The modern era of Mongolia’s mining sector marked its 95th anniversary in November, commemorating the first state takeover of the Nalaikh mine in 1922.
Among the guests at the anniversary celebrations were Mongolian President Kh. Battulga, Prime Minister U. Khurelsukh, Parliamentary Speaker M. Enkhbold, Minister of Mining and Heavy Industries D. Sumiyabazar, Vice Minister D. Zagdjav, State Secretary G. Nandinjargal, Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority Head Kh. Kherlen, Members of Parliament, sector scientists, and representatives from previous generations of miners.
Opening the event, D. Sumiyabazar paid tribute to all those who had contributed to the development of the mining sector. “Our mining sector has become the biggest sector economically, making up more than 90 percent of all exports, 70 percent of production, 20 percent of the GDP, and 25 percent of the state budget,” he said.
He said the mining sector relied on social support and the trust of investors, the proper identification of policies, clearly defined legal and sustainable environments, information transparency, the provision of clear information for citizens, and close collaboration with the public at all levels.
The Mongolian government is aiming to become a value-added producer through the improvement of the legal environment, transparency, responsible mining, and increased competitiveness.
In recognition of the sector’s 95th anniversary, the Ministry of Mining and Heavy Industry and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation’s Sustainable Artisanal Mining (SAM) Project launched a competition among journalists themed “Responsible Artisanal Mining”, for which more than 20 entries were received. The winners were announced during the event.The goal of the competition was to raise awareness about the best practices of artisanal and small-scale miners and ASM organisations.
The top TV programs:
1st: “Enhanced Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining” by journalist B. Davaakhuu from MN25
2nd: “Minus Degree – Good Example of Artisanal Mining” by journalist D. Ganzorig from TV9
3rd:: “Light of Colours” by journalist S. Shurentsetseg from ETV
The top news articles:
1st: “The Reliable Pillar of Artisanal Mining” by journalist Z. Tselmeg from Zasgiin Gazriin Medee
2nd: “Ninjas socialised, ‘Makes’ Nobel Prizes” by journalist T. Jantsan of assa.mn
3rd: “Reporting Artisanal Miners’ Lives” by journalist Ts. Aldarmaa from info.mn
