1 ZANDANSHATAR GOMBOJAV APPOINTED AS PRIME MINISTER OF MONGOLIA WWW.MONTSAME.MN PUBLISHED:2025/06/13      2 WHAT MONGOLIA’S NEW PRIME MINISTER MEANS FOR ITS DEMOCRACY WWW.TIME.COM PUBLISHED:2025/06/13      3 ULAANBAATAR DIALOGUE SHOWS MONGOLIA’S FOREIGN POLICY CONTINUITY AMID POLITICAL UNREST WWW.THEDIPLOMAT.COM PUBLISHED:2025/06/13      4 THE UNITED NATIONS CHILDREN’S FUND (UNICEF) IN MONGOLIA, THE NATIONAL FOUNDATION FOR SUPPORTING THE BILLION TREES MOVEMENT, AND CREDITECH STM NBFI LLC HAVE JOINTLY LAUNCHED THE “ONE CHILD – ONE TREE” INITIATIVE WWW.BILLIONTREE.MN PUBLISHED:2025/06/13      5 NEW MONGOLIAN PM TAKES OFFICE AFTER CORRUPTION PROTESTS WWW.AFP.MN PUBLISHED:2025/06/13      6 GOLD, MINED BY ARTISANAL AND SMALL-SCALE MINERS OF MONGOLIA TO BE SUPPLIED TO INTERNATIONAL JEWELRY COMPANIES WWW.MONTSAME.MN PUBLISHED:2025/06/13      7 AUSTRIA PUBLISHES SYNTHESIZED TEXTS OF TAX TREATIES WITH ICELAND, KAZAKHSTAN AND MONGOLIA AS IMPACTED BY BEPS MLI WWW.ORBITAX.COM  PUBLISHED:2025/06/13      8 THE UNITED STATES AND MONGOLIA OPEN THE CENTER OF EXCELLENCE FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING IN ULAANBAATAR WWW.MN.USEMBASSY.GOV  PUBLISHED:2025/06/12      9 MONGOLIA'S 'DRAGON PRINCE' DINOSAUR WAS FORERUNNER OF T. REX WWW.REUTERS.COM PUBLISHED:2025/06/12      10 MONGOLIA’S PIVOT TO CENTRAL ASIA AND THE CAUCASUS: STRATEGIC REALIGNMENTS AND REGIONAL IMPLICATIONS WWW.CACIANALYST.ORG  PUBLISHED:2025/06/12      БӨӨРӨЛЖҮҮТИЙН ЦАХИЛГААН СТАНЦЫН II БЛОКИЙГ 12 ДУГААР САРД АШИГЛАЛТАД ОРУУЛНА WWW.MONTSAME.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/06/15     ОРОН СУУЦНЫ ҮНЭ 14.3 ХУВИАР ӨСЖЭЭ WWW.EGUUR.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/06/15     МОНГОЛ УЛСЫН 34 ДЭХ ЕРӨНХИЙ САЙДААР Г.ЗАНДАНШАТАРЫГ ТОМИЛЛОО WWW.MONTSAME.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/06/13     SXCOAL: МОНГОЛЫН НҮҮРСНИЙ ЭКСПОРТ ЗАХ ЗЭЭЛИЙН ХҮНДРЭЛИЙН СҮҮДЭРТ ХУМИГДАЖ БАЙНА WWW.ITOIM.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/06/13     МОНГОЛ БАНК: ТЭТГЭВРИЙН ЗЭЭЛД ТАВИХ ӨР ОРЛОГЫН ХАРЬЦААГ 50:50 БОЛГОЛОО WWW.EGUUR.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/06/13     МОНГОЛ ДАХЬ НҮБ-ЫН ХҮҮХДИЙН САН, ТЭРБУМ МОД ҮНДЭСНИЙ ХӨДӨЛГӨӨНИЙГ ДЭМЖИХ САН, КРЕДИТЕХ СТМ ББСБ ХХК “ХҮҮХЭД БҮРД – НЭГ МОД” САНААЧИЛГЫГ ХАМТРАН ХЭРЭГЖҮҮЛНЭ WWW.BILLIONTREE.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/06/13     ЕРӨНХИЙЛӨГЧИЙН ТАМГЫН ГАЗРЫН ДАРГААР А.ҮЙЛСТӨГӨЛДӨР АЖИЛЛАНА WWW.EAGLE.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/06/13     34 ДЭХ ЕРӨНХИЙ САЙД Г.ЗАНДАНШАТАР ХЭРХЭН АЖИЛЛАНА ГЭЖ АМЛАВ? WWW.EGUUR.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/06/13     “АНГЛИ ХЭЛНИЙ МЭРГЭШЛИЙН ТӨВ”-ИЙГ МУИС-Д НЭЭЛЭЭ WWW.MONTSAME.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/06/13     Г.ЗАНДАНШАТАР БАЯЛГИЙН САНГИЙН БОДЛОГЫГ ҮРГЭЛЖЛҮҮЛНЭ ГЭЖ АМЛАЛАА WWW.EGUUR.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/06/12    

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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Preparation Works Underway to Increase Internet Speed Tenfold www.montsame.mn

The Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications of Mongolia is preparing to introduce a 5G network nationwide, with competitive bidding to begin in March 2025.
The internet capacity of soums in Mongolia is set to increase tenfold. This enables the accessibility of all modern digital services and allows students to study on all digital platforms and learn foreign languages. The increased internet capacity will also provide swift accessibility for medical services.
Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Communications of Mongolia Baatarkhuu Tsend noted, “With the implementation of the 5G network, we can discuss the introduction of self-driving vehicles and automation technology in the manufacturing sector. Also, households would no longer need to submit their electricity and water meters manually, instead, it can be fully automated and more accurate.”
Mongolia has 53 thousand kilometers of fiber optic cables throughout the cities and soums, which means 23 percent of the country’s territory has internet access.

 
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Performance Monitoring Unit Highlights Streamlined Permit Issuance www.montsame.mn

The Performance Monitoring Unit under the Prime Minister of Mongolia held its 5th meeting on February 8, 2025. The implementation of decisions made at previous meetings, the financing model for projects to be implemented in Ulaanbaatar City, and the improvement of the legal environment were discussed at the meeting.
Ulaanbaatar City plans to implement 24 projects related to reducing air pollution and congestion in 2025-2028. Of these, the financing sources for eight projects have been resolved, including the Tuul Highway Project, the Cable Car Project, the Selbe and Bayankhoshuu Housing Projects, the Infrastructure Project of the Emeelt Eco-Industrial Park, and the Ulaanbaatar Tram Project. The financing for these projects will be allocated in the Capital City Budget, foreign loans, and bonds, stated Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar Nyambaatar Khishgee. The Tuul Highway Project, for example, requires MNT 1.9 trillion. The 32-km, six-lane highway from the Nalaikh Highway to the Darkhan Highway junction is expected to increase the average traffic speed by 14 percent when it is put into operation in 2027. Meanwhile, the Selbe Housing Project requires MNT 1.7 trillion and is planned to be financed with foreign bonds. Once the Project is completed, the number of households that burn coal for heating will be reduced by 10,000. As of today, the engineering infrastructure of the Selbe Housing Project has been completed, land release is at 70 percent, and construction tenders are underway. Furthermore, the work to resolve financing sources for the remaining 12 projects is ongoing. The financing for the Ulaanbaatar Metro Project (Line 1) will be confirmed soon, according to Mayor Nyambaatar.
A total of 73 tasks were given in six areas during the first four meetings of the Performance Monitoring Unit under the Prime Minister. Of these, 17 have been resolved, while the rest are in the implementation stage, said​​ Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat Uchral Nyam-Osor. In his presentation on the implementation of the Law on Permits, Mr. Uchral highlighted that there are some bureaucracies and shortcomings in the permit issuance process, including a large number of steps, insufficient digitalization, and government agencies requiring insignificant documents as well as some permits are issued under a regulation. Therefore, the Chief of the Cabinet Secretariat suggested implementing regulatory reforms based on risk assessment and transferring the function of issuing some types of permits to professional associations. Streamlining and expediting the issuance of permits is crucial for the construction work taking place in the Capital City, noted some members of the Performance Monitoring Unit, mentioning the need to reduce duplication and steps.
Prime Minister of Mongolia Oyuun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai instructed to continue working on the process of switching to gas fuel, using domestic resources, exploring opportunities for cooperation with entrepreneurs, continuing to work on financing sources for major projects to be implemented in the capital, improving the relevant legal environment, and developing and presenting proposals on how state-owned enterprises can support and participate in the construction projects to be carried out in Ulaanbaatar. The Prime Minister also reminded relevant officials that the pressing issues in the capital and their solutions should be comprehensively reflected in the general plan for the development of Ulaanbaatar until 2040.

 
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Signing and Exchange of Notes for Official Security Assistance (OSA) FY2024 project to Mongolia www.mofa.go.jp

On February10, in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, H.E. Mr. IGAWAHARA Masaru, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Mongolia, and H.E. Sandag BYAMBATSOGT, Minister of Defence of Mongolia , signed and exchanged notes for 1.3 billion yen in “Official Security Assistance (OSA)” FY 2024 project.
Japan and Mongolia share fundamental values such as freedom, democracy and rule of law, cooperating in security and various other areas under the "Special Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity."
The project will provide the Mongolian Air Force with an air traffic control radar system and related equipment. It is expected to strengthen the situational awareness and air traffic control capabilities of the air force. The project will contribute to ensuring security and safe use of the airspace based on the rule of law in Mongolia and throughout the region.
Japan Air Self-Defense Force and Mongolian Air Force have conducted defense cooperation and exchanges over years. They include capacity building project on air traffic control, which are currently being implemented and expected to have synergistic effects with this OSA project.
(Reference)
OSA is a grant aid cooperation framework which provides equipment and supplies as well as assistance for the development of infrastructures to armed forces and other related organizations of recipient countries. By enhancing their security and deterrence capabilities, OSA aims to strengthen our security cooperation with the recipient countries, to create a desirable security environment for Japan, and to contribute to maintaining and strengthening international peace and security.
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How a short trip to Mongolia changed my perspective on life www.thirst.sg

“Impactful” is the one word that represents what my trip to Mongolia meant to me.
I’ve seen the stories about poverty. I have heard people share that such “exposure” trips would radically change a person’s life.
Such stories tug on our heartstrings while reading them, but we quickly move on when the reality of deadlines, work and commitments hits us – all these stories and emotions then fade to the back of our minds.
But there is something different when you go to be with them, seeing the real faces behind these stereotypical stories and forming an inexplicable bond with them. The plague of poverty is the reality for these people.
Going on this trip made me realise that it sometimes takes an actual experience for our hearts to be changed. Now that I’ve actually gone out there to step into these communities – people and places that I’ve been so far away from – something has happened in my heart.
From a head that knows, to a heart that cares
As a 19-year-old, I am immersed in a culture of “grinding”. School and work environments can feel like increasingly toxic places that foster perpetual competition and demand never-ending commitments.
But in all the schools I visited in Mongolia, the one thing that stood out to me was their ability to make the most out of whatever they have been given.
The children there do so many activities for the sake of passion, pleasure and enjoyment. I never got the sense that they were taking part in these activities to climb the social ladder. They just seemed so much lighter and happier.
These values are especially seen in their “informal schools” – schools specially designated for co-curricular and extracurricular activities.
These schools don’t just educate children, they also welcome adults who may be mentally disabled or who did not have access to education at a young age.
Through my visits, I learnt that these schools really try to understand the unique difficulties each student faces so as to adapt their activities accordingly.
I believe such an education system brings hope to those who are conventionally deemed as “slow learners”, and also unleashes each person’s potential so that everyone can contribute to society.
This was most clear when the children shared their aspirations for the future with me.
One girl told me that she wanted to be a dentist because she noticed that the other children’s teeth weren’t so good.
Another girl (who I sponsor, as well as her sibling) told me she wants to become a doctor because her father was bedridden for an entire year.
These children have a different drive behind their aspirations beyond just self-fulfilment. It’s not just grades or individual gains – they carry a desire to serve and help others.
Building community banks
World Vision has also started a project called Savings Groups that aims to provide education on financial responsibility.
This is because many vulnerable families in Mongolia have unstable sources of income, and they don’t know when or how to save.
For instance, some families that sell crops for a living depend on the weather for their income.
If they managed to have a good harvest, they would immediately spend all the money earned on big-ticket items like a new TV.
But if their harvest isn’t good in the following year, they would have no savings for their daily necessities.
Therefore, World Vision hopes to help such close-knit communities cultivate financial responsibility and accountability through Savings Groups.
Each Savings Group consists of around 10 to 15 members, and it functions like a community bank.
Each member can decide how much money they want to save, and they put it in a safe box for safekeeping. One person safe-keeps the box, while several keys are handed to different people. They will need all the keys to open the box.
Taking out loans would require an interest, and that generates some money for other members of the group.
At these Savings Groups, the members also rotate meetings among their homes so they get to meet each other’s families and see their living conditions. This helps them when they need to decide whether a member should be allowed to take out a loan.
This system also builds the personal relationships that members have with each other. It is one thing to put money in a bank or save some money at home on your own, but when dreams and plans are shared – a culture of accountability and encouragement are created.
To whom much was given, of him much will be required
Living in a part of the world that is more developed, we are financially better off than many. We can certainly look out for brothers and sisters like the ones I met in Mongolia.
I really hope to encourage us not to underestimate the power of sponsorship. In some ways, $45 a month might not seem like a lot of money. But during my time in Mongolia, I truly saw the impact that World Vision is making and how grateful the local communities are.
We were told many stories of how sponsored children became vice presidents of agriculture, workers at World Vision and people who took up other jobs that give back to the community.
This is one of World Vision’s missions – to empower the sponsored to become sponsors. So when we sponsor a child, the impact it brings is actually exponential. And that brings me so much hope.
I returned from the trip with a new commitment. From a girl with no responsibilities, I have now pledged to sponsor two children for the next decade. It feels like I now have a little family of my own!
If you are keen to find out more about World Vision, start here!
By Maria Chow
This story was contributed by a volunteer. Have a testimony that could encourage others? We’d love to hear from you at hello@thir.st!
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Prime Minister condoles smoke inhalation victims, urges to be responsible www.gogo.mn

The 5th meeting of the Emergency Headquarters, chaired by Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene, focused on addressing air pollution and ensuring public safety. At the beginning of the session, the Prime Minister expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives due to smoke inhalation. He emphasized the importance of reducing air pollution, improving citizen safety, and called on the Emergency Headquarters to work more responsibly and diligently.
N.Uchral, Head of the State Emergency Management Agency, presented a report on the implementation of the Law on Permits. He noted several challenges in the current process, such as procedural delays, excessively lengthy permit issuance processes, insufficient digitalization, and unnecessary document requirements from state organizations. N.Uchral proposed regulatory reforms based on risk assessments and suggested transferring some types of permits to professional associations to improve efficiency.
During the meeting, Member of Parliament N.Nomtoibayar stressed the need for a unified foreign relations policy to facilitate the successful implementation of large-scale projects.
In response, Prime Minister L.Oyun-Erdene instructed the government to continue transitioning to gas fuel, utilizing domestic resources, and exploring collaboration with entrepreneurs to support major infrastructure projects in Ulaanbaatar. He also called for improved legal frameworks and the development of comprehensive proposals on how state-owned enterprises could contribute to the city’s construction projects.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the General Development Plan of Ulaanbaatar through 2040 must thoroughly address the capital’s pressing issues and incorporate sustainable solutions for its long-term development.
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Uzbekistan and Mongolia hold first intergovernmental commission meeting www.uzdaily.uz

On 7 February, Tashkent hosted events aimed at enhancing Uzbek-Mongolian trade, economic, and investment cooperation.
As part of the program, Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Jamshid Khodjayev met with Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia Sainbuyan Amarsaikhan to discuss the current state and future prospects of bilateral relations, focusing on trade growth, investments, and industrial collaboration.
By the end of 2023, trade turnover between the two countries had increased by nearly 50%, maintaining a positive trend in 2024. Key exports include passenger cars, food products, and electrical equipment.
During the first session of the Intergovernmental Commission, both sides heard reports from relevant ministries and agencies, reviewed the progress of joint projects, and outlined responsibilities and deadlines for their implementation.
The business agenda continued with a business forum and an inaugural meeting of the Uzbek-Mongolian Business Council, attended by over 150 representatives from major companies of both nations.
The event featured presentations on Uzbekistan’s investment opportunities, as well as the signing of several bilateral agreements, including an education partnership between Tashkent State Agrarian University and Mongolian University of Life Sciences.
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It's almost go-time for Guam in FIBA qualifier against Mongolia and China www.postguam.com

Basketball fans are in for an electrifying showdown as the Bank of Guam men’s national basketball team gears up to host national teams from Mongolia and China in the third window of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers.
The games will take place at the University of Guam Calvo Field House in Mangilao, with Guam facing Mongolia Thursday, Feb. 20 and China Sunday, Feb. 23.
For Guam, the matchups mark a crucial step as they try to secure a spot in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup, set for August in Saudi Arabia. With home-court advantage and the passionate support of the island, Guam is set to bring its A-game against formidable opponents.
“We are excited to compete at home and bring this level of sport to our island community,” said Team Guam head coach EJ Calvo. “This is a dream for any Guam athlete – to compete at home against world-class opponents. We are grateful for this opportunity to represent Guam on the international stage, especially when we can shine a spotlight on our island.”
Since 2023, Guam and Mongolia have developed a fierce rivalry, with multiple intensely played matchups that have showcased both teams as rising threats in FIBA Asia. Their previous encounters, in Mongolia’s home arena, have been closely contested, with dramatic finishes and slim victories by Team Guam that have heightened the anticipation for the upcoming game. Fans can expect another thrilling battle as both teams fight for a critical win to advance and earn more big-time games in March.
For decades, in Asia, China’s men’s national basketball team has been a dominant force, consistently competing at the highest levels. With a strong roster featuring rising stars, China continues to maintain its reputation as one of the top teams in the region. Their disciplined play-style, size, depth and history of success make them a formidable opponent.
Basketball enthusiasts can purchase tickets at guamtime.net. To be able to witness the historical events and partake in the thrilling atmosphere, fans are encouraged to secure their tickets in advance.
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U.S., Japan, Australia and UK Spotlight Mongolia’s Rise Through Culture and Tourism www.travelandtourworld.com

Mongolia shines as U.S., Japan, Australia, and UK spotlight its cultural and tourism rise, showcasing rich heritage, art, and traditions globally.
Eight centuries ago, Mongolia ascended to global prominence through the conquests of Genghis Khan and his legendary equestrian army, whose empire stretched from China to Europe. Today, Nomin Chinbat, Mongolia’s Minister of Culture, is on a mission to elevate Mongolia’s profile on the global stage—but this time, through the softer touch of art, music, and cultural diplomacy.
Mongolia’s cultural renaissance is propelling its artists and traditions to the forefront of the global stage, creating ripples in arts, music, and tourism. From horsehead fiddles captivating audiences at the Sydney Opera House to throat singing blending seamlessly with heavy metal at Glastonbury, Mongolian culture is appearing at some of the world’s most prestigious venues. The country’s cultural soft power is growing, ushering in a new era of recognition and opportunity for its people.
Mongolian Culture Takes the World Stage
Mongolian performers have graced the world’s stages, leaving an indelible mark on global audiences. Last summer, a Mongolian cultural showcase in Paris drew large crowds to La Villette Park during a “mini world’s fair” held alongside the Olympics. Mongolian artistry was also celebrated at the Venice Biennale and featured in Davos at a pop-up shop during the World Economic Forum.
One of the most prominent cultural exports of the past year was the theatrical production The Mongol Khan. Staged at London’s Coliseum, the epic performance captivated audiences and marked a significant milestone for Mongolian performing arts. Upcoming performances in Los Angeles and Broadway are already generating buzz.
For Mongolian artists, performing far from home offers not only a platform to share their culture but also a gateway to global opportunities. Among the most celebrated performers is The HU, a heavy metal band that blends traditional Mongolian instruments with modern rock. Having collaborated with Metallica and completed multiple world tours, The HU is set to headline major events across Europe this summer.
Opera enthusiasts know Amartuvshin Enkhbat, one of the world’s most accomplished opera singers, as another luminary of Mongolian talent. Meanwhile, Mongolian athletes, particularly in Japanese sumo wrestling, continue to assert their dominance, further enhancing the country’s global image.
Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy
Mongolia’s increasing presence on the world stage is no accident. Julian Dierkes, a Mongolia expert at the University of Mannheim, notes that the country’s use of soft power aligns with its foreign policy strategy. As a landlocked nation surrounded by powerful neighbors, Russia and China, Mongolia looks to its “third neighbors”—countries like the United States, Japan, Australia, and the UK—to broaden its global partnerships and influence.
Cultural diplomacy is a cornerstone of this strategy. By showcasing its rich heritage to the world, Mongolia is not only building connections but also enhancing its reputation as a nation with unique and valuable cultural contributions.
Tourism: Mongolia’s Next Big Push
Cultural exposure serves another strategic purpose—boosting tourism. According to Nomin, tourism contributes $1.6 billion annually to Mongolia’s economy, accounting for 7% of its GDP. With the right initiatives, officials aim to increase this figure to 10%.
Tourism in Mongolia is highly seasonal, with summer months seeing an influx of visitors while winters remain quiet. Efforts are underway to extend the tourism season and attract a wider audience. Increased flight options signal growing interest, with South Korea leading the charge. Direct flights between Seoul and Ulaanbaatar have surged, with up to six flights daily in the summer compared to just one or two before the pandemic.
Visitors from the United States are also expected to rise, thanks to United Airlines launching a direct route from Narita (Tokyo) to Ulaanbaatar three times a week. Overall, tourist arrivals are 40% higher than pre-pandemic levels.
While Mongolia’s recent cultural initiatives are undoubtedly helping, global travel trends and social media marketing have also played a significant role in attracting adventurous tourists to this emerging destination.
Reviving Traditional Arts for a Modern Audience
Mongolia’s soft power resurgence is rooted in a renewed emphasis on cultural preservation. Following the fall of communism in the 1990s, efforts to revive and celebrate Mongolian traditions have accelerated. The current government’s cultural revival campaign has reinvigorated traditional arts, music, and language across the country.
Educational programs are central to this movement. Schools and after-school programs now offer lessons in traditional Mongolian script, art, dance, and music. Young people are learning to play the horsehead fiddle, master the ancient art of throat singing (khoomei), and perform traditional dances.
To make culture more accessible, Mongolia plans to introduce a “cultural voucher” system this year. This initiative will grant teenagers free access to cultural events, theatres, and museums, focusing on supporting low-income families who might not otherwise afford such opportunities. Nomin describes the program as an “investment in human development.”
Mongolia is also looking to the global film industry as a platform to amplify its soft power. Inspired by the success of Korean film and television in building cultural influence, Mongolia is investing in its filmmakers and opening its doors to foreign productions. As a member of Parliament, Nomin has spearheaded legislation to support local filmmakers and attract international producers seeking unique and stunning shooting locations.
With sweeping landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant culture, Mongolia is positioning itself as an emerging hub for global cinema. This strategic investment in film aims to further elevate the country’s global profile while fostering local talent.
Sustained Growth in Soft Power
The current wave of cultural diplomacy and soft power is not Mongolia’s first. Past governments have made similar efforts to highlight the country’s traditions and talents. What sets the current push apart is its speed and scope. By rapidly expanding cultural programs, investing in the arts, and strengthening international partnerships, Mongolia is charting a faster trajectory toward global recognition.
For Mongolia, this is more than a trend. Officials view it as a long-term strategy to secure cultural and economic benefits. By nurturing the next generation of artists and preserving traditional knowledge, Mongolia is ensuring its cultural heritage remains vibrant and relevant in an increasingly interconnected world.
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Mongolia Casino Conundrum - Economic Boom or Social Bust? www.mongoliaweekly.org

Mongolia faces a familiar dilemma: how to reduce its dependence on volatile commodity markets and secure sustainable economic growth. Tourism, experiencing a recent 22.5% upswing in visitor numbers, offers a promising avenue for diversification.
The country's renewed push to legalize casinos represents a calculated risk, one with the potential to generate substantial economic benefits, but also requiring careful management of potential social consequences. While proponents emphasize the potential for increased tax revenue and foreign investment, critics remain wary, citing concerns about corruption and the potential strain on limited infrastructure.
The economic arguments for casinos in Mongolia are clear. Mongolia's reliance on mining and agriculture leaves it exposed to fluctuating global commodity prices, a vulnerability compounded by environmental pressures from overgrazing and mining activities. Diversification is not merely desirable, but essential. Casinos, advocates argue, offer a new revenue stream, job creation, and an influx of foreign investment, potentially alleviating the pressure of Mongolia's substantial foreign debt.
However, the high minimum investment requirement of $300 million could limit participation. Furthermore, Mongolia faces challenges to compete with established regional gaming hubs like Macau, which boast more developed infrastructure and a seasoned tourism sector.
Mongolia casino
Success will require addressing infrastructural deficits and investing in workforce development. Also, Mongolia needs to invest not only in physical casino structures but also transportation, hospitality, and entertainment amenities that cater high-end sophisticated international visitors.
The Macau example provides a valuable lesson. While experiencing initial success, Macau’s gaming revenue declined in 2022, largely due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related travel restrictions. This underscores the inherent volatility of the casino sector and the importance of integrating casinos into a broader, more resilient tourism strategy. Diversification remains key; Mongolia cannot afford to put all its economic eggs in one basket.
Furthermore, Mongolia’s history with casinos is troubling. Past attempts at legalization were marred by allegations of corruption, leading to public skepticism and the repeal of earlier legislation. The closure of the Chinggis Khaan Hotel casino under a cloud of suspicion further damaged public trust. This legacy necessitates a commitment to transparency and stringent regulatory oversight in any new casino venture.
A key element of the current proposal is the prohibition on Mongolian citizens gambling in domestic casinos. This provision is intended to mitigate the risk of gambling addiction within the population, although it remains to be seen how effectively this can be enforced, particularly given the rise of online gambling platforms.
However, the nuance is that legislators, already concerned about the growing prevalence of online gambling and illegal casinos within Mongolia, might view the legalization of casinos as exacerbating these existing problems. Their concerns about young Mongolians losing savings through online platforms and illicit gambling could translate into fierce opposition to the casino legislation.
The social implications of casinos warrant careful consideration. While the proposed ban on domestic participation aims to minimize addiction risks within Mongolia, the potential for increased crime, particularly money laundering, requires robust anti-money laundering frameworks and strong law enforcement.
The government’s proposed independent regulatory body is a step in the right direction, but its effectiveness will depend on its independence and enforcement capabilities. Learning from the experiences of other jurisdictions with established gaming industries will be crucial.
While there are a few voices in the public advocating for regulated gambling, with conditions like restrictions to foreigners or stringent entry rules, the overwhelming majority remains opposed to casino legalization in Mongolia. This resistance stems from fears of social and economic damage, and skepticism about potential exploitation by those in power.
Mongolia’s pursuit of casino legalization presents both opportunities and challenges. The potential economic benefits are significant, but the government must navigate a complex landscape of social concerns, regulatory hurdles, and historical skepticism. Success requires not just a focus on economic gains, but also a commitment to transparency, robust regulation, and a clear strategy for mitigating potential social harm.
Ultimately, Mongolia needs to identify and promote its unique cultural attractions alongside gaming to differentiate itself from competitors like Macau. This might include integrating Mongolian rich traditions, natural landscapes, or history into the gaming experience.
by Zhamsrangiin Sambuu

 
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Mongolia Introduces Stereotactic Radiotherapy for Cancer Treatment www.montsame.mn

The National Oncology Center of Mongolia is introducing new and innovative technology and treatments to improve the accessibility of cancer treatment.
The Oncology Center began introducing stereotactic radiotherapy for the removal of tumors in livers and lungs in 2024. This reduces the duration and repetition of therapy. Previously, patients required treatment 25-30 times over a month, while the new precise radiotherapy can be completed in a week with 4-5 treatments.
Deputy Chief Operating Officer of the National Oncology Center Ts. Uranchimeg noted, “The effects of Stereotactic or targeted radiotherapy show after a minimum of 1-2 years. However, observations show the reduction of tumors. International studies indicate that Stereotactic radiotherapy is just as effective as surgery. We are planning to introduce this type of treatment for the brain and spinal cord, and preparing medical teams.”
Stereotactic radiotherapy can be done when the tumor is less than 5 centimeters in size or in the early stages of cancer. The National Oncology Center of Mongolia is seeking to include this treatment option in the Health Insurance discount.
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