1 14TH MBD MISSION FOR MBCC'S "DOING BUSINESS WITH MONGOLIA SEMINAR & CHRISTMAS RECEPTION" AND BUSINESS PROGRAM DEC 08- 14. 2025 LONDON, UK WWW.MONGOLIANBUSINESSDATABASE.COM PUBLISHED:2025/09/16      2 IMF WRAPS UP 2025 ARTICLE IV TALKS WITH MONGOLIA WWW.IMF.ORG PUBLISHED:2025/09/16      3 POSCO INTERNATIONAL TO LAUNCH WASTEWATER HEAT DISTRICT HEATING PROJECT IN MONGOLIA WWW.CM.ASIAE.CO.KR  PUBLISHED:2025/09/16      4 MONGOLIA'S EXTERNAL DEBT UP 12.7 PCT IN Q2 2025 WWW.NEWS.AZ PUBLISHED:2025/09/16      5 2025 AUTUMN SESSION OF THE STATE GREAT KHURAL COMMENCES WITH STRUCTURAL REFORMS WWW.MONTSAME.MN PUBLISHED:2025/09/16      6 MONGOLIA SURPASSES 617,000 TOURIST ARRIVALS BY MID-SEPTEMBER 2025 WWW.MONTSAME.MN PUBLISHED:2025/09/16      7 ODD-EVEN TRAFFIC RESTRICTION CONCLUDES WWW.UBPOST.MN PUBLISHED:2025/09/15      8 MMC ANNOUNCES FIRST GOLD POUR COMPLETED AT THE BAYAN KHUNDII MINE IN MONGOLIA WWW.SG.FINANCE.YAHOO.COM  PUBLISHED:2025/09/15      9 MKE LAUNCHES CARTRIDGE PRODUCTION LINE IN MONGOLIA WWW.RAILLYNEWS.COM  PUBLISHED:2025/09/15      10 MONGOLIA’S LARGEST MINING EVENT HIGHLIGHTS INVESTMENT AND RESPONSIBLE MINING WWW.MONTSAME.MN PUBLISHED:2025/09/14      14 ДЭХЬ УДААГИЙН MBCCI’S “ DOING BUSINESS WITH MONGOLIA SEMINAR & CHRISTMAS RECEPTION” B2B NETWORKING БОЛОН БИЗНЕС ХӨТӨЛБӨР 2025 ОНЫ 12 САРЫН 08 -13 ЛОНДОН ХОТ, ИХ БРИТАНИ WWW.MONGOLIANBUSINESSDATABASE.COM НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/09/16     ЭДИЙН ЗАСГИЙН ТӨРӨЛЖИЛТИЙН ИНДЕКСЭЭР МОНГОЛ УЛС 145 ОРНООС 139-Д БИЧИГДЖЭЭ WWW.GOGO.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/09/16     ӨНӨӨДӨР: “СЭЛБЭ 20 МИНУТЫН ХОТ”-ЫН ДАРААГИЙН ЭЭЛЖИЙН ОРОН СУУЦНЫ ТӨСЛИЙН БҮТЭЭН БАЙГУУЛАЛТЫГ ЭХЛҮҮЛНЭ WWW.MONTSAME.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/09/16     ШЭНЬ МИНЬЖУАНЬ: БНХАУ МОНГОЛ УЛСЫГ ШХАБ-ЫН ГЭР БҮЛД НЭГДЭЖ, ХАМТЫН АЖИЛЛАГААГАА ӨРГӨЖҮҮЛЭХИЙГ УРЬСАН WWW.ITOIM.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/09/15     Г.ЗАНДАШАТАР: ТӨРИЙН ДАНХАР БҮТЦИЙГ ХУМИХ АЖИЛ ИРЭХ ОНД Ч ҮРГЭЛЖИЛНЭ WWW.EGUUR.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/09/15     Ц.ТУВААН: НҮҮРСНИЙ ҮНЭ 3 САР ТУТАМ ШИНЭЧЛЭГДЭНЭ. ГЭРЭЭНД ЯМАР Ч НУУЦ БАЙХГҮЙ WWW.EGUUR.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/09/15     ХАНЫН МАТЕРИАЛД 1800 АЙЛЫН ОРОН СУУЦ БАРИХ ТӨСЛИЙН ГҮЙЦЭТГЭГЧ ШАЛГАРЛАА WWW.ITOIM.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/09/15     "ТАТВАРЫН ХЭТ ӨНДӨР ТООЦОО БИЗНЕС ЭРХЛЭГЧДИЙГ ХААЛГАА БАРИХАД ХҮРГЭНЭ" WWW.NEWS.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/09/15     ГАДААД ХУДАЛДААНЫ НӨХЦӨЛИЙН ИНДЕКС ӨМНӨХ ОНООС 4.1 ХУВИАР БУУРЧЭЭ WWW.EAGLE.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/09/15     ЭХНИЙ НАЙМАН САРЫН БАЙДЛААР 600 МЯНГАН ЖУУЛЧИН ИРЖЭЭ WWW.MONTSAME.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/09/15    

Events

Name organizer Where
MBCC “Doing Business with Mongolia seminar and Christmas Receptiom” Dec 10. 2024 London UK MBCCI London UK Goodman LLC

NEWS

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Sodnompiljee Enkhbayar Wins Seventh Gold Medal at the World Cup www.montsame.mn

At the World Para Powerlifting World Cup 2025 held on June 17-25, 2025, in Beijing, China, athletes from Mongolia won four medals.
Under the guidance of National Team Head Coach D. Battulga and Coach B. Enkhbayar, five athletes from Mongolia competed in the World Cup. In the men's 107 kg category, Paralympic gold, silver, and bronze medalist, Hero of Labour of Mongolia, and Honored Athlete Sodnompiljee Enkhbayar won a gold medal, pressing 232 kg. This marks his seventh gold medal at the World Cup.
In the junior men's 54 kg category, national team athlete D. Jigmed earned a gold, pressing 151 kg medal. He set a new Asian junior record with his first lift and went on to break the junior world record with his final attempt. Moreover, in the senior men's 54 kg category, athlete Jigmed lifted a total of 443 kg and claimed a silver medal.
Meanwhile, in the senior men's 59 kg category, national team athlete B. Altangerel pressed a total of 333 kg to win a bronze medal.

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United Nations Secretary-General has appointed Sarangoo Radnaaragchaa of Mongolia as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan www.unsdg.un.org

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Sarangoo Radnaaragchaa of Mongolia as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan, with the host Government’s approval, effective 22 June 2025.
Ms. Radnaaragchaa brings 25 years of rich experience in sustainable development across Europe and Central Asia, marked by progressive leadership roles.
Prior to her appointment as Resident Coordinator, she served as Regional Advisor on Environment at the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), where she successfully repositioned the function of UNECE representative in several UN Country Teams. In this capacity, she also provided targeted advisory services and technical expertise to 17 UN programme countries in Europe and Central Asia, facilitating their implementation of UNECE conventions, norms and standards.
Before joining UNECE in 2014, Ms. Radnaaragchaa built an extensive career in sustainable development and natural resources management at national, regional and international levels. She served as a senior officer with the Ministry of Nature and Environment of Mongolia and subsequently fulfilled various assignments with UNDP, the Food and Agriculture Organization, the United Nations Environmental Programme, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) and consulting companies. Her areas of expertise encompass policy analysis and formulation, transboundary cooperation, partnership building, participatory natural resource management, capacity development and programme management.
Ms. Radnaaragchaa holds a master’s degree in environmental management from Flinders University, Australia. She is married and has two children.

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Uzbekistan - Mongolia: A New Stage of Multifaceted Cooperation www.montsame.mn

Ahead of the State Visit of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Mongolia, the National News Agency of Uzbekistan (UzA) published a review of the current state of Uzbek-Mongolian relations. Below is the full text of the publication by the UzA observer.
From June 24 to 25, 2025, at the invitation of the President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay the first-ever State Visit to Mongolia.
This event can rightfully be considered historic – in over thirty years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, this will be the first state visit of the Leader of Uzbekistan to Ulaanbaatar.
The upcoming visit is a logical continuation of the dynamic political dialogue initiated in June 2024, when the President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh visited Uzbekistan. At that time, several key agreements were reached in an atmosphere of trust and mutual understanding, giving strong momentum to the development of multifaceted cooperation.
Uzbekistan and Mongolia, despite geographical distance and the absence of a shared border, are rapidly deepening ties across diplomacy, economics, transport, culture, and humanitarian cooperation. The opening of the Embassy of Mongolia in Tashkent, the intensification of intergovernmental and parliamentary dialogue, the growing interest of business communities, and the signing of 14 bilateral agreements are clear indicators of strengthened trust and a shared commitment to deepening the partnership.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s visit to Ulaanbaatar marks the beginning of a new chapter in relations between Uzbekistan and Mongolia – a stage guided by principles of pragmatism, mutual benefit, sustainable development, and solidarity in the face of modern challenges.
Diplomatic Foundations and Political Dialogue
Diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and Mongolia were established on January 25, 1992. Since then, bilateral ties, initially developing at a measured pace, have gained noticeable momentum in recent years, thanks to the strategic policies of openness and good-neighborliness pursued by the leadership of both countries.
The political dialogue at the highest level received a qualitatively new impetus in 2024, when, for the first time since independence, the President of Mongolia paid a state visit to Uzbekistan. This visit marked a turning point in rethinking the potential of bilateral relations. As President Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted, “Mongolia is our traditional and reliable partner in the Asian region, and our relations are built on the principles of friendship, mutual respect, and support”.
The meetings resulted in the signing of an extensive package of 14 intergovernmental and interagency agreements covering key areas of cooperation, from trade and transport to science, agriculture, security, and mass media. Among them were the Agreement on International Road Transport, a Cooperation Program in Tourism, memoranda of understanding between the national academies of sciences and news agencies, and a Protocol on establishing a Joint Business Council.
To ensure the systematic advancement of these agreements, an Intergovernmental Commission at the level of deputy prime ministers was established. Its mandate includes overseeing the implementation of signed documents and coordinating new initiatives.
The opening of the Embassy of Mongolia in Tashkent in 2024 holds particular significance. Heads of state attended the ceremony, underscoring the political will to strengthen institutional ties.
Parliamentary diplomacy is also gaining importance. Meetings between senators of Uzbekistan and members of Mongolia’s Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group have contributed to developing a roadmap for interregional cooperation and parliamentary oversight of intergovernmental agreements. The sides are working to transform parliamentary institutions into active participants in bilateral rapprochement. Additionally, coordination between the two countries is expanding on international and regional platforms such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, where Tashkent and Ulaanbaatar advocate for multilateral dialogue, sustainable development, and adherence to the principles of international law.
Statistics and Trade-Economic Indicators
The significant growth in trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Mongolia during 2022-2024 reflects the real momentum of the bilateral trade partnership:
According to statistical reports from the State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Statistics, in 2022, Uzbekistan’s exports amounted to $7.100 million, while imports from Mongolia reached $2.800 million. During this period, the trade volume between the two countries stood at $9.900 million.
In 2023, Uzbekistan’s exports rose to $10.200 million, and imports from Mongolia reached $3.600 million. The total trade turnover increased to $14.000 million.
In the first five months of 2024 alone, Uzbekistan’s exports reached $7.900 million, while imports from Mongolia totaled $3.100 million. The total trade turnover for this period amounted to $11.000 million.
Growth and Structure
In 2023, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Mongolia reached $14 million, nearly doubling compared to 2022. Exports amounted to $10.2 million, while imports totaled $3.6 million.
In the first five months of 2024, trade turnover had already reached $11 million (with exports at $7.9 million and imports at $3.1 million), indicating a continued upward trend.
Official UN sources (COMTRADE) confirm this dynamic: Uzbekistan’s exports to Mongolia reached $26.5 million in 2024, more than double the 2023 figure of approximately $10 million.
Export and Import Structure
Uzbekistan’s exports to Mongolia primarily consist of:
Food products (including vegetables, fruits, and other foodstuffs);
Goods from the light industry and automotive sector (including Chevrolet vehicles);
Textiles and agricultural products.
Mongolia’s imports to Uzbekistan include:
Livestock, meat, hides, and wool;
Mineral and agricultural products.
According to 2023 data, Mongolia exported sheep and lamb meat to Uzbekistan worth approximately $4.6 million. In turn, Uzbekistan exported goods valued at $5.4 million to Mongolia, including grapes, fruits, food products, refrigeration and freezing equipment, and cargo vehicles.
Economic Cooperation and Business
Uzbekistan and Mongolia are steadily expanding the scope of their economic cooperation, demonstrating growing interest in jointly implementing mutually beneficial projects in strategic sectors. Over the past two years, special emphasis has been placed on the agricultural sector, light industry, pharmaceuticals, transport, and information and communication technologies.
One notable development was the beginning of small livestock exports from Mongolia to Uzbekistan. In January 2024, the first shipments were made, delivering over 1,400 sheep. In total, up to 100,000 head are planned for import. The animals are being sent to specialized farms in Navoi region, where breeding will be carried out in accordance with modern veterinary and genetic standards. At the same time, the two sides are working on establishing integrated livestock and meat processing clusters, including facilities for the production of halal-certified products and the advanced processing of wool and hides, in line with the requirements of export markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Particular attention is warranted by the opening in 2024 of an official Chevrolet dealership in Ulaanbaatar, where vehicles manufactured in Uzbekistan are now being showcased. The first model – the Chevrolet Cobalt – has already been delivered to a customer. This milestone marks both the expansion of Uzbek automotive exports and the growing interest of the Mongolian market in competitive and affordable vehicles.
Against the backdrop of this growing industrial partnership, joint projects in the pharmaceutical sector are also gaining momentum. The two sides are exploring opportunities to supply Uzbek-made pharmaceuticals to Mongolia and establish joint production facilities. Plans are also being discussed for creating a diagnostic center in Tashkent with Mongolian participation.
Prospects in construction materials, information technology, and the textile industry are equally promising. Several Mongolian companies have expressed readiness to invest in joint projects for basalt extraction and processing, digital solutions, and producing finished textile goods based on Uzbek raw materials.
A significant impetus for business cooperation was provided by the Uzbekistan – Mongolia Business Forum held in Samarkand in 2024, followed by a similar event in Tashkent in June 2025, which brought together more than 150 companies. During B2B and G2B meetings, agreements were reached on joint construction, mechanical engineering, the food industry, and logistics projects. In the coming months, industrial exhibitions are planned in the capitals of both countries, along with the reciprocal opening of trade houses.
These initiatives are supported by the established Joint Business Council and the provisions of the agreements on mutual investment protection and tax regulation, which are expected to be signed by the end of the year. These measures aim to create a favorable and predictable business environment for investors from both nations.
Transport and Logistics
The transport and logistics sector has been one of the key areas of expanding cooperation between Uzbekistan and Mongolia over the past two years. Given the geographical distance between the two countries, flexible and strategically sound solutions are required, and both sides are now purposefully building an infrastructural link capable of ensuring sustainable communication channels.
In June 2024, during the state visit of the President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh to Tashkent, two fundamental documents were signed: the Intergovernmental Agreement on International Road Transport and the Intergovernmental Agreement on Air Communication. These agreements provide a legal framework for launching regular transport services and facilitating transit between the countries.
The parties agreed to launch a direct air route between Tashkent and Ulaanbaatar, becoming the first regular air link between Uzbekistan and Mongolia. According to preliminary plans, the flight will be operated by Hunnu Air in cooperation with Uzbek aviation entities starting in September 2025. This will significantly reduce travel time between the capitals and stimulate business, tourism, and humanitarian exchanges.
Simultaneously, road connectivity, particularly in freight transportation, is actively developing. In 2024, Uzbekistan and Mongolia doubled the permits for international transit, agreed to implement the E-Permit electronic system, and began developing a pilot route through China and Kyrgyzstan. This route is designed to enable multimodal transport operations with minimal transit costs. The project aims to establish an alternative trade and logistics corridor that connects Mongolia with Central Asia, bypassing the heavily congested routes of East Asia.
A significant achievement has been the launch of deliveries of Uzbek-made UzAuto vehicles to Mongolia. The first batch was delivered to Ulaanbaatar in 2024, and the project became viable thanks to an optimized logistics route through China. This reflects Uzbekistan’s broader strategy of expanding its automotive exports into East Asian markets.
Cultural and Humanitarian Cooperation
The development of cultural ties between Uzbekistan and Mongolia has become an integral component of the broader course toward deepening a comprehensive partnership. In 2024-2025, the humanitarian dimension acquired a dynamic and meaningful character, enriching the political and economic dialogue with an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect.
A highlight of this cooperation was the organization of cross-cultural days held in the capitals of both countries. These events featured exhibitions, concerts, film screenings, and joint folk art festivals showcasing the Uzbek and Mongolian peoples’ rich historical and cultural heritage.
One particularly memorable performance was that of the Mongolian State Morin Khuur Orchestra in Tashkent in 2024. This ensemble, representing the spirit of the nomadic culture of Central Asia, became a symbol of spiritual closeness and openness between the two nations.
In addition to cultural programs, youth and sports exchanges are actively developing. Delegations from sports federations conducted mutual visits, friendly matches were organized, and joint training sessions took place. As part of a bilateral agreement, the two sides are discussing the creation of a Youth Initiatives Center and organizing regular youth camps involving schoolchildren and students from both countries.
Expanding cooperation in education has become one of the key priorities. The parties agreed to resume the provision of scholarships for Mongolian students in Uzbekistan universities, including Tashkent State University of Economics, Urgench University, and medical institutions. Uzbekistan has expressed its readiness to increase the number of quotas for Mongolian citizens under the framework of bilateral academic exchange.
Additional momentum was provided by the agreements between the national academies of science, signed during the 2024 visit of the President of Mongolia. A joint archaeological research program is being implemented, and exchanges of scholars and trainees between universities and research centers are planned. Support was also extended to a joint project dedicated to studying the heritage of the Great Silk Road in Central Asia, including the participation of Mongolian experts in Uzbek expeditions to Karakalpakstan and Samarkand region.
Healthcare and Humanitarian Initiatives
A new area of bilateral cooperation has emerged in the healthcare sector. Under agreements reached in 2024, plans were announced to open a branch of the Mongolian Medical Center in Tashkent. This project aims to introduce advanced medical technologies and foster clinical collaboration in diagnostics and preventive medicine.
Joint pharmaceutical initiatives are also developing. The Mongolian side has shown interest in procuring Uzbek pharmaceutical products and establishing joint production facilities in Uzbekistan. Consultations between relevant agencies on mutual recognition of medical certificates and simplifying pharmaceutical registration procedures are ongoing.
Special attention within the humanitarian agenda is devoted to environmental cooperation. Uzbekistan and Mongolia have initiated the coordination of programs to combat desertification and climate change. The two countries are exploring the integration of Uzbekistan’s “Billion Trees” initiative with Mongolia’s “Green Space” program. This includes joint planting of green belts in arid regions, exchanging best practices on reforestation, and implementing water-saving technologies.
Geopolitical and Regional Context
As a landlocked country between Russia and China, Mongolia is intensifying its engagement with the Central Asian states, viewing the region as a promising vector of its foreign policy. This growing closeness opens up new opportunities for enhancing transport connectivity, fostering energy cooperation, sharing experience in sustainable development, and strengthening regional stability.
Despite the absence of a shared border, Uzbekistan and Mongolia demonstrate similar approaches to ensuring peace, promoting socio-economic reforms, and shaping a multi-vector foreign policy. Both countries strive to diversify their partnerships and actively participate in regional platforms amid global transformations. In particular, Mongolia’s interest in the “Central Asia+” format and its readiness for institutional cooperation with organizations such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the Organization of Turkic States confirm its course toward closer integration with the region.
Special attention is given to developing multimodal transport routes, including using Uzbekistan’s logistical potential to facilitate Mongolia’s access to South and Central Asia markets. Furthermore, cooperation in environmental sustainability, particularly through the synergy of the “Billion Trees” initiative and the “Green Space” program, strengthens a shared regional approach to climate challenges.
Conclusion
The development of relations between Uzbekistan and Mongolia over the past two years illustrates a shift from isolated contacts to a systemic and multifaceted partnership. A trust-based political dialogue, the launch of joint economic projects, the expansion of humanitarian exchanges, and the strengthening of transport infrastructure lay the groundwork for sustainable and long-term cooperation.
The state visit of the President of Mongolia to Tashkent in 2024 marked a historic milestone, setting a new level for the bilateral agenda. The upcoming visit of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Ulaanbaatar in June 2025 is expected to build upon this positive momentum, with a focus on the implementation of previously reached agreements and the launch of long-term programs.
The emerging model of relations, based on mutual respect, pragmatism, and a commitment to sustainable development, serves the interests of both countries. In the context of strengthening regional cooperation, Uzbekistan and Mongolia are laying the foundations for a comprehensive strategic partnership oriented toward the future. This partnership can potentially play a significant role not only bilaterally, but also in creating new growth points across Central and East Asia.
Abduaziz Khidirov, UzA

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MNCCI president resigns over leadership concerns www.ubpost.mn

The Board of Directors of the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry convened on June 20 and voted to dismiss President L.Tur-Od, citing a lack of trust in his leadership. Former President of the Chamber B.Lkhagvajav was appointed as interim replacement.
Out of 75 board members, 55 expressed opposition to L.Tur-Od, largely due to his failure to appoint a CEO since taking office. Employees also formed a trade union in protest, declaring they would no longer cooperate with him.
The board had previously submitted a petition urging L.Tur-Od to resign voluntarily, but he refused. This marks the first time in the MNCCI’s history that a sitting president has been dismissed. L.Tur-Od was elected during the Extraordinary XXII General Assembly held on November 28, 2024.

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Mongolia, Russia drive surge in S. Korea's medical tourism www.chosun.com

A 63-year-old Mongolian man underwent a liver transplant at Seoul Asan Medical Center in January. Diagnosed with hepatitis D in 2022, his condition worsened, making a transplant necessary. He recovered after receiving a liver donated by his son. A five-year-old Russian boy, diagnosed with malignant brain tumor, received proton therapy at Samsung Medical Center last December. Despite radiation treatment in Russia, his condition did not improve, prompting the family to seek care in South Korea.
Last year, 1.17 million foreign patients visited South Korea, nearly doubling the 610,000 recorded in 2023 and a 140% increase from 490,000 in 2019 before COVID-19. The rise is mainly driven by Japanese and Chinese patients seeking dermatology and cosmetic treatments, but essential medical fields like internal medicine are also seeing growth. Medical experts predict foreign patient numbers could reach 1.5 million this year, with steady increases from third countries beyond Japan and China, and growing demand in departments beyond dermatology.
Spending by foreign patients has surged accordingly. According to the Korea Tourism Organization’s data, foreign medical expenditures from January to May this year reached 714.5 billion won, up 74.9% from 408.4 billion won in the same period last year. Payment transactions rose 50.5% from 991,057 to 1,492,354, and average spending per transaction grew 16% from 412,000 won to 478,000 won. A medical official attributed this growth to the global popularity of K-pop and Korean culture, which has extended to Korean medical services.
Mongolia and Russia have drawn particular attention in the medical field. Mongolian patients numbered 17,918 in 2019 but dipped during the pandemic, then surged to a record 25,731 last year. Russian patient numbers dropped from 29,897 in 2019 to the 6,000 range during 2020-2021 but climbed back to 16,622 last year. Despite the Russia-Ukraine war, the increase in Russian patients visiting South Korea remains clear.
By specialty, Mongolian and Russian patients primarily seek internal medicine, an essential field. In contrast, Japanese and Chinese patients mostly visit dermatology and plastic surgery, often combining treatments with tourism. Mongolian and Russian patients tend to visit South Korea for severe illnesses like advanced cancer or organ transplants, conditions difficult to treat locally. Korean hospitals’ advanced technology and infrastructure attract these patients. A general hospital official noted that before COVID-19, most foreign patients sought health check-ups or cosmetic procedures, but since 2023, the number of severe cases has grown. An official from one of the Big Five hospitals said, “It’s not only wealthy patients choosing Korean medical tourism. Some sell homes or raise donations just to get proper treatment.”
South Korean hospitals have earned high marks globally. Recently, nine Korean hospitals ranked first in six of nine categories in Newsweek’s 2025 Asia-Pacific Best Specialized Hospitals list, excelling in essential fields like cancer, cardiology, and endocrinology. A Seoul university hospital official explained that foreign patients focus on medical quality and service when choosing overseas treatment. Some Russian patients who initially considered Turkey or Israel switch to South Korea after evaluating treatment success rates.
As Mongolian and Russian patient numbers rise, hospitals are expanding dedicated coordinators who handle appointment scheduling, airport pick-ups, interpretation, and care management for foreign patients. All Big Five hospitals have coordinators for Mongolian and Russian patients, and many other medical institutions are increasing their staff to support this growing demand.
By  Oh Kyung-muk,
Kim Seo-young

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Health Minister Meets ADB Country Director to Discuss Projects and Programs in Health Sector www.montsame.mn

Minister of Health of Mongolia Chinburen Jigjidsuren received Country Director for Mongolia at the Asian Development Bank Shannon Cowlin on June 23, 2025.
At the meeting, Minister of Health Chinburen Jigjidsuren highlighted the Asian Development Bank as a significant development partner, which has cooperated with the Mongolian Government in the health sector on a wide scope, ranging from the improvement of the first aid service framework to strengthening hospital services, financial management, and human resources.
Meanwhile, Ms. Shannon Cowlin introduced planned investment projects in the health sector as well as a number of new early-stage technical support programs and projects to Minister Chinburen Jigjidsuren.
Minister Chinburen Jigjidsuren received information and exchanged views on the progress of current investment projects and pressing issues. The Minister proposed to arrange another meeting to discuss further actions and possible solutions, after reviewing detailed information about the ongoing projects from relevant officials.

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The First National Shearing and Woolhandling Championships Hosted with Over 100 Participants www.montsame.mn

Under the auspices of President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, the “Altan Khaich 2025” (Golden Shears 2025), the first-ever National Shearing and Woolhandling Championships of Mongolia took place on June 20-21, 2025, in Zuunmod, Tuv aimag.
The competition, organized by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry (MOFALI) and the Governor’s Office of Tuv Aimag within the framework of the “Tsagaan Alt” (“White Gold”) National Movement, aims to increase the value of sheep wool, improve its efficient use, and support the production of wool final goods. Furthermore, it targets to facilitate herders’ workload by introducing and promoting time-efficient technologies and equipment and rewarding youth who have acquired the skills to use them.
The “Altan Khaich 2025” competition was organized within three categories: traditional hand shearing, beginner-level electric shearing, and professional electric shearing. The judges consisted of one Australian and seven New Zealand professionals, as well as herders, scholars, and researchers.
Originated in 1961 in New Zealand, the “Golden Shears” competition has become a tradition hosted in locally tailored ways by fifteen countries worldwide. The competition, organized for the first time in Mongolia, also featured a wool and cashmere product exhibition, a fashion show,  competitions of knuckle-bone shooting and wool plying, and a song contest among sheep shearers.
Over a hundred sheep shearers aged between 19 and 70 from 18 aimags participated in the competition. Champion Herder of Mongolia from Darvi soum, Gobi-Altai aimag Batmagnai Shagdarsuren won first place in the hand shearing category, scoring 981.8. As for the amateur electric shearing category, Herder from Tsenkher soum, Arkhangai aimag Azbayar Chuluunbat secured first place, shearing five sheep in 8 minutes and 14 seconds. The winner in the professional electric shearing category is Herder from Khotont soum, Arkhangai aimag Baasandorj Erdenetsogt, who sheared 10 sheep in 10 minutes and 52 seconds.
Herder Baasandorj Erdenetsogt set a national record of shearing 455 sheep in 8 hours. In recognition of his achievement, President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa awarded him a certificate of acknowledgment, confirming his participation in the 2026 Shearing and Woolhandling Championships.

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Mongolian Team “Alpha Gaming” Wins the PUBG Mobile Super League – Central & South Asia Spring 2025 www.montsame.mn

Mongolia’s team “Alpha Gaming” has won first place in the PUBG Mobile Super League – Central & South Asia Spring 2025 tournament, held in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
The tournament, which took place from June 12 to 22, 2025, brought together a total of 20 teams from Mongolia, the Russian Federation, the Republic of Pakistan, the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, and the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Two teams, namely “Alpha Gaming” and “Champions Esports”, competed from Mongolia.
As a result of scoring 170 points over eighteen games in three days, Mongolia’s team “Alpha Gaming” won the gold medal and the Cup, along with a prize of USD 36,300. Additionally, member of “Alpha Gaming” Burenbayar Altangerel became Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP). The team had previously won 4th place in the PUBG Mobile Global Championship 2023 under the name “4Merical Vibes”, but changed their name to “Alpha Gaming” last spring. They won the Super Leagues last spring and autumn.
As for the team “Champions Esports”, they ranked 12th with 93 points and were awarded a prize of USD 7,750.

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Mongolia’s parliamentary speaker highlights strengthening strategic ties with Korea www.koreatimes.co.kr

Korea and Mongolia are marking 35 years of diplomatic relations with renewed efforts to deepen their strategic partnership across economic, technological and cultural fronts, according to Dashzegve Amarbayasgalan, Chairman of the State Great Khural, or Parliament, of Mongolia.
In a written interview with The Korea Times, Amarbayasgalan described the current relationship as having been “elevated to the level of a strategic partnership,” emphasizing shared democratic values and common regional interests. “Over the past 35 years, relations and cooperation between our two countries have expanded across all sectors of society and the economy,” he said.
Amarbayasgalan emphasized that the bilateral relationship, which stems from Mongolia’s “Third Neighbor” policy, is rooted in shared values such as democracy, human rights and the principles of a market economy. “Mongolia deeply appreciates the consistent support provided by Korea during our democratic and economic transition,” he said.
In terms of economy, Amarbayasgalan highlighted the significant potential of mining and supply chains, stating that “Mongolia’s mineral wealth, when combined with Korea’s advanced technology and expertise, offers substantial opportunities for cooperation.”
He referenced the 2023 memorandum on rare metals and the establishment of a joint research center for rare metals as a cornerstone of future Korea-Mongolia collaboration. The project involves establishing four laboratories for research and processing, adding that it will “lay a strong foundation for expanding future cooperation in this field.”
He also mentioned significant infrastructure projects, such as the Solongo 1 and 2 apartment developments and the construction of thermal power plants in 10 provincial centers. “Both sides are working closely to ensure the successful and effective implementation of these projects and programs,” he added.
He said that Mongolia is also working to diversify its economy beyond mining and welcomes Korean support and investment in its agricultural and processing industries under improved preferential tax conditions.
The speaker described the visit of former National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo to Mongolia in 2023 as “friendly and cordial.”
It was the first visit by a Korean parliamentary leader in 12 years. Discussions reinforced support for bilateral trade and investment. “We agreed to focus parliamentary support for increasing trade and investment between our two countries,” he said.
People-to-people ties were also a key focus of the talks. “Since 2022, the Mongolian government has exempted Korean tourists from visa requirements. Consequently, 193,000 Korean nationals visited Mongolia last year,” he said, citing the country's growing popularity among Korean tourists, who are attracted by its natural beauty, peaceful countryside, blue skies and wide-open steppes.
Amarbayasgalan confirmed that negotiations for an Economic Partnership Agreement between the two countries are well underway, with four rounds having been completed thus far. “This agreement … holds significant importance for expanding trade, services and economic cooperation,” he said. “It will establish a legal framework for collaboration between private businesses and entrepreneurs.”
Mongolian night sky / Korea Times file
Mongolian night sky / Korea Times file
He also acknowledged Korea’s long-standing support in the form of grant aid and concessional loans, which have played a crucial role in Mongolia’s transition to a democratic and market-based economy.
“Between 1991 and 2023, Korea provided $237.7 million in nonrefundable aid,” he said, citing major initiatives such as the Greenbelt program and urban development projects in Ulaanbaatar.
Looking ahead, Mongolia envisages a strategic partnership with Korea in the areas of green energy and digital governance. “There is great potential for cooperation in areas such as wind and solar energy, smart grid development and the introduction of energy storage systems,” said Amarbayasgalan.
He referred to the Memorandum of Understanding on e-governance signed in 2023 by Mongolia’s Cabinet Secretariat and Korea’s Ministry of the Interior and Safety. “The two parties are sharing knowledge and enhancing their human resources capacity in areas such as the digitalization of public services, open data, data security and the use of artificial intelligence in public administration,” he said.
Tourism and cultural exchange are also experiencing rapid growth. “More than 350,000 people traveled between the two countries last year alone,” Amarbayasgalan said. “At the peak of the tourism season, over 100 direct flights operate weekly between Mongolia and Korea.” Plans are in place to increase air connectivity, develop new tour packages and introduce youth exchange programs, including internships.
Cultural initiatives include “Mongolia-Korea Cultural Month,” joint exhibitions, film festivals and artistic performances, all of which are intended to foster deeper understanding between the two peoples. “The friendly relationship between our peoples, along with the linguistic and cultural similarities between our two nations, provide a solid foundation for the continued expansion of bilateral relations and cooperation,” he said.
Regarding regional diplomacy, Amarbayasgalan reaffirmed Mongolia’s commitment to peace on the Korean Peninsula and in the wider Northeast Asian region. “Mongolia supports peace and prosperity … and the resolution of disputes through peaceful dialogue,” he said. He noted that Mongolia has hosted the “Ulaanbaatar Dialogue on Northeast Asian Security” every year since 2013, with preparations underway for the session in June.
In his closing message, Amarbayasgalan conveyed his heartfelt thanks to the people and leaders of Korea.
“The strategic partnership between Mongolia and Korea is founded on the principles of democracy, an open society and shared development,” he said. “Our partnership ... contributes to regional stability and peace.” He also reaffirmed Mongolia’s commitment to further strengthening this trust-based relationship in the years to come.
BY
Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.

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“MongolZ” Makes History: The First Asian Team to Win 2nd Place in World Counter-Strike Championship www.montsame.mn

Mongolian National Team, “The MongolZ,” won second place in the Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) world championship, held in Austin, USA, marking a monumental achievement in esports history not only for Mongolia but also Asia.
The tournament, which began on June 3, 2025, brought together five Asian, sixteen European, and eleven American teams. Two out of the six Asian teams were from Mongolia. The other team from Mongolia, “Chinggis Warriors,” concluded their competition by losing against the Chinese team, taking 28th to 30th place.
“The MongolZ” was the only team from Asia to advance into the quarter-finals, securing their right to compete in the single-elimination bracket. After defeating the team “FaZe Clan”, then the Brazilian National Team “paiN Gaming” in the semi-finals, “The Mongolz” qualified for the finals. They were to face the world’s leading team from the French Republic, “Team Vitality”, who had lost only 2 out of 39 games and had won 6 out of their last 7 tournaments. The final game of “The MongolZ”, highly anticipated by the team’s loyal fans as well as all of Mongolia, began at 03:30 AM, June 23, 2025.
Youth all across Mongolia gathered at Sukhbaatar Square, “Steppe Arena”, the amphitheater at the National Amusement Park, the Ard Ayush Square in Khovd aimag, and the football field in Darkhan-Uul aimag to watch and support the national team. “The MongolZ” lost the game with a score of 1:2. Although the first round was won by “The MongolZ” at 13:5, the French National Team won the second and third rounds at 4:13 and 6:13 respectively, becoming the champions of the biennial World Cup.
The Mongolian National Team “MongolZ” made history with a silver medal, as they became the first team from Asia to advance to the finals and set a record of injuring an opposing player 36 times in a single match. Team “The MongolZ” became the youngest roster to qualify for the final stage of the tournament, with an average age of 20.8. Moreover, “The MongolZ” set another record for playing the highest number of rounds in one match – 53 rounds. In the 20-year history of the game “Counter-Strike”, no other Asian team has ever achieved the level of success accomplished by “The MongolZ”. Despite falling short in the final, the Mongolian team left a lasting mark on the global esports stage.
The winner of the championship, with a total prize pool of USD 1,250,000, won a prize of USD 500,000, whereas the runner-up team “The MongolZ” won a prize of USD 170,000. The third and fourth places were awarded USD 80,000.

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