Mongolia and Germany to Hold Negotiations on Development Cooperation www.montsame.mn

The Negotiations on Development Cooperation between the Government of Mongolia and the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany are scheduled to take place in Ulaanbaatar on November 30, 2025.
The negotiations aim to review ongoing and prospective development projects and initiatives, and to establish a roadmap for future joint efforts. It serves as a platform to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance collaboration in key areas of mutual interest.
According to the Ministry of Economy and Development (MED) of Mongolia, a preparatory meeting was held on October 27, 2025, between the senior representatives of both governments. Discussions focused on exchanging information on government policy  and reforms.
The Mongolian delegation outlined its efforts to support private sector growth, improve the investment climate, and promote public-private partnerships.
The German delegation shared its perspectives on future cooperation and reviewed progress achieved under the existing framework with the Government of Mongolia.
Both sides exchanged views on the preparatory work for the negotiations, as well as achievements and prospects in key areas including sustainable economic development, higher education, biodiversity conservation, environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and energy transition.
Germany remains one of Mongolia’s leading development partners within the European Union, having extended concessional loans, technical assistance, and aid to support Mongolia’s sustainable economic, social, and environmental development.
At the previous round of negotiations held in 2023, Germany committed a record EUR 78 million in bilateral assistance. Additionally, through collaboration with the Global Fund, Mongolia joined the “Debt2Health” initiative, converting up to EUR 29 million of debt payments into grants. This enabled the implementation of health sector projects targeting infectious diseases and contributed to improving healthcare quality, marking a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation.
Germany was the first European country to establish a strategic partnership with Mongolia. Building on this foundation, the two countries agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation by strengthening the economic, investment, and business environment and by promoting increased trade and investment flows.
The intergovernmental negotiations are held biannually and will be co-chaired by Batkhuu Idesh, State Secretary of the Ministry of Economy and Development of Mongolia (MED), and Yiannis Neophytou, Head of Division at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

Mongolian health workers begin strike after eight days of protest www.asianews.network

Health workers across Mongolia have launched a strike after eight days of protests, the Confederation of Mongolian Trade Union announced. Union leaders said the sector moved to the next stage of action because the government has not taken concrete measures during the recent demonstrations.
The strikers are demanding that the basic salary for health workers be raised to MNT 3.5 million, that state funding for the health sector be increased to 6% of GDP, and that the cost of full work uniforms for medical staff be specifically covered in the state budget.
The union did not immediately provide details on the strike’s scope or which services will be affected; officials and health sector representatives are expected to release further information as the situation develops.

Steppe fire destroys 800 hectares of land in eastern Mongolia www.xinhuanet.com

A steppe fire has devastated at least 800 hectares of land in the eastern Mongolian province of Sukhbaatar, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Tuesday.
The fire, which erupted in Erdenetsagaan Soum (administrative subdivision), was fully extinguished by Monday evening, the NEMA reported.
According to experts, most of the steppe fires are caused by human negligence, careless handling of fire and burning of grass in the autumn.
In this regard, the NEMA has warned residents not to make bonfires or throw cigarette butts on the ground in dry weather.
According to ecologists, Mongolia is one of the countries that is most vulnerable to a changing climate in East Asia. Due to its geographical location, natural disasters associated with global climate change are increasing year by year, including forest and steppe fires, as well as desertification, land degradation and dust storms.
According to the country's Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, only 7.9 percent of Mongolia's total territory is covered by forests, while around 77 percent has been affected by desertification and land degradation.

Mongolia’s Corruption Probe at Oyu Tolgoi Mining Operations Unfolds www.discoveryalert.com.au

Mongolia's mining sector faces unprecedented scrutiny as authorities launch comprehensive investigations into alleged corruption networks affecting major resource operations. The corruption probe at Oyu Tolgoi represents a pivotal moment for the country's mining governance, with law enforcement agencies uncovering evidence that suggests systematic misconduct within procurement departments of one of the world's most significant copper projects.
Key Details: Oyu Tolgoi Corruption Investigation
Investigation Aspect Current Status
Ownership Structure 66% Rio Tinto, 34% Mongolian Government
Investigation Focus Procurement-related activities
Law Enforcement Active cooperation with authorities
Financial Impact Under assessment pending investigation
Production Status 78% Q3 2025 increase maintained
The investigation highlights vulnerabilities in high-value contract environments where substantial financial transactions create opportunities for misconduct. Mining operations involving billions in investment typically require complex vendor relationships and approval processes that can become susceptible to corruption without proper oversight mechanisms.
How Mongolian Law Enforcement Uncovered the Alleged Network
Timeline of Enforcement Actions and Evidence Discovery
Mongolian authorities initiated their investigation following reports of irregularities within Oyu Tolgoi's procurement operations. The enforcement actions demonstrate the country's enhanced capacity to investigate complex financial misconduct in its mining sector, marking a significant evolution in regulatory oversight capabilities.
Furthermore, the investigation process revealed evidence suggesting coordination between multiple parties involved in vendor selection and contract approval mechanisms. Law enforcement agencies have documented patterns that indicate systematic attempts to influence procurement decisions, potentially affecting the integrity of supplier relationships across the operation.
Internal company protocols require all procurement activities to follow established guidelines for vendor evaluation and contract authorization. However, the alleged misconduct appears to have circumvented these established procedures, raising concerns about the effectiveness of existing compliance monitoring systems in preventing corruption within large-scale mining operations.
Procurement Integrity and Supply Chain Concerns
Supply chain integrity represents a critical vulnerability in mining operations due to the high value and complexity of equipment, services, and materials required. The corruption probe at Oyu Tolgoi focuses specifically on how vendor selection processes may have been compromised, potentially affecting operational costs and efficiency through inappropriate contractor relationships.
Mining operations typically involve sophisticated procurement networks encompassing everything from specialised equipment to construction services, creating multiple opportunities for misconduct if proper oversight mechanisms fail. In addition, the investigation examines whether established competitive bidding processes were followed and if contract terms reflected fair market values.
The focus on procurement activities highlights how corruption in mining operations often targets the highest-value transactions where small percentage manipulations can result in substantial financial gains for perpetrators.
This situation reflects broader industry evolution trends that emphasise enhanced governance standards across major resource projects worldwide.
Rio Tinto's Strategic Response to Corruption Allegations
Internal Investigation Framework and Compliance Enhancement
Rio Tinto has implemented comprehensive internal review processes following the emergence of corruption allegations. The company's response strategy emphasises cooperation with law enforcement while maintaining operational continuity at the Oyu Tolgoi facility, as reported by Australian Mining Review.
The mining giant's approach includes establishing independent review protocols for all procurement activities, ensuring that vendor selection and contract approval processes receive enhanced scrutiny. These measures aim to prevent similar issues while demonstrating corporate commitment to ethical business practices in international operations.
Zero-tolerance policies regarding corruption require immediate reporting of suspicious activities and comprehensive documentation of all procurement decisions. The company has declined detailed public commentary pending investigation outcomes, focusing instead on maintaining operational performance while addressing governance concerns.
Corporate Governance Evolution and Executive Accountability
Recent corporate governance restructuring at Rio Tinto includes board downsizing initiatives designed to enhance decision-making efficiency and accountability. The departure of board director Martina Merz reflects broader organisational changes aimed at improving oversight effectiveness across international operations.
Executive accountability measures under evaluation include enhanced reporting requirements for subsidiary operations and strengthened compliance monitoring systems. These initiatives respond to investor expectations for improved governance standards following various legal challenges the company has faced in recent years, as highlighted by Seeking Alpha. 

Rio Tinto and SPIC Qiyuan begin battery-swap truck trial in Mongolia www.mining-technology.com

Rio Tinto, in partnership with China’s State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) Qiyuan, has initiated a trial for battery-swap technology for electric haul trucks at the Oyu Tolgoi copper mine located in Mongolia.  
The trial represents Rio Tinto’s inaugural use of this technology in its surface mining operations.  
According to Rio Tinto, the initiative is a significant advancement in creating affordable technology and gaining operational insights necessary to lower emissions from mining haulage fleets, which are the major contributors to the company’s scope 1 and 2 carbon footprints. 
In the past year, the partnership has delivered and installed a fleet of eight 91-tonne (t) Tonly trucks, along with 13 batteries, each with capacity of 800kWh, as well as a battery-swapping station, a static charger, and the necessary infrastructure.  
Rio Tinto global equipment and diesel transition general manager Ben Woffenden said: “The launch of this trial with SPIC Qiyuan is an important milestone, harnessing China’s widely used and leading battery-swap technology in a partnership that supports Rio Tinto’s drive to accelerate low-carbon innovation.
“The rapid deployment and fast-tracked operational learnings have highlighted the importance of partnerships in advancing low-emission haulage alternatives for our business. 
“By working with partners such as SPIC Qiyuan and Tonly, Rio Tinto is rapidly identifying and adopting cost-effective, proven innovations that can support operational excellence and advance decarbonisation goals.” 
The trucks will be used by Oyu Tolgoi for constructing tailings dams and transporting topsoil, providing Rio Tinto with practical experience in operating and maintaining a complete battery electric truck and swap charging system. 
The battery-swapping technology enables the replacement of an electric mining truck’s battery at a swap station in under seven minutes, eliminating the need for a fixed charging facility.  
This approach is said to reduce downtime and enhance equipment efficiency.  
Qiyuan Green Power general manager Guo Peng said: “We are honoured to partner with Rio Tinto to launch this milestone battery-swap truck trial at the Oyu Tolgoi mine.
“SPIC Qiyuan is committed to advancing green energy technology innovation, and this partnership showcases the significant potential of our proven battery-swap solutions in helping global mining customers reduce emissions and enhance operational efficiency.  
“We look forward to deepening our collaboration with Rio Tinto to jointly explore broader prospects for the mining industry’s low-carbon transition.” 
The trial is set to run until the end of 2026 and will assist Rio Tinto in identifying opportunities for broader implementation of low-emission technology. 
Rio Tinto’s global fleet comprises 700 haul trucks, including around 100 small to medium-class vehicles with payload capacities ranging from 100t to 200t, suitable for current-generation battery-swap technology.

The European Union - Mongolia Business and Investment Forum launches a new era of economic partnership www.eeas.europa.eu

The first-ever European Union - Mongolia Business and Investment Forum was held in Ulaanbaatar, marking a historic milestone in strengthening economic ties between the European Union and Mongolia.
The forum aimed to connect the EU and Mongolian private sectors, stimulate sustainable economic growth, expand trade relations, and promote long-term investment opportunities. The event brought together more than 700 participants, including high-level representatives from the European Council, the European Investment Bank, the Prime Minister of Mongolia, cabinet ministers, and senior government officials. Approximately 70 European companies, leading industrial associations, over 200 Mongolian enterprises, as well as international financial institutions, development partners, commercial banks, entrepreneurs, and other key stakeholders also took part. 
As part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy and the Team Europe approach, cooperation with Mongolia is focused on building sustainable, resilient, and inclusive infrastructure that supports the country’s long-term development. The EU has been a steadfast partner of Mongolia, granting preferential market access through the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and promoting democratic and economic reforms. Under the Multiannual Indicative Programme 2021–2027, EU engagement prioritises the green energy transition, renewable resources, sustainable connectivity, water and waste management, and forest partnerships—all closely aligned with Mongolia’s Vision 2050. In addition, Global Gateway investments advance digital transformation, economic diversification, and democratic governance, ensuring that cooperation delivers sustainable economic growth, social and environmental benefits, and new opportunities for both Mongolian and European businesses. 
Building on this foundation, the forum opened with high-level addresses and plenary sessions that explored Mongolia’s foreign direct investment opportunities and business climate. Senior representatives from the Government of Mongolia, the European Union, chambers of commerce, and leading companies underscored their shared commitment to fostering a more diversified, competitive, and sustainable economy. H.E. Mr. Zandanshatar Gombojav, the Prime Minister of Mongolia, emphasized at the opening: “The Government of Mongolia is placing strong emphasis on advancing industrial development and further improving the investment climate. We firmly believe that the knowledge, experience, advanced technologies, innovation, and investment of European businesses will play a vital role in helping us realise this ambition. As a trusted, reliable, and long-term partner, Mongolia is committed to consistently implement policies and reforms that protect investor interests and ensure a stable and predictable environment”. 
The two-day forum featured moderated dialogues across priority sectors, including renewable energy and green technology, healthcare, textiles and garments, mining and critical raw materials, infrastructure, agribusiness, forestry, and consumer goods. Entrepreneurs also presented their innovations in a pitching competition, while European Union companies introduced their products and technologies. Matchmaking and one-on-one meetings created further opportunities for concrete partnerships and investment discussions. 
One of the highlights of the forum was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Government of Mongolia, which could unlock up to €1 billion in investment for renewable energy, modern power networks, sustainable transport, and other projects driving the country’s green transition. The partnership, which has the full support of the European Commission, creates a pathway for significant new investment in clean, affordable, and secure energy for people and businesses. 
EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska, who signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and oversees the Bank’s operations in Mongolia, said: “I am honoured to mark this new chapter in our partnership with Mongolia. Through the EU’s Global Gateway framework, the EIB aims to boost investment in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure that strengthen resilience to climate change. Together, we can accelerate Mongolia’s green transition — creating new opportunities, supporting inclusive growth, and building a more sustainable and prosperous future for its people.” 
H.E. Ms. Ina Marčiulionytė, Ambassador of the European Union to Mongolia in her closing remarks highlighted: “This forum has shown the breadth of opportunities that exist when European and Mongolian businesses come together. From renewable energy to healthcare, from infrastructure to critical raw materials, we are charting new pathways for cooperation. The European Union is proud to stand alongside Mongolia as a partner in sustainable development and inclusive growth, fostering trust, driving innovation, and building a truly mutually beneficial partnership”. 
About Global Gateway 
The Global Gateway stands for sustainable and trusted connections that work for people and the planet. It helps to tackle the most pressing global challenges, from fighting climate change to improving health systems and boosting the competitiveness and security of global supply chains. 
About European Union 
The European Union is an economic and political union of 27 European countries. It is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. It acts globally to promote sustainable development of societies, the environment, and economies, so that everyone can benefit.

Building Brighter Futures: ADB’s Support for Education in Mongolia www.adb.org

Sustaining Access to and Quality of Education During Economic Difficulties Project is constructing and expanding 21 schools and kindergartens in Darkhan-Uul, Govi-Altai, and Govisumber provinces, as well as in Ulaanbaatar, increasing education capacity. These new facilities are energy-efficient, climate-resilient, and inclusive—designed to serve children of all ages, genders, and abilities.
The project also invests in digital classrooms, curriculum and assessment system reforms, and school-based management. It has introduced nationwide subject-specific learning assessments, streamlined entrance exam evaluations through technology, updated standards for teaching and learning materials, supplied textbooks, and strengthened human resource capacity. These efforts have expanded access to education and led to an 11% increase in student achievement across 146 pilot schools.
By combining inclusive infrastructure with systemic reforms, the project is enabling more than 10,000 children to access safer, smarter, and more equitable education—delivering lasting benefits for students, families, and communities throughout Mongolia.

Mongolia to collaborate with China, South Korea and UN to tackle increasing yellow dust storms www.azertag.az

North Korean Interpreter Defects in Mongolia, Striking Blow to Kim Jong-un’s Regime www.visiontimes.com

A North Korean interpreter reportedly defected to the South Korean Embassy in Ulaanbaatar during an official delegation visit to Mongolia in late August, marking a rare and significant blow to Kim Jong-un’s regime, according to diplomatic sources.
The delegation was led by Tae Hyung-cheol, president of the Academy of Social Sciences, one of Pyongyang’s leading policy institutes. The interpreter’s escape was kept secret for weeks before being confirmed by media outlets in Seoul.
Officials in South Korea have declined to comment, citing security concerns. However, Kyodo News reported that Pyongyang has already ordered the replacement of its ambassador to Mongolia. It remains unclear whether the ambassador was directly involved in the incident, but sources say he is now under investigation.
The interpreter’s identity has not been disclosed. Such roles are typically reserved for highly trusted elite members who are permitted to travel abroad—making this defection particularly embarrassing for the regime.
Tae’s trip was his first visit to Mongolia in seven years. While there, he met with pro–North Korean organizations to rally support for Pyongyang’s hardline stance against Seoul and its rejection of Korean reunification.
State media in Pyongyang made no mention of the visit, suggesting an active effort to suppress news of the defection.
The episode comes as the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK), which recently celebrated its 80th anniversary, tightens internal controls and seeks closer ties with its few remaining allies.
First military defection under President Lee Jae-myung
In a separate development, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed that a North Korean soldier crossed the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on Oct. 19 and surrendered to South Korean forces, expressing his wish to “start a new life in the South.”
According to the Chosun Ilbo, the soldier is being held in military custody while investigators determine his motives.
This marks the first military defection since President Lee Jae-myung took office, following two civilian crossings earlier this year on July 3 and July 31.
The last known soldier defection occurred in August 2024, when a serviceman crossed the border in Goseong County, Gangwon Province. Officials said no unusual military movements have been detected in the North since the most recent incident.
North Korea’s deepening economic crisis—marked by food shortages, hyperinflation, and corruption—has fueled a surge in escape attempts despite the grave risks.
Before the pandemic, nearly 3,000 North Koreans fled the country annually.
Border closures briefly reduced that number to double digits, but defections rebounded into the hundreds by 2024 as smuggling networks recovered.
At the same time, Kim Jong-un’s regime has intensified brutal punishments for those caught attempting to flee.
In February 2025, Daily NK reported that three men in South Hwanghae Province were executed by firing squad—each struck by nearly 90 rounds before their bodies were burned at the scene.
Eyewitnesses said elementary school students were forced to watch, with many collapsing in fear.
The victims—two brothers surnamed Kim and their friend Lee, all in their 30s—had spent months building a small boat to escape to South Korea.
They launched in January but lost their bearings in thick fog, mistakenly hailing a North Korean patrol vessel they believed to be South Korean fishermen. They were captured on Jan. 6.
On Feb. 20, residents of Ongjin County were ordered to gather at a rice field to witness the execution. The men were tied to wooden posts, blindfolded, and gagged before an officer declared: “Traitors deserve to die. In this country, they will not be buried.”
Each was struck by roughly 90 bullets before the remains were incinerated. Witnesses described the scene as “beyond recognition.”
A local source told Daily NK that defectors once faced up to 15 years of forced labor, but the regime has now reinstated the death penalty for escape attempts.
Analysis: The growing cracks in Kim’s control
The twin defections—one by a military officer and another by a trusted interpreter—signal deepening fractures inside North Korea’s ruling system, analysts say.
For Kim Jong-un, who relies on loyalty and secrecy to sustain power, the interpreter’s defection from an overseas mission is particularly damaging, exposing internal dissent even among the elite.
“It’s a symbolic failure,” said a former South Korean diplomat. “When even your interpreters start running, it means the trust network is breaking.”
Meanwhile, mounting executions and public fear reveal a regime under increasing pressure from economic collapse, international sanctions, and isolation—conditions that continue to push ordinary citizens, and even loyal cadres, to risk everything for a chance at freedom.
By Jun Wang

Ulaanbaatar Signs Public-Private Partnership Agreement for Waste-to-Energy Plant www.montsame.mn

Under the Public-Private Partnership Law, Ulaanbaatar city signed a Public-Private Partnership Agreement on Waste-to-Energy Plant Construction on October 24, 2025.
The Agreement was signed by Nyambaatar Khishgee, the Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, and Tang Ya Yu, the Project Manager and the Director for the Ulaanbaatar Waste-to-Energy Plant, and Chairman of the Board of Renshou Sichuan LLC, the company selected as the project contractor, specialized in energy investment and environmental protection.
The USD 206.5 million plant will process 1,500 tons of waste per day, and is scheduled for completion in 30 months, after which ownership will be transferred to the state in 28 years.
The plant is expected to operate 8,000 hours annually, generating 35 MW of electricity. The electricity production cost is estimated to be around 14 cents per kWh, with electricity to be sold to the Ministry of Energy at around 8.4 cents per kWh. The remaining 5.6 cents will be covered by compensation fees collected from businesses that generate large amounts of industrial waste, serving as waste disposal fees transferred to the investor, according to the Governor's Office of the Capital City of Ulaanbaatar.
The plant will incinerate waste not only from Ulaanbaatar but also from Zuunmod, Hunnu city, Altanbulag, and Sergelen soums of Tuv aimag, free of charge. Additionally, waste buried in Ulaanchuluut and Tsagaandavaa landfills over the past 10 years will be excavated and incinerated to help restore the local environment and ecology.
Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar emphasized the project’s ecological importance, stating, “To transform Ulaanbaatar into a modern city, we need an engineering supply unit. It will enable a shift to financing through consumer tariffs and covering investment costs with revenues. The Waste-to-Energy Plant project is unique as the private sector provides 100 percent of the funding, and for the first time, the Government guarantees the public-private partnership. Globally, the concept of ‘urban mining’ is expanding, excavating previously buried waste, converting it to energy, and restoring the environment.”
Currently, Ulaanbaatar generates an average of 1,500 tons of household and industrial waste daily, which is buried at two nearby landfill sites.