tsogtbaatar, with a motto of ‘Let’s abide the constitution and respect the rules of the government,’ made a press conference yesterday. This movement which denied other civic movements will be working with the purpose of making a conclusion on current situations of society and of proposing optimal ideas and proposals. They consider that civic movements are provoking to establish more instability in society. (Daily News)

President candidate Mr. A.Batsukh neither wins nor loses

582 million MNT earmarked to fight corruption

Law against corruption discussed for over year and ratified in the multi party Parliament comes into effect from today to be abided by in whole of Mongolia and the public hopes it will be like a shield to combat corruption effectively. Mongolia joined the UN convention on anticorruption last year and adopted its own law on the subject this year receiving appreciation from foreign countries. But with the adoption of the law the corruption won’t disappear overnight. It is no secret that politicians whose names are synonymous with corruption all the time are vying for the post of Chief of the anticorruption office clandestinely and openly. In fact according to the law the Parliament should appoint its chief and deputy chief as proposed by the President.  According to the press it is highly probable that Mr. D.Sandag-Ochir, General and former Chairman of the General Police Department will be appointed as its Chief. There is even a disconsolate MP in the Government house saying “It doesn’t make sense that the Government squanders 2 billion MNT to please private company indebted to it and earmarks 582 million MNT to fight corruption. It is no use to establish an autonomous organization to fight corruption if the government is to be so tightfisted.” (Daily News)

Totally about 80 project proposals have been offered to foreign investors

Prime Minister M. Enkhbold has passed a decree appointing a working group to prepare for the Foreign Investment and Foreign Trade Agency of Mongolia’s Investor’s Forum 2006 on September 14 and 15. More than 40 projects proposals were translated into English and submitted to the foreign investors from the government and about 40 project proposals from the private sector were placed on the FIFTA website. Among them were proposals from the Erdenet copper mining factory, the Darkhan metallurgical factory, the free economic zones, the agriculture sector, the building of an international airport village, the tourism sector and e-Mongolia. Seven-hundred and thirty-eight representatives from 43 countries are registered to take part in the forum, and of those 412 are foreign citizens. There are 142 big investors from foreign countries. (Today)

President of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is visiting our country

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) president Jan Limier will pay an official visit to Mongolia after the bank recently gave Mongolia the status of authorized lender. Mr Limier, who has headed the bank for six years, will open the Resident Mission’s Office of EBRD in Ulaanbaatar, as well as meet with the Speaker of the Parliament and the Prime Minister and be introduced to the banking and financial sector. During his visit, the first loan agreement with the bank will be signed. The EBRD has shareholders in more than 60 countries and two international organizations. (Today)

Bubonic plague confirmed

A 20-year-old from Erdenbulgan soum in Arhangai province has contracted bubonic plague. The person is in a serious condition and undergoing treatment. There are 81 people who have had direct contact with the patient and 1200 who have had indirect contact. Seventy-seven of those were tested but were found to be free of the plague. The province governor enforced a strict quarantine two days ago. (Unen)