MONGOL

Since 1991 the MESSENGER 500 ¥ No. 07-08 (1076-1077) MONGOLIA’S FIRST ENGLISH WEEKLY PUBLISHED BY MONTSAME NEWS AGENCY Friday, February 17, 2012 Mongolia Economic Happy Tsagaan Sar! Forum planned for early March

The Mongolian Economic Forum 2012 will run on March 5-6. At a February 10 press conference, organizers of the forum reported about the preparations and measures for the forum. As of information given by MP S. Oyun; Deputy Finance Minister Ch.Gankhuyag; Ch.Khashchuluun, head of the National Development and Innovation Committee; and P.Tsagaan, senior advisor to the President, the forum that is to be organized for the third time, will run this year under the motto ‘Together for Development’. The forum will have sub-meetings under themes on economic development, social policy and competitiveness, and bring together over 1000 foreign and domestic participants. During the forum, it is planned to publicly introduce Mongolia’s development forum until 2021 issued by Open Society. MP S. Oyun said, “In reality, why isn’t poverty decreasing while the economy has grown over the past five or six years. We believe that issues on how to decrease poverty and what should be done for the fruits of economic growth to improve livelihoods will develop into hot discussions during the forum. For instance, the statistical figures on poverty percentages are very confusing. The National Statistical Committee evaluates the poverty rate at 39 percent while the World Bank says it is lower using a different methodology to evaluate poverty. Therefore, representatives from public organizations, social welfare, On Tsagaan Sar, President Ts.Elbegdorj meets with elders in the traditional Mongolian custom of respect NGOs, trade unions and professional organizations are expected to This week’s Mongol Messenger includes a special section dedicated to Tsagaan Sar history, traditions, comparisons with urban and countryside participate in the discussion and celebrations, foreigner’s views on Tsagaan Sar customs as well as the do’s and don’ts when visiting homes or receiving Tsagaan Sar guests express their position freely.” Inside Coal leads Mongolia’s mining industry Buddha relic found ����������������������p3 New law on conflict of interest �����p4 B.Ooluun 248.1 billion was realized from coal and Ts. Garamjav said by supporting The chief organizer of the forum, Tgs 295.2 billion in 2011. Compared to coal mining and increasing exports, President of the “Glogex” Group Food safety ���������������������������������p7 Mongolian coal attracts the world’s 2010 and 2009, coal profits increased more attention needs to be focused on L.Naranbaatar said that “60 percent of attention; apparently, it may become by Tgs 46 billion in Mongolia. Over 40 processing the final output, export of the world’s coal consumption is in Asia. Tsagaan Sar stories..... ����������.p8-11 the leading branch on Mongolia’s companies are engaged in coal mining coal with surplus cost, development That means Mongolian coal will always mining sector. This was evident from today and the mining branch is rapidly of coking chemical production and be on top and in great demand. Recently, Mongolians abroad...... p13 “Coal Mongolia -2012”, the Second developing. producing liquefied coal products. Under Mongolia officially recorded additional International Coal Investors Conference The geological probable coal reserve the framework of supporting an export- coal reserve of almost eight billion tons. The Mongolia Society turns 50....p15 hosted in Ulaanbaatar on February 9 and is 175 billion tons which is predicted oriented economy, the government has This is our success and we can proudly 10. The coal conference was organized to grow a further 9.8 billion tons of defined the mining sector as a priority demonstrate it to foreign investors”, said by the Ministry of Mineral Resource coal reserve by preliminary forecasts for the country’s economy. They are L.Naranbaatar. Please note: and Energy, the National Development guaranteed by geological surveys. More creating favorable conditions for that Ch. Khashchuluun, Chief of the Due to the extended Tsagaan Sar and Renewal Committee, and the than 300 coal deposits were revealed by introducing environmentally friendly National Development and Renovation holiday, The Mongol Messenger will Mining.mn information website. The in a total of 15 basins. In 2011, the technology and attracting investors. Committee, said that Mongolia uses not be published next week (Feb­ conference was attended by more than Mineral Resource Council discussed the In order to successfully resolve the 3 to 4 percent of the mined coal. ruary 24). Our next issue will be 700 delegates from 300 government and reserve report of 23 plus coal mines, of environmentally friendly mining Mongolians would be able to use free published on Friday, March 2nd. non-government organizations as well which 7.8 billion reserves were newly recovery, the deputy minister said, coal from the profit of coal exported as from more than 20 foreign countries approved according to Ts. Garamjav, stable financial and legal conditions will to foreign countries for a high price. Bloomberg commodity price 2012/02/16 including the RF, China, Germany, Deputy Minister of Mineral Resource be created for intensive methane gas But infrastructure problems need to be Japan, and Australia. and Energy. exploration in the coal seam, for reaching resolved in the first place in order to Price Beginning in 2011, coal leads Over the past 90 years since the exploration standards, for effective use sell coal and surplus coal output on the GOLD USD/t oz. 1,719.400 Mongolia’s economy beating copper development of coal branch in this of reserves, exploitation of underground foreign market, he said. This was one of and its profits outrun other export country, coal has been mined to meet the mining technology, for management of issues discussed at the Coal Mongolia COPPER USD/lb. 376.400 products. Some 25,245 million tons coal domestic energy supply. The minister national and foreign investments and for Conference. was mined in 2010, and 18,241 million stressed that beginning from 2003 reliable investment circulation. SILVER USD/t oz 33.200 tons of coal has been exported. Another coal was mined for export to profit the By coal reserve, Mongolia is among New railway access for the 32.994 million tons of coal was mined country’s economy. The coal reserve the ten leading countries of the world. development of coal production BRENT USD/bbl. 118.970 in 2011 with 25.5 million tons exported. serves a basic source for electricity Coal is in great demand in China, in Cooperation with our two neighbors, CRUDE Compared to 2010, coal mined in 2011 production and coal is being used the RF and in the world market. All of China and the Russian Federation, is one SUGAR USd/lb. 23.480 grew 130.4 percent and coal exports to generate more than 90 percent of them are interested to import coal from 123.3 percent. In 2010, a profit of Tgs Mongolia’s electric energy and heating. Mongolia. Continued on page 5 WHEAT USd/bu 633.750 2 THE MONGOL MESSENGER news Friday, February 17, 2012

N E W S-IN-B R I E F–From The MONTSAME AGENCY Prime Minister meets with outgoing British ambassador On February 9, Prime Minister S. Batbold laid to introduce the Cambridge education lOn February 9, parliament made a decision rehabilitation; D.Shijirbaatar, head of Sukhbaatar received Ms. Thorda Abbott-Watt, Ambassador system in Mongolia, opening the opportunity for Khentii Aimag’s Bor-Ondor bagh (smallest aimag-based branch commission; D.Tsogtbaatar, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and for Mongolians to get internationally-recognized administrative unit in localities) to become Bor- head of the Union of Politically Repressed People; Northern Ireland to Mongolia, in conjunction education. Ondor Soum. Parliament approved a related draft and B.Bat-Erdene, judge of the State Supreme with the completion of her diplomatic mission He noted that the UK is playing a leading resolution with some 78 percent of MPs voting in Court. in Mongolia. At the meeting, the Prime Minister role in the worldwide activities against climate favor. MPs then backed issuing of a list of agenda lOn February 16, the very first session of the underlined that Mongolia-Britain relations and change and expressed the willingness of items for the spring session of parliament. Partnership for Women’s Organizations at the cooperation have been brought to a new step and Mongolia to cooperate with the UK. lOyu Tolgoi LLC has launched the enlisting of political parties of parliament took place in the that cooperation in the macroeconomic, banking In response, Ms. Abbott-Watt agreed with the Safety, Health, Environmental volunteer staff Chinggis Khaan hotel. and financial sectors has been widening. PM and said she was impressed by Mongolian in scope of its priority of safety and health for This session gathered women from the Mongolian The Prime Minister stressed that the pupils’ interest to study under the Cambridge employees. People’s Party (MPP), the Democratic Party (DP) capability of the Mongolian Stock Exchange standard. The goal of this initiative is to assure the and the Civil Will-Green Party (CWGP) under the has been improving thanks to establishing a Mentioning the 50th anniversary of health and safety of employees through their motto “Women can do it too”. strategic partnership with the London Stock Mongolia-UK diplomatic relations, Ms. Abbott- own participation. In another words, this Women at the MPP ran discussions titled Exchange (LSE). He underlined that cooperation Watt underlined its importance and said she will demonstrates that the contribution, participation “Sufficiency of maternity hospitals and solutions in the educational sector has been developing actively participate in celebrating this date. and responsibility of each employee of OT is very to problems”, whereas the CWGP and DP’s women successfully; for example, the basis has been important for ensuring the overall health, safety delivered reports highlighting kindergartens and operation of the company. secondary schools’ matters. Currently, about 100 employees have been lOn February 16, a forum called ‘Mongolian Prime Minister meets with Japan’s Ambassador enlisted as volunteer staff to foster safety, health brand around the world 2012’ was held. Co- culture and information sharing among the all organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the On February 9, Prime Minister S. Batbold employees of the company. Each floor of OT’s National Development and Innovation Committee, met Mr. Shimizu Takenori, Ambassador of Japan UB headquarters is manned by volunteer staff the Mongolia’s Association of Marketing and to Mongolia. of safety evaluators, safety coordinators, safety the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce Mr. Takenori said the Japanese side is information officers, volunteer first-aid providers and Industry, the forum considered the main attaching great importance to the visit of the and fire personnel. understanding and research regarding how to Mongolian Prime Minister and hoped that it This way, OT employees are enlisted as safety, choose a proper market in order to step to world visit will open a new chapter in Mongolia-Japan health volunteers and contribute to the overall markets, to create national brands and sub-brands relations and cooperation. health and safe operation of the mining company. and to set up an authority in charge of the matter. The Prime Minister pointed out the This demonstrates the commitment of OT to This forum gathered representatives of state importance of the economic partnership ensure reliable, safe, and healthy operations and organizations and NGOs. agreement which is to deepen economic and keep a zero-accident environment in work places lOn February 14, Minister of Finance, trade collaboration. He said Mongolia holds a by taking corporate responsibility. D.Khayankhyarvaa met with authorities of the direction to cooperate with Japan in producing “Ensuring the safety and health of all workers is Development Bank of Mongolia (DBM). value-added products by introducing progressive the key objective for OT. For this, participation Mr. Kim Jang Jin, DBM CEO stressed that the technologies and methods. of all employees of our company is very crucial. bank’s activities have been put in normal order. Mr.Batbold expressed hope that the economic Safety, Health volunteers make a special “The works the Mongolian government have not partnership agreement will provide a new step contribution to the development of responsible been done yet due to some delays,” he said. for Mongolia-Japan traditional relations. mining and introduction of the best health and In response, the Finance Minister said the In connection with the 40th anniversary of Shimizu Takenori and S.Batbold safety practices in the Mongolian mining sector”, government will tackle all the problems regarding diplomatic relations, the sides emphasized the said Mr. Cameron McRae, President and CEO of this bank in the first quarter of 2012. Then he importance of augmenting the frequency of high level mutual visits and talks. OT LLC. gave directions to the DBM to issue bonds at both lOn February 9, an international conference domestic and foreign markets beginning in April on studies of Chinggis Khaan was held under to finance the construction of roads, buildings and Prime Minister meets with French Ambassador auspices of the President of Mongolia. Dedicated railways. to the 850th birth anniversary of Chinggis Khaan lThe parliamentary faction of the Democratic On February 9, Prime Minister S. Batbold Noting that Mongolia aims to introduce the who is considered as the Man of Millennium, this Party (DP) decided to set up a working group in received Mr. Yves Delaunay, Ambassador of the European standards, the Prime Minister said conference brought together some 40 scholars charge of the Ukhaa khudag coal deposit and of Republic of France to Mongolia the sides can develop cooperation in mining, and researchers from the USA, China, Russia, the matter of newly-discovered reserves at the He said an opportunity has opened for the two agriculture and in the protection of cultural the Republic of Korea, Great Britain, Germany Oyu tolgoi gold-copper deposit. countries to widen their ties and collaboration heritage. He said Mongolia wants to continue to and Mongolia. They shared their opinions on On February 13, the faction made the decision in all spheres such as economics, trade and export its products to the European Union (EU) theory and urgent problems facing the studies of in accordance with the 27th clause of the law on environment. He is glad that France appointed an without taxes. Chinggis Khaan. parliament and some clauses of the DP’s charter. Ambassador to Mongolia who knows Mongolian In turn, Mr. Delaunay thanked the Prime Reports were delivered on philosophy, history, The working group is supposed to draw-up language, culture and history. Minister for the audience and spoke about his politics, culture, custom, arts and ethnography. proposals and conclusions on matters such as The Prime Minister underlined the first visit to Mongolia paid 27 years ago. He said For example, a teacher of the ‘Chinggis Khaan’ discovering new reserves in the OT deposit, to importance of expanding bilateral relations, and the rapid development of Mongolia will let it institute, Kh.Shagdar, gave a report themed inspect whether special licenses for transmission especially strategic partnership ties in bringing become one of the top countries in Asia. ‘Urgent problems for Chinggis Khaan studies’; of the Tavan Tolgoi’s special license into a license the ties to a comprehensive partnership level and Mr. Delaunay noted that French people have academician D.Tomortogoo, a report themed of exploitation and a debate to isolate the Ukhaa to regularize mutual high level visits. a deep interest in Mongolia. ‘Dorvoljin script and policy of Yuan Dynasty khudag’s deposit from the Tavan Tolgoi deposit in on scripts’; and Professor Sh.Choimaa, a report accordance with the related laws. themed ‘Childhood of Chinggis Khaan’. Headed by D.Gankhuyag, the working group is Japan helps to improve disaster management The participants also raised issues on the legal comprised of MPs R.Amarjargal, B.Batbayar, thinking of Mongolians in the 13th Century and N.Batbayar, L.Gantomor, Ts.Sedvanchig and The government of Mongolia and the Japan aftermath of the devastating natural disasters that other topics, and then enjoyed an exhibition about S.Erdene. International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will occurred last year in Fukushima. He reported the history of the Great Mongolian Empire and lOn March 1-4, a trade exhibition-fair ‘Made in implement a project on improving the capability that the JICA has decided to conduct training on other Mongolian empires. Mongolia’ will run in Irkutsk, Russian Federation, of earthquake protection in Ulaanbaatar. actions to be taken in case of disasters, on setting lLast week, the Troika of the Community for the first time. It will be organized by the On February 9, M.Enkhbold, the Deputy safety zones, and plans to give 23 fire-fighter of Democracies expressed concern about the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce Prime Minister, and Isogai Toshinari, country vehicles to Ulaanbaatar’s fire-fighting units. increasing crackdown on civil society in Egypt. and Industry, Consulate General of Mongolia in representative of the JICA discussed the matter. In response, Mr. Enkhbold appreciated that The most recent actions of the ruling military Irkutsk and Russian ‘Sibexpocenter’ LLC. As a result of a project to be implemented until Japan has been rendering support and assistance government endanger the peaceful transformation The action is to present all main export products November, 2014, it is expected that disaster in all aspects since Mongolia transited to to a democratic state. of Mongolia, wool and cashmere clothing, carpets, protection activities for Ulaanbaatar, earthquake democracy and a market economy. “Therefore, it The Troika of the Community of Democracies leather and knitted products, ecological products, risk control, citizens’ skill to protect themselves is our duty to give as much assistance as we can calls on Egyptian authorities to refrain from use souvenirs. During the event, a meeting is expected from disasters, the capacity of relevant to the Japanese who suffered a disaster. At that of physical force against civilians and instead to between Russian and Mongolian businessmen. organizations and personnel will improve, and time, Mongolia’s government and Emergency invest in the building of a vibrant civil society lThe Ministry of Environment and Tourism disaster-resistant construction works will be Commission took immediate measures and ran a and create necessary conditions for their full decided to register Burkhan Khaldun Mountain done. relief and donation campaign for Japanese people participation in this decisive time of change for and the reserved area of Daguur in the list of the Mr. Toshinari expressed thanks to Mongolia throughout the nation,” said Mr. Enkhbold. Egypt. UNESCO Cultural and Natural Heritage. for giving assistance to Japan in overcoming the The Mongolian Presidency stresses the importance In 1992, Burkhan Khaldun Mountain was taken of education for democracy and considers into special protection of the state so the Ministry full and unrestrained civic participation in the intends to register the Mountain in the list as the construction of a democratic state as an essential world’s very first worshipped mountain where Monaco helps fund cancer treatment element towards successful transformation. Acts Chingis Khaan was born. The Ministry’s experts of suppression on civil society at the time of drew up related materials and conveyed them to birth of civic identity violate universal human the State Head’s assistant. rights and constitute a serious threat to Egypt’s The reserved area of Daguur is located across transformation. the territories of Mongolian Dornod Aimag and lOn February 14, N.Enkhbold, Deputy Russia’s Chita Oblast. In 1994, it was taken into Speaker and head of the State Commission on special protection under a trilateral agreement of Management and Organization Rehabilitation of Mongolia, Russia and China. Politically Repressed granted certificates of honor Officials of the commission, set up by order #230 to a number of people. of the State Head left with Fonorzul Mishigdorj These people were awarded on the eve of the for Russia to introduce the documents at a meeting Lunar New Year for their significant contributions of UNESCO which kicked off in Chita city. to realizing the law on politically repressed The Ministry plans to send the materials to the rehabilitation by granting allowances, redeeming UNESCO Committee regarding Mongolia’s their reputation, perpetuating their memory and natural and cultural heritage on September 30 of giving them social welfare assistance. this year. It is expected that a final decision on The prizes were presented to M.Khaltar, registration of the reserved lands will be made in secretary of the city’s branch commission of the 2014 in accordance with the rule.

Editor-in-Chief: Borkhondoin Indra Ambassador Claude Giordan and Meera Venkatesh sign the agreement with J.Enkhsaikhan (R) English Editor: David brown WEATHER Sunrise: 07.50 The Government of the Principality of but also for palliative care and oncology services Journalists: Batbayar Ooluun Sunset: 18.04 Monaco agreed to make a financial contribution in all 21 Mongolia aimags and 9 districts of Translator: Mishigdorj Unurzul of 120,000 Euro to implement a project Ulaanbaatar. n Ulaanbaatar and Central Aimags: Night temps between dalkhjav Undrakh -23oC and -28oC. Day time temps between -12o and -16oC. entitled ‘Improving Palliative Care Services in The project is intended to improve Layout/design : sarantuya munkhtulga Snow on February 21. Mongolia’ through the Program of Action for accessibility to palliative care services at the n Cancer Therapy (PACT) of IAEA. To that end local level and at the NCC. The Mongol Messenger, P.O.Box 1514, Ulaanbaatar, MONGOLIA. Eastern Aimags: Night temps between -220C and -270C. Day time temps J.Enkhsaikhan, Ambassador of Mongolia, Mr. Mongolia is actively cooperating with PACT Telephone: 266740, Tel/Fax: (976-11) 325512, between -11oC and 16oC. Claude Giordan, Ambassador of the Principality to vitalize policies concerning the ‘Cancer Home Page: www.mongolmessenger.mn Snow on February 21. nWestern Aimags: of Monaco and Ms. Meera Venkatesh, Acting Prevention and Control Strategic Plan 2011- E-mail: [email protected] Night temps between -22oC and -27oC. Day time temps DDG-NA of IAEA signed a trilateral agreement 2021’ and ‘Radiotherapy Development Plan o o . The Mongol Messenger is operated by the government news agency between -11 C and -16 C. Snow on February 21. concerning the use of the above extra-budgetary 2011-2021’. Mongolia has become the 8th PACT nGobi Aimags: contribution. The project will help train doctors Model Demonstration Site (PMDS) country in MONTSAME and is printed by the MONTSAME Night temps between -19oC and -24oC. Day time temps o o and nurses and provide the needed equipment 2010. The Government of Monaco is making the between -7 C and -12 C. Snow on February 21. not only for the Palliative Care Department of contribution to Mongolia as a PMDS country. ISSN 1684-1883 the National Cancer Centre (NCC) of Mongolia, Friday, February 17, 2012 news THE MONGOL MESSENGER 3 Historical Buddha tooth discovered C A B I N E T M E E T I N G At an irregular meeting on February the Republic of Italy; A.Ganbaatar—to 13, the Cabinet discussed the following the Republic of Poland; M.Ganbold—to issues. the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; Ch.Battomor—to the Kingdom of Ambassador appointments to be Thailand; and T.Gandi—to the Republic submitted to the President of Hungary, in consideration of their The cabinet discussed the issue of working experience, previous experiences appointing and recalling ambassadors in diplomatic service and foreign language based on applicable clauses of the laws knowledge. on Constitution, President, Government and Diplomatic Service. February 18 will be a working day A proposal was decided to be On the basis of Article 77.3 of the submitted to the President to appoint Law on Labor, the Cabinet issued a the following candidates; R. Bold resolution to convert the working day of as Ambassador Extraordinary and Friday, February 24, 2012, to Saturday Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to Australia; February 18. The decision was made to D.Enkhbat—to the Socialist Republic widely celebrate the Tsagaan Sar National of Vietnam; B.Odonjil—to the Arab Holiday and coordinate work and vacation Republic of Egypt; Sh.Odonbaatar—to schedules for people.

At its regular meeting on February to users. There were 34 companies who 15, the Cabinet discussed the following expressed interest to participate in the issues: tender for thermal power station-5, of them 11 sent proposals. More 10,000 tonnes of meat to be Campus of universities to reserved accommodate about 100,000 students A few days ago, Prime Minister S. The cabinet got au fait with the Batbold made surpirse visitations to some process of establishing a campus of markets in suburbs to get au fait with universities and supported an action plan the sales of meat reserves. Results of the for this year. check-ups were discussed at the Cabinet Although the first decision was to meeting, issuing some decisions. establish the campus in the Shiveetiin The Prime Minister, saw how the Khondii area of Nalaikh District, it is sales of whole meat was chaotic and an eternal freezing area that would be depressed people. He said that the difficult to construct buildings. The PM S.Batbold meets with Buddhist lamas to assure protection of a valuable ancient relic meat supply is not bad, but it makes construction of buildings in the area may people depressed. It connects with poor be risky and raise the total cost of building On February 15, Prime Minister S. A few days ago, the Buddha relic was the good news and supported their organizational activities. He was critical by two-fold. Therefore, the government Batbold met hamba lamas of the bigger found in a bag with a letter of former request to show it to public. of a inequal principle that only beef issued a resolution to change the location Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia. Prime Minister Genden. With this At the conclusion of meeting, people can buy meat is used at the meat to the Baganuur District. Hamba lamas brought good news and letter, former Prime Minister Genden the Prime Minister expressed sincere sales and instructed them to deliver meat For this reason, it is necessary to even a request. A Buddha relic that instructed to keep this invaluable item appreciation for Mongolia’s ancestors to the homes of elders. urgently conduct engineering-geological indefinitely. A cusped of the Buddha who kept this invaluable object of Accordingly, the city authority and other studies, amend the general was preserved for many years was tackled the issue to deliver meat to the campus plan, and work out partial plans. found. When Abtai Sain Khan met His was changed into a precious pill. religious veneration passed on to our homes of elders who are over 80 years The campus will have five state Holiness III Dalai Lama in 1587 and D. Choijamts, Hamba Lama of generation and congratulated the lucky old. universities, scientific institutes and spread Buddhism in Mongolia, a very Gandantegchinlen Monastery said Mongolians. Also at the meeting, was At the cabinet meeting, Prime business training centers. important worship item was brought that finding the invaluable item at this a man named O. Badmaadorj who Minister recalled the situation and firmly It will have specific zones as technical to Mongolia. According to the studies period of time is a very auspicious preserved the historical document warned to take good organizational and technological sciences, social and of many sutras, it was revealed to be event. Therefore, he requested the about the arrival of this Buddha’s activities to sell meat of the reserve. In humanitarian science, natural science, the invaluable exhibit of a tooth from government to give attention to invaluable item in Mongolia. The connection, instructions were given to medical science, cultural, art, sport, trade Buddha that is now kept at Bogd Khaan showing this invaluable item to public. Prime Minister also showed him his prepare more than 10 tonnes of meat from and service, ‘Silicon Valley’ or scientific Museum. It was stated in many sutras. In turn, the Prime Minister honored appreciation. rural areas for the needs of citizens. production, a residential area, and will The issue of mortgage loans with 6 accommodate approximately 100,000 percent interest to be resolved students with an overall population of Within frames of the ‘Apartments 150,000. for 100,000 families’ program, the One-time compensation to be given Lamas flock to Mongolia for Tsagaan Sar government plans to resolve the issue of to incapacitated people On February 15, Deputy Prime Mongolia but now are disciples at new page for Mongolia’s Buddhism. disbursing mortgage loans with annual It was decided to give one-time Minister M. Enkhbold met high Goman religious school in India. In turn, lama Gunduulen who led interest of up to 6 percent to citizens who compensation to 352 people who became the lamas expressed appreciation to made a initial request to buy apartments incapacitated due to accidents at industries ranking Buddhist lamas who arrived They arrived in Mongolia to make a not bigger than 50 square meters. and professional characteristics whild in their home country before Tsagaan greeting of Tsagaan Sar with the 9th the Deputy PM for his audience and Ts. Dashdorj, Minister for working in state-owned organizations Sar National Holiday. Bogda who is now in Mongolia. said that since the 1990s, Buddhism Road, Transport, Construction and and industries. Tgs98.8 million required All of Rinpoches including D. At the meeting, Deputy Prime has been reviving in Mongolia and Urban Development, reported about for the compensation was decided to Tseveendorj, B. Erdenebat, Ch. Minister M. Enkhbold said that an the social tendency to religion is implementation of housing objectives be issued from the government reserve Danzanchoijinvanchig, S. Davaasuren, installment of the 9th Bodga as head improving. stated in the mid-term ‘New great fund. N. Amgalan and others born in of the Mongolia’s Buddhism opens a construction’ program. Discipline and responsibility of Hearing the report, relevant ministers MIAT Company to be improved were given duties to work out proposals Failures, defects, financial issues and on building financing for the mortgage other problems connected with MIAT loan with domestic resources of banks, Aviation Company have been at the Parliament approves new ambassadors give resources from the Development attention of government. Bank in commercial banks, and reflect At the cabinet meeting, relevant legal frames.” the disparity of interests of loan taken as minister and officials were given duties to Within issues being discussed, a resource from the Development Bank take immediate measures for legal actions MP D. Oyunkhorol said, “Minister T. and loans borrowed through commercial on related officials, eliminate defects and Gandi is one of the leaders and has been banks. failures and improve financial discipline working competitively with men as a Moreover, it was instructed to and responsibility. result of her honesty and education. intensify actions to select a contractor/ Financial agreement endorsed We need to have confidence in the executor to build engineering lines for the The cabinet discussed and supported only woman appointed as ambassador apartment towns to be built in Ulaanbaatar. a Bill on ratifying the intergovernmental It is planned to build apartments for financial agreement between the to work as Minister until a response is 75,000 familes in Ulaanbaatar and 25,000 governments of Mongolia and France and received from Hungary. Confidence in rural areas within the housing program, decided to submit it to parliament. can be given to her without saying ‘Apartments for 100,000 families’. Prime If the agreement is ratified, a soft loan many words.” Minister S. Batbold instructed them to worth 5.05 million Euro will be received During the discussion, the intensify the program’s implementation from France to spend on strengthening candidates inquired about how they Money to be accumulated in the a patient ward and emergency medical will work to protect the interest of Human Development Fund assistance of the Trauma Hospital. Mongolians in countries where they Finance Minister D. Khayankhyarvaa Permanent Representative to the will work if they are appointed. reported about resources lacking in the UN appointed Candidate Ch. Battomor said, “In 2012 budget of the Human Development At the cabinet meeting, O. Och my experience, I have heard about Fund. was appointed Mongolia’s Permanent problems of Mongolians staying in In connection with the report, related Representative to the UN. O. Enkhtsetseg the country where I had worked. I will ministers were given duties to take was also recalled from duty as Permanent definite measures to eliminate difficulties Representative in connection of the expiry work accordingly.” Candidate R. Bold in this year’s expenditure and finance of of her official mission. said, “The number of Mongolians the Human Development Fund. O. Och worked in state service for Newly appointed ambassadors answer MPs questions staying abroad reaches 200,000, except The Ministers have also been given 21 years, 18 years of which he worked in for those who are staying abroad responsibility to work out a proposal to diplomatic service. D. Erdenesuvd, MONTSAME reporter Among the candidates for illegally. It is a new tendency for amend the ‘Regulation on Mongolian ambassadors, Social Welfare and Labor Mongolians to live abroad. Protecting citizens’ receiving shares of native land’ In brief At its plenary meeting on February Minister T. Gandi who was nominated their interest should be discussed the in order to distribute Tgs1 million to The cabinet approved a list 14, parliament discussed the issue to for the Ambassador to Hungary same as protecting national interests. elders and disabled people at the end of of importing agricultural tractors, appoint ambassadors of Mongolia to attracted the MPs’ attention most. There is much to do such as improving every quarter by equally dividing the combines, mechanisms, flour mills, some foreign countries. MPs S. Erdene and O. Chuluunbat legislations. Measures of all aspects money. irrigation equipment, forestry The government submitted said that they wonder why a Minister will be taken to protect the interest of Construction of the thermal power techniques, fertilizers and plant a proposal to appoint R. Bold as of an important ministry, and is doing Mongolians”. station-5 to be intensified protection substances that will be Ambassador Extraordinary and work right now, was nominated as Following the discussion, polling The cabinet discussed the issue of exempted from customs duty and intensifying the project ‘Thermal power VAT. The resolution came to effect on Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to an ambassador. Foreign Minister was conducted. Ch. Battomor was station-5’ and issued a decision. December 1, 2011. Australia; D.Enkhbat—to the Socialist G. Zandanshatar said, “T. Gandi is supported with 85.1 percent of MPs Minerals and Energy Minister D. In connection with amendments to Republic of Vietnam; B.Odonjil— an experienced politician who was to be appointed Ambassador to Zorigt and head of the Cabinet Secretariat the Energy Law, the cabinet decided to to the Arab Republic of Egypt; elected four times to parliament and the Kingdom of Thailand; R. Bold of Government Ch. Khurelbaatar change the Energy Regulatory Office Sh.Odonbaatar—to the Republic of appointed twice as Minister. We are (Australia)—87 percent; A. Ganbaatar were given duties to introduce draft into an Energy Regulatory Committee Italy; A.Ganbaatar—to the Republic enthusiastic to have her in our foreign (Poland)—88.9 percent; T. Gandi agreements to government on authorizing and approved its rule. The committee of Poland; M.Ganbold—to the relations sector because she is skilled (Republic of Hungary)—90.9 percent; the government to build a concession is responsible for regulating operations Democratic People’s Republic of wherever she works. In our history, N. Ganbold (DPRK)—91.1 percent; agreement, coal supply, purchase of to produce, transmit, supply, import, Korea; Ch.Battomor—to the Kingdom there was a person who was Prime Sh. Odonbaatar (Republic of Italy); B. electricity, and thermal energy resource export energy and make duty of Thailand; and T.Gandi—to the Minister of Mongolia and appointed Odonjil (Arab Republic of Egypt)— following a tender to implement the coordinations. Moreover, it will issue Republic of Hungary. D. Battulga, as Ambassador. Also, what is to be 93.3 percent and D. Enkhbat (Socialist project. special permits to manage energy head of the Office of President, said done when a government member is Republic of Vietnam)—91.1 percent. Furthermore, some measures were activity, control and approve tariffs of that the government consults with appointed to special service of state The appointments were decided to decided to be taken in order to provide permit holders and users, protect the the President to appoint the candidate is regulated by the Constitution. be submitted to the President. a coal supply for thermo and power to interests of sides, balance, and create ambassadors. Therefore, it is done right way within be produced and ready for distribution competition amongs permit holders. 4 THE MONGOL MESSENGER parliament Friday, February 17, 2012 New law bans conflicts of interest Foreign project leaders held to responsibility

B.Ooluun this way. When we carefully examined the anti-corruption law, we found that On January 19, Parliament some forms of interest conflicts were approved a new law aimed at cutting legalized in the law, some elements of abuse of power and preventing public conflicts of interest were also legislated officers and ruling authorities from in the Law on State Service, the cases being corrupt. It was law on regulation related to corruption and abuse of of public and private interests in public power in the Criminal Code were service and prevention from interest defined in a definite way, requirements conflict. Following the new law, causing criminal cases were defined by amendments were introduced to the monetary calculations without no other Corruption Law, the Criminal Code, regulations. It was impossible to define and the Law on State Service. The new any responsibility for government law was initiated by nine MPs including officials who had not filed their income H.Temuujin, J.Enkhbayar, Y. Batsuur declaration. and others who believed the law will We understood that we must contribute to reduce corruption and intensify the anti-corruption struggle, abuse of power. Parliament Speaker work out a complex policy against D.Demberel characterized the new corruption, make mechanisms in the law as important, which after being anti-corruption law more perfect, not successfully implemented will produce only speak about corruption when positive results. He recommended MPs corruption is already being performed, to carefully study the law in order not but undertake actions to root-out to be involved in breaking the law. The the soil where corruption flourishes. new law becomes effective on July 15, Every person has an interest which 2012. must be regulated to a certain extend. The new law not only restricts If you work in public service, you must public officers’ abuse of power when be guided first by public interest. Your they perform their duties, but also after personal interests should not prevail they are freed from their service. For above public interests. Interests of so example, these people will report their called “special” groups should not be private interests when they are admitted put above public interests; otherwise this to their new occupation. Information will become good soil for conflicts of about his or her private business shall interest, corruption and crimes. In order be renewed every year by February 15. to protect state servants who performed Parliament approves the new law under the watchful eye of media Before issuing a decision, an official their duties and obligations honestly who occupies a definite post must report and avoid them from being involved in has been implied for the first time in -Close relatives, people of one give your opinion. any conflict of interest. For instance, an corruption and conflicts of interest, we this new law. We used the terminology family, people engaged in one business, -The key task of the law is to define official who is a member of the bidding must legalize everything with necessary public service, because the law directed possessing certain shares and profiting and distinguish conflicts of interest commission should report and officially regulations and measurements. For this at supervising all officials who works from this business are named as and corruption in order to get rid of declare that none of his/her relatives purpose we have decided to precisely very closle to the interests of the dependent and relevant subjects, and it is empty suspicion. After reading the law, or close friends are included in the regulate the settlements with the conflict country, and investment and big money restricted to issue any decision relevant people can clearly identify conflict of bidding companies. If any relatives are of interest law. for people and the country in the hands to these people. School classmates, interest and corruption and crime. The reported, the official responsible for the -How will the two laws, Anti- of those people. Previously, we resolved natives, members of one and the same law defined definite measurements. bidding will be called to responsibility Corruption law and the Law to prevent the questions in a narrow understanding political party shall be considered as For example, conflicts of interest even if the relatives are not selected in conflict interests, be coordinated? of “government officials”. The decision “conditions causing understanding restrictions include actions related to the bidding. The revised Criminal Code How is the responsibility structure makers who resolved problems related of a conflict of interest”. If the public using official information, fulfilling includes a new provision on criminal reflected in the law? with the country’s fate were outside claims a minister decides employed official duties, performing double responsibility if a public officer -Eight corruption violations legal controls and audits, but now it his native, that minister is obliged to jobs, decision making and advertising suddenly becomes very rich. that were previously impossible to has become possible to supervise high- explain his decision. If explanations are activities, representation and payments, The law uses the terminology regulate were legislated. An official ranking officials engaged in big money, made by minister and the person who business and economic activities and “public service” and “public officer” will be degraded in his position if any say it, the Millennium Challenge was admitted to the job fails to meet the restrictions after being released from in order to involve all officials who violation is recorded and he will be Account, Board of Directors of the requirements, this will be considered a occupying posts. got rights and duties representing dismissed from his job if the violation Oyu Tolgoi and Tavan Tolgoi deposits conflict of interest. - Some people said that conflicts state; who has advantage by its post . is repeated. There were not definite on behalf of the state. The sense of The state officer has the duty to of interest and ethical problems According to the new law, the meaning provisions regarding responsibilities the public service is much wider than make an explanation if the public sees should not regulated by law. Actions of public officer implies the governing in the Anti-Corruption law. The state service. Public service includes that there is a conflict of interest. In this having criminal features can be and executive officers working in new law includes provisions where the governing and executive officers way, we included a number of precise regulated by the Corruption law and political, administrative and special unreasonable profiteering is considered working in the states’ political, special regulations. We also introduced a Criminal Code. What is your opinion services, governing officers working in a crime. People often say “This person and administrative sectors, and high- number of restrictions. For example, one regarding it? state service, governing officers of state- served all his life as a state servant but ranking legal subject officers who are of the provisions bans to use confidential -There are three modules in the owned or local owned legal bodies, he is very rich compared to an average responsible for state-owned or local information for unofficial purposes. world. In Australia, for example, or involving state-owned properties, business person”. And this is true. Many properties. Here we can name the chief An official working in the Central a country with 200-300 years of the governing officers of NGOs which state servants have private houses, of the Erdenet plant appointed from Bank is not allowed to use confidential democratic history, conflicts of interest fulfilling state duties on a temporal or expensive jeeps and their children study Russia, the governing NGO officers currency-related information for are regulated by labor contracts. permanent basis funded from the State overseas. The government officers are who are implementing certain state personal gain. I must say that we have Corruption is regulated by the Criminal Budget or local funds. not highly-paid and their salaries do not directives, authorities of state-owned had many cases where people used Code or other laws. Germany, one of The legislators were confident that exceed the average pay of an ordinary companies, and project leaders working such kind of information for their own the oldest democratic states, regulates when the Anti-Corruption Authority state servant, but many of them live on programs to be implemented with profiteering and business development. these problems by state service law and starts revealing corruptive authorities, luxury lives. This causes suspicion. If foreign technical assistance and aid, State officers who were released from other branch laws.. For post-communist Mongolia’s corruption index will an official filling his income declaration or loans and credits to be repaid by their positions are not allowed to reveal countries like Mongolia, a country which definitely shift from 120th place to has no reasonable explanation about the our taxpayers. The new law creates confidential information which got for years has been under ideological 100. MP J.Enkhbayar outlined the source of his incomes, he or she will be a monitoring system to supervise, through their official duties for two domination, we are facing many new significance of the new law designed to investigated by the Anti-Corruption for instance, whether project leaders years. Otherwise, business made in problems related to ethics, the culture prevent corruption, bring state service Authority. The Conflict of Interest Law are working for the interest of the such way shall be considered unfair and of state service, democratic values, into normal order and clean when the regulates conditions at all levels. From Mongolian public, or for improving a business is built-up from a conflict etc. This is why for us, it is impossible country’s economy is notably growing, now on, Mongolia will enjoy a law that their own lives or any other interests. of interest. If a banking officer decides to rely on labor contracts or branch investment is increasing and when the fights corruption. If a law is breached, For example, it would now be possible to set a commercial bank or an official laws. The most seriously aggravating country is reaching rapid development. an officer will be called to responsibility. to investigate where money goes that engaged in granting mining licenses things that occur in post-communist The law makers called for a press He or she will be fined 30 percent of was invested by the US government got license taken from the place where countries are related with corruption, conference to introduce journalists to their three months’ salary; for serious to Mongolia to reduce pollution. he worked, after leaving his job, these bribery, abuse of power and conflicts the new law and H.Temuujin, MP, violations, they will be degraded from Who profits from this money? Now, will be considered a conflict of interest. of interest. Who becomes rich and responded to the questions as follows: the positions they occupy; and for more this shall not only be checked by the In case he got a license for his own wealthy…the person who succeeded to serious breaches and violations he or USA but by Mongolia. In this sense, interests while in his post, this will be profit from privatization. Who becomes she will be dismissed from their job. leaders of the Millennium Challenge considered abuse of power. oligarchy…those who were close in -The Anti-Corruption Authority Account, for example, shall fill their Therefore, restrictions for state ruling. Who becomes a billionaire… was accused of only fighting “small income declaration. An opportunity officers shall be viable even when he those people who play in the market with fish”. Will the new law change to supervise foreign citizens who are or she is released from their posts. MPs the help of their associates and groups. activities of the Anti-Corruption working for the interest of our country are not allowed to play in business We have a system in which justice and Authority? How will the ACA fight is one of advantages of the new law. PR except for humanitarian or public fair competition is absent, and where the big “sharks”? -Would you clarify your remark activities. The state officer is allowed the state service and legal organizations -With the help of law-makers, the about leading NGO officers will to participate in advertising activities are sold for money. There is no such Anti-Corruption Authority has gained report about conflicts of interests? related to his work but not in any other system in Australia or Germany. This is many mechanisms which previously -For example, the Lawyers Union, advertisement. Today, some MPs are why for the last 20 years, we decided to were absent in that organization. Now, which is being newly formed, shall engaged in TV programs. According fight our corrupted system and draft the the Anti-Corruption Authority enjoys license and examine lawyers. As state to the law, this shall be considered Conflict of Interest Law, the Corruption the full right to not only fight the duty to make standards followed are as work performed on the contract law, and create an organization working “dog-fish”, but to call responsibility to being shifted, the Union’s high-ranking or advertizing particular television against corruption. We think this fits those who have become rich without officials are going to report on the channel. One of the significant Mongolia. legitimate reasons. The new law will conflicts of interest. The same concerns revisions made to the Corruption law is - Then, you mean this law will come into force on July 15. When the environmental NGOs. In cases where that unreasonable profiteering shall be serve for transitional period? Conflict of Interest Law, amendment NGOs enjoy the rights of environmental considered as corruption. If the amount -The new law is supposed to be in to the Corruption law and the Criminal inspectors from the ministry, the people of profit or income exceeds the average effect for 40-50 years or until it gives Code come into force, new ethical who are implementing these directives six months’ salary of a state officer, positive results. At that time when the -Why was a new law drafted standards of state service will be will become public officers. Some this creates a criminal offence. In other morality of society and activities of when an anti-corruption law already created. In previous years, even though people who are working on behalf words, people saying they live on their state officials becomes standard, the existed? a state servant said himself as a servant of the environmental NGOs pressure salaries but in reality conduct a luxury problems to be resolved by law or by -A few years ago the parliamentary who serves the state, some of them and provoke mining companies to get life will be investigated. ethics will become a question for the sub-committee on human rights held who understood his direct leader or his money. Under this situation, this kind -Some politicians expressed next generation. What we face now is an open hearing on income declaration political party as the state. of action will be considered as a conflict concern that by generalizing the to resolve many problems that occurred of state servants. It became evident -What you mean under public of interest. It is not allowed to profit in law and making involvement very due to red-tape, corruption and conflicts that problems related to conflicts of officer aside of state servant? What the name of public interest. wide, every action looks like a crime of interest which results in so many interest and corruption involving state scale of service does it embrace? -What kinds of conflicts of interest and people look like they’re being people unable to get normal state service officials could not be resolved -The understanding of public service are restricted by this law? involved in conflict of interest. Please service. Friday, February 17, 2012 economy THE MONGOL MESSENGER 5 Coal leads Mongolia’s mining industry Continued from page 1 open doors for further investment and cooperation. A second challenge would of the priority tasks for a land-locked be to improve connectivity through country as Mongolia to export coal to seamless, efficient and low-cost railway the world market. Ambassadors of the and road links and border-crossing RF and China expressed their views on facilities, the lack of which has turned cooperation with Mongolia in the coal out to be one of the biggest bottlenecks sphere. for cross border trade in coal. Last In his speech, Russian ambassador but not least, the importance of a V.V.Samoilenko stressed: “Obviously, favorable policy, legal and regulatory Mongolia will very soon become one environment, including necessary and of the decisive players on the world appropriate incentive structures cannot coal market, concerning coking coal be overemphasized. primarily”. The ambassador highly These are obviously not problems assessed Mongolia’s coal branch or challenges for Mongolia to deal with potential and declared Russia’s alone. With Mongolia taking the lead, readiness to cooperate on a full scale all other stakeholders should make a in coal development. This problem contribution. China, as a strategic partner could be solved with an adequate of Mongolia, stands ready to play our coal transportation system, said the part”, he said. Last year, China imported ambassador. The coal export of dozens 20.7 million tons of coal from Mongolia, of millions of tons per year, delivery to with an increase of 23.2 percent on the global markets to interested buyers will previous year, accounting for 11.3 be possible only by rail transport. The percent of the total coal import of China. RZD (Russian Railways) in particular, “I am sure cross border trade in coal and have worked-out all aspects of exporting coal-based processed products will either Mongolian coal and other minerals end up on the Chinese market or targeted ‘Coal Mongolia 2010’ attracted prominent guests from around the world via railways. Aside of attracting the third-country markets through China experts from the RZD, involved in this and in the future, see further significant But this year, the government informed related to nature and environmental said B.Enebish. In 2012 the “Erdenes work were recognized international or even exponential growth” underlined that railway construction in the southern protection worked out in Mongolia in Tavan Tolgoi” LLC envisions building a experts – “Boston Consulting” and the ambassador Wang XiaoLong. direction would be started. This was one recent 20 years, said M.Dagva, have 300 MW power plant, coal handling and “Ernest & Young”. Economic, financial, According to data from the Ministry of the significant messages of the present become inadequate for using them in preparation plant, road, a 70 km water microeconomic and technical aspects of Road, Transportation, Construction conference, underlined L.Naranbaatar, the coal mining as they were worked pipeline, and a railway route. for the development of the railway and Urban Development (MRTCUD), President of the “Glogex” Group and out based on the production of gold A number of coal projects in Mongolia system in Mongolia were worked out since 2002, coal exports have been organizer of the conference. placer deposits. “The gold placer deposit are being registered on international stock on a professional level. The realization transported from the Nariin Sukhait could be mined for 2-3 years or at exchanges. According to B.Mounkhdol, in practice of these tasks guarantees that mining site through the Shivee Huren Water and Environment maximum 15 years. M.Dagva stressed CEO of “CPS” International, almost Mongolian coal will be transported in border. Similarly, since 2003, there Permission to build a power plant in the importance of revising the present 60 companies are trading their shares great quantity to world markets, meaning has also been active transport from the Tavan Tolgoi and Oyu Tolgoi as well as environmental laws with environmental on the international stock exchanges that the resource potential of Mongolia Tavan Tolgoi mining site through the construction of the Taishiryn power plant recovery and production. Hence, coal in Australia, Toronto, Canada, Hong will be realized in full, not on the local Gashuunsukhait border in Umnugovi in Selenge aimag with an aim to reduce mining differs from gold mines. The Kong and other countries. For example, but on the global scale”. province. In 2010, 12.2 million tons energy export from the RF contributes to digging hold in a coal mine must be the “Draig Recourse” registered at the According to the ambassador, the of coal was exported by auto transport the solution of energy supply issues. wide and deep. The depth of coal mines Australian stock exchange made an IPO RZD program guarantees shipping of through Umnugobi province; this Meanwhile, the mining deposits today is 100 meters and may further last year, built up US$17 million which Mongolian coal to Far East ports and increased to 19.3 million tons in 2011. might face problems related with reach 300 meters. So, it is impossible to is considered available for surveying further to any other points in the world. It is planned to lay paved roads water supply. Local citizens began make recovery and fill holes every year. and research in 2012, and for obtaining Russia has worked out the second to the border points near coal mines, protesting against mining exploration In order to remove the misunderstanding a new license. According to “CPS” stage of the realization of the railways railways and big state roads. Road which makes the Gobi to become more between coal exploration companies, International reports, eight companies project in Mongolia. The RZD has held building is now underway. “A 1000 km dry depriving local population and the local population, environmentalists including “Erdenes Tavan Tolgoi” are talks with all interested sides, worked road has been built, and infrastructure animals of their water source. “The and NGOs in mining need to be brought going to make an IPO in 2012. out all optimal versions and schemes, is developing more than it has ever South Gobi, where the biggest mineral to a new standard by revising old laws, the realization of which will guarantee been performed in previous years. deposits are located experiences a said M.Dagva. He proposed to follow Best of the best in the coal branch maximum effective (from the point of Prospective mining infrastructure will be water shortage. In the coming ten years, international experiences of setting up a “Best Man of the Year”, “Best view of economy and logistics) delivery the focus of attention in the forthcoming water reserves in this area might come united fund where money accumulated Mining Company of the Year”, “Best of Mongolian coal to customers in the four years. Logistics and transportation to an end. It is impossible to solve the from companies engaged in mining will Prospecting Company of the Year” Far East, India or Egypt. will be intensively improved and water supply problem in the mining be spent on environmental recovery. named after MMRE D.Zorigt, ‘Best Ambassador V.V.Samoilenko industrialization will develop together sector without using underground and Government administration Exhibition”, “Best Journalist” named presented some figures. He said that with the cluster growing,” said Ch. surface water reserves in combination,” representatives appreciated the road after Mining.mn information website today, Mongolian coal is being sold at Khashchuluun. said B.Enkhbaatar, coordinator of the building by some companies before the were named during the “Coal Mongolia a cheaper price than the world price. A Besides coal transportation by road WB Mining Infrastructure Investment mining exploration in order to protection 2012” Conference. good price could be obtained only by causes negative environmental effects, Support Project. The WB has decided nature and not damage the soil. For The “Year’s Best Mining Company” selling coal on the world market, he said. transportation capacity would not allow to implement a US$25 million project in example, The Canadian-Mongolian went to the coal research department The distance from Naushki station , on to export huge amount of coal by road. support of mining infrastructure where “Mongolia-Minerals” company is of АМГ. Five companies competed for the Mongolian border, to Far East ports in In this regard, parliament endorsed the the “Orkhon Gol” water supply project operating in the Khotgoryn coal mine in this nomination; “Energy Resource” Russia is 3.9 thousand km. The shipment policy of laying a new railway route. is included. the territory of Bokhmorin Soum of Uvs Company won an award for mining 7.7 of one ton of Mongolian coal over this Based on State Policy on Railway The government established a Aimag to supply the western provinces million tons in 2011 and an award was distance makes up US$31.9. This is a Transportation endorsed by parliament framework of 29 water basins for the with coal. “A feasibility study for coal presented to the CEO of the company 50 percent discount price granted by the in 2010, approximately 5,684 km of entire country. For Southern Mongolia, mining from Khotgor is being made. G.Battsengel. Three companies competed Russian government on Mongolian coal new railway is to be built between these basins are centered on groundwater, After that, we will build a 325 km paved for the “Year’s Best Mining Company” offered to Mongolia with an aim to set 2011 and 2014. “The Master plan for as surface water is of minor importance road to Dayan passing station in Bayan with South Gobi Sands winning the up maximum favorable conditions for the new railway route (Dalanzadgad- in the southern part of the country. It Ulgii to transport our coal to China’s contest by digging 115 thousand m3 Russian-Mongolian cooperation. By Tavan Tolgoi-Zuunbayan; Sainshnad- is expected that a new institutional Xinjian. There, we will generate energy prospecting and proving 382 million tons comparison, the cost of the delivery of 1 BaruunUrt-Choibalsan) was approved. structure will be piloted at two locations and be engaged in other production of coal reserve. N.Nyamtaishir, president ton of coal on the Choir-Naushki stations According to the truss, with 1:50000 in Southern Mongolia with jurisdictional activities,” said representatives of the of the MAK (Mongol Gold) Company distance makes up US$15.54. map scale hydrogeology design and responsibilities defined along company. became the “Year’s Best Man”. It was Ambassador V.V. Samoilenko also under 1165 kilometer, topography with groundwater boundary basins. A water A number of reports dealing with decided to hold two competitions every reported on works that RZD has done. 1:1000 map scales was finished. An reservoir will be built in the Orkhon techniques and technology in mining year named after the Mining.mn website. “Infrastructure Development” Co., Ltd advisory team headed by McKinsey & river basin where five tributaries flow, a production were presented. New Monnis International Company was the projecting company for organization of Company produced a feasibility study pipeline will be laid 4 meters’ deep on technology was also displayed at the “Best Exhibition Organizer” from 61 all required work has been set up by the for the new railway. The study included a the surface of the land supplying water exhibition. The conference participants other companies engaged in foreign RZD; the Mongolian government has total of 1766 kilometers of new railways from this pipe, explained B.Enkhbaatar. were attracted by Wirtgen Group and domestic supply and services that been informed that the RZD is ready to along the following routes: Tavan The ground water administration and technology which does not explode or participated in the Coal Mongolia invest at the first stage US$1,5 billion to Tolgoi-Sainshand 468 km, Sainshand- water basin council will be formed to crush the coal for coal classification. 2012 exhibition. Roughly 400 people the construction of the new railways line Huut 450 km, Huut-Choibalsan155 resolve water supply problems required participated in the opinion poll and Tavan Tolgoi- Sainshand- Choibalsan; km, Tavan Tolgoi-Gashuunsuhait 267 for the South Gobi region. This water Opportunity to invest money in Monnis International was named as best. the railways route has been worked out; km and Nariinsuhait-Shiveehuren 46 reservoir will be located 630 km away the coal project B.Togsbileg, Journalist of the Mongolian research of the potential marketing of km. Now a transportation agreement is from Tavan Tolgoi and 730 km away Recent information related to the Mining Journal was named Best the Mongolian coal made, and transit being held with the Russian side”, said from the Oyu Tolgoi mine. Research for giant Tavan Tolgoi coal deposit of Journalist of the Year for his publication transportation of Mongolian coal on J.Bat-Erdene, State Secretary of the the Orkhon Gol project tentative worth Mongolia attracts the keen interest of “How is price of Mongolian coal exceptional favorable terms by Russian MRTCUD. Tgs 200 million was conducted for two coal entrepreneurs and investors. CEO determined”. More than 20 articles of 11 railways has been calculated and offered The distance from Mongolia to the years. Today, the WB intends to continue of the state-owned “Erdenes Tavan journalists were received by seven press to the the Mongolian side. In June Russian sea port is about 4,000 km while the project and is going to work-out the Tolgoi”LLC, the main license-owner of and media organizations working in the 2010, Mongolia’s Parliament approved to the Chinese Tianjin port is 1700 km. working plan in detail for US$3 million. Tavan Tolgoi mine, B.Enebish reported competition. “Among press and media a state policy regarding construction of Although China is one of the biggest There were critical remarks on coal mining, export and selling of organizations, journalists are playing a the railway infrastructure. It envisions, coal consumers it was decided to build among participants of the conference the company’s shares at national and very important role in the dissemination in particular, the construction of the the railway route first in the northern that less attention is being paid to foreign stock exchange and prospective of objective information on the first stage of the new railway route, direction to the RF in order to not be nature and environment problems. For in 2012. development of the mining industry in Tavan Tolgoi-Sainshand-Choibalsan dependent on one country and create example, ex-environmental minister At the East Tsankhi block, which has Mongolia,” said B.Altanshagai, General and modernization of the Ulaanbaatar competition in coal purchasing. The WB Adiyasuren representing Sunny Trade 1204 million tones of coal (65 percent Director of the Mining.mn website. railways. The ambassador said that when Mining Infrastructure Investment Support LLC, appreciated the construction of them coking coal) by JORK, mining We are encouraging journalists by an agreement on the construction of the Project coordinator B.Enkhbaatar development he viewed a few days ago operations and boxcut commenced in providing a Tgs3,000,000 award for the new railway route and modernization of considers that after construction of the in Omnogovi, but 100 meter high heaps August 2010 and coal export began in best journalist,” he added. the UB railways is reached, RZD is ready new railways route, China will continue and driness of environment endanger August 2011. Some 1 million tons coal “Coal Mongolia 2012” second to start construction via “Infrastructure to be the main partner in the coal market life of the local population, forcing them was mined in 2011 and half was exported. international coal investors conference Development “Co.,Ltd. because as he explains, the East Siberian to contend with desertification and water If the company performed the mining and exhibition was highly assessed by The coal mining industry in railway sleepers have become old, and shortage. Adiyasuren declared that using operation itself in 2011, starting in 2012, forum organizers. “Some 71 percent Mongolia faces its fair share of problems under the present railway situation, it is underground water in the Gobi region mining operations are being fulfilled by of the participants of the conference and challenges like poor infrastructure impossible to transport 10 million tons for mineral exploration is making the contract agreement. It is planned to mine were the CEO’s and general directors, development, including railways, roads, of coal per year. Gobi area become drier. He proposed 3-4 tons coal in 2012. Over the recent people engaged in decision making, and border passing stations with poor The price of coal sold to China using rain, snow and flood water for 6 months, we cooperated with many 17 percent ministers, vice ministers, capacity, said Chinese ambassador Wang is several times lower than the world mining purposes. consulting companies to make an IPO at state secretaries, and PMs. In other XiaoLong and expressed the readiness market price. Nevertheless, many people M.Dagva General Director of domestic and foreign stock exchanges. 80 words, officials engaged in defining of China to cooperate in solving these suggested building a railway route to “QMC” consulting company reported on percent of the preparatory work has been government policies who have launched problems. “Early progress on key China, the biggest market of Mongolia. legal regulations for mining closure and completed. Maybe some changes will be a wide exchange of views related to projects is crucial, the impact of which Building a railway from the Tavan Tolgoi recovery and stressed the need to renew introduced into the share movement as a the country’s economy and social will not be confined to the individual mine to the main market was concerned at the legal conditions related to the mining percentage of the company’s shares will development,” said L.Naranbaatar, the projects themselves. They will help to the Coal Mongolia Conference last year. environment. Laws and regulations be given to Mongolian citizens for free,” conference’s general organizer. 6 THE MONGOL MESSENGER economy Friday, February 17, 2012 UP: Live births, infant & child mortality, Unemployment, Social welfare and pension spending, GDP, Consumer Price Index, Tax revenues, Industrial output, Rail passengers and freight DOWN: Loans outstanding, Non-performing Loans, External trade balance, Livestock losses Social and economic situation of Mongolia (As of January 2012) I. Social indicators by 20 persons or 11.2 percent compared trading days and 4.8 mln.shares valued made up 240.3 mln.US dollars and 46.2 thous.passengers (double counting) to same period of the previous year. at 4.7 bln. tog were traded. imports made up 494.9 mln.US dollars. were carried by air transport. Compared In January 2012, 6015 mothers In January 2012, total revenue and External trade balance showed to same period of the previous year, the delivered 6033 children (live births) II. Macroeconomic indicators grants of the General Government Budget a deficit of 254.6 mln.US dollars in number of carried freight increased by increased by 852 mothers or 16.5 In 2011 GDP reached 10829.7 bln. amounted to 325.8 bln.tog and total January 2012, while it was in deficit of 173.7 t or 2.3 times, the number of carried percent, and 843 children or 16.2 tog at current price, increased by 19.8 expenditure and net lending amounted 139.6 mln.US dollars in January 2011. passengers rose by 9.7 thous.persons percent, compared to same period of the percent in the first quarter of 2011, to 260.0 bln.tog, representing surplus of Compared to same period of the previous or 26.5 percent. Due to the increase in previous year. increased by 29.4 percent in the first half 65.8 bln.tog in the equilibrated balance year, deficit increased by 115.0 mln.US carried freight and passengers, revenue In January 2012, at national level of 2011, increased by 31.7 percent in the of General Government Budget. dollars or 82.4 percent from air transport increased by 2.5 bln. infant mortality increased by 11 or 11.7 first 3 quarters, increased by 28.7 percent In January 2012, current revenue Total external trade turnover tog or 28.2 percent to 11.6 bln.tog in percent to 105, and child mortality aged by preliminary estimates compared to of the General Government Budget increased by 178.4 mln.US dollars or January 2012, compared to same period 1-5 increased by 5 or 31.3 percent to 21 same period of the previous year. amounted to 324.3 bln.tog and current 32.0 percent, of which imports up by of the previous year. compared to same period of the previous Comparing same period of the expenditure reached 257.2 bln.tog. Thus, 146.7 mln.US dollars or 42.1 percent, According to the report of the year. previous year , GDP reached 4881.4 the budget equilibrated current balance and exports up by 31.7 mln.US dollars Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology, The number of unemployed reached bln. tog at 2005 constant price the by was in surplus of 67.2 bln.tog. or 15.2 percent respectively, compared maximum precipitation was registered 58.2 thousand at the end of January preliminary estimates and increased by Compared to same period of the to same period of the previous year. in Bayantes soum (3.8 mm) of Zavkhan 2012, reflecting an increase of 19.8 9.8 percent in the first quarter of 2011, previous year, tax revenue increased Mineral products, natural or cultured aimag in January 2012. In January 2012, thous.persons or 51.7 percent compared increased by 14.0 percent in the first half by 93.2 bln.tog or 46.3 percent. The stones, precious metal, jewelry, coins, Bayantsagaan soum of Bayankhongor to same period of the previous year. of 2011, increased by 16.5 percent in increase was mainly due to the increases raw & processed hides, skins, fur & aimag had the highest air temperature In January 2012, 115.6 thous. the first 3 quarters of 2011, increased by of 51.8 bln. tog or 3.8 times in taxes on articles, animal origin products, auto, air (0.0°C), while Tosontsengel and Otgon persons were registered as insurer, of 17.3 percent in 2011. foreign trade, 45.1 bln.tog or 3.2 times & water transport vehicles & their spare soums of Zavkhan aimag had the lowest which 68.8 thousand or 59.5 percent The national consumer price index in other taxes, 17.1 bln.tog or 72.8 parts thereof accounted for 97.1 percent air temperature (-50.0°C). Wind speed were those from the establishments, and in January 2012, increased by 2.8 percent percent in social security contribution, of the total export value amount. reached 20 m/sec in Bulgan soum of 46.8 thousand or 40.5 percent from the compared to the previous month, and 10.2 6.5 bln.tog or 50.5 percent in personal Umnugovi aimag. government budgetary organization. percent compared to same period of the income tax, 3.9 bln.tog or 17.5 percent III. Economic sector indicators Daily average concentration In January 2012, social welfare previous year. The increase in national in corporate income tax, although there In January 2012, at national level of nitrogen dioxide exceeded 31 pensions and benefits allocated to 53.7 index compared to the previous month was decreases of 18.7 bln.tog or 20.7 natural losses of adult animals down by times around Kharkhorin market of thous.persons, showing an increase of was mainly due to 4.9 percent increase percent in taxes on goods and services. 41.7 thous.heads or 64.6 percent to 22.8 Ulaanbaatar city, 26 times around the 2.5 thous.persons or 4.8 percent, total in food and non-alcoholic beverages and Compared to same period of the thous.heads compared to same period 13th micro district and the Offitseruudiin amount of the allocated fund increased by 5.3 percent increase in transport. previous year, non-tax revenue increased of the previous year. Out of the losses ordon respectively, 22 times around 131.9 mln. tog or 4.8 percent compared According to the report of the Bank by 15.3 bln.tog or 2.0 times. The increase of adult animals, 1.5 thousand were the 32nd Toirog and 20 times around to same period of the previous year. of Mongolia, money supply (broad was mainly due to the increases of 8.5 horses, 2.2 thousand were cows, 49 were the 1st micro district, daily average In January 2012, 32.9 bln.tog were money or M2) at the end of January 2012, bln.tog or 2.1 times in revenues from camels, 9.2 thousand were sheeps and concentration of sulphur dioxide distributed to 2.6 mln.persons (double reached to 6150.1 bln.tog, decreased by budget entities, 6.2 bln.tog or 5.4 times 9.8 thousand were goats. exceeded 31 times around Kharkhorin counting) from the Human development of 262.1 bln. tog or 4.1 percent compared in revenues from others, 3.2 bln.tog or In January 2012, the total industrial market, 27 times around the 32nd Toirog fund... to the previous month, and increased by 3.0 times in revenues from interest and output increased by 8.3 bln.tog or and the Offitseruudiin ordon respectively, In January 2012, the number of 1344.7 bln.tog or 28.0 percent compared fines and 0.2 bln.tog or 606.5 times in 5.7 percent to 154.8 bln.tog (at 2005 25 times around the West crossroad, 22 infectious disease cases was 3815 to same period of the previous year. revenues from dividends although there constant prices) compared to same times around the 13th micro district, persons, increase by 765 cases or 25.1 At the end of January 2012, currency was decreases of 2.2 bln. tog in revenues period of the previous year. The increase 20 times around the 1st micro district percent compared to same period of the issued in circulation reached 657.0 bln. from navigation fee and 0.6 bln.tog in the industrial output was mainly due and 9 times around the Misheel-Expo previous year. The increase in the number tog, decreased by 56.4 bln.tog or 7.9 or 43.1 percent in revenues from oil to 2.6-74.2 percent, increases in mining center, particulate matter less than 10 of infectious disease cases was mainly percent compared to the previous month, petroleum. and quarrying products such as copper, micrograms exceeded 30 times around due to the increases of 102 persons or and increased by 91.3 bln.tog or 16.1 In January 2012, total expenditure with concentrate, Fluor spar concentrate, Kharkhorin market, 23 times around 39.4 percent in syphilis, 69 persons percent compared to same period of the and net lending of the General molybdenum concentrate and crude the 32nd Toirog, 20 times around the or 24.9 percent in trichomoniasis, 69 previous year. Government Budget increased by 13.5 oil and 5.0 percent to 10.8 times 13th micro district and 19 times around persons or 24.8 percent in varicella, 34 Loans outstanding at the end of bln.tog or 5.5 percent to 260.0 bln.tog increases in industrial main products the West crossroad, particulate matter persons or 12.6 percent in tuberculosis, January 2012, amounted to 5649.0 bln. compared to same period of the previous of manufacturing sector such as bakery less than 2.5 micrograms exceeded 39 persons or 10.6 percent in gonococcal tog, up by 7.8 bln.tog or 0.1 percent year. This was mainly due to increases of products, carpet, beer, lime, bread, soft 21 times around the West crossroad, infection, 3 persons or 2.7 percent in compared to the previous month, and 19.3 bln.tog or 15.5 percent in subsidies drinks, electric wire, combed down, carbon dioxide exceeded 3 times around shigellosis, 101 persons or 7.8 percent in up by 2208.7 bln.tog or 64.2 percent and transfers, 8.3 bln. tog or 8.8 percent juice, metal sleeper, macaroni noodles, the 32nd Toirog from the maximum viral hepatitis... compared to same period of the previous in expenditure of goods and services and plastering mortar, concrete mortar, allowable concentration of air quality At national level, 2265 crimes were year. 1.5 bln.tog or 15.3 percent in interest cement, meat and briquette. standard in January 2012. registered in January 2012, reflecting an Principals in arrears at the end payment although there was decreases of In January 2012, 1733.8 thous.t In January 2012, 343 disasters increase of 413 crimes or 22.3 percent of January 2012 reached 73.8 bln.tog 9.5 bln.tog in lending minus repayments freight and 293.7 thous.passengers and accidents occurred. As a result, 13 compared to same period of the previous increased by 0.1 bln.tog or 0.1 percent and 6.1 bln.tog or 45.8 percent in capital (double counting) were carried by people died, 0.4 thous.livestock and year. The increase in the number of compared to the previous month, expenditure. railway transport. Compared to same domestic animals had lost. By the types crimes was mainly due to the increases decreased by 29.2 bln.tog or 28.3 percent In January 2012, spending of 7.3 period of the previous year, the number of disasters, 328 fires on possessions, 3 in crime against the right of ownership compared to same period of the previous bln. tog on capital expenditure decreased of carried freight rose by 388.7 thous.t or accidents related to artisanal mining and (255), crime against human life and year. by 6.1 bln.tog or 45.8 percent compared 28.9 percent and the number of carried rock falls, 2 river and lake accidents, health (or physical well-being) (110), At the end of January 2012, the to same period of the previous year. Of passengers rose by 0.7 thous. persons 1 case of domestic animal madness crime against the rules of safety of traffic non-performing loans over the bank which 5.0 bln. tog were foreign financed or 0.3 percent. Due to the increase in disease occurred in January 2012. In and use of motor vehicles (20) compared system reached 328.0 bln.tog, showing capital expenditure and 2.3 bln.tog were carried freight and passengers, revenue January 2012, estimated damage caused to same period of the previous year. decreases of 2.0 bln.tog or 0.6 percent capital expenditure of domestic sources. from railway transport increased by 8.0 by the disasters and accidents amounted In January 2012, occurred crimes compared to the previous month, of 33.5 In January 2012, Mongolia traded bln.tog 31.9 percent to 32.9 bln.tog in to 0.8 bln.tog. caused 707 injuries and 199 deaths. The bln.tog or 9.3 percent compared to same with 94 countries from all over the world January 2012, compared to same period number of injuries up by 61 persons or period of the previous year. and total external trade turnover reached of the previous year. National Statistical Committee 9.4 percent and the number of deaths up In January 2012, there were 22 735.2 mln. US dollars, of which exports In January 2012, 302.3 t freight and Mongolia: Investing in health

By Edward Gregory, Editorial to build wealth for futuregenerations tothat of developed countries by 2020. Manager, Oxford Business Group and to bring vulnerable social The HDF was also created in 2008 groups such as students andherders following the study of resource wealth As Mongolia sits on the under the government’s umbrella of management strategies in Chile, Alaska verge of a resource-related boom, healthinsurance. and Norwayin hopes of building a governmentofficials are stressing that “Mining and infrastructure are system to ensure each Mongoliantakes the Human Development Fund (HDF) important,” said Zorigt.“But more a share of the nation’s mineral wealth. and standard ofliving, and linked as of 2009, there were 2.57physicians established to channel revenues from important is thedevelopment of health, Initial capital for the fund was to gross national income per capita per 1000 population in urban areas, with mining projects to healthand education education, social insurance and a place drawn from the vast Oyu Tolgoi (gradedfrom 0.1). The UNDP found 2.75 physiciansper 1000 in rural areas. is fulfilling its role. tolive. The money in the fund will be copperand gold mine project.That between 1980 and 2011, Mongolia’s The country was home to 16 specialised D.Zorigt, the minister of mineral invested in these.” mine is estimated to account for30% lifeexpectancy at birth had increased by hospitals, fourregional diagnostic resources and energy as well as the head The Mongolian parliament ofMongolia’s GDP when completed in 11.2 years, mean years ofschooling had and treatment centres, 17 subdivision of theMongolian People Party’s working endorsed the National Development 2013, generating $30bn in taxrevenue risen by 2.6 years and expected years of (aimag) general hospitals,12 district group on the HDF, told local media Strategy in2008 with the goal of raising over 50 years, according to the schoolinghad increased by 3.3 years. general hospitals and six rural general inJanuary that the fund is being used Mongolia’s human development status Brookings Institution, a public policy Officials stress education is hospitals. organisation in Washington, DC. another key area of the HDF’s focus, J.Tsolmon, Mongolia’s vice- Additional revenues forthe HDF will with 133,000 students set to receive minister of health, toldmedia in come from development of Mongolia’s MNT500,000 ($352) from the fund for November 2010 the country’s health $2bn TavanTolgoi coking coal deposit, tuition fees in 2011, Yo. Otgonbayar, system was “in a transitionalphase the largest in the world. the minister of education, culture and from a Soviet to a modern era. Lack In November, S.Bayartsogt, then science, told local media in August of infrastructure and bad roads make the minister of finance,announced that 2011. The government has committed proper treatment and diagnosis difficult. by July 2012 the HDF will allocate to continuing these payments in This is why peopleoften get diagnosed MNT128,000($90) to every citizen. 2012, with each student to be granted late,”shesaid. Additionally, women aged 55 and MNT491,960 ($346). The fund also While Mongolia’s HDF has over, men aged 60 andover, as well as pays for a student’s health insurance. the potential to vastly contribute the disabled,are to receive a one-time A further MNT9.3bn ($6.5bn) had to thenation’s well-being through allowance ofMNT1m ($704), said been spentfrom the HDF on attracting improvinghealth services, exactly Bayartsogt. new members to the country’s where funds are to be allocated will Human development indicators healthinsurance scheme, Prime Minister continue to be adivisive political issue, compiled by the UN Development S. Batbold said. As the world’s least with implications on parliamentary Programme(UNDP) revealed last densely populated country,Mongolia elections in June of this year, as well November that the HDF is already faces unique challenges in healthcare aspresidential elections scheduled for having an impact,with Mongolia ranked provision, including severe under- May 2013. Improving the long-term 110th out of 187 countries. It garnered a investment in the1990s,thecountry’s capacity of the country’s health sector, HumanDevelopment Index of 0.653, up vast expanses and herders’ nomadic however, could prove a prudent way to from 0.647 in 2010, which is measured lifestyle. invest the mining sector’s forthcoming Mongolia’s mineral wealth is creating new opportunities for citizens by life expectancy, access to education According to the Ministry of Health, wealth back into the country. Friday, February 17, 2012 society THE MONGOL MESSENGER 7 Mongolia’s president makes food safety a policy priority International conference held to discuss structural changes Florentine Blank, the IFC senior consultant on policy regulation and business control renewal (Mongolia’s food security structure from the point laid for a comprehensive exchange of view of international tendency); of information. Beginning in 2011, Donald McRae, consultant of the the professional inspection authority IFC food security legal renovation introduced an inspection system (Unified methods for ensuring food based on risks. An information safety: Legal regulations, private database which has not been set up sector, consumers, structure to follow creates obstacles for the planned and traces); coordinated operation. Reporters Discussion 2. ‘Experience stressed the inconsistency between in building food safety points, rules and regulations issued by the difficulties’. Reports delivered by Ministry on Food and Agriculture and vice chairman of the Lithuanian that the Health ministry lacked paying food and veterinary service Zenonas attention to food safety and food Stanevikius (‘Lithuanian food safety security. They also emphasized the control’); Graham Juks, CEO of need to renew laboratory equipment Great Britain Environmental Health and capacity, strengthen and Institute (‘Food safety in Great Britain improve the control and inspection and environment’); China program consistency of professional inspection leader, senior researcher Dr.Kevin organizations at the city, district, Chen (‘China food security regulatory aimag and local levels. point: Study of basic elements to A live interchange of opinions enhance regulatory influence’); took place between the reporters and Discussion 3. ‘Effective participants regarding the granting inspection and monitoring point’. of certificates to authorized business Reports delivered by vice chairman entities, participation and involvement of Food Safety Authority Ziong of consumers at food security points, Shanjung (‘China food safety about inspection and coordination inspection’); R. Sodkhuu, chief of the policy in Mongolia, independent Mongolian Foods General Authority control and inspection in foreign (‘Inspection Innovation on food countries, including information security in Mongolia’; Professor of exchange in the new contract to the Belgrade University in Serbia, be signed between Mongolia and consultant of the IFC Food Security China, about the financing of private and Hazard Analysis Critical Control laboratories, the possibility of The discussion was translated for foreign participants Point Miomir Niksich (‘Inspection of laboratories in higher educational and quality food products, about following and introducing international experiences, resolving problems related to food quality and a healthy environment, setting up legal conditions, managing government agencies and how they should operate, about cooperation with professional organizations, individuals and citizens. By introducing international qualities and standards in our country, we will succeed to provide the population with safe and healthy food products and have the opportunity to supply safe organic food products made in Mongolia to the world market. It is appreciated that the President attaches specific attention to this conference which is convened under his auspice. Recordings and recommendations released from this conference will be included in the new M.Batchimeg addressing the conference International food safety conference held in the Citizen’s Hall law on food health. Again, I offer my remaining food products, significance institutions to participate in control, On February 9, an international concept of national security, adopted sincere thanks to all the people who of its food security’); regulation of damage with exporters conference ‘Food Safety: International by the parliament in 2010, includes an helped organize this conference, to the Discussion 4. ‘Expanding concerning imported foods, and how experience and Mongolia’s approach’ article on “Human Security”, and the International Financial Corporation food security regulatory renewal’. many people die in Mongolia from was held in the Citizens’ Hall. The concept in whole is based on human- (IFC) project staff, and special thanks Reports presented by WHO resident food intoxication each year, etc., conference was called under the centered policy, on the formation of to Ms. D.Jigjidmaa as well as the co- representative Vivat Rojanapitayakorn The conference was chaired by auspices of the President and organized a citizen-centered society, and on the organizers of the conference, to the (‘Asia-Pacific region strategy on food M.Batchimeg, advisor to the President. by the Office of the President in principles of cooperation between the standing committee of parliament on security in 2011-2015’); D.Oyuntuya, Participating were representatives of cooperation with the International state and citizens to safeguard people food, agriculture and environment, CEO of the Food Complex Co.,Ltd the Mongolian Parliament, the Office Financial Corporation, the standing and ensure security. and the Professional Inspection (‘Requirements on food security of the President, the National Security committee of parliament on Food security is one of most General Authority. I wish success for regulation, its influence on food Council, the Health Ministry, Ministry environment, food and agriculture and important pillars of government this conference, said D.Battulga. producing businessmen’). of Nature, Environment and Tourism, the General Authority on Professional policy to guarantee human security in Discussion 1. ‘Food security Producers, policy coordinators Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Inspection. this country. Mongolia was a closed point – Mongolian conditions, and consumers are all involved in General Authority on Professional Considered at the conference socialist country before 1990 with an international experience’. Reports the food security structure. The key Inspection, scientific research were matters related to international under-developed economy and many were made by MP D.Terbishdagva responsibility is on the shoulders organizations and economic business food safety experience, ways of other negative effects that influenced (Present situation on food safety, of producers and food producing entities. implementing international standards on lives of people. Nevertheless, food security law and regulations); business circles. Conditions must be in Mongolia, the present situation Mongolia succeeded in preserving of safe food supplies, improvement its nature untouched, in supplying of its legal environment, and other the population with environmentally considerations. safe domestic products and created D.Battulga, chief of the Office of conditions to reduce food production the President opened the conference; risks. speeches were made by WB resident The political, social and economic representative Coral Gevers, head of transmission of Mongolian society the department on coordination of has introduced many structural the food production, trade and service changes in the country’s veterinary policy of Ministry on Food and and quarantine services, in food Agriculture Ch. Enkh-Amgalan. production, in quality and supervision, Chief D.Battulga greeted all the and in customs inspection and participants and thanked them for standards bringing in some new coming to this important conference to structures. Many complicated issues focus the attention to safety life of the have been raised over the past Mongolians, to support and share rich twenty years in food security and experiences on food safety. Special the process of implementing new thanks were sent to consultants of the structures. Growing poverty levels International Financial Corporation and liberalization of foreign trade and guests from China, Lithuania, and have negatively influenced on food Great Britain. security. We understand food supply Although human society is as establishing a safe food production marching forward, we continue to face environment, distribution of quality problems related to safe livelihoods, foods, nutrition, and many other safety including human health. Today the concerns. safety life is not only restricted In Mongolia, the disease rate by independence, sovereignty and caused by unsafe food products territorial integrity, but is also related has been increasing in recent years to the policy of human security. The and it is becoming more difficult to population of Mongolia is not very big. introduce food supervision structures The guarantee of a healthy and safe life meeting international standards. At for a Mongol man needs to be one of this conference we are talking about basic issues of national security. The ensuring a healthy food environment Government officials, organizers and international participants of the conference 8 THE MONGOL MESSENGER tsagaan sar Friday, February 17, 2012 Tsagaan Sar preserves traditions Mongolia’s national holiday at Ovoo, or shrine on top of a nearby the start of each year has special hill or mountain, carrying food and significance in the country’s ritual and pray to nature while walking around tradition. During the three-day holiday it three times. Women are not allowed the country comes to a standstill as to go to the Ovoo and prepare tea and family and friends renew ties and plan festive foods at that time. Everyone is for a prosperous new year. expected to eat heartily to set a pattern The holiday, Tsagaan Sar or ‘White for the new year of plenty of food and Month,’ symbolizes an abundance of prosperity. One buuz will contain a milk and for Mongolians is the reason coin and the finder can expect special they have always revered white. good fortune and prosperity. Everyone Mongolians believe that success is expected to wear new clothes on and luck for the coming year will be Bituun. reflected in how people spend the On Shiniin Negen, people are Tsagaan Sar holiday. expected to get up early and take their The date varies between late first steps in the direction dictated by January and early March as Mongolia the year they were born, as advised follows the 12 animal cycles of the by a lama or astrologists who suggest lunar calendar with other Eastern and directions and publish them in central Asian countries. The original newspapers. People show respect to date in autumn when there was an their elders and pay special attention to abundance of dairy products, was children, and relatives visit each other changed in 1206, when Temujin was with the eldest first. Family members proclaimed the Great Khaan of all follow the traditional Mongolian Mongols. He held an elaborate feast greeting ‘zolgokh,’ with their eldest on the last day of winter, and decided relatives by offering a khadag (blue to make this the New Year and the silk scarf) with outstretched hands holiday have been celebrated ever and upturned palms and bow and say, since early in each new year. “May you be healthy and happy.” The Tsagaan Sar is the time when every ritual greeting is performed between family cleans their home, possessions everyone except husband and wife and clothes and wives traditionally who are considered as one person. make new outfits for their husbands. After the greetings, elders It is divided into Bituun, the last exchange snuffboxes and hosts serve day of the year where there is a half their guests with milk tea, tsagaalga moon; Shiniin Negen the next day (rice flavored with Mongolian butter, Traditional Tsagaan Sar greeting by men in the countryside which is the first day of the new year sugar and grape), meat from boiled a table straining with food including five colours and five fancy foods. of Tsagaan Sar. Elders are given the and the third day as the last day of the lamb and buuz. People, who have a whole boiled lamb with a fatty tail Newlyweds have three layers where khadag as a sign of deep respect and Tsagaan Sar feast. quarreled also exchange snuffboxes and the table decorated with ul boov three is associated with beginnings. are wished good health and long life. Before Bituun, everyone is representing mutual respect as a or stiff pastry bases in layers of three, The ul boov has sweets, sugar, cream, Mongolians usually avoid gifts of expected to pay off debts, heal substitute for a verbal apology. five, seven or nine. Nine is a significant and shar tos (Mongolian butter). dark colours, and prefer not to give a quarrels, fill every container in the The message carried in the number, and state ceremonies often Guests arrive through the day, and single item. house, fill willow baskets with dung, greeting represents, “I am sorry, I had have nine layers of ul boov; there sing as morin khuur (horse head As the celebrations wind down, pots with food and thread spindles. bad thoughts about you because of are 99 heavens; nine wishes and nine fiddles) play. family and relatives repeat their wishes Every family prepares buuz and what other people said,” or, “I hold precious stones. On the final day of Tsagaan Sar, for good health and happiness and that bansh (dumplings) for visiting relatives no grudge against you,” and “I forgive Older people usually have gifts are given out and the ul boov is the incoming year will be peaceful and friends. First thing on the morning you.” seven layers, while families with a dismantled. without suffering or hatred. of Bituun, all men and children go the Families who live in gers prepare grandfather have five associated with Gift giving is an important part Tsagaan Sar, past and present L. Amarbat Mongols wondered where and how fixed his eyes on a faraway, snow- different animals. was officially recognized by the Bogd this calendar was derived. As a result, covered mountain to the West. Eyes If you look carefully at the Camel, Khaan enthroned as the Emperor According to the Gregorian a tale was created. The following is a propped wide open, the two anxious you will see that the God has kept his (Khan) of Mongolia in that same calendar, Mongolia’s New Year falls on short version of the tale. Once upon contestants settled down to wait for word, because the Camel has: year, when the country also declared different dates each year, somewhere a time during the ancient Hun times, the critical moment. The ears of the Mouse independence from the Manchu’s between January 30 and February the Mongolian god began assigning At dawn, when the great fiery ball The stomach of the Cow Qing Dynasty that had ruled both 27. Generally, each year is divided an animal to each of the years of the began it’s slow ascent, one thin early The paws of the Tiger Mongolia and China and it remained into lunar months that, in principle, twelve year Mongolian calendar. ray glanced off the snowy western The nose of the Hare in use until the 1920s. Then, from the consist of thirty days, but might be When he had finished assigning eleven mountaintop. The Mouse squealed The body of the Dragon 1920s, Mongolia started using both shorter as some days are not counted animals, the God paused to consider out: The eyes of the Snake the Gregorian calendar (officially in and some days are counted twice. This which animal should be allotted the “There it is! I see the sun! I win!” The mane of the Horse 1948) together with, possibly, the 12-year cycle was historically adopted twelfth and final year. “What?” cried the Camel, who knew the wool of the Sheep Yellow calendar. Proof of the Yellow by the Göktürks (the first evidence On hearing this, the Camel and that the sun rose in the East. “Why, The hump of the Ape calendar’s use until the 1950s is that of its use being in the year 584), the Mouse, neither of whom had you little sneak! You’ve cheated! The head crest of the Rooster the Tsagaan Sar festival, on January 26, subsequently spreading among many been selected, rushed to see the God. You’ll pay for this!” The crooked back legs of the Dog 1952 according to the Yellow calendar if not most Turkic peoples, as well as Bowing respectfully before The Great As the terrified Mouse scurried And the tail of the Pig. was changed by the authorities as the Mongols, as well as to China. The Sage, each presented himself as a down the Camel’s hump to seek safety that date had been declared a day of 12-animal zodiac is only used by the worthy candidate. The God listened in in the nearby pile of ashes, the Camel Two versions of the Mongolian mourning following the death of the Chinese to name years–it is not used silence as each animal argued his case. charged after him. He threw his heavy lunar calendar generally exist in Mongolian communist leader, Kh. in the actual calendar calculation. The When the elaborate pleas came to an body on the ground, and rolled back the country. One is the Yellow Choibalsan in Moscow on January 26, Chinese, in fact, have a very different end, the Wise God, not wishing to and forth on the ash pile, hoping to calendar, influenced by the Chinese 1952. constellation system. offend either of the eager and equally crush the Mouse with his weight. The lunar calendar, and the other is the Then the communist government The Mongol 12-year calendar has deserving animals, quietly told the Camel didn’t squash the Mouse that Tugsbuyant calendar, closely related tried to rename it as Cattle Breeders’ been in use since ancient times. Each Camel and the Mouse that they would time, but he’s certain that one day to the Tibetan lunar calendar. The Day and the previous official of the 12 years distinguish themselves have to resolve the matter themselves he will. Whenever he spies a pile of main variation between the Yellow celebrations were stopped. As Tsagaan from one another through their own in a friendly and honest way. The big ashes, he thinks the Mouse must be and Tugsbuyant calendars is a sar, however, remains culturally names; all years are named and now Camel and the tiny Mouse, after much hiding inside. He snorts, stamps his slightly different calculation system: essential among Mongolians, it was symbolized by the following 12 discussion and debate, finally agreed feet, then lies down and rolls around the Tugsbuyant calendar skips and almost impossible to totally prohibit animals–mouse, cow, tiger, rabbit, that they would settle the issue with and around, trying to flatten his tricky doubles days, similarly to the Tibetan its continuation. When the only option dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, a contest. The first to see the light of little foe. calendar, while the Yellow does not. for the then ruling MPRP party in cock, dog and the pig. Traditionally, the new morning sun the very next So it happened that the little Mouse The New Year day in these two trying to reaffirm traditions was to each year has unique characteristics day would be the winner, and the entered the twelve-year Mongolian calendars thus varies between them revive the Tugsbuyant calendar in that are similar to its name. For winner would enter the twelve-year calendar while the big Camel was in some years, resulting public debate late 1960s, it again became a public example, the year of the monkey will Mongolian calendar for all time. excluded. Feeling sorry for the Camel, on which one should be followed. holiday mostly in rural areas. After take on the monkey’s personality That night, in the darkness, in the Wise God told him gently that he However, the Tugsbuyant calendar, Democratic reform in the 1990s, it traits: hyper and rambunctious. The the middle of a wide, open plain, would never be forgotten. No, in fact based on a Tibetan lunar calendar was commonly celebrated throughout result: a very long, difficult and harsh the Camel took up a position facing the Camel would be represented in the adopted in 1747, is commonly used in the nation but the festival still retains year. East. The Mouse, who had asked the Mongolian Calendar by possessing Mongolia today. its pre-revolutionary characteristic At one point in time many Camel if he could sit on his hump, one feature of each of the twelve In 1911 the Tugsbuyant calendar reaffirmation of kinship ties. Mixed forecasts for Year of the Dragon According to Mongolian astrology, will be calm for minors, severe for Khabo Ishbaljir formulated a new astrology, people will stay the Year of Dragon will be abundant, elders and not in harmony for youth. horoscope, ‘Togs Buyant’ in detail, calm but it is likely to be free of illness and peaceful. ScD and Although the year is pleasant for which conforms to the characteristics that the water in nature Prof L. Terbish said by defining the animals, it looks probable to have of Mongolia’s vast territory. This is to dry up, animals will color and character of the coming depression for people and conflicts new horoscope calculates celestial be poisoned to death and year. between people and high officials. movement in detail, equaling to divide diseases will spread among There will be precipitation in the Prof L. Terbish explained, a second into 149,209; therefore, humans. However, people pleasant for all people. In the spring first half of every month and have “Beginning from the period of the horoscope matches the present will also prosper and achieve success. months, it will be bit severe, windy adequate greenery in the middle of the Chinggis Khaan, Mongolians used methods to find celestial locations. In his interview to the press, D. and colder. It will be rainy and windy year giving plentiful yields. In autumn, their own horoscope. In his book ‘Togs In other words, it is calculated by Natsagdorj, Hamba Lama of Manba in the summer while it will be harsh in it is expected to prepare abundant hay, Buyant astrological sutra’ authored in scientific methods”. Datsan Monastery also said that the winter. but be relatively windy. The Year 1747, Mongolian astrologer Sumbe According to coming year’s coming year of the dragon will be Friday, February 17, 2012 tsagaan sar THE MONGOL MESSENGER 9 Tsagaan Sar’s shifting fortunes

D. Batbayar, writer of relations with everyone, has been overlooked and the message in the Mongolia’s new year holiday, ceremonial greeting of understanding ‘Tsagaan Sar’ or ‘White Month and cooperation, diminished. welcomes the new year by preserving The importance of the custom ritual from ancient times and remains has changed noticeably among youth a significant nation-wide holiday who place less value on family visits for consolidating social relations and underestimate the significance and networks. It is an integral part of feasting and gifts. They have lost of Mongolia’s culture, society and the significance of the message in the economy and a model for other Zolgokh’ greeting ritual. countries of sustainable peace and As well as Tsagaan Sar’s harmony. diminishing value among youth, However, over the years the media has exacerbated the situation ceremony has faced shifting fortunes as with public debate undermining urbanization grows and globalization gift-giving, feasting and criticizing brings new diversions from ancient Government expenditure on gifts rituals. during the holiday. Modern Mongolians have forgotten The tradition underpinning the symbols and traditions associated Tsagaan Sar, that promotes people with gift-giving. Some families limit living and working peacefully together, Tsagaan Sar to giving khadag and is more important in today’s global gifts such as money, fashionable shirts and domestic communities where or small socks and preparing food conflict pervades local livelihoods and when they greet family and friends. denies some communities peace and Tsagaan Sar greetings on Ulaanbaatar’s central square The deeper tradition of reverence freedom. harmony and goodwill among different positioned are important with a start Tsagaan Sar as steps to its traditional symbolized through the traditional It is a surviving model for other ethnic groups. in secondary school curricula and protection and preservation. ‘Zolgokh’ greeting and the beginning countries towards sustainable peace, Public demand for it to be re- a return to tradition underpinning Tsagaan Sar celebrations in rural areas B. Oyundelger Everyone endeavors to be ready for all your animals pass winter safely?”) the new year. except typical greeting words ‘Amar Mongolians believe their good On Tsagaan Sar eve or the last baina uu’ used to ask people about fortune for the coming year will be day of winter, ‘Bituun’, every family their good health. determined in how they spend the cleans all bad things from the outgoing Bayad, Khoton and Dorvod ethnic Lunar New Year holiday or Tsagaan year and the Bituun festivity is starts groups have a tradition where they Sar (white month). Generally, all when it gets dark outside. On New play am Ikel, a musical instrument, Mongolian ethnic groups celebrate Years Eve, every family tries to show and perform a folk dance called Tsagaan Sar similarly and there has their affluence with various dishes ‘biyelgee’ after they drink tsagaalga been little difference between city and and every family exchanges festive (milk food with rice). After three days, countryside. dishes. It is said that on Bituun, Lham, families remove the ul boov or large Bayad ethnic minority group a local Buddhist god, rode her horse pastry with sweets, sugar, cream, and representative, B. Ravjir said, “Each three times so every family puts three shar tos (Mongolian butter), the main rural family prepares Tsagaan Sar food pieces of ice on the top of the door of decoration on the family table. including milk, milk products, meat the ger, for the horse to drink. Before the 8th day of the new and ‘uuts’- sheep back and tail from On the first day of the new year, year, every family visits the lamas to the end of autumn. Every family in a people rise before sunrise, wear new perform religious ceremonies for all- camp of herding households together clothes and men take the children to year-round luck. Then a tea drinking prepares lot of buuz (dumplings) the Ovoo and pray to Nature while ceremony, ‘tsai uulgakh’ continues. before Tsagaan Sar. It is believed that walking around it three times. Women Every family invites relatives home to when they make buuz, if chopped cannot go they prepare tea and festive feast together and play games. When meat is more than flour, the family will food. the ceremony finishes in the family, have plenty of clothes in that year, if Family and relatives gather in the host exchange gifts to symbolizes flour is more; the family will have no the home of the eldest person and at prosperity all year around. shortage of food; and if meat and flour sunrise start the greeting ceremony Uzemchin ethnic groups have a are equal, everything will be good”. or ‘zolgokh’ with family. The oldest tradition to visit the family of their Before Tsagaan sar, every family men stay on the ger’s northern married daughters on Bituun. When Tsagaan Sar feast of sheep tail, cookies, milk tea, airag and buuz cleans their homes, possession and side ‘Khoimor’ and young family they visit, they carry gifts for the pair. instead of sheep’s back and tail for the on third day. clothes; women prepare new clothes members greet them first and then At night, the host boils sheep head festive meal. Children greet parents on Sartuul people visit the big ovoo for family members to wear during the greet each other, except husband and and prepares three other meals for the the first day of the new year, relatives on the top of mountain and carry out a Tsagaan Sar and men prepares their wife. Words related to livestock are Bituun festival. greet each other on the second day and ceremony to nature on the sixth day of horses and manages saddle and bridle. exchanged. They can include, “did Khamnigans use lamb meat cousins and brothers greet each other the New Year. Tsagaan Sar in the city takes an easy path B.Ooluun readings. The bigger monasteries including Gandantegchinlen and Tsagaan Sar inherited from Dashchoilen have become crowded nomadic herders is celebrated because every Buddhist wants to today in urban places according to listen to the special religious reading. conditions and environment. But in On Bituun, families clean their homes the city Tsagaan Sar has become a and fences and arrange the holiday commercialized holiday providing table. Urban citizens commonly spend businesspeople with great profits. the Eve with their family. In rural areas, where families Shiniin Negen or the first day of cook their lamb, stiff pastry and New Year sees everyone arise before other foods, urban counterparts buy dawn and at sunrise greet parents, prepared products from the markets elders and others. Buddhists must take and get lamb boiled in cafeterias. their first steps for the new year in the People erect tents and boil the lamb proper direction. Each person has his in the city as Tsagaan Sar approaches own direction to walk according to the with numbers of people increasing year in which they born. who buy hundreds of buuz and bansh It is easy for ger families to take /dumpling/ from shops, instead of their first steps but more difficult for spending time preparing the food at apartment citizens who need to travel home. to take the first steps out of their It has become commonplace for apartments. For urban citizens, there shops and services to offer discounts is usually no ovoo nearby to worship and bonuses leading into Tsagaan and many Ulaanbaatar citizens go Sar. Gifts can include products made to worship at Tasgan Ovoo and the in China such as socks, wallets, hair orphan tree in Bogd Mountain to clips and shirts with increasing recent sprinkle milk and pray. Elders sprinkle availability of products from Russia, milk outside their gers and apartments Poland, Turkey and Korea. Beauty in the morning. products and sweets have been added After the greeting, elders still to the gift list. The urban population exchange snuffboxes and hosts has been released from the burden to serve their guests with tea with prepare Tsagaan Sar with access to milk, tsagaalga (rice flavored with money and markets abounding with Mongolian butter, sugar and grape), Tsaagan Sar ‘products. meat from boiled lamb and buuz. Urban billboard depicts the nature and tradition of Tsagaan Sar gift-giving During Bituun elders usually Along with significant component- spend a day in the monastery and tsagaalga and dairy products, urban with vegetable salad, beverages and In the city, large families walk in streets and create abnormally chaotic temple listening to a special religious citizens decorate their holiday table fruits. their colorful national costumes in the traffic jams. 10 THE MONGOL MESSENGER tsagaan sar Friday, February 17, 2012 Memories of Tsagaan Sar– a celebration not to be missed By Lee Campbell cottage in the ger district area nearby traditional Mongolian greeting Lots of it. Buuz (dumplings) were I had bad thoughts about you because As Tsaagan-Sar approached in ‘zolgokh,’ with their eldest relatives piled high on plates and passed around of what other people said,” or, “I TsagaanSar national holiday the chill of winter, my first clue that by offering a khadag (blue silk scarf) endlessly for us to eat. hold no grudge against you,”... and “I or Lunar New Year, for first-time something was to happen was the with outstretched hands and upturned The back of the sheep, ‘shuus,’ forgive you.” foreigners in Mongolia is intriguing appearance of plastic bags filled with palms and bow and say, “May you be with its delicacy, a fatty tail, held pride After eating and feasting, it was and a special occasion not to be food hanging from windows, apartment healthy and happy.” The ritual greeting of place and Dagvaa sliced the meat all over, except for the memories that missed. balconies and anything protruding is performed between everyone except and passed it around for us to eat. The linger from a raised awareness of a Its difference to Western-style new from buildings. Am American friend husband and wife who are considered fatty tail is saved for the elders. first-hand experience of TsaaganSar. year overwhelmed with commercial told me when I asked what was in the as one person. The pastry or ‘ulboov,’ had seven The family had one more day to hype, international competitiveness, bags, “Its buuz! Ulaanbaatar drowns We arrived at Dagvaa and Otgoo’s layers. celebrate. extremely expensive fireworks and in it during TsagaanSar.” tiny house with Scott and the boys Bayarmaa told me older people The third day of TsagaanSar overnight urban revelry, sets it apart I’m a journalist and any new word to be welcomed by Dagvaa, Otgoo usually have seven layers, while is the last day of the feast, when and places it among those treasured or phrase stirs up curiosity to research and Zuka meticulously dressed in families with a grandfather have five gifts are given out and the ulboov is memories one cannot forget. and find the meaning behind the word Mongolian traditional deel’s. There associated with five colours and five dismantled. Its strength to cling to long-term or phrase. were warm greetings for everyone and fancy foods. She said if the State I have returned to Mongolia since values of mutual recognition, trust But I didn’t need to do much I was able to confidently reciprocate or Government held a TsagaanSar my first TsagaanSarand havemany and respectful communication in research. My Mongolian family the zolgokh greeting and only struggle celebration they would have nine photographs of the most important an emerging, free market economy, allowed me to be part of their in Mongolian to wish health and layers because nine is an important traditional celebrations. make it an enigma in a global world TsagaanSar celebrations. happiness in the new year. number in Mongolian culture. She And as the world continues to – local village context. Mongolians Here’s my story. We exchanged gifts. I had framed said there are 99 heavens, nine wishes move in different directions with are embracing change with speed on I was picked up on the morning of a series of photographs taken during and nine precious stones. Bayarmaa an impact on Mongolia’s cultural, the one hand, but holding ties to those ‘ShiniinNegen’ by my foreign friend winter weekends in Terelj National said layers differ depending on the economic and political landscape, in traditions they value over change, on Scott, his driver Batkhuu and the older Park about an hours drive from situation. Newlyweds have three its own unique way the country, and the other. boys. ShiniinNegen’ is the second day UlaanBaatarwith the family and we layers where three is associated with its citizens, stop and come together to TsagaanSar and all it stands for of Tsaagan-Sar and the first day of the gave them vodka and champagne and beginnings. continue the tradition of their Lunar remains strong in Mongolia. new year. received gifts in return. The ulboov was covered in sweets, New Year. As an Australian who completed a TsagaanSar is divided into three Gift giving is an important part sugar, cream, and shartos (Mongolian Some things do change. year in Mongolia and took partin the days. Day one - Bituun, the last day of TsagaanSar. Elders are given the butter). Others continue, to remind us that its numerous national celebrations, of the year - occurs on a half moon; khadag as a sign of deep respect and Along with eating, there was the richness of culture is a draw-card TsagaanSarto this day, stands out as ShiniinNegen the next day, is the first are wished good health and long life. vodka! It’s unavoidable in Mongolia for continuing peace. the one to be remembered. day of the new year and the final day is Mongolians usually avoid gifts of so if you don’t like it, you may as well As a national custom, TsagaanSar Not long after my arrival in the last day of the TsagaanSar feast. dark colours, and prefer not to give a get used to it. It is shared between strengthens family collaboration and Ulaanbaatar oneearly winter a few The boys gave me in-the-back- single item. guests as a sign of respect and the sustains harmony so people can live years ago, I became the second foreign of-the-car training for standard We drank airag from the treasured more you drink, the quicker you get peacefully. It is built around three basic ‘member’ of a Mongolian family, TsagaanSar greetings. We practiced silver bowl held on top of the khadag used to it, with a solid hangover the customs; greetings, understanding and through a close and long-time friend the traditional Mongolian ‘zolgokh’ and it was a simple and warm next day. showing respect. The Khadag and already working in Mongolia, Scott greeting and the expression ‘May you experience. Young to old participated After the greeting and eating, feasts and gifts are prepared to fulfill Armstrong. The family comprised be healthy and happy,’ in Mongolian, with well-practiced skill and the Dagvaa and the men brought out their these three customs. grandparents Dagva and Otgoo and they told me about the significance respect shown to Dagvaa and Otgooas traditional snuffboxes to exchange and and their three children, Zuka, Tom of the ‘khadag,’ the sky blue silk scarf, grandparents, by the young boys was then milk tea was served to everyone. Lee Campbell was the English (English nickname) and their eldest used in all Mongolian ceremonies. refreshing. Elders exchange snuffboxes and language Editor of The Mongol married daughter Bayarmaa and son- They told me Dagvaa and Otgoo The family table was an experience hosts serve their guests with milk Messenger from November 2006 in-law Bayaraa and three handsome would offer me a drink of airag or for me. tea. People, who have quarreled also to January 2008 and continues to sons Dicky, Harry and Oscar (English fermented mares milk from a silver Two centerpieces, the back of a exchange snuffboxes representing provide occasional editing services nicknames). They live near Naraantuul bowl held over the khadag and would sheep, and a tall-layered pastry-like mutual respect as a substitute for a from her current location in Sumbawa, Markets in Ulaanbaatar, one family in greet me with the zolgokh greeting. dish were new to me. verbal apology. The message carried Indonesia. an apartment and the other in a small Family members follow the And there was the buuz. in the greeting represents, “I am sorry, Tsagaan Sar through a Western view of Tsagaan Sar foreigner’s eyes David O’Connor TsagaanSar is the nation’s most serious family festival, as important as Thanksgiving for Americans and the Melbourne Cup for Australians. It was originally a pre-Buddhist autumn equinox celebration; Buddhism adopted the tradition, although the Mongol Empire changed it to the first half moon of spring. The old regime tried in 1924 to abolish the religious connotation, and gave it a new name, although Happy Cooperative Herders Day doesn’t really trip lightly off the tongue. Most women have been making hundreds or thousands of buuz (if you have to ask what that is, you have really not been paying attention). Someone once estimated that if all the TsagaanSarbuuz were piled up, Tsagaan Sar hasn’t change much for countryside folks you would no longer need a spaceship to reach Mars. knew everything about everyone, football song. But you should be warned: chomp including age, this was never Many fake it; most are forgiven on your buuz carefully or you may confusing. Nowadays, foreigners, by the polite hosts; others hope that an Juliana Tullues (C) finds Tsagaan Sar quite charming break a tooth on a silver coin, the much more coy about age, have inaccurate rendering of Roll Out The finding of which is supposed to be infected many Mongolians. Barrel or Like A Virgin will do. lucky, like the coin in a Christmas Once, you could ask how old a At my first TsagaanSar, I was Juliana Tullues festive meal with is tiered cake, special pudding. local was, and they would tell you. entertained at the parents’ home of a meat dishes and dairy products whilst, Lucky for dentists, perhaps. Today, women - particularly those friend. When the first (female) family Mongolia – Ulaanbaatar – Tsagaan throughout the day, visiting children It is important to clean the home under about 35 - are more reluctant to members arrived, I imitated the others Sar – not a country, city or festival a bearing the traditional ‘khadag’ (a thoroughly before new year, just like reveal age. by enthusiastically greeting them with little old South African woman would blue scarf) called to pay respects, offer the spring cleaning that wives do (or But you get a clue if you watch a vigorous kiss. imagine visiting and experiencing! gifts and enjoy chatting with their used to do) in the west - without really others do the zolgokh; it’s all about I enjoyed that…for a while. But However, from God’s perspective, parent and grandparent. It was indeed knowing why. whose palms are up (the younger) and I was very politely told that this was nothing is impossible. The story of a privilege to join in this celebration. New Year’s Eve is called bituun whose are down (the elder). ‘unnecessary’ as only family and close my getting there is too long for this Besides this, as a 70-year-old (meaning conclusion), when there is a As a hoped-for predictor of friends kiss. Maybe the beautiful aunt article, but I do thank Him for the myself, I received greetings and feast with bansh (dumplings in stock), behaviour through the year, this day I had just greeted just did not like the opportunity, as well as the many gifts from friends, despite not being dairy products and milky tea. there should be no argument, no beard… people – Mongolians and South ‘family’! Another aspect on which I The pre-urban tradition was that disrespectful words (even between Sitting in the place of honour, Africans – who formed links for this must commend the Mongolians is that everyone would rise before dawn and politicians), no crying or quarrelling, I was offered the delicacy du jour: journey. I am amazed at the chain of they do take care of their ‘elders’ – not bow to the cardinal compass points, and no washing or domestic chores. a very large lump of pure fat. In the events that made it possible. only on this important occasion but beginning with the east to greet the Traditionally, every person should days when all Mongolian men worked Although I probably did not throughout the year. When walking coming sun. spend that night in their own home, outside in the bitter cold, fat was a celebrate this ‘White Moon’ festival in Ulaanbaatar’s streets, even as Whether people still get up so early though there is a growing tendency vital part of the diet. in the customary Mongolian fashion, a foreigner, many younger people to carry out this ritual, most modern for all-night parties. Let’s not blame It is less beneficial in the city, and one aspect that touched my life and offered me an arm to cross the road, (read softer) westerners may never foreigners for that – Mongolians have a lump of fat was not what I really my heart was the ‘honoring of elders’. picked me up when I did take a know: we prefer to snuggle up in bed always been good at parties. wanted to eat, but chomp it I did - I am For a Christian, its similar to one of tumble, allowed me to precede them for as long as possible, every now and Come the morning, it’s time to polite, after all, though to the western the ten commandments ‘Honor your in a queue, offered to carry shopping then pressing the radio snooze button socialize. The streets will be filled with tongue, it ranks with the sheep’s eye father and your mother, so that you bags and were just generally so kind for an extra few minutes. families dressed in their Sunday best, as a delicacy. may live long in the land the Lord your and helpful–for instance the lady But the foreigners should be aware going to visit the eldest member of the And be warned: the shops will God is giving you’ certainly led me to at the Metro in the apartment block of what they may well face when they family. Although the del has largely most likely be closed so the staff can admire the keeping of this Mongolian basement who so often carried my finally get up. fallen out of fashion as daily city wear, party with family, so stock up on food custom. forgotten laundry up the five flights When two people meet for the this of all days sees many splendid for the three days. Mind you, I did get to join a family before closing in the evenings. first time in the new year, they should dels coming out of the wardrobe. But if you have Mongolian where the matriarch of almost 90 was I take this opportunity to say “Amar zolgokh, which is a special greeting. At the domestic feast, there will friends, you are sure to have a really respected by her numerous children bain uu?, wishing all Mongolia’s It is not difficult or unpleasant to be singing. This is often a problem good time at TsagaanSar – especially and grandchildren. The daughter lovely people a Happy Tsagaan Sar” carry out, but the major difficulty for for westerners, many of whom, unlike if you check on the words of Pub With with whom this lady lives helped her on February 22, adding my prayer that the stranger is that you should know most Mongolians, do not know a No Beer, American Pie or Stairway To to dress in a lovely traditional outfit, God will greatly bless all of you and which of you is the elder. single song all the way through, except Heaven. prepared a bounteous and decorative your beautiful country. In older times, when everyone perhaps their national anthem and/or a Friday, February 17, 2012 tsagaan sar THE MONGOL MESSENGER 11 Tsagaan Sar – Mongolia’s lunar New Year’s

Ueli Minder On February 22, Mongolia will celebrate Tsagaan Sar, the first day of the new year according to the Buddhist Lunar calendar. The ‘Year of the Iron Rabbit’ has finished and the ‘Water Dragon Year’ begins. Each year is connected with one of the 12 animals in the lunar circle of 12 years. These animals are always combined with elements and colors, and the coming year of a Water Dragon is commonly called ‘The Year of the Dragon’ in Western terms. It is one of the most positive and strongest of all of the twelve star signs. The Dragon is the Fifth animal in the cycle, Dragon Years follow the Rabbit and recur every twelfth year. The Dragon is a symbol of good fortune and a sign of intense power. In the Oriental philosophy, the Dragon is said to be a deliverer of good fortune and a master of authority. Therefore, those people born in Dragon years are to be honored and respected. Therefore a Dragon year is considered as one that brings happiness and good fortune. The day before Tsagaan Sar is time to clean and prepare for the approaching New Year; be it in the family or in the monasteries. From the Buddhist point of view it’s a time At sunrise, many people brave the elements to visit a large ovoo in Khamariin Khiid on Tsagaan Sar for purification, especially to purify symbolizing veneration and support. Some people take the eight Mahayana Year. Buddha accepted the challenge and negative karma accumulated in the This gesture is combined with the Precepts every day, abstaining from The main purpose of the Great stood before a huge assembly of past. exchange of the traditional blue scarf any non virtuous action, including Prayer Festival is to pray for long life people from the entire central north Early in the morning of the New (khadag) folded in a special way eating meat, drinking alcohol, singing of all the holy Gurus of all traditions, Indian area. He proceeded to perform Year it’s tradition for some people to with the folded edge facing the elder or dancing or eating after noon and for the survival and spreading of the miracle after miracle during the first climb on top of a mountain to see the person, symbolizing trust. more than once the day. Practicing Dharma – the teachings of the Buddha fortnight of the lunar New Year. The first sunrise of the New Year. Gifts are exchanged and normally morality doesn’t mean to follow - in the minds of all sentient beings, rival teachers were eclipsed almost Tsagaan Sar has been celebrated given and received with both hands, blindly some rules handed down by and for world peace. The prayers, immediately, as Buddha produced in Mongolia for many centuries and or with the right hand supported at Buddha or some wise man, but to offered with strong faith and devotion, spectacular manifestations. He threw started at the time of Chinghis Khaan. the elbow by the left. Every family understand the nature if the mind help to overcome obstacles to peace down a toothpick and grew a giant wish Only later, the celebration became a has some offering prepared for people and realizing which actions bring and generate conducive conditions for granting gem tree. He rinsed his mouth Buddhist Festival too. In the past it visiting. Nobody leaves without happiness and which ones bring only everyone to live in harmony. with scented water, and celestial lakes always showed a deep combination of having received something to eat and suffering in the long run. That time of the year was chosen with divine ducks and jewel lotuses Mongolian customs and Buddhism. to drink, having taken something from In Tibet the New Year is called because Lama Tsong Khapa firmly appeared. He concentrated and emitted Tsagaan Sar is also a family festival the offering and having received a gift Losar. Depending on the calculation believed in the life story of the founder, rays of light, and hosts of Buddhas, lasting several days. Traditionally, – it’s tradition that one shouldn’t give of the astrologers it’s on the same Guru Shakyamuni Buddha as told in bodhisattvas and gods filled the skies. besides cleaning, the festival should only one gift, so people give two or date as the Mongolian New Year, or the Indian Buddhist Sutra of the Wise Teachings of liberation and awakening, start with feasting on the night of the three gifts. at a different date. This year Losar and the Foolish called ‘Overcoming reverberating in every language new moon. Then, everybody dresses Besides visiting family members will be celebrated at the same day like the Six Teachers:’ known to man, illumined the minds up nicely in traditional clothes. In the and friends, many Mongolians go Tsagaan Sar. “Buddha was challenged by of all assembled. He even manifested morning after the New Moon, people to the monasteries to pray, make In the Tibetan tradition, Losar is six rival teachers to a contest of a vision of himself multiplying visit first the eldest person of the offerings and receive blessings from a celebrated for 15 days, with the main miraculous performances. For infinitely, his compassionate energy family and their parents. It is a good holy place. celebrations on the first three days. It many years, Buddha evaded their becoming clearly present to everyone’s opportunity to renew family ties and For any Buddhist, it is advisable was the Great Teacher Lama Tsong challenges, letting people believe that awareness.” to introduce new members to others. to concentrate as much as possible Khapa who started in 1409 the Great he was afraid of their magical powers, When people meet, the younger on improving the mind during the Prayer Festivals (called Monlam), losing his royal patrons, and causing Ueli Minder, adviser and teacher at greets the elders in a special way, first 15 days after Tsagaan Sar. There beginning from the first new moon doubts and worries to grow among the the Mongolian Buddhist organization in an arm-hold embrace (zolgokh), are specific practices recommended. until the full moon of the lunar New people. Finally, in the city of Shravasti, ASRAL NGO Tsagaan Sar for Dummies David Brown meal. of tobacco is pleasant; b ut more During Tsagaan Sar, people also importantly, the snuff bottle itself has As an American living in have certain phrases to greet each significant meaning to demonstrate Mongolia, I’ve experienced Tsagaan other that are specific to the occasion; the prosperity and social status of its Sar several times now and I guess I’ve such as, ‘Saikhan shinelj baina uu’. owner . Many of the bottles you are gained a little understanding about Mongols will visit family and friends offered can be valued at $20,000, this unusual, extended holiday. While and exchange gifts for 3 days. A typical $30,000 or more. The way the bottle I’ve come to appreciate most of the Mongol family will first meet in the is offered and returned can signify a traditions; I’m still puzzled by some, home of the eldest in the family and certain level of friendship between the and can find myself overwhelmed many people will be dressed in their men. After snorting a little snuff, return by many of the excesses. Whatever full national clothing. During the visit, the bottle to its owner in the same way your approach to Tsagaan Sar, there the extended family eats buuz, dairy you received it. Also, if you’re offered are certain rituals and customs that products, drinks airag, and exchange a bowl of airig, take a sip and pass it need to be observed when visiting gifts. back to the host; it’s not your province or receiving guests. As a foreigner, Visiting and being a guest has its to pass it around the room. you’re not likely to offend anyone by own rules of etiquette. Visiting elders When the buuz are served, take not knowing how to conduct yourself, always takes place of the first day of one, three, or five on your plate the first but observing some simple practices Tsagaan Sar. As a guest, you enter the time; not two, four, etc. the numbers can help demonstrate your knowledge home, take off your coat and shoes represent good luck, bad luck, good of and respect for Mongolia’s national and go in to greet the host head of luck, bad luck, and so on. There will Freezing buuz on the balcony heritage and maybe bring a smile to household who will be seated. In our be a sheep tail or sometimes boiled the face of your hosts or guests. family, we use a length of blue satin beef on the table; your hosts will be celebrations can continue for a month, and steam buuz on the frozen steppe Beginning at the time of Chinggis draped across the arms with a crisp pleased if you help yourself by cutting but the first three days are the most with little more than a pot of water. Khaan, Tsagaan Sar marked the end new bank note in the right hand. We off small pieces of meat for you and important. While this isn’t important for city of winter and the beginning of the kiss each cheek of the elder and present your family, but don’t offer anyone After visiting friends and relatives dwellers, it is a means for Mongolians new year. For Mongols, it is a time them the cash and cloth. Depending meat from the end of the knife. Also, on the first day, you’ll receive guests to keep in touch with their national for unification, and despite years of on their family rank, we may present you can’t really refuse the food or from morning to late night the next heritage. communist restrictions, the ancient them with anywhere from Tgs5,000 to drink even though you’ve already day and will probably eat and drink We foreigners need to understand traditions were kept alive by families Tgs20,000 and each family member eaten six times in the past few hours to excess — again. What for? The that Mongolia has a magnificent discretely celebrating Tsagaan Sar, does this. and drank more than what you would primary reason is to maintain family history spanning thousands of years, especially in the countryside. But Men should take a seat next to normally. Put some food on your contacts, not to let another year pass and this history is founded on nomadic following the democratic revolution in or near to the head of household. plate, eat what you can, and don’t feel without seeing uncles, aunts, cousins, life in the countryside. We’ve all seen 1990s, Tsagaan Sar once again became Mongolian men often greet each other like you have to drink the vodka; just nephews, nieces and close friends. how globalization contributes to Mongolia’s biggest annual holiday. and other guests with a snuff bottle put the glass to your lips and then set it In a crowded, bustling city like people drifting apart; so this holiday The day before Tsagaan Sar, people on these occasions. They present the down. They may consider you a wimp, Ulaanbaatar, the customs and traditions itself helps preserve Mongolian thoroughly clean their homes to meet bottle in their right hand with their left but most westerners can’t keep up of Tsagaan Sar don’t seem to make a culture and identity. You can imagine the New Year fresh. Traditionally, hand under the forearm of the right with Mongolians in this department. lot of sense. However, at this time how easy it would be for Mongolian Mongolians settle all issues and repay arm. The bottle’s cap has a stem with a If you try, you’ll probably make a fool of year in the countryside, the white nomads to lose coherence and national all debts from the old year the day small spoon. Open the bottle, hold the out of yourself before the day is over moon represents a new beginning. identity without uniting families at before Tsagaan Sar. Traditional foods spoon upright, insert it back into the anyway. When the dinner and toasts Very soon, herders will be quite busy least once a year. Regardless of the can include a side of sheep, boiled bottle, rotate the bottle one revolution finish, the host family presents gifts with attending to their newly-born financial burden, sacrifice or hardship beef, buuz, and traditional cookies. and the spoon should then have a small to each guest. The present symbolizes livestock and the movement of their that Tsagaan Sar imposes, it acts as a The Tsagaan Sar feast requires days of quantity of snuff which can be place a wish for wellbeing, health, wealth herds. catalyst to preserve Mongolia itself. preparation in advance as the family on the back of your left hand at the and power. Everyone moves to visit There will be no time to visit makes large quantities of buuz and base of your thumb and then inhaled the next family starting with the next relatives and even food needs to be Sar shinedee saikhan shineleerei freezes them outdoors for the holiday through your nose. This small amount oldest person’s home. Tsagaan Sar prepared quickly. Herdsmen can carry (Happy Tsagaan Sar)! 12 THE MONGOL MESSENGER FOREIGN PRESS ON MONGOLIA Friday, February 17, 2012

Foreign press on Mongolia Capture growth in Mongolia with Rio Tinto If you missed going long on the lifetime of 100 years. Exchange approves Grande Cache Coal takeover Shareholder vote to be held in two weeks Mongolian Tugrik — if, like most Despite the boom, the economy people, you’ve never heard of the of Mongolia is still very undeveloped. CALGARY–The $1-billion supply for the company’s Mongolian “With the circular approved and Mongolian Tugrik — now’s your Barter is still used throughout much of acquisition of Grande Cache Coal coal business.” distributed to Winsway shareholders, chance to make up for lost time. the country, but this will not prevent Corp. is a “first major step” on a It goes on to point out there are and Investment Canada recently Taking a position in Rio Tinto will Rio Tinto from cashing in on Oyu program to add coal-producing assets only four major metallurgical coal- approving the transaction, the allow you to capture future gains from Tolgoi’s copper and gold. to its coal-marketing business, one of producing companies in Western acquisition of Grande Cache Coal is Mongolia’s chief export: copper. Oh, and that Mongolian Tugrik? its Asia-based purchasers says. Canada (the others are Teck Resources all but complete,” said RBC Capital Mongolia has been booming over It was the best-performing currency Winsway Coking Coal Holdings Ltd., Anglo American PLC, and Markets analyst Robin Kozar in a the last two years, so much so that of 2010, up 15% for the year, topping Ltd. of Hong Kong–the 60 per cent Walter Energy, Inc.) and that Grande note. Louis Vuitton opened a store in the the Australian Dollar, the Chinese partner in a joint venture with Japanese Cache “will provide a strong base for Added Mike Plaster of Salman capital city of Ulaanbaatar. Demand Yuan, the Euro and the Brazilian Real. trading house Marubeni Corp. to buy further expansion in the region.” Partners: “This is the second of two from neighboring China has sent At its high point, you could only get the Calgary based miner–announced Winsway estimates that a significant regulatory approvals, copper prices soaring, and Rio Tinto 1033 Mongolian Tugriks for every Monday it had received Hong Kong greenfield coal startup in Western following Investment Canada Act has just taken control of the lucrative dollar — but it has since cooled off, Stock Exchange approval and would Canada would take three to five approval last week, and further Oyu Tolgoi mine. and one dollar would have gotten you hold a shareholder vote on the deal on years to reach production, adding derisks the deal, with Grande Cache’s Oyu Tolgoi is a joint venture of the 1332 Tugriks last Friday. Meanwhile, Feb. 28. that Grande Cache’s management share price moving closer to the $10 Mongolian government and Ivanhoe Mongolia’s government is trying to The acquisition is backed by team will “facilitate expansion efforts per share all-cash offer.” Mines, a Canadian exploration curb double-digit inflation. investors including Wang Xingchun, involving existing operations and Grande Cache shareholders company. Rio Tinto increased its Easy come, easy go. Winsway’s controlling shareholder, external opportunities.” approved the sale in January. The stake in Ivanhoe Mines to 51% on chairman and chief executive, with Marubeni has acted as buyers’ stock price closed Monday at $9.94, January 25. The mine is expected to Source: Emerging 51.71 per cent of its shares, so the agent for Japanese steel mills for more up six cents. Shares fell from over produce 450,000 tonnes of copper per Money,NASDAQ, February 14, vote would appear to be a formality. than 40 years, working with Grande $9.90 to $9.21 after a report by year by 2020, and has an expected 2012 In a circular for investors posted Cache Coal since 2004. a mysterious short-seller called on its website on Monday, it said it In a release on its website, it said Jonestown Research surfaced Jan. plans to grow coal production both at the acquisition will provide it with “a 19, claiming Winsway’s imports were Grande Cache’s west central Alberta platform for future growth in the coal less than the company reported and Goldman Invests in Mongolian Bank mine site north of the town of the same sector in Canada.” inventories were overstated. On Thursday, Reuters reported In early 2009, the country emerged name and through other purchases. Grande Cache has previously Winsway, which processes that New York-based The Goldman from the crisis after reaching a $236 “The acquisition of the target announced plans to grow from 1.7 and transports coal to China from Sachs Group Inc. (GS) has agreed to million Stand-by Arrangement with is the first major step in the vertical million tonnes of coal produced in Mongolia, emphatically denied the purchase 4.8% stake in Mongolia’s the International Monetary Fund. integration of the company’s business fiscal 2010 to an annual run rate of charges, and repeated its defence in Trade and Development Bank. The The banking sector of the country is model through investment in mining 3.5 million tonnes by the end of fiscal the circular. Last week, Winsway terms of the deal were not disclosed. still recovering from instability that assets,” says Winsway’s circular. 2013. announced the partners had lined up Founded in 1990, Trade & took place during 2008 crisis and the “This investment in upstream In a news release Monday, Grande a Chinese banking group to provide Development Bank was the first government has started to endorse assets significantly strengthens the Cache noted that it had agreed to $350 million toward the purchase lending bank in Mongolia. In 2004, supervision regulations. company’s seaborne coal business. extend the deadline to finalize the sale price and $50 million in working Asian Development Bank and The economy grew 6.1% in 2010 The acquisition of producing assets to March 6 from Feb. 28 because of capital. International Finance Corp. have and 9.8% in 2011, mostly based on also complements the existing the timing of the Winsway meeting. invested $11 million in the bank. As the strength of commodity exports joint venture with Peabody Energy, Analysts said the stock exchange Source: Calgary Herald, of September 2011, the bank had $1.3 to nearby countries. Moreover, which is conducting exploration in approval means the deal is practically February 14, 2012, By Dan Healing, billion worth of assets. Under the new an investment agreement for the Mongolia to secure future upstream done. Dodd-Frank rules, Goldman’s stake enormous coal mine at Tavan Tolgoi in the bank was restricted to 4.8%, is in progress. The agreemnt is under as any investment exceeding 4.99% review by the National Security Mongolia coal rail plans delayed on financing issues would require a particular exemption Council and a final decision is from the US Federal Reserve. anticipated in 2012. Mongolia’s ambitious plan to a deadlock when it comes to funding tiny economy in the coming decade, In December 2010, Moody’s Amid uncertain global economy, build a railway network capable of and building infrastructure.” but it has so far struggled to monetise Investors Service, a credit rating growth in the mining sector and delivering its surging coal output to He said the government had its copious mineral reserves and arm of Moody’s Corporation (MCO) commodity exports have accelerated foreign markets is likely to be delayed sought funding for the projects needs to spend billions of dollars on raised Trade & Development Bank’s the development of economy in as a result of financing difficulties and through overseas equity markets, developing a transportation network outlook to stable from negative. Mongolia, which in turn attracted bureaucratic deadlocks. instead of the railway authority’s capable of reaching consumers. This upgradation in the outlook was investors. In the third quarter of Mr Purevbaatar Luvsandavag vice preferred option involving public- The government is also wary of driven by the bank’s improvement in 2011, Mongolia’s economy grew chairman of the Mongolia Railway private partnerships with investors the geopolitical and economic risks liquidity, capital position and asset 20.8%. Trade & Development Bank Authority told Reuters on the sidelines from Japan and South Korea. of being overly dependent on its giant quality trend. anticipates investment of about $68 of the Coal Mongolia conference Mr J Bat-Erdene state secretary southern neighbour, China, even In Mongolia, the economy is billion in new mines, roads and in Ulan Bator that the government at Mongolia’s transportation though it has a guaranteed market for currently facing liquidity crunch housing within four years in the had not even raised the $50 million ministry told the conference that the copper and coking coal. amid government levied policies. The country. required to fund a series of feasibility government was planning to list 49 Mongolia exported 22 million government is trying to curb double- Goldman is one of those foreign studies and project designs drawn up percent of state-owned Mongolian tonnes of coal in 2011, with virtually digit inflation by restraining lending. banks who has shown interest in the last year. Railway Corp on the domestic all of it delivered south to China at Since November 2011, banks are not Mongolian economy. Goldman’s He said that “We still don’t have stock exchange to raise funds for more than USD 25 per tonne lower in a positon to lend due to lack of global expertise, experience permission from the government to construction. than the international average. funds. and financial strength will help announce an open tender to build the Mongolia is experiencing a mining Source: Steel Guru,Sunday, 12 Moreover, the central bank has development to take place in the railways, and in general there is still boom that is expected to transform its Feb 2012 also raised reserve requirements, Mongolian bank. which is a bigger restraint in lending We expect more of such for Mongolian banks. Therefore, investments in the near term. these banks are looking for foreign Goldman’s buying stake in the Australian Xanadu Wants to Sell Mongolian investments to meet their capital Mongolian bank indicates its plan Australian exploration mining why it wants to sell the two mines, “Our focus would be on coking needs. to gain exposure in a Mongolian firm Xanadu Mines Ltd. wants to stressing Xanadu Mines Ltd. has about coal assets with Noble, and our gold Mongolia’s wide mineral deposits economy whose growth is stimulated dispose its shares in its Mongolian- $20 million in the bank currently. and copper assets,” Mr Thornton said have successfully attracted several by the developing resources of the based based mine in the next six He did say, however, that the in Bloomberg News. “There’s nothing foreign investors. Therefore, through country. months in a bid to re-strategize its cash generated from the sale “will be concrete on the table yet.” its minig boom, the country is Goldman currently retains its corporate operations. a game changer” for Xanadu Mines “We want to simplify the business undergoing an economic revolution Zacks #3 Rank, which translates to a Brian Thornton, Chairman of Ltd.’s exploration plans. to a copper-gold stream and we have By late 2008, the country faced short-term Hold rating. Xanadu Mines Ltd., said the company “It just gives us more flexibility a separate joint venture company with the global financial crisis and a would want to convert into cash and firepower to drill the bigger Noble for coking coal,” he added. significant drop in commodity prices Source: Zacks.com,February its holdings on two wholly owned opportunities.” Mr Thornton hinted Xanadu had reduced the government revenues. 10, 2012 | thermal coal projects in Mongolia. Funds expected from the thermal Mines Ltd. is taking interest to partake “Either that, or we bring in a bigger coal sale will help finance its copper over the massive deposits in Mongolia player to drive their advancement,” and gold projects, as well as coking where the Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold Mr Thornton said of the projects coal joint ventures with Asian project is located. Australian miner Mongolia leads coking coal exports to China in 2011 which have the advantage of being commodities trader Noble Group in Rio Tinto manages Oyu Tolgoi. close to rail lines. Mongolia. “It is the resource-rich frontier of Mongolia has overtaken Australia in 2011 witnessed 5.5% YoY fall to “The money that we would get In February 2011, Xanadu Mines the world currently.” to become China’s largest coking coal 44.65 million tonnes due to shrinking from either the trade sale or joint Ltd. partnered with commodity trader The views and opinions expressed supplier in 2011 due to rapid ramp up demand for the material under the venture would then fund the copper- Noble Group Ltd. to develop ferro herein are the views and opinions of its coal production and competitive backdrop of bleak performance in gold business ... and also fund our alloys, iron ore and coking coal of the author and do not necessarily coal export prices. steel industry, coupled with climbing share of the coking-coal business,” opportunities. reflect those of The NASDAQ OMX Statistics show that China global coking coal prices. Mr Thornton told AAP. Mr Thornton said they are still Group, Inc. imported 20.04 million tonnes of China imported 10.32 million Mr Thornton clarified the discussing with Noble Group Ltd. Source: NASDAQ ,Posted coking coal from Mongolia last year tonnes of coking coal from Australia company is not cash-strapped that’s regarding the sellout. 2/3/2012 at average price of just USD 91 per last year, plunging 41% on YoY basis tonne rising 33.2% from a year earlier the volume of coking coal imported and more than five times the amount from Canada amounted to 3.24 it imported from the country in 2009. million tonnes down 8% Indonesia Xanadu Seeks Buyer For Mongolian Thermal Coal Imports from the United States sourced coking coal declined 10% to also increased to 4.33 million tonnes, 2.52 million tonnes. The horde of miners looking to and is applying for Galshar. Guildford Coal said it had received 24.7% higher than the prior year. cash in on Mongolia’s vast mineral Miners have stepped up expressions of interest from parties Despite these respectable figures Source: www.steelhome.cn/en, wealth and close proximity to China exploration of Mongolia’s largely looking to acquire some or all of its China’s total coking coal imports Tuesday, 14 Feb, 2012 has just got bigger. untapped mineral wealth in recent 70% stake in Terra Energy, which Junior exploration company years, hoping to capitalize on the owns the South Gobi and Middle Xanadu Mines said Friday it is seeking growing demand for energy and Gobi coal projects. offers for its Mongolian thermal-coal metals from neighboring China and Last May, Hong Kong Nova takes full control of Nova Mongolia Corp projects so it can focus on prospective other Asian markets. conglomerate Kerry Group sold coking coal, copper and gold deposits Xanadu has said its strategy is a majority stake in its Mongolian StockMarketWire.com–Nova until Nova has acquired or invested in in the country. to target opportunities in the Trans- coking coal assets to Mongolian Resources has taken full control of a company that qualifies as a reverse Confidentiality agreements Mongolian rail corridor or near Mining Corp. for US$464.47 million. Nova Mongolia Corp after buying the takeover under the AIM Rules. have been signed with a number of the Chinese and Russian borders. Last September, Thailand coal remaining 30% of the capital from The warrants are exercisable at unnamed parties and negotiations are The company has three coking coal producer Banpu agreed to buy the Sarangerel Dorligjav and Demberel £0.02 for each ordinary share and will at an early stage, the Sydney-based projects under development in a shares it didn’t already own in Hunnu Manga. continue until their expiry date on 28 company said in a statement. joint venture with commodities- Coal, which valued the company at The total consideration is February 2013. Xanadu has estimated its Khar trading company Noble Group and US$443 million. £1,767,857.09 which is to be fully Nova Mongolia owns 100% of Tarvaga and Galshar coal projects is exploring for gold in the southeast Source: Wall Street Journal paid by the issue of 23,571,428 Salins Limited and Salins Limited contain 497 million metric tons. The Gobi and for copper at a fully-owned (blog), February 3, 2012, By Robb ordinary shares at £0.075 each and owns 100% of ZHCH Mining LLC. company was recently granted a 30- project. M. Stewart 12,857,143 warrants. Source: StockMarketWire.com year mining license for Khar Tarvaga In December, ASX-listed The warrants are not exercisable ,14 February 2012 Friday, February 17, 2012 mongolians abroad THE MONGOL MESSENGER 13 Mongolian TV director succeeds in the US Mongolians find opportunities in America, but dream about returning

S. Enkh-Amar, MONTSAME is a weekly program. In the summer, I laws, are not involved in crimes or Reporter come home to Mongolia for vacation, violate traffic rules, American will be but my programs continue to be on the kind to them. air under the title of the ‘Best programs Many Mongolians who have lived I met with Yo.Batbayar, Director of the past year’. Besides the above- in that country for more than 20 years of the ‘Minute 15 Studio’. He was mentioned 155 programs, I provided are illegal immigrants without any operating this studio in the USA before Mongolian media with a sufficient official registration, but they continue he returned home. Yo. Batbayar is a number of news and information working and developing businesses. journalist who makes the ‘American broadcasts. I do not know about Korea, but Colors’ programs for UBS Television, - In the early 1990s, Mongolians American society is very open. There a popular program for Mongolians. started migrating to America. How are many well-educated Mongolians many Mongolians are living there in American who are working with -When did you begin to work on now? the Microsoft Company, and even in this program, and when you come -Mongolia established diplomatic the Biological section of the NASA to America? relations with the USA 25 years ago. Space Research Center. I met these -Before working on the ‘American The first Mongolians who came to Mongolians in Florida. They were Colors’ program I worked for UBS America were circus artists; they lived Mongolians who graduated from TV on the ‘Development Access here for 22 – 23 years. The former the Leningrad Medical Institute. In station. This program I made with circus artists have celebrated 20 years America there were also Mongolians the assistance and support of foreign of becoming the first Mongolian who are very skillful in Oriental embassies in our country. In Mongolia, immigrants. Recently they organized medicine and treating patients with we have 23-24 foreign embassies and a very big circus performance in drugs. Mongolian art and cultural representations. I maintained very Florida. The flow of Mongolian workers are very good, especially the close contacts with foreign embassies citizens to America since then has circus artists and the so-called rubber in UB and our cooperation was very not been interrupted. Mongolians ‘girls’ in particular. Many Mongolians fruitful because the programs I made who came to visit this country in are engaged in the marble stone were welcomed by TV audience. As I later years had no intention to stay; business, taxi service, and in heavy remember, I made 3 or 4 TV programs they were there mostly as tourists or truck business. There is a Mongolian Television Director Y.Batbayar has produced over 150 popular TV shows about America with the cooperation for business purposes. The unofficial young lady Enkhtuya engaged in of the American Embassy. Former number of Mongolian immigrants immovable property mediatory their native language and culture and turning point in Mongolian trade. Ambassador Mark Minton and press is reaching 25,000. This is statistics service. Businesses operated by think and talk in their native language. -I remember meeting you at the spokesman Alexei Kral proposed that from the US Embassy relying on Mongolians are different depending The opportunity to be on the air is Jack Weatherford Award ceremony I go to the USA to make TV programs. visa applications. The population on the particular states. always open for them. You may take (January 27) with the ‘Altan Gadas’ This idea was also in my mind; so, census last year produced no definite -I’ve heard about Koreans time for being on the air, which is free, (Polar Star) order shining on your with the support of these people, I results. Mongolians are scattered operating a chemical cleaning by the way, and make your programs. jacket. Congratulations. drafted a program for ‘American throughout this vast territory and company. Are they engaged in Sarantuya and Urnaa, as journalists -Thank you. This was an award Colors’ and handed my draft project to can even be in small villages, so not vegetable food markets as well? collect news and information and come presented to me in the framework of the US Embassy in 2007. I will never all of them come to the Mongolian -Yes. Koreans dominate wholesale to this studio to send this information the 25th anniversary of Mongolia- forget the helping hand of my friends embassy for registration. They also trade in America. As the number of to Mongolia. As I said, the Studio is USA diplomatic relations. Our TV at the press office of the US embassy were not actively involved in the Mongolians is not many compared to state-run; the studio equipment, sound channel was the first in America which who instructed me about getting to the internet counting. The first Mongolian local Koreans, they cannot compete technique, and cameras are operated prepared independent programs. On US, with whom to meet, what kind of immigrants who live in this country with them. In Washington, some by Americans who are government the other hand I was the first Mongol materials to prepare to have a studio for many years are isolated from their Mongolians are engaged in stone servants and who are paid by the state. man working in the international press there, how to become a member of the native country and have no any news producing business, serving the This is why the program is called and information service of the State international press service of the State about Mongolia even they have nice American market and employing ‘American Opportunity’. This TV Department. I am very proud for this Department, a foreign ministry of the opportunities such as the internet. Americans and Mongolians. In channel is state-run and is funded from opportunity. With my ‘International USA. -That is not good to hear… Chicago, Mongolian girls operate a the state budget providing children press and media service’ ID I am I came to America in 2007 and -Yes. They have become completely care center for aged and retired elders. from different nations not to forget allowed to enter any state agencies Americanized, their children forgot Some Mongols set up a private taxi their native tongue and native culture. in New York, Washington and Los Mongolian language, many of them company while others are operating -I heard about the opening of a Angeles. This ID helps me collect news are not even willing to know and hear big long-distance truck services. I am Mongol school in USA which aims and information for my programs. about Mongolia. But on the other really proud of the Mongols working to prevent Mongol children from Together with my wife we have hand, there are Mongolians who wish successfully overseas. I’ve heard forgetting their language… made 155 TV programs. People to come back to their native country, many nice words from the owners -Yes, you are right. Mongol working in TV are well experienced to and contribute to the development of big companies who praised their schools are operating in Chicago, San in doing TV programs. In order to of Mongolia. Internet, information Mongolian employers. For example, Francisco, and Washington. In these fill our programs coming on air every and media play a very significant role. the owner of a Korean wholesale schools, children are taught Mongolian week, we fly from one city to another Today, Mongolians living in the USA company said he prefers to employ language, Mongol culture, folk or drive a car for hours there and back, are able to watch TV5, TM9, UBS, Mongolians because they are very dances, songs, and music. This is also spend nights without sleep or rest to MN-25 and the Mongolian National reliable and hard working. “We just related with the above-said ‘American make one TV program. It would not Public Television programs. A instruct them how to do business, Opportunity’. School premises are be an exaggeration to say that in order Mongolian company operating in Los saying it is not an easy job, but you provided by the state and classes are to make 155 such programs we spent Angeles is broadcasting the programs can do it and we can completely rely held every Saturday, in Washington; 310 nights without sleep. I spent four of these channels using the internet. and trust them,” said the owner. for example, they are open from 9.00 years in this situation in America; and Families are able to watch Mongolian But why don’t Mongolians reveal am to 13.00 pm. as a result of all this, I got numerous programs just by fixing a minor detail their talents here in Mongolia? They -How many children are enrolled TV spectators in Mongolia. in their TV sets. I heard many people are so lazy in their home country, and there? -Is it true that American saying “This year I will go home”. so faithful to their foreign boss, why? I -About 40-50 children. Mongols widely celebrate their America has become a good noticed that when any foreigner comes -Are you a professional TV national holidays in USA? school for Mongolians who come to Mongolia, when he or she wants man? -Yes, especially the national there to live and work; they learn how to meet an official in a government -No. I joined the family of TV Naadam Festival and the Tsagaan Sar to earn, spend and save money. It is organization or agency, the doors are staff by chance. As I said before, we lunar new year. People eat Mongolian naive thinking of coming to America always open to them. But it is not were engaged in the ‘Development khushuur and buuz, arrange national and becoming immediately rich and easy for a Mongol person to meet a Access’ program. Maybe it’s because sporting games – wrestling, archery wealthy. In order to have a well-to-do minister or deputy minister in any I knew a little bit English and had and shooting, etc. I visited this kind life Americans work hard without rest. foreign country, is that correct? the opportunity to be in contact of entertainment in Los Angeles, San On the other hand, it’s a problem for Koreans like the working quality of with foreign ambassadors and other Francisco, and Washington. During the Mongolian government to bring the Mongols. Once I met a Mongolian foreigners in English. I graduated Tsagaan Sar, the Mongolians dress in back Mongolian youth who have good girl who worked in a Japanese from the electric engineering college Mongolian deels. language skills and have become well- company as a manager, who authored in 1996 as an electric engineer. For a -What about the coming educated and cultured in order to have the successful drafting of an extension year and a half, I worked at Electric Tsagaan Sar, where are you going to them to contribute to the progress of and enlarging the Japanese restaurant. Power Plant #3 and later studied for spend it? their own country. They need to be Her idea was highly appreciated by a management Master’s Degree in -Maybe in Denver where the provided with well-paid jobs, and the owner of the company. Russia. biggest event is being planned and decent working and living conditions. -You are working in America -Please tell us about your from which I will report. -When was the last time you in the TV branch. I’ve heard that family? -Do you know our reporters were back home? many Mongolians began work in -My wife S.Ganchimeg is a Saruul-Erdene and G.Galbadrakh -As I said, I come to Mongolia at TV broadcasting in America and in food technologist. We married after working in America and Yo.Batbayar least two times a year. In December many other countries. graduating from college. We have contributing to developing peoples’ 2011 I read a lecture in the ‘Flower’ -Four Mongol TV broadcasters two children, both girls. The senior is diplomacy? What would you like to was instructed to meet with relevant Hotel on the significance of investing operate in the USA. One of these Nomin, 15, and the younger is Indra, say to Mongolian youth? officials from the State Department money in the US and how to form is operated in Chicago by actress 12. -Yes, I know these two guys. and became a member of the press a foreign company in the USA. Battsetseg and her husband Mashbat; Twenty-five years have passed Saruul-Erdene is teaching Mongolian and information service of the US Mongolian companies were attracted they broadcast online TV programs. since Mongolia and the USA language in the State Department and State Department. After coming back, to these lectures. Another one is operated by Sarantuya established diplomatic relations. These G.Galbadrakh publishes his articles. I took my family and we were given -I worked in South Korea and Urnaa who worked in Mongolian were years full of significant events. What I would like to warn Mongolian an ‘International journalist visa’. So, and by my observation, the more National Public Television, they At the time when M.Enkhsaikhan youth about is to refrain from strong I have been living and working in educated and wealthy Mongolians both work in Washington. They was Prime Minister, Mongolia had drinks. Like me, many Mongolians America since 2007. The first days have migrated to the USA. In Korea, are journalists and they send news the opportunity to export ready-made live and work in Arlington and there of my life in a foreign country were Mongolians are mostly engaged in and information every week. For knitted garments tax free to America. are about 5 or 6 thousand Mongolians busy days when everything for me low-paid employment; but in the example, Urnaa sends news to Many Chinese manufacturing factories in Washington. In the sober-up station was new–the land, the country and US, Mongolians are able to obtain NTV and Sarantuya to the National operated in Mongolia to export goods in Arlington the rules are written the people. I had many problems education and skills and even try Public TV where she worked. I said to the USA. The trade balance at in English and Mongolian. Why do related to housing and the school for going into business. Is this true? that American society is free and that time was on the Mongolian side you think this is?... because even in my kids had to be resolved. For that -Yes you are right. American open. There is a free local television which means money was coming to America, Mongolians have trouble I spent about 6 months. I succeeded society is more open then in Korea. operating in America and everything Mongolia from America. But when avoiding this bad habit. I am not talking to find a house to live and a place to There is no discrimination between the in this TV Studio is state-owned. China joined the WTO, the Chinese about the Mongolian population which make a studio. I often sent news and yellow, black and whites or whether or Representatives of multi-national sewing factories stopped operating. is living here for many years, but the video recordings to UBS and TV-5. not you have a visa or are a legal or audiences gather in the USA and are Mongolia faced a trade balance deficit newcomers who have not yet adjusted So, finally, on October 21, 2008, illegal worker. But you must not have able to send and receive news and and money flew to America. Today, the to the new situation and who are after a year’s time, I made my first a criminal record. America is called information in their native language. American ‘Peabody’ mining company still unemployed. What I would like ‘American Colors’ program. Since the ‘country of dreams’. If Mongolians In other words, the state provides is coming to the Mongolian Tavan to remind them is that “fire water”, then, 155 programs were made. This go to that country, follow the rules and them the opportunity to not forget Tolgoi deposit which might become a alcohol, may kill us. 14 THE MONGOL MESSENGER advertisement Friday, February 17, 2012

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IT’S SIMPLE IN PERSON! N W E Parlia- ç History Museum ment S House COMPOSE YOUR TEXT AND BRING IT TO OUR OFFICES AT: MONTSAME NEWS AGENCY, 4TH FLOOR, THE MONGOL MESSENGER, ROOM #406 Garden UB Bank Sukhbaatar Working hours Mon-Fri. 9 am -6pm. Square Indra Tel: 266740, MONTSAME Trade fast Union The Mongol food Tel/fax (976-11) 325512. Messenger E-mail: [email protected] Friday, February 17, 2012 mongol studies THE MONGOL MESSENGER 15 The lawyer’s advice New generation of Mongolists to emerge Hanns Seidel Order of Polar Star and Friendship medals awarded in the US Foundation In cooperation with Hanns -Seidel-Foundation Project Next month, the 2012 Annual Meeting of The Mongolia Society Mongolia and its “Legal will be held in conjunction with the Education” Academy Association for Asian Studies (AAS) at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel -What punishment shall be in Toronto, Canada, on Saturday, imposed if one knew about a March 17, 2012. That same afternoon crime, but did not inform the they will move to the University police? of Toronto for a special program -Anyone shall be fined Tgs where they will show the award- 2,703,000 to 4,240,000 which winning movie, “Mongolia—Mining equals to 51 to 80 times the Challenges a Civilization,” followed minimum salary or sentenced by a roundtable discussion. The to incarceration for one to three Mongolia Society was established months, if he/she knew about in 1961 as a private, non-profit, non- the preparation or commission political organization interested in of any of the following crimes, promoting the study of Mongolia, its but did not inform the police history, language and culture. thereof. These crimes include Last July, Kh. Bekhbat, crimes indicated in the Criminal Ambassador to the U.S., attended the Code of Mongolia in its Articles event and presented congratulations 91, 98, 108, 112, 126.2, 126.3, from Mongolian Prime Minister S. Ambassador Kh.Bekhbat (L) with America’s top Mongolists, Alice Campi, Suzie Dorst, Christopher Atwood (C), and Legden Tserenchunt (R) 145.2, 145.3, 145.4, 146.2, 146.3, Batbold. It was announced that in the the ‘Polar Star’ to Society President, Within the anniversary celebration, has achieved a position of respect 146.4, 148.2, 148.3, 148.4, 150.2, future, the Mongolian Government Dr. Alicia Campi; Chairman of the a Mongolian Naadam was organized, in the scholarly, governmental, and 150.3, 176, 177, 225, 268.2, 269.2 would collaborate with the Society Board, Dr. Christopher Atwood; and at which Mongolians studying and business communities in the United and 270.2. If anyone knew about to design a program to support to Mongolian Language Lecturer working in the USA and Americans States, Mongolia, China, Japan, and the preparation or commission and educate a new generation of at Indiana University, Ms. Legden During its more than fifty years Europe.idely participated. A wrestling of any of the crimes stated in Mongolists. In addition, on behalf of Tserenchunt. The ‘Friendship’ medal of existence, The Mongolia Society competition and anklebone shooting Articles 79, 80, 81, 82, 84 and Mongolian President Ts. Elbegdorj, was given to the Society’s Executive has become a center for information were also organized. 85 of the Criminal Code but did the ambassador awarded the Order of Director, Susie Drost. on Mongolia past and present. It not inform the police, he/she shall be sentenced to imprisonment for one to three years. No punishment shall be imposed on a person if he/ Foreign press on Mongolia Steppe warriors: Nomadic horsemen of the 7th-14th century from Mongolia on view in Bonn she did not inform the police about crimes other than those crimes BONN.- The LVR- exhibition. Several reflexbows from explored comprehensively. Detailed invite young and old to immerse mentioned above. LandesMuseum Bonn devoted the different centuries were examined in scientific and technological analysis themselves into the life of a nomadic -In what cases may a person admired and feared steppe warriors their complexity, to discover the secret of the objects brought little-known horsemen. be exempted from military from Mongolia from 26. January to of this superior weapon. Until the aspects of the equestrian nomadic Source: Art Daily.org, The draft? 29. April 2012 the special exhibition introduction of the gun the reflexbow culture to light. First Art Newspaper on the Net, -A citizen of Mongolia may “Steppe warriors. Nomadic horsemen was the feared and only long range The never-before presented February 10,2012 be released from the draft to active of the 7th till 14th Century from weapon. The results are incorporated artifacts, specially made images after military service in the following Mongolia”. For the first time it is into a replica that has been tested and the original objects and reproductions cases. – if both his parents or his possible to show unique objects like impressed with its practicality even in by professional bow makers, father or mother have no labour weapons, equipment and clothing, of adverse weather conditions. blacksmiths and wood experts turn capacity (father over 60 years or the nomadic horsemen. They present a The craft services and the the exhibition in an exciting journey mother over 55 years, or a mother deep insight into the life of the steppe enormous technological knowledge into the wideness of the Eurasian or father who is disabled under nomads and their cultural world, of nomadic horsemen could be steppes. Two fully furnished yurts category 1 or 2 even if they have which has always a big influence on not reached the afore-mentioned the Central European history. ages shall be considered as having The exhibition shows unusually no labor capacity) and there is no well-preserved, up to 1,300-year-old other person to be their legitimate objects that have been discovered in caretaker or guardian; - if the recent years in the so-called “rock person has two or more children; graves” in western Mongolia. These - if the person’s wife is pregnant rock graves have abruptly expanded and furthermore has a preschool the knowledge about the steppe aged child; - if the person’s wife nomads. Thanks to the dry and cold is disabled under category 1 or 2; climates, ephemeral materials such as - if the person has a little sister or wood, textiles, feathers, animal skins brother under the age 16 with no and metals have obtained excellent. other legal guardian or has a sister Reflexbows, quivers, arrows with or brother above 16 years but is fletching and riding equipment, but disabled in category 1 or 2; - if the also clothes–including the oldest person could not pass the medical surviving Felt-Deel–and the oldest exams for military recruitment. stringed instrument in Mongolia, a Also, a person may not be drafted harp with a horse’s head, show the into active military service if he life of the Eurasian steppe warriors in is under investigation for a crime, an unknown way. or is under criminal investigation The between 2005 and 2010 by a court of law, or is serving a excavated and rescued rock grave sentence. inventories were–thanks to the great -What will happen if we find trust of the Institute of Archaeology a long-buried treasure? from the Mongolian Academy of -If you discover a treasure or Sciences–mainly analyzed and precious item which was buried or restored in the workshop of the LVR- abandoned underground for a long LandesMuseum in Bonn. Based period of time, you have the right on the analysis, new insights about to an equal share of ownership for the technical achievements and the Visitors view a silk garment from the 7th/8th century at the exhibition ‘Warriors of the Steppe–horse-mounted this treasure or item, if it was not enormous technological knowledge nomads from Mongolia between the 7th and 14th century’ in front of the LVR State Museum in Bonn, Germany. The agreed otherwise with the owner of steppe warriors are obtained. exhibition will run from the 26 January til 29 April and displays equipment, clothing and weapons of the warriors of the of the land where the treasure These results are also included in the steppe. EPA/HENNING KAISER. was found or the owner of the treasure. If a historical or cultural monument is found in the buried Mudgee volunteer explores Mongolia treasure, you should transfer it to State ownership. In this case, How does a student of Although families may have drunk by everyone from babies to old from health, to disability, education, a monetary reward equal to 50 environmental management and occupied their land for hundreds of people. governance, law, community geology find common ground with the years, they hold no formal title, which “Sometimes they have so much development, communications and percent of the total value of that nomadic people of Mongolia? leads to dispute when others move in. milk that they bathe in it to relieve trades. monument shall be given in equal As an Australian Youth Ambassador Sally found an open, independent eczema,” Sally said. The ambassadors are part of shares to the person who found the for Development (AYAD), Sally people, with a culture based around As well as the language barrier, Australia’s aid program, working monument and the owner of the Mayberry drew on her experience on horses, goats, sheep and camels. Sally had to overcome cultural with local development and non- land or property. her family’s mixed farm near Mudgee Family groups move around their differences and expectations of her. government organisations to encourage -What to do if we discover to break the ice. land, or “ger”, with the seasons in a However, she was pleased to development and reduce poverty. that a good bought has a physical Pictures of her father’s cows were form of rotational grazing. find women are highly regarded in Participants come from a wide defect (damage, incomplete a talking point for rural people whose Temperatures in Mongolia range Mongolia and that women head many range of fields, with their skills matched set, and quality or quantity lives revolve heavily around livestock. from -40 in winter to 40 degrees in major companies. to the most suitable projects. shortage)? Although Sally was based in Ulan summer. Although Sally has travelled Sally said Mudgee and district -In this case, the buyer may Bator, her work through the AYAD “There are very distinct cultural extensively, she said Mongolia was people had many skills – from butchery request the seller to eliminate program with the World Bank’s differences, from what they eat to how different from any of her previous to practical farm knowledge – which the good’s defect free of charge, Sustainable Livelihood project took they live,” Sally said. experiences. could be applied in Mongolia and other compensate the cost of defect her across the “vast and amazing” To be immersed in another culture “To be immersed in another culture areas. elimination by himself or by landscape from the steppes to the Gobi was something that I have wanted to was something that I have wanted to “I just want people in Mudgee others, or replace the defected Desert. do. do,” she said. to know that this is available and not good with a non-defective good Because of her farming “Nothing is wasted. In winter, they “To me, coming from an Australian expensive,” she said. of the same kind, or cancel the background, Sally was placed in an eat the older animals, keeping the meat farm to one of the last functional The AYAD program is open to contract and return the money. agricultural-based position, working outside. nomadic societies was fascinating.” people aged from 18 to 30 years. to help rural Mongolian people to “In summer, they will only eat Sally hopes that her experience People interested in the program Address : Sukhbaatar District, continue their centuries-old lifestyle in dairy products. It is not a country for will inspire others to apply to become can find out more on www.ayad.com. Khoroo 6, Sukhbaatar Street the face of changes including increasing the lactose intolerant.” an Australian Youth Ambassador for au or watch for the advertising for 11-2, urbanization, the encroachment With milk in plentiful supply, the Development. the next intake of Ambassadors from Office of the Legal Education of mining and challenges to their summer diet includes yoghurt, cheese, Around 400 Australians each year February 27. Academy (inside the court of the traditional clan-based system of land and dried curd. A slightly alcoholic work in developing countries in Asia, Source: Mudgeee Guardian, By Children’s Art Center, in the right ownership. fermented horse milk called airag is the Pacific and Africa, in areas ranging Robyn Murray, 08 Feb, 2012 side) Tel : 321294 16 THE MONGOL MESSENGER art & culture Friday, February 17, 2012 Sparticus returns to Mongolia’s opera theatre After 28 years, Spartacus (Spartak) ballet by Russian composer Aram Khachaturian, 1903- lAccording to a poll conducted by the 1978, is planned to be restaged at Mongolia’s Union of Mongolian Sports Journalists, State Opera and Ballet Theatre on February 18-19. the UBS TV channel and the Agency This restaging is the initiative of Kh. Otgontuya, of Mongolian Sports Marketing, spouse of Prime Minister S. Batbold and head S.Miaragchaa, International master of the Tuguldur Foundation. The Ballet received of sports and judoist of the national its first staging in 1958 at the Bolshoi Theatre in selected team has been named as Moscow, choreographed by Yuri Grigorovich. sportsman of January. Based on the choreography of Russian Thanks to winning a gold medal in the prominent choreographer Yuri Grigorovich, Judo World Masters, S.Miaragchaa Mongolia’s State Honored choreographer, A. received the highest number of Jamyandagva first staged the ballet in 1984 at points from 78 percent of the poll State Opera and Ballet Theatre. At that time, participants. He was followed by ballerinas and artists Yu. Oyun, O. Ganbaatar, O. Mongolian international master of Batsaikhan and Kh. Gerelchimeg performed the sports for shooting, N.Bayaraa (7.5 leading roles. Artists who performed the ballet in percent). He qualified to compete in 1984 are now playing an important role to restage the London Games in the rifle contest the ballet. Honored ballerina Kh. Gerelchimeg by taking 8th place in the 2012 Asian is directing the ballet and State Honored A. Shooting Championships. Jamyandagva is working as an advisor. Thanks to taking 10th place in the “A” State distinguished artists and ballerinas class Xiamen International Marathon, G. Tsolmon, Ch. Ganchimeg, T. Batchimeg, B. Mongolian International master of Saruul, Kh. Mungunkhulug, O. Gantsooj, M. Od sports for long-distance running, and A. Olzii-Orshikh will perform the leading Ts.Byambajav ranked 3rd in the poll. roles. The month’s best athlete is selected This project is the fifth such program co- from October of the previous year; implemented by the Tuguldur Foundation and the very first best sportsman was State State Opera and Ballet Theatre. Earlier, ‘Sleeping Honored Sportsman P.Serdamba who Beauty’ and ‘Nutscracker’ by P.I. Tchaikovsky, won a bronze medal in the AIBA International Ballet Festival, ‘Winter Star’ and Boxing World Championships. Giselle ballet were performed successfully. lLast week, Judoist D.Altansukh won a bronze medal in the World Cup tournament for men. The events took place in Austria. He was the only Mongolian to win a medal among others from the national team of Mongolia. Although he lost to a Japanese opponent in the first round, he took his medal after defeating rivals from Germany and another countryman, A.Batsuuri in the repechage round. Meanwhile, female judoists participated in the Women’s Judo World Cup competitions that ran last weekend in Budapest, Hungary. Mongolian D.Sumya won a bronze medal in the 57 kg contest. She had a bye at the first round, and then defeated her rivals from Germany, Switzerland, Cuba and Bulgaria. In the silver medal contest, she lost to Japanese judoist. Other women did not take medals. lMongolian judoists took upper places Mongolian audiences and ballet artists can once again enjoy A.Khachaturian’s ‘Spartak’ in the International Judo Federation’s (IJF) world judo ranking list in several weight categories, updated on February 8, 2012. The rankings were made following the results of the 3rd Morin Khuur International Festival scheduled World Cups, Grand Prix, Grand Slam and Masters Tournaments. From April 29 to May 2, 2012, the of other nations are performed on the With 1,198 points, State Honored 3rd international Morin Khuur festival Morin Khuur, how the Morin Khuur is Sportsman Kh.Tsagaanbaatar ranked and symposium is scheduled to be held used, the Morin Khuur’s design, and 2nd in the men’s 66 kg category. in Ulaanbaatar under the framework the value of the Master Morin Khuur. He was followed by Russian Musa of implementing the Presidential Organizers of the international Mogushkov who received 1,280 decree “To respect and develop Morin Morin Khuur festival and symposium points and Mongolian S.Miaragchaa Khuur”. Aside from Mongolian are confident that as one of the who ranked 8th in this weight category Morin Khuur players, invitations to invaluable cultural heritages of the with 866 points. participate in the festival were sent to Mongolian people, this event will Three Mongolians—D.Tomorkhuleg more than 200 Morin Khuur amateurs, contribute to disseminate the Morin (700 points), Ch.Boldbaatar (546 students, scientists and researchers Khuur musical instrument to the rest of points) and G.Boldbaatar (536 in Japan, the RF, China, the USA, the world. Along with different topics points)— ranked among first 22 places South Korea, Germany and France to be discussed at the festival, Morin in the men’s 60 kg category. who responded affirmatively to the Khuur designers and researchers will International master of sports S.Nyam- invitation. hold an exhibition of Morin Khuur Ochir took 6th place in the men’s 73 It is planned to launch a wide range designs. There will be performances kg category on the updated list with of discussions during the international of foreign Morin Khuur players, and 880 points. He grabbed big points symposium. For example, discussions the party called an ‘Morin Khuur thanks to winning a gold medal in the at the symposium will range from Evening’. The program of the festival Paris Grand Slam. methods of teaching how to play the includes a concert of Mongolian State Honored Sportsman and Morin Khuur musical instrument, and foreign Morin Khuur players Morin Khuur music has its own special appeal Olympic champion N.Tuvshinbayar specific features and the difference who will perform N.Jantsannorov’s (men’s -100 kg) managed to climb to between this instrument and other ‘Mongol Melodies’, ‘White Stupa’, Bulag’s ‘The Rising Sun’ musical uugankhuur@yahoo. 5th place with 888 points. Countryman musical instruments, the national E.Choidog’s ‘Beautiful Mongolian pieces. com,[email protected] B.Temuulen was listed in 15th place cultural artistic influence of Morin Country’, Z.Khangal’s Adagio to Contact information: www.morinkhuur.mn with 580 points. Khuur when music and musical pieces the ballet ‘Treasure Mountain’, Ch- 89242525, 93132525, 99770276 A State Honored Sportswoman M.Bundmaa kept her rank with 1,302 points on the updated list and she What’s on Feb 17-Mar 2 Slaves rebel on stage follows two Japanese competitors, Nishida Yuka (2,100 points) and FSDE=Folk Song/Dance Ensemble; OBT=Opera/ Spartak (aka Spartacus in the West) is a ballet by War. Nakamura Misato (1,360 points). Ballet Theatre; SPH=State Philharmonic Hall; Wed 22 10am-7pm Chinguunjav exhib (UMA) Russian composer Aram Khachaturian (1903- The Mongolian State Opera will present Spartak, Other women M.Urantsetseg (48 TDAG=Tsagaan Darium Art Gallery; UMA=Union 1978). with support from the Tuguldur Foundation, on kg), Ts.Monkhzaya (63 kg) and of Mongolian Artists; Sat 25 5pm Domogt Anu Khatan (DT) It was composed in 1954 and follows the February 18 and 19, with Kh. Mungunhulug, O. P.Lhamdegd (-78 kg) were listed Sun 26 5pm Domogt Anu Khatan (DT) exploits of Spartacus, leader of a slave rebellion Gantsooj and M. Od in the lead roles. among the first 22 places. Judoists Fri 17 10am-7pm Chinguunjav exhib (UMA) against the Romans, known as the Third Slave in the first 22 places in each weight 10am-6.30pm D. Batnasan exhib (TDAG) Tengis Movie Theater category will automatically be 7pm Bayan Mongol Ensemble concert (SPH) Happy Feet 2 (US, 3D); Nation’s Blue Stain qualified to compete in the London (Mongolia); Between Sun and Moon (Mongolia); 2012 Olympic Games. Sat 18 10am-7pm Chinguunjav exhib (UMA) One Body, Two Hearts (Mongolia); Mission l 10am-6.30pm D. Batnasan exhib (TDAG) Impossible: Ghost Protocol 4 (US); My Brother’s Master of sports P.Orkhon won a 5pm Spartak (ballet, OBT) Wife (Mongolia) bronze medal in the 40th international tournament named after Yasar Dogu Sun 19 10am-7pm Chinguunjav exhib (UMA) Live Music that concluded last weekend in Ankara, 10am-6.30pm D. Batnasan exhib (TDAG) City Nomads (7.30pm): Tues Solongo; Fri Tsogoo Turkey. She competed in the women’s 5pm Spartak (ballet, OBT) Detroit Bar (9pm): Wed UB Night; Fri UFO 55 kg contest. The Mongolian national Grand Khan (9pm): Tues lemons; Wed One Way; team was represented there by three Mon 20 10am-7pm Chinguunjav exhib (UMA) Fri/Sat Beer wrestlers. This year’s tournament 7pm Happy Lunar Year concert (FSDE) Ikh Mongol (9.30pm): Tues Altan Urag; Wed Fire; attracted 245 wrestlers from 23 Thurs Altan Urag; Fri Fire; Sat X-Vit; Sun Altan Urag countries. Tues 21 10am-7pm Chinguunjav exhib (UMA) Strings (10.45 nightly): Mexico Jam

The Mongol Messenger is operated by the government news agency MONTSAME and is printed by the MONTSAME. Home Page: www.mongolmessenger.mn;E-mail: [email protected] (ISSN 1684-1883)