CoverMongolia NewsWire
Jump to: Overseas Market - Local Market - Economy - Politics - Business - Diplomacy - Social, Environmental and Other
Bataar
TYRANNOSAURUS BATAAR LANDS IN ULAANBAATAR
May 20 (InfoMongolia) On May 17, 2013, following the signing ceremony on repatriation the Tyrannosaurus Bataar skeleton held in New York on May 06, the year-round being in the center of attention the 70-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus Bataar skeleton has been finally arrived on its homeland.
The delivery has been landed on “Chinggis Khaan” International Airport at 11:15 pm, where authorities from the Government including Head of the Office of the President P.Tsagaan, Minister of the Cabinet Office of the Government of Mongolia Ch.Saikhanbileg, Minister for Culture, Sports and Tourism Ts.Oyungerel and other officials were present to receive the T-Bataar.
The fossils were packaged in 7 boxes and delivered by “Korean Air” company as free of charges, moreover “Tuushin” company was responsible on transportation, “Bodi Daatgal” company covered the insurance policy and “Blue Star” construction company agreed to erect a temporary museum on the Sukhbaatar Square sponsored by “M Oil” company to be opened for public view from June 01, 2013.
This is the first ever repatriated fossils and officials said another dozens of dinosaur findings will be returned by air and ship transportations soon.
MGG CEO: How to Play the Best Bull Markets in the World
May 21 (Money Morning) Find the best bull markets in the world. Get in early. Buy the best assets. Ignore the volatility. And enjoy the ride.
That was the basic formula Harris Kupperman, CEO of Mongolia Growth Group, presented at the Value Investing Congress in Las Vegas.
Below are some notes from his inspiring presentation…
A Tale of Two Markets
Harris suggested that the best places to find ideas are in assets not yet ‘financialised’. By this, he means assets for which there is no ready public market. No easy way to invest. An example would be farmland in 2004.
In 2004, Harris saw a big opportunity in farmland. The outline of the idea was simple and seems obvious now, but at the time it was often overlooked. There were four main parts. First, rapidly growing and industrializing emerging markets raised the demand for food.
Second, existing stockpiles were tight. Third, prices for agricultural goods were low versus inflation. And finally, mandated ethanol usage almost guaranteed corn prices would go up. This would have a spillover effect on many other crops.
The question was: How do you play it? You could buy fertilizer stocks, seed companies, irrigation stocks and the like. While all were plays on the agricultural sector, none had pure leverage to farmland prices. Exposure to farmland is what Harris wanted.
For good reason, as it turned out. Farmland prices would take off. Take a look at the nearby chart – ‘Iowa Farmland: Prices per Acre’ – which Harris used in his presentation.
But there was no way for an investor to buy it…short of buying the asset itself. And that was the point of Harris’ presentation. How you should have played agriculture in 2004 was to build a company yourself that owned farmland.
As Harris said, ‘Stop attending ‘ag’ conferences looking for ideas if you know the answer: Build it yourself.‘
A Lesson from Mongolian Real Estate
It may sound impractical, but this is exactly what Harris did in Mongolia. When he arrived in 2010, Mongolia had a $7 billion economy. It was building one mine that would produce $8 billion in copper and gold per year. It had a few dozen other things that would total $30-50 billion. And its commodity exports were set to grow from $2 billion in 2010 to $20-80 billion by 2020.
How would all that fit in such a small economy? The answer is: it would force asset prices way up. How to get exposure? Much as with farmland in 2004, Mongolia was not yet ‘financialised’. There was no easy way to get exposure to Mongolia. So Harris built it himself along with a business partner and team.
He focused on real estate, which has strong leverage to economic growth. Rents increase in a growing economy. In Mongolia, cap rates (or rental yields) were in the high teens. These would compress as the economy matured, sending prices higher. In 2010, Mongolia real estate was worth less than 10% of comparable real estate in Kazakhstan or third-tier cities in China.
Harris created Mongolia Growth Group to get exposure to the Mongolia bull market, which was set to be one of the world’s best bull markets.
So far, things are playing out more or less as expected. Cap rates have started to fall and are now in the midteens. Prime rents have more than doubled since 2010. And Mongolian real estate is still cheaper than most of the rest of Asia’s. Real estate prices have increased at a rate three times faster than economic growth. The platform is set and the potential upside is enormous.
Harris did not pitch Mongolia Growth Group at the conference. His talk was mainly one of sharing his experiences of building a public company and the lessons learned. When you see a great opportunity and there is no way to play it, don’t give up. Build it yourself.
Rio Tinto Getting Lean And Mean As First Oyu Tolgoi Shipments Approach
By Gary Bourgeault, Disclosure: Long TRQ
May 21 (Seeking Alpha) As anticipation of the first shipments from Oyu Tolgoi, the giant copper and gold project in Mongolia, builds, Rio Tinto's (RIO) CEO Sam Walsh offered his input on the strategy of the company overall, and where things stand with Oyu Tolgoi specifically, at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch conference in Barcelona recently.
Walsh said all the right things, and it's worthwhile taking a look at them, as the strategy of the company is one that should be considered a bellwether for the mining industry in general. If you're looking at miners, the actions and ideas presented by Walsh should be taken into account in the analysis of other mining companies. If they aren't taking similar actions, they could be in real trouble in the current economic environment.
Walsh is focusing on four basic areas: cutting capex, lowering operating costs, selling non-core assets, and boosting production. At this time that's the game that must be played for miners.
Exploration and Evaluation Expenditures
Although not the largest area of cuts, the shrinking of exploration and evaluation expenditure is an important one for Rio Tinto and for any mining company. If mining management isn't aggressively reducing costs, it doesn't see or is in denial of the forces working against them under existing conditions.
Miners need to get lean and focus on existing operations rather than spend big on exploration. To that end Rio Tinto says it has the goal of cutting exploration and evaluation expenditures in 2013 by $750 million. In the first quarter the giant miner has already slashed $275 million off of those costs.
Some may question this strategy thinking Rio may be sacrificing the future in order to produce better short-term results. But in the mining industry it's different than in, for example, the tech industry, where research and development cuts can destroy a company because of the lack of products in the pipeline, or at minimum improvements in existing products. The natural resources industry is different, as companies are able to operate under proven reserves while waiting for economic conditions to change to their favor. This is especially true when reserves are in place that can carry the company for a number of years.
Overall capex will be cut by $4 billion this year, coming in at about $13 billion.
Operating Costs
Rio also continues to work on driving down its operating cost base, with the goal of cutting it by $3 billion by the end of 2014, according to Walsh. At the rate it's going now, the company should have those costs down by $2 billion at the end of 2013.
One move that is important but also symbolic is the reduction in the size of its major corporate centers. For Rio Tinto that means downsizing in Sydney, Melbourne, London and Johannesburg. That is already happening at the Australian offices, and will extend to London and Johannesburg going forward.
Walsh says in those four centers about 40 percent will be cut.
Selling Non-Core Assets
The name of the game for miners is to focus on core assets and get rid of non-core assets. For Rio Tinto, it has sold over 20 non-core assets over the last five brings, generating just under $14 billion as a result.
Not only does that get rid of distractions, but it adds significantly to the cash position of a company. That's important for helping miners weather slow times, and also to have cash-on-hand when future acquisition opportunities present themselves.
Walsh says the company continues to look at selling more non-core assets in 2013.
Projects and Production
Production growth for Rio Tinto looks solid, as Oyu Tolgoi is close to going online and the company is adding 53 million tons of extra capacity at Pilbara. That will bring production at Pilbara to 290 million tons annually, with production capacity potentially reaching 360 million tons a year. A decision on whether or not to boost Pilbara production to its highest level will be made this year or in 2014.
The first concentrate at the giant Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold property is scheduled to begin in June. Rio Tinto is already processing about 60,000 tons of ore daily, and will bump that up to 70,000 tons a day by the latter part of June.
"We already have concentrate bagged and ready for shipment, and are on track to make our first shipment in June," Walsh said.
As the company shrinks down its capital investment, Walsh says the company should boost production through 2016 at a pace of 8 percent annually in copper-equivalent terms.
Securing funding for the next phase of development at Oyu Tolgoi is also going well.
Mongolian Government Risk
The inexperience and changing outlook of the government of Mongolia in regard to Oyu Tolgoi is well documented, and is already priced into the stock.
What is relatively new is the Foreign Investment Law has been amended, and the government has made it a priority to work hard to ensure commercial production at the mine meets its target of starting in June. Past government indecision has led to disruption in a way that has led to uncertainty concerning seemingly endless delays, resulting in the share price of Rio Tinto and partner Turquoise Hill Resources (TRQ) to come under pressure. (here)
Travis Hamilton, Managing Director of Khan Investment Management, said this:
"Mining Minister Gankhuyag was tasked to urgently resolve all outstanding obstacles preventing timely production of OT (Oyu Tolgoi). The previously proposed controversial draft minerals law introduced by Mongolia's President has now been withdrawn. The Deputy Minister of Economic Development announced a new investment law designed to give investors more assurance about the rules governing their investments has been drafted and will be proposed in Parliament before the end of the spring session."
The overall problem is the government of Mongolia over-promised the timing of results to its people, and was also frustrated when the costs of the project continued to rise, which they saw as a threat because of deferred expectations.
Now that it is learning throughout the process, it appears most if not all of the governmental risk concerning Oyu Tolgoi has been resolved. We'll have that confirmation next month based upon commercial production at the mine launching.
Conclusion
Rio Tinto is taking the right steps in light of the economic conditions it faces, and assuming the company executes its strategy efficiently, is positioning itself for solid performance in the near future.
Understanding the tightrope it must walk now, it is also a good idea to cut back on its exploration and evaluation expenditures, which don't make sense at this time. When demand picks up, the leaner company should boost its margins to more attractive levels than they're at now, creating more profit for shareholders even if revenue declines some.
Retaining and focusing on core assets is also a must that the company has proven it's committed to, seeing it has been taking actions in that regard for the last several years.
Finally, production at the company looks good, and it will be hard for Rio Tinto to miss when it starts commercial production at one of the largest mines in the world.
Once all of this settles, the major downside risk will be deflationary pressures on some of the commodities it produces.
After commercial production at Oyu Tolgoi begins, the company should get a nice boost, as a lot of attention will be paid to the highly anticipated event. That should result in good will and a positive outlook for the company, as investors are reminded of the value of the extraordinary reserves represented in the project over the next several decades.
Speech: Cameron McRae, Speech to Mongolian Sustainable Finance Forum
May 15, 2013 (Oyu Tolgoi) --
Cameron McRae
President & CEO, Oyu Tolgoi LLC
President & CEO, Oyu Tolgoi LLC
Sustainability in the Extractive industry – Opportunities, Challenges and the way forward – The Oyu Tolgoi case study
Mongolian Sustainable Finance Forum, 15 May 2013
Mongolian Sustainable Finance Forum, 15 May 2013
Introduction
Minister Oyun, distinguished guests - it is a pleasure to be here today to speak on behalf of Oyu Tolgoi and Rio Tinto and to be a part of this important event.
What we do at Oyu Tolgoi is often best explained by showing , not telling, so during my speech, I will be showing you some images behind me that illustrate our approach and the real impact it is having.
Please click on the following link to view the complete version of Cameron McRae's speech.
Manas Petroleum Quarterly Report
New Securities Law Receives Initial Parliament Approval
May 20 (APIP) The Mongolian draft securities law gained initial approval during its reading in parliament this week. The new law, which was developed with technical assistance and oversight from the London Stock Exchange Group, will liberalize and modernize the Mongolian Stock Exchange (MSE). Though the final form of the law has yet to be revealed, it will likely allow for the dual listing of international firms on the local market as well as the increased issuance of derivatives, depository receipts and other sophisticated financial instruments. The law is expected to ease local access to capital and dramatically increase the MSE’s market capitalization. The exchange has slumped steadily since its peak in 2011 and many Mongolian securities are now at historically low prices.
Turning to the real economy, Thursday marked the historic delivery of the first batch of gasoline imports under Mongolia’s new agreement with China’s National Petroleum Group. Historically, Mongolia has been reliant on Russia for gasoline supplies and the country's northern neighbor has occasionally been accused of using its power over the local petroleum market as a political tool. The agreement with China is expected to stabilize prices and improve bargaining power.
Mongolia’s major export commodities – coal, copper and gold – took a dip this week and Turquoise Hill’s stock price (NYSE:TRQ) also fell after the company released its first quarter earnings report and shareholders locked in trading profits accumulated over the past several weeks. Chingis Bond pricing in the secondary market remained strong and stable.
FMG Mongolia Fund lost 7.5% in April
May (FMG) Stocks continued their lackluster path on the Mongolian stock exchange in April. However, favorable news came out towards the end of the month pushing stocks higher. The Mongolian Parliament passed an amendment to its controversial foreign investment law which should allow some 100 pending investment deals in the country to now progress. This law caused foreign investment to fall by 17% in 2012 and a whopping 58% in the first two months of this year. Foreign investments into the mining sector is crucial for Mongolia’s future, so it was much welcomed news.
President Elbedorj’s Cabinet (Mogi: my god, a) can’t spell the President’s name correctly and b) thinks the president runs the government) met in April and they gave specific directives to all government officials involved with Oyu Tolgoi to do everything possible to ensure that the production will start on time in June. This high quality copper and gold mine is being developed by Turquoise Hill Resources, a core holding in the Fund. Although the stock has come off significantly from its all-time highs the stock rallied sharply in April (+11%) on the back of the announcement.
NatSec MSE Daily Update, May 14
May 14 (National Securities) Today was the 4,467th trading day on the MSE. A total of 258,255 shares in 21 companies, valued at 59,348,631 MNT were traded today. The MSE TOP20 Index closed 1.14% lower to end the day at 13,552.83.
Today’s top advancers were Baganuur (BAN) a thermal coal miner up +8.23% and Aduunchuluun (ADL) up +6.93%, followed by Gobi (GOV) up +3.35%, Jenco Tour Bureau (JTB) was up +2.44% & Hermes (HRM) at +1.90%. Conversely, Eermel (EER) slumped -5.66% to MNT 2,500, Mongol Nekhmel (MNH) went down 4.38% to MNT 4,255, APU (APU) the largest MSE-listed company with a 60% market share in the beverages markets lost -4.08% to MNT 3,550, and Olloo (OLL) closed -3.61% to finish at MNT 130.
Please click here to see the detailed news
NatSec MSE Daily Update, May 15
May 15 (National Securities) The Mongolian market traded generally flat today, with many stock being weaker. The MSE Top 20 Index actually ended higher +0.69% to 13,646.01 points. Trading of shares during the session was limited to just 16 companies.
Shares of 7 companies rose, 6 declined and 3 remained un-changed. Just 27,584 shares were traded at today's bourse with total value of MNT 36.7m. Telecom Mongolia (MCH) saw its stock up about 15% to MNT 1,150. Agro Tech Impex (ATI) and Gutal (GTL) were among the losers, declining 14.90% and 5.20%, respectively.
Please click here to see the detailed news
NatSec MSE Daily Update, May 16
May 16 (National Securities) Today, a total of 21,495 shares in 16 companies, valued at 19,923,234.74 MNT were traded. The MSE TOP20 Index closed 0.75% lower to end the day at 13,543.99.
Today 3 companies share prices rose, these were Bayangol Hotel (BNG) one of Mongolian largest hotels up +8.23% and Tavan Tolgoi (TTL) Mongolian Strategic Mining (Mogi: no it’s not a strategic company) company up +1.41%, and finally Khot Development (SDT) at B board was up +14.99%. Otherwise, most of miners share prices were down today. Baganuur (BAN) slumped -6.23% to MNT 4,500, Shivee Ovoo (SHV) was down -5.83% to MNT 5,650, and Aduunchuluun (ADL) lost 1.96% to MNT 1,951.
Please click here to see the detailed news
NatSec MSE Daily Update, May 20
May 20 (National Securities) Today the stock market lost its rapidly ascending momentum by dropping 1.77% to 13,464.79 points as the sector leaders such as BDSec and Ulaanbaatar BUK respectively lost 7.55% to 3,050 MNT and 4.32% to 17,700 MNT. Total of 19 companies were traded on MSE at total trading value of 16.7 million MNT.
Tavan Tolgoi (TTL) has been in the list of most actively traded stocks for today, TTL led the list by total trading value of 9.1 million MNT. And Telecom Mongolia (MCH) gained 4.82% to 1,044 MNT. Top 20 portfolio’s main stocks lost value. Aduunchuluun (ADL) descended 4.16% to 1,821 MNT and APU (APU) went down 3.45% to 3,553 MNT. Baganuur (BAN) stayed constant at 4,500 MNT per share.
Please click here to see the detailed news
NatSec MSE Daily Update, May 21
May 21 (National Securities) Today, May 21st the general market gained +1.75% to 13,700.12 points as price increases in major index component companies such as APU (APU) and Baganuur (BAN) increased by over 6%. A total of 19 companies were traded with a value of 20.7 million MNT.
9 stocks went up and 5 went down. Construction and mining companies were the main drivers of the market up-swing, with major gainers including Jenco Tour Bureau, Tavan Tolgoi and Remicon. We believe that stock prices are depressed and represent good value at current levels. We feel that in particular, that coal mining companies are desirable; this includes firms such as Baganuur (BAN) 4,788 MNT, Shivee Ovoo (SHV) 5,600 MNT and Tavan Tolgoi (TTL) 2,300 MNT.
Please click here to see the detailed news
Sharyn Gol upgrades technology with KOMATSU
May 20 (Transwest Mongolia) “Sharyn Gol” mine has upgraded its technology with KOMATSU brand May 2nd, 2013. “Sharyn Gol” mine has been undergoing major changes in the past 3 years, aimed to elevate the company and improve the quality of its coal production.
They plan on expanding the open pit mine to the newly found coal reserve and as a result they plan to reach 3-4 million tons of coal production a year. In order to reach this goal, one of the necessary steps is to update their equipment to a modern technology. Within the scope of this technological upgrade,“Sharyn Gol” mine has chosen a world leading mining and construction equipment producer KOMATSU brand through TRANSWEST MONGOLIA LLC, Komatsu’s official distributor in Mongolia. In the past month, Transwest Mongolia LLC has delivered four HD465-7R dump trucks with 60 ton payload each. The official Equipment Handover Ceremony took place at 12pm on May 2nd, 2013 at the field in front of Sharyn Gol mine’s office building.
The attendance list for this ceremony included Mr. David Turnbull, Executive Director of Transwest Mongolia LLC; Mr. James Goldie, Operations Director of Sharyn Gol JSC; Mr. Erdenebat Jamaa, General Engineer of Sharyn Gol JSC; Mr. Amarsaikhan. D, Governor of Sharyn Gol sum as well as representatives of the mine operators and employees.
The General Engineer of Sharyn Gol JCS, Mr. Erdenebat said “We would like to pair high performance modern equipment with our Russian technology equipment to bring our overall production to a higher level. The Japanese brand KOMATSU’s mining and earth moving equipment has a high reputation in the world and is proven for its high performance, latest technology and reliability in the Mongolian market. Sharyn Gol mine site has used KOMATSU brand since 1992 when we first got their bulldozer. Therefore, our miners are very well aware of the quality of this brand and its machines.”
BoM issues 1-week bills
May 20 (Bank of Mongolia) BoM issues 1 week bills worth MNT 50 billion at a weighted interest rate of 11.50 percent per annum /For previous auctions click here/
BoM holds FX auction
May 21 (Bank of Mongolia) On the Foreign Exchange Auction held on May 21st, 2013 the BOM received from local commercial banks bid offers of 35.1 million USD and 102 million CNY and ask offers of 2.4 million USD. BOM has sold 25 million USD as closing rate of 1439.50 and 102 million CNY as closing rate of 233.70.
On May 21st, 2013, The BOM received MNT Swap agreement bid offer of 76 million USD from domestic commercial banks and BOM has accepted all the offers for swap agreement.
ALTANKHUYAG: $347 MILLION LEFT FROM CHINGGIS BONDS
May 20 (InfoMongolia) At the plenary session meeting of the State Great Khural (Parliament) held on Friday, May 17, Prime Minister of Mongolia N.Altankhuyag made a statement regarding the 1.5 billion USD Government Bond namely "Chinggis" expenses to date.
In his statement, Premier N.Altankhuyag said, “The Security Council of Mongolia issued a comprehensive instruction on which sectors the money sourced from “Chinggis” Bond will not be used. Accordingly, the money will not be spent on welfare means activities, instead to use only on economic development-means structures. In particular, a distribution of money to each project should not exceed more than 3.1% of the total estimation.
The Government Decree issued on March 07, 2013, several projects were approved, whereas in energy sector many years discussed the Tavan Tolgoi power plant with capacity of 450 MW will be invested at the first stage by 50 million USD.
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>200 million USD will be spent for “Street” project, which consists from 3 parts: road construction works in the center of Ulaanbaatar city, Ger districts and Highways,
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>200 million USD will be allocated to finance the “New Railway” project,
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>570 billion MNT to be invested into road projects,
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>68.8 million USD to renew the cashmere technology,
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>200 billion MNT will be spent for re-planning of Ger districts and construction of new apartment communities in Ulaanbaatar,
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>27.7 million USD to support milk and dairy products manufacturing projects,
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>17.7 million USD will be spent for constructing greenhouse farm in Ulaanbaatar and centers of 21 Aimags of Mongolia,
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>45 million USD will be invested to produce woolen goods,
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>13.5 million USD to support sewing industry,
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>14 million USD will spent for house-construction plant;
Consequently, 347 million USD is left from the “Chinggis” Bond so far, however there many projects are being awaited to finance, but this leftover money is not considered yet on which projects to invest”.
World Bank: Poverty Rate Came Down to 27.4% in 2012 from 33.7%
May 21 (World Bank) The National Statistical Office of Mongolia (NSO) has been conducting the Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) since 1966. It merged the HIES and the Living Standards Measurement Survey (LSMS) in July, 2007 under the title of Household Socio-Economic Survey (HSES), and has been conducting this HSES survey since then. The HSES selects a total of 11,232 households in Mongolia on a sampling basis annually, collects and studies indicators with respect to age, race, education, employment of household members as well as indicators related to household income and consumption expenditure.
The NSO has been actively cooperating with the World Bank towards strengthening the capacity of the statistical staff, improving the methodology used to estimate living standards and poverty of the population, defining the methodology that can realistically demonstrate changes in the livelihood of the Mongolian population, and jointly estimating their outcomes.
Under this framework, we are jointly announcing poverty estimates that are benchmarked against one base year, which provides an opportunity to assess changes in people’s livelihood. This estimation is not only an improvement in methodology but also provides a common understanding of poverty numbers in Mongolia.
Poverty indicators for the years of 2010, 2011, 2012
Currently, the NSO is estimating poverty indicators at the national, regional, and location level and is working towards the goal of estimating aimag level poverty indicators starting from 2014 by increasing the sample size of the HSES in order to create useful and accessible information and data for the statistical users. Estimation of poverty indicators in aimag, capital city, regional and national levels will be important information and a contribution to evaluate the country’s development plan and the implications of the policy and programs implemented by the state.
Revenue Watch: Mongolia
Mongolia has significant copper, gold, coal, molybdenum, fluorspar, uranium, tin, and tungsten deposits. Minerals accounted for 46 percent of gross domestic product in 2010 and 80 percent of exports in 2007. The economy grew 18 percent in 2011, largely on the strength of commodity exports to China and other nearby countries.
Mongolia's Performance on the Resource Governance Index (Rank: 26th/58, Score: 51/100)
Mongolia received a "partial" score of 51, ranking 26th out of 58 countries. A very good Institutional & Legal Setting score was contrasted with Mongolia's poor performance on the Reporting Practices component.
Institutional & Legal Setting (Rank: 9th/58, Score: 80/100)
Mongolia's "satisfactory" score of 80 reflects clear revenue collection mechanisms and a range of reporting requirements that are not always fulfilled in practice.
Mongolia's Mineral Resource Authority regulates the sector and grants licenses on a first come, first served basis in exchange for royalties and taxes. It is independent of the state-owned company Erdenes MGL. The Finance Ministry collects payments from mining companies and places all resource-related revenues in the national treasury.
Environmental impact assessments are required by law prior to the award of any mineral rights. Mongolia adopted a Freedom of Information Act in 2011, but it still is possible for businesses and government agencies to keep some documents confidential. Mongolia has been an Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) compliant country since 2010.
Reporting Practices (Rank: 41st/58, Score: 39/100)
With little government data on the national mining company, Mongolia received a "failing" score of 39.
Legislation governing the licensing process is readily accessible, but little information about the mineral deposits to be licensed is made public. Contracts are rarely published and environmental impact assessments are available only for projects already underway.
The Finance Ministry publishes regular information on production volumes, prices, the value of mineral exports, names of companies operating in the country, production data by company, royalties, special taxes, dividends, and license fees. The Mineral Resources and Energy Ministry also publishes information on industry operations, including investment in exploration and development, but does not report revenues. The Mineral Resource Authority publishes information on commodity prices, estimates of investment in exploration and development, the names of companies operating in the country, royalties, and license fees, but without comparative years. Mongolia's 2010 EITI report includes comprehensive information on disaggregated revenue streams.
Safeguards & Quality Controls (Rank: 37th/58, Score: 49/100)
Mongolia received a "weak" score of 49, reflecting a lack of public oversight of the state mining company.
Mongolia's Minerals Law limits the discretion of the Mineral Resource Authority in awarding licenses. Third parties are allowed to appeal licensing decisions. The National Audit Office reviews the government's budget annually. The parliament's Budget Committee reviews the audits within one year but does not separately scrutinize resource-related revenues. Mongolia recently adopted a conflict of interest law requiring government officials with a role in oversight of the mining sector to disclose their financial interest in any extractive activity.
Enabling Environment (Rank: 20th/58, Score: 48/100)
Low global rankings for corruption control and government effectiveness contributed to Mongolia's "weak" score of 48.
State-Owned Companies (Rank: 38th/45, Score: 20/100)
The government established Erdenes MGL to represent the state's interest in strategically important mineral deposits. Almost no information is available on the functioning of the company. It publishes no financial reports, despite a legal obligation to do so.
Subnational Transfers (Rank: 19th/30, Score: 56/100)
According to the Minerals Law, 30 percent of royalty payments and 50 percent of special license fees go to local governments. These transfers are published by the central government, which generally follows the rules of resource revenue sharing. Local governments do not report their receipts.
MPP claims Elbegdorj broke election law by appearing on Mongol Tulgatan show
May 20 (news.mn) The former ruling party, the Mongolian People’s Party (MPP) claimed that President Ts.Elbegdorj violated the law on the Election of the President of Mongolia and made a plea to the Authority for Fair Competition and Consumer Protection.
The former ruling party, current opposition, claimed a popular television programme included the President, the DP candidate for the Presidential election Ts.Elbegdorj, as a respectable guest. It was broadcasted 6 days before the official election campaign on May 17th. It believed that the programme contained propaganda for the Presidential election.
According to Article 33.1 of the law on the election of the President of Mongolia the official campaign period commences on the day of candidate registration and lasts until one day before election day, or May 22nd 2013 as scheduled.
MPP claimed the incumbent Ts.Elbegdorj violated this law on the election of the president of Mongolia so pleaded to the Authority for Fair Competition and Consumer Protection to charge according to Article 33.20 of the law.
Udval Candidacy
May 21 (Julian Dierkes, Mongolia Focus) It appears that the MPRP is pressing on with the nomination of Health Minister N Udval for the presidential election.
There had been some doubts about the sincerity of the nomination and speculation that the MPRP was merely trying to use the nomination as a bargaining chip with the DP and MPP, just as Enkhsaikhan had earlier in the month. While the official announcement from the General Election Commission won’t come until May 23, it now looks likely that the announcement will point to three candidates, Ts Elbegdorj (DP), B Bat-Erdene (MPP) and Udval (MPRP)
Significance of Udval Candidacy in Campaign and Election
While this is very significant in that Udval will be the first woman to run for president, what does her candidacy imply for the election?
The most likely impact may be that it will make the necessity of a run-off election between the top two candidates very probable.
Why? If past election results offer any guidance, Elbegdorj and Bat-Erdene are likely to be close in the votes that they will garner. There’s nothing about either candidate that suggests at this point that this will be otherwise in this election.
In 2009, for example, Elbegdorj won with just over 51% of the votes against N Enkhbayar in an election where Enkhbayar clearly didn’t have the full support of the then-MPRP. The current scenario is similar in that Bat-Erdene has the full support of the MPP, but Udval will collect some of the votes that Enkhbayar received in 2009. These votes will come disproportionately from the MPP, rather than the DP, but there may also be some DP and coalition-supporters who could conceivably vote for Udval.
Support for Udval
How many votes will Udval get? This has to be a very speculative discussion at this point, in part because Udval had not really been anticipated as a likely candidate (the Sant Maral Foundation did not include questions about her in the PolitBarometer, for example) and in part because a three-way race may well change the dynamics of the campaign in a significant way. Also, it’s unclear whether Udval’s candidacy might attract significant support from women voters. In the past, there don’t seem to have big blocks of women voters for one candidate or another, but that may not be a reason for such a block or voting differentials to emerge in this election. Not only is Udval a female candidate, but she is the Minister of Health, an issue that is ranked higher in importance by women around the world. Of course, she has been a relatively quiet member of cabinet and is really primarily seen as a stand-in and loyal supporter of Enkhbayar.
Given the perception of Udval as a stand-in for Enkhbayar it is to be expected that Enkhbayar loyalists will vote for her, especially if a run-off is likely. If the campaign leads to an expectation of a run-off then an Udval vote is low-risk for an Enkhbayar supporter who might otherwise prefer Bat-Erdene to Elbegdorj.
Given the MPRP’s electoral success in last year’s parliamentary election and other potential supporters for Udval, it strikes me as unlikely that she would received fewer than 5% of the vote.
Electoral Math
It seems to me that Udval is likely to gain more than 5%, but that a share much beyond 12% is unlikely. That, however, implies the necessity of a run-off.
Why? For argument’s sake, let’s assume that Udval wins 10%. That leaves 90% of the votes to be distributed (to avoid a run-off, a candidate needs 50% +1 votes of the valid votes, I believe). For Elbegdorj (who continues to look like the likely winner) that would imply he would have to win approximately 55% of the remaining votes vs. Bat-Erdene’s 45%.
Given past differentials and the current look of the Elbegdorj-Bat-Erdene race, it strikes me as somewhat unlikely (but entirely possible) that Elbegdorj would receive that many of the non-Udval votes. The campaign seems set to unfold primarily on personality issues and here it seems unlikely that either Elbegdorj or Bat-Erdene is going to make enough headway to really distance himself from the other candidate.
While they are very different personalities, Elbegdorj primarily ran on his oratory skills and “clean government” claims in 2009 along with a Obamaesque message of hope and change. He is gearing up for a very similar campaign now.
Bat-Erdene, on the other hand, is largely relying on his wrestling-fame and reputation as someone who is in touch with and supportive of “traditional Mongolian values”. His only major policy initiative has been the “Law with the Long Name” which remains mired in implementation struggles.
Neither of these profiles currently, i.e. ahead of the beginning of the official campaign, looks like it will produce a margin of victory that would avoid the run-off.
This in turn would lead me to conclude – tentatively and for the moment – that a three-way race under the current circumstances looks to make a run-off election (on July 10) very likely.
Note
Note that my fellow bloggers disagree with some aspects of this analysis. I would therefore particularly welcome comments, especially on the potential power of Udval’s campaign as well as the math involved in a run-off.
FORMER DEPUTY MINERAL MINISTER APPOINTED HEAD OF INTELLIGENCE AGENCY
May 20 (InfoMongolia) At the regular Cabinet meeting held on Saturday, May 18, over 30 issues were discussed and some were resolved as follows:
…
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>New Chairman of the General Intelligence Agency was appointed as B.Ariunsan, replacing D.Gerel. B.Ariunsan used to work as Director of the General Office of Social Welfare Service, Deputy Head of General Department of Taxation, Deputy Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy (former name) and Deputy Chairman of the General Intelligence Agency.
Middle Banner 4 (600 pixels wide)
|
Globe 24-7: Mongolian Business Startup Lessons
Nick Smith, Regional Manager Asia Pacific – Globe 24-7
May (Globe 24-7)
What I have learned
After recently spending a couple of weeks in Ulaanbaatar, I am still at the stage where I don’t know what I don’t know. What I did learn is that Mongolian people, with the great opportunities sitting in front of them, are rightfully very protective of their national assets and their heritage and justly cautious of exploitation of the mineral wealth the country possesses.
It’s a fine balance for Mongolia, of opening the door wide enough to allow experienced mining, exploration and investment companies to warm themselves by the fire, but not wide enough to allow them take over the industry. That said, the economy will stall without significant foreign investment, not only in mining, but in agriculture, manufacturing, finance and technology. The investment simply needs to be responsible and sustainable, with Mongolia as the primary consideration; the prospect of lining your pockets will have to be a long-term goal.
Mongolians are Mongolia, and Mongolia is Mongolian; with a unique heritage and history. It is a distinctive country, with a truly independent people. Comparing the country to anywhere else in the world is not really possible, or advisable for that matter. It is true that some Western companies have much to offer the eager generations of students, workers and business people in terms of training development and experience. The youth of Mongolia literally have the world at their fingertips with the economic growth of the nation. It is impressive how on the whole, that opportunity is met not with greed, but with a responsible approach to developing sustainable businesses, with a vision of a sustainable future. Despite the uncertainty brought about by upcoming elections, whatever the outcome, it will be the choice made by the people and that will be the right choice for the country.
You need to earn your stripes as a guest company and employer in Mongolia through working with locally owned businesses; identify shared, long-term objectives with your in-country partners and ensure national participation and ownership in all areas of business. Provide training and development programs with substance and demonstrate your genuine intent to approach business in Mongolia in a bespoke way. This will set your business a foundation for success.
Because of the far-reaching vision of a sustainable, nationally dominated industry, training focus and recruitment partnerships are an important aspect of doing business in the Mongolian mining sector. I see great opportunity for Globe 24-7 in this area, with a track record of providing high volume – low margin, partnered recruitment process outsourcing (RPO); mobilising our team to site or to corporate offices to establish recruitment process, train HR teams in-house and set up internal HR and resourcing teams for success in what will definitely be a market short on experienced, skilled mining professionals for some time. I have also seen the mutual benefits of teaming up with a local training institution, to ensure seamless and “ready now” training for employees and new recruits, and have had some excellent discussion within the mining sector about scheduling a ‘workshop road-show’.
Thanks for Your Hospitality
Thanks to all of those who made me very welcome in Ulaanbaatar. It was great to have such enlightening discussion around resourcing and training in the Mongolian mining industry and it was satisfying that Globe 24-7’s HR consulting,executive search services and our local and international resourcing capabilities were well received by all. To the select group of mining companies who discussed our Human Resources policy templates; when you are ready to initiate the project, we can have these translated and implemented within a few short weeks. We look forward also to working with the wider Mongolian business community, as we continue to cement our strong foundations.
UB is such a dynamic place to be. There is never a dull moment, there is so much work to be done and so much opportunity – I look forward to coming back there soon. To share in the potential bounty of Mongolia the attitude, in my opinion, should be to join with Mongolia, add value to the country, then enjoy a fair and equitable share of the rewards.
Globe 24-7 Mongolia: The Future
As guests in Mongolia, Globe 24-7 looks forward to identifying a Mongolian business leader to work with our global resourcing team and to steward the growth of our UB office. Our business serves to provide specialist mining HR consulting, recruitment and labour hire services to international standards. With Mongolian talent and training as our foundation value, we offer business leadership and entrepreneurship, along with over a decade of HR, recruitment and mining knowledge, with resources available from our global mining HR business. We expect our partnership will lead to a highly rewarding, preeminent business in Mongolia with benefits and rewards in the upper echelon of the market.
If you wish to be part of a responsible, industry leading business and wish to contribute to responsibly shaping the Mongolian recruitment and HR industry, I invite you to contact me to discuss how we can work together.
$40 MILLION APARTMENT PROJECT TO BE PARTLY FINANCED FROM CHINGGIS BONDS
May 20 (InfoMongolia) At the regular Cabinet meeting held on Saturday, May 18, over 30 issues were discussed and some were resolved as follows:
…
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>In the frameworks of implementing the “House-Construction Plant-1” project, one third of the project is resolved to be financed by “Chinggis” Bond via Development Bank. The project is aimed to assemble 5,000 apartments per year and create new 2,500 workplaces. The total estimation of the project is 40 million USD, whereas 14 million USD will be financed by “Chinggis” Bond money.
DWI supplies RAIM Predictions to MIAT Mongolian Airlines
May 20 (DW International) DWI is pleased to announce that MIAT Mongolian Airlines, Mongolia’s national airline, has selected the GNSS RAIM/RNP Prediction Service Web-based User Interface (GRPS Web UI). MIAT will be using the GRPS Web UI to support its PBN operations including Basic-RNP 1 as required for Hong Kong International Airport.
The web service provides a user-friendly interface allowing flight planners and dispatchers to perform pre-flight RAIM checks, store tail configurations, aerodromes, waypoints and entire routes to reduce workload and potential human error. Due to ease of use, a short training course, given over Webex, was all that was required for dispatchers to learn how to manage and operate the Web-based User Interface. MIAT will continue to receive support from the DWI dedicated support helpdesk.
“We’re very happy that MIAT have selected the GRPS Web UI for its RAIM prediction requirements. As more and more RNAV and RNP procedures are implemented, the requirement for RAIM continues to increase,” said Charles Thornberry, Senior Consultant at DWI. “We welcome MIAT to the growing community of GRPS Web UI users.”
“MIAT is fully satisfied with DWI's GRPS Web UI,” said U.Tamir, Lead Specialist in the MIAT Flight Operations Engineering Department. “Now we have very simple tool for end-users to check RAIM status with a professional customer support team of.”
Watch the video below for a demonstration of the service.
…
Middle Banner 5 (600 pixels wide)
|
Speaker of the Polish Senate here on official visit
May 22 (UB Post) Speaker (Marshal) of the Polish Senate Bogdan Borusewicz arrived here on Monday to conduct a four-day official visit at the invitation Speaker of the Parliament Z.Enkhbold.
The Head of the Mongolia-Poland inter-parliamentary group in the State Great Khural (the Parliament of Mongolia), Member of the Parliament (MP) L.Erdenechimeg; the Secretary-General of the Office of the Parliament, B.Boldbaatar; the Head of the Foreign Relations Department of Parliamentary Office; and other officials greeted Marshal Borusewicz at Chinggis Khan International Airport.
Later during the day, the Polish delegates led by Marshal Borusewicz were welcomed by Speaker Z.Enkhbold at the Central Square. After paying their respects to the Chinggis Khaan monument, the counterparts Marshal Borusewicz and Speaker Z.Enkhbold held bilateral talks at the State Palace.
Z.Enkhbold raises the issue of establishing Polish Embassy here
During official bilateral talks, Speaker (Marshal) of the Polish Senate Bogdan Borusewicz noted that Mongolia has developed and changed enormously since his visit to Mongolia in 1999. He then stressed that Poland wants to expand the mutual relationship between the two countries. Moreover, Poland will pay specific attention to accelerating the foreign relations of the European Union (EU). It will particularly focus on the deepening the relationship between Mongolia and the EU, emphasized Marshal Borusewicz.
Accordingly, the two sides discussed the issue of establishing a Polish Embassy in Mongolia which had already been raised during President Ts.Elbegdorj’s visit to Poland, conducted in January 2013. “The establishment of a Polish Embassy in Ulaanbaatar will be a very significant move in strengthening Polish-Mongolian cooperation and mutual business relations, mentioned Speaker Z.Enkhbold.
Speaker Z.Enkhbold also stated that Mongolia and Poland should continue cooperating in the area of defense and invited the representatives of the Polish defense force to attend the annual event held in Mongolia, Khaan Quest, where there is training for international peacekeeping operations. He then expressed Mongolia’s interest to learn from Poland’s experience in improving its armed forces in only a short period of time by adapting to NATO standards, as well as to draw up an agreement between Mongolia and Poland about keeping confidential information regarding military and technical cooperation activities.
Moreover, Speaker Z.Enkhbold asked Poland to support Mongolian exports and spur investments from Poland to Mongolia as trade and economic cooperation plays an important role in deepening the mutual relationship of the two countries. He also asked Poland to pay closer attention in implementing its economic cooperation agreement with Mongolia, which was signed during President Ts.Elbegdorj’s visit there.
Mongolia is interested in launching a relevant discussion on a mutual agreement and general documents on cooperation in receiving a loan. In compliance with an order from the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development, the country is to receive a loan for the development of its exports from the government of Poland.
Finally, Speaker Z.Enkhbold talked about the necessity to intensify the current undergoing cooperation of both countries in the area of mining, such as in the geological research work which is being carried out in “Khasagt” field.
Marshal Borusewicz meets with President Ts.Elbegdorj
President Ts.Elbegdorj received Speaker (Marshal) of the Polish Senate Bogdan Borusewicz.
In the beginning of the meeting, President Ts.Eldegdorj expressed his hope that the official visit of Marshal Borusewicz will have great outcomes in strengthening the relations between Mongolia and Poland.
”Mongolia is developing democracy successfully. Poland sent its high-ranking state delegates to show that we are attaching great importance to the Ministerial Conference of the Community of Democracies, hosted by Mongolia. The economy of Mongolia is growing fast. We have many things to learn from Mongolia. The relationship between Mongolia and Poland is deepening. Poland is interested in expanding its economic relations with Mongolia, as well as in improving the cooperation in the field of defense,” noted Senate Borusewicz during his turn to speak.
In the end, President Ts.Elbegdorj conveyed his greetings to the President of Poland.
PRESIDENT RECEIVES BOGDAN BORUSEWICZ
Ulaanbaatar, May 20 /MONTSAME/ The President of Mongolia, Ts.Elbegdorj received the Marshal of the Senate of the Republic of Poland, Bogdan Borusewicz on May 20.
Ts.Elbegdorj thanked Mr Borusewicz for accepting the invitation and visiting Mongolia. He recalled how they had discussed friendly relations and cooperation, especially the inter-parliamentary ties, during his state visit to Poland early this year. He also said that the visit of Mr Borusewicz will advance the relations.
In response, Bogdan Borusewicz said that Mongolia is successfully implementing the democracy. "We sent a delegation to the recently organized here seventh Ministerial Conference of the Community of Democracies /CoD/," he mentioned.
He said that Poland has many things to learn from Mongolia, and went on that the state visit of Mr Elbegdorj to Poland had given an impetus to boosting of the ties. Then he added that their side wants to widen not only the economic cooperation but also military ties, "and we have an experience in participating together in the peacekeeping mission."
In response, Mr Elbegdorj underlined that the two countries have the same aim and the same values. He is glad to receive in Mongolian ger his friend who contributed to the fight for democracy and liberty not only in Poland but also in Europe, he said and thanked Poland for sending to the Ministerial conference a delegation headed by the Vice Foreign Minister.
The leader of Mongolia said that Mongolia is interested in strengthening of the economic cooperation, especially in attracting the Polish business to Mongolia through credits. It possible to develop the cooperation in the security sector, he added.
While talking about upcoming presidential election, Mr Borusewicz expressed a confidence that Mr Elbegdotj will be elected again.
Mr Elbegdorj extended his greetings to the President of Poland.
Related:
SPEAKER HOLDS TALKS WITH MARSHAL OF POLISH SENATE – Montsame, May 20
ENVIRONMENT MINISTER OUYN SIGNS FOUR AID WITH POLAND – Montsame, May 21
Deputy PM attending Mongolia-China Intergovernmental Meeting in Beijing
Ulaanbaatar, May 21 /MONTSAME/ A delegation led by D.Terbishdagva, the Deputy Premier is participating in the 13th meeting of the Mongolia-China intergovernmental commission in Beijing, China.
During the meeting, the two sides agreed to consider an issue of renting 10 hectares area in the Dongjiang sea port in Binghai district of Tianjin, and the Deputy Premier worked in Tianjin city on the first day of the meeting, and then met with Mr Cui Jindu, a Deputy Mayor of Tianjin Municipal Government.
DIPLOMATIC AND OFFICIAL PASSPORTS TO TRAVEL TO PERU AND KUWAIT VISA FREE UP TO 90 DAYS
May 20 (InfoMongolia) At the regular Cabinet meeting held on Saturday, May 18, over 30 issues were discussed and some were resolved as follows:
…
<![if !supportLists]>- <![endif]>The intergovernmental documents on the “Abolition the Visa Requirements for Holders of Diplomatic and Official National Passports” between Mongolia, the Republic of Peru and the State of Kuwait were approved. Accordingly, mentioned nationals holding the above passports will be traveling mutual territories up to 90 days under visa free terms. Currently, Mongolian nationals holding Diplomatic and Official National Passports are traveling to 17 countries under visa free.
…
Middle Banner 6 (600 pixels wide)
|
OT: A Model Vocational School being constructed in Nalaikh
- "Bats-Urguu' Company operates 850,000 man-hours without incident -
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, May 15, 2013 (Oyu Tolgoi) - Oyu Tolgoi LLC is investing US$126 million in the education sector of Mongolia. Under the umbrella of their educational programme, being implemented over the next five years, Oyu Tolgoi is constructing three new technical vocational schools, renovating four vocational educational centers, providing equipment and training over 6,600 skilled workers nationwide.
A new technical school is being built in Nalaikh, near Ulaanbaatar. This school is one of the three new vocational schools to be constructed over the next five years, funded Oyu Tolgoi. The school includes a vocational training facility (with an area of 6,000 square metres), student dormitories, teachers’ residences, sports grounds and a hall (covering an area of about 2,500 square metres). The Bats-Urguu Company, who has over ten years’ experience in the construction sector, is contracted to build the school complex. The foundation for the school was laid in April 2012, and over the last year, the construction company has operated without a single safety incident. J.Batsaikhan, Director of Bats-Urguu, said: “Since the foundation laying ceremony at school, our company has worked for 380 days or 850,000 man-hours, without accident or injury. This achievement is a result of what we have learned from Oyu Tolgoi’s experience with safe operations and standards. The General Agency for Specialised Inspection of Mongolia highly value this achievement and have awarded a Safety Certificate to our company.”
Reinforcing that construction of the school is continuing successfully; Mr. Ivan Vella, Vice President, Procurement and Infrastructure Development; stated that an important part of Oyu Tolgoi’s presence in Mongolia is the Technical School, built on the hill and visible to all the residents of Nalaikh. He went on to say: “Operating ‘lost time incident-free’, in the year since the project commenced, is a great achievement. The Bats-Urguu Company is a reliable and trustworthy partner, they are also working with Oyu Tolgoi on two other projects.” Mr. Vella then presented a certificate to Bats-Urguu in recognition of working ‘lost time incident-free’.
Some of the individual workers from Bats-Urguu were also awarded with a certificate and souvenir in recognition of their valuable contribution to pursuing firm safety standards and behaviours in the workplace. The award recipients were M.Khadbaatar, T.Battseren, J.Tsogjargal, G.Bolorkhuu, Ts.Batnasan and O.Bayar-Erdene.
The ceremony, to celebrate 850,000 man-hours without a lost time incident, was attended by long-song singer, B.Batbold. He sang a famous traditional long song called ‘Ertnii Saikhan’ and performed an epic poem, ‘Praise of Altai’, which was thoroughly enjoyed by the builders and the audience.
At the event, Mr.Batsaikhan highlighted that construction of the school building will be completed in fall, before the start of the new academic year.
We will soon be opening the doors to a modern, model vocational school in Mongolia.
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE TO SUPPORT STUDENTS STUDYING IN THE WORLD’S TOP UNIVERSITIES
May 21 (InfoMongolia) On May 20, 2013, the President of Mongolia has issued a Decree that directs the Government of Mongolia to support students to study in the world’s top universities.
The Decree gave direction to the Mongolian Government addressed the Prime Minister N.Altankhuyag to implement the requirement and terms set below on allowing Mongolian citizens to study at world best universities financed by the State Educational Fund.
This includes:
<![if !supportLists]>1. <![endif]>To allow finance based on the request of students who studies in world’s top 20 universities despite their current studying major.
<![if !supportLists]>2. <![endif]>To allow finance based on request from the students who studies in the top 21-100th universities in the world, for as much as announced profession directed from the Mongolian Government.
<![if !supportLists]>3. <![endif]>Mongolian Government to make announcement on vocational directions of letting students to study in world top universities on the first six months of the previous year and the number of students within February through their own website and public media.
<![if !supportLists]>4. <![endif]>To set in the State Budget every year the needed spending amount on allowing Mongolian citizens to study in the world top universities with the finance by the State Educational Fund.
Now Mongolian students and youths are provided with the opportunity to study in the top universities around the globe to engage with high quality education.
UNEP: There are Only 22 Gobi Bears Left in the World and They Need Our Help!
(UNEP) --
The Gobi Bear’s scientific name is Ursus Arctos Gobiensis and its Mongolian name is Mazaalai. Unlike its brown bear cousins, the Mazaalai is the only subspecies that lives and thrives in the desert, where vegetation and water are getting scarcer every year because of extended droughts. Growth of livestock competing for food and some cases of bear poaching have not made this brown creature’s life any easier.
Today, with only 22 living bears, the Mazaalai community faces the threat of extinction.
How can you help?
1. Get to know the Gobi Bear.
Mazalai Profile
<![if !supportLists]>· <![endif]>Discovered in the early 1920s in the Aj Bogdo Desert of the West Altai mountain ranges of Mongolia
<![if !supportLists]>· <![endif]>Average weight = 90 to 100 kilos
<![if !supportLists]>· <![endif]>Average body length=150 cm; Average height= 80 to 92 cm
<![if !supportLists]>· <![endif]>Habitat: Loves hilly and rocky areas near ponds, springs and oases in the Gobi Desert
<![if !supportLists]>· <![endif]>Diet: Mostly vegetarian: leaves and bajuuna (desert cabbage plant) roots and kharmag berry
<![if !supportLists]>· <![endif]>Population: 22 (8 female; 14 male)
2. Hug a Gobi Bear and tell your friends!
We all love the strong unrestrained embrace of a bear hug. Now, just in time for World Environment Day, we can extend the comforting gesture to a Gobi Bear. By Hugging a Gobi Bear and telling your friends about this rare species, you are helping raise awareness and alert potential supporters to help save the remaining Mazaalai.
Pick a Gobi Bear:
Baatar means “Hero”. Save a Hero by Hugging a Gobi Bear.
Itgel means “Hope”. Spread the word and give a bright future to the Gobi Bears.
Badrakh means “Growth”. Create a buzz to help the Gobi Bears thrive and grow in their habitat.
3. Give your support
The Mongolian Government launched protective measures for the Mazaalai, which include establishing a nature reserve to restore a safe habitat, opening a zoo and setting up a working group to explore ways of increasing the bears’ population. Learn more:
Save the Gobi Bear Foundation (Mazaalai Foundation): www.mazaalai.org
Ministry of Environment and Green Development and Mazaalai Foundation: www.mazaalai.mn
In addition, concerned organizations are conducting research on these bears. Read about their findings and find out ways to help:
Vital Ground: www.vitalground.org
International Association for Bear Research and Management: www.bearbiology.com
Tuul River no longer a happy home for fish
May 20 (news.mn) The Tuul River is no longer a home for animal life due to water contamination caused by human related activities. Numerous dead fish have been found on the river bed for a one kilometer area near Marshall Bridge.
A survey to determine the cause of fish loss was made by a specialist scientist in water resources and usage from the Institute of Geology, B.Mendsaikhan and veterinarians bacteriology of the State Central Veterinary Laboratory, N. Munkhgerel and B.Batzorig. A professor from the Department of Zoology and Ecology of the National University of Mongolia, Kh.Munkhbayar and P.Erdenetushig conducted an inspection to determine the reason for the death of frogs in the river.
The survey said that a 1.8-2.5 meter deep and 25-30 meter wide pool caused the death of numerous fish and frogs. The researchers said that a stagnant habitat instead of flowing water created at the bottom of the pool was the reason of the fish deaths.
The habitat of the Tuul River is so contaminated for life forms that even hydrobiots are no longer able to survive.
According to the survey fish and frogs that entered the pool last autumn became stuck there and died due to lack of oxygen.
The slowing of the flow of the Tuul River occurred in 2012, depth of ice was lowered to 10-23 cm less than the annual average. This water level lowering is explained by gravel mining companies along the river.
Such factors played a big role in the destruction of the habitat of life forms in the Tuul River.
Mongolia Mid-term Implementation Assessment
May 21 (Universal Periodic Review) --
Introduction
1. Purpose of the follow-up programme
The second and subsequent cycles of the review should focus on, inter alia, the implementation of the accepted recommendations and the development of the human rights situation in the State under review.
A/HRC/RES/16/21, 12 April 2011 (Annex I C § 6)
The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process takes place every four and half years; however, some recommendations can be implemented immediately. In order to reduce this interval, we have created an update process to evaluate the human rights situation two years after the examination at the UPR.
Broadly speaking, UPR Info seeks to ensure the respect of commitments made in the UPR, but also, more specifically, to give stakeholders the opportunity to share their opinion on the commitments. To this end, about two years after the review, UPR Info invites States, NGOs, and National Institutions for Human Rights (NHRI) to share their comments on the implementation (or lack thereof) of recommendations adopted at the Human Rights Council (HRC) plenary session.
For this purpose, UPR Info publishes a Mid-term Implementation Assessment (MIA) including responses from each stakeholder. The MIA is meant to show how all stakeholders are disposed to follow through on, and implement their commitments.
States should implement the recommendations that they have accepted, and civil society should monitor that implementation.
While the follow-up’s importance has been highlighted by the HRC, no precise directives regarding the follow-up procedure have been set until now. Therefore, UPR Info is willing to share good practices as soon as possible, and to strengthen the collaboration pattern between States and stakeholders. Unless the UPR’s followup is seriously considered, the UPR mechanism as a whole could be adversely affected.
The methodology used by UPR Info to collect data and to calculate index is described at the end of this document.
…
---
Mogi Munkhdul Badral Bontoi
Founder & CEO
Cover Mongolia
Email: mogi@covermongolia.mn
Mobile: +976 9999 6779
Skype: mogibb
P Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail.
|
No comments:
Post a Comment