Winner questions Mongol Derby tie

The Mongolia Today newspaper reports on the Press Conference held by Long Riders Temuujin Zemuun, Batmonkh Muntuush and Bonnie Folkins. Pictured also is the delivery of the international petition to the President by the Long Riders and Buddhist monks.



Long Rider Temuujin Zemuun and Mongol Derby winner Shiravsamboo Galbadrakh.



The Mongolian rider credited with a share of first place in the inaugural Mongol Derby believes he won the event outright, it has been revealed.
He also said he was asked to ride in the event and received money to take part.

Others in the field were required to pay an entry fee of nearly $US5000 and raise money for charity to compete in the August relay race.

CuChullaine O'Reilly, the founder of the Long Riders' Guild, an international association of equestrian explorers, believes the Mongolian entry was aimed at offsetting criticism and the event was "an act of equestrian colonialism".


O'Reilly, in what he says will be his final comment on the race, recounted the remarkable efforts of a Mongolian horseman, Temuujin Zemuun, to track down and interview the Mongolian rider on the remote steppes.

In the interview, the rider, Shiravsamboo Galbadrakh, disputes the official race result that put him first equal with South African Charles van Wyk.

He said he had won the race outright.

British firm The Adventurists, which organised the race, initially reported on August 29 on its website: "First across the line was the Mongolian rider, followed only one minute later by the South African, Charles Van Wyk."

However, some days later The Adventurists stated: "Joint first was awarded to Charles van Wyk of South Africa and Shiravsamboo Galbadrakh of Mongolia."

Temuujin had voiced his opposition to the race in the local Mongolian press. Thereafter, he set off to ride across Mongolia. It was on his return he set about trying to find Shiravsamboo.

"Mongolia is the size of Texas, so finding one nomadic herder wasn't going to be easy," O'Reilly said in his latest missive on the race.

"Yet modern technology has made remarkable inroads. After repeated attempts, Temuujin managed to obtain the location of the camp of Shiravsamboo Galbadrakh.

"His first attempt to find the winner failed, as it transpired the man who had won Mongolia's longest horse race was a simple herder who was now tending his animals out on the trackless steppes.

"Refusing to give up, Temuujin made a second journey, this time through a snow storm. At a ger/yurt deep in the countryside, with winter pressing in, Temuujin the Long Rider met Shiravsamboo the Mongol Derby winner.

"In an on-the-record, filmed interview, Temuujin asked his fellow Mongolian equestrian to explain to the world his background, as well as his sudden appearance in the horse [race]."

Shiravsamboo, 26, who is unmarried, said in the interview that he did not speak English or any other foreign language.

"Because of this, none of the foreign contestants could speak to him or learn the nature of his involvement in the Mongol Derby," O'Reilly wrote.

Shiravsamboo was informed of the race three days before its start. He said he was recruited by representatives of the Adventurists to ride, who said it was important to the company that a Mongolian should participate.

He said he was not told that the foreign contestants had paid to participate and said he did not personally raise funds for charity through his participation.

He received 300,000 tugrugs - about $US250 - to race. (The average yearly income in Mongolia is $US2100.)

"Shiravsamboo expressed his anger to Temuujin when he learned to his dismay that the organisers of the event were broadcasting the news that he had 'shared' the victory with one of the foreign riders," O'Reilly said.

"According to Shiravsamboo, he did not tie with Charles van Wyk. He believes 100 per cent that he won the race without any assistance. He did not know that the Adventurists now claim that the foreign contestant tied with him.

"Shiravsamboo insists that he won all by himself and is adamant that he is the sole winner."

O'Reilly reported that Temuujin was unable to share his findings immediately.

He had difficulty travelling back across the snow-covered country. Once he reached the capital, he discovered that a flu epidemic had effectively shut down the city, making it impossible for him to find a translator straight away.

"It was only after overcoming all of these difficulties that the Mongolian Long Rider was able to transmit the news back to Guild HQ."

O'Reilly, a vocal critic of the race, described the event as a battleground over equestrian ethics. Before its running, he had voiced concerns over the welfare of the 800 or so horses involved in the event.

The Adventurists then released more details around the running of the race and veterinary support.

In a deal brokered through the International Equestrian Federation, additional veterinary support was offered by the government of the United Arab Emirates and accepted by the race organisers.

O'Reilly said the Adventurists declined to comment on Shiravsamboo's views when contacted by the Long Riders' Guild.

The Adventurists recently announced that the Mongol Derby would be run again, in 2010. It will now be open to 35 contestants - there were 25 in 2009 - and the entry fee has risen to $US9500.


Source:www.horsetalk.co.nz (http://www.horsetalk.co.nz/news/2009/12/158.shtml)

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News from Mongolian Environmental Group of United Movement of Mongolian Rivers and Lakes

Mongolian Environment Group-River Movements monthly update for December, 2009.
Regarding the law implementation

Following the passing of the law “to prohibit mining operations at headwaters of rivers, protected zones of water reservoir and forested areas”, the 50th Parliamentary resolution was developed. The River Movements sent official documents regarding its implementation to the Prime Minister S. Batbold.

That is why, at Mr. S. Batbold’s request, on December 25th, the Minister of Nature, Environment and Tourism, as well as the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy and other government officials answered questions regarding this issue before the Parliament.

Some Parliament Members were highly critical towards the implementation work, arguing that it was being too slow and that almost half a year had gone since the law was passed in the Parliament.



According to the preliminary study of the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy, 1115 licenses (among which 901 are exploration licenses and 214 are mining ones) will be revoked by the law and 150 billion USD will be spent on reparations.

As of today, the procedure of delineating the boundaries that fall under the jurisdiction of the law is an ongoing process. Boundaries are being determined by soum governors for rivers and forests located in their soums. Between the end of November and December 25th, the River Movements worked in their own countryside to help in this process They have collaborated with local people to urge their respective local governors to set up the boundaries at least 500 to 1000m away from river beds.

We will keep up the work on the implementation of the law and hope to inform you soon about our future activities.

In the mean time, we hope that New Year brings good luck, good health and continued happiness in your life! Happy New Year!


Please feel free to contact us at rivermovements@gmail.com if you have any questions.

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Mongolia to set up IT outsourcing centre with India's help

NEW DELHI: Mongolia, the land of the legendary warrior Chenggis Khan, is all set to open its first major IT outsourcing centre with India's help.
While the two countries are working together in a number of fields, information technology (IT) is one in which they have close collaborations, the country's envoy said.


Mongolian Ambassador Voroshilov Enkhbold said in an interview to IANS: "We do have BPOs, but with India's help we are going to set up a major IT outsourcing centre very soon. This is one of the many collaborations that Mongolia and India has in the IT sector."

One of those collaborations, Enkhbold said, was the setting up of an India-Mongolia IT school there a few years back.

"About four-five years back an India-Mongolia IT school was established in Mongolia with the Indian government's help. Initially the staff there was trained by Indian experts, but now we are on our own," he said.

In order to build their own skills so that they can further develop the IT sector in their country, a growing number of Mongolian youngsters are making way to India -- especially to Bangalore -- to pursue higher studies in the field.

With close to 400 IT companies, Bangalore is often called the IT capital of India, harbouring a very cosmopolitan population.

"Mongolian students have long been coming to India to pursue higher studies. This year more than 500 students came here for that purpose. While some went to Pune and Delhi, many have gone to Bangalore to study information technology," Enkhbold told IANS.

Mining is another sector in which the two countries are forging strong ties, with companies like Jindal Steel and MESCO Steel Limited setting up manufacturing units in the central Asian country.

A country half the size of India but with less than three million people, Mongolia is also seeking collaborations in the tourism sector.

"Distance is one deterrent when we promote Mongolia in India. There are no direct flights, you have to go via Beijing or Seoul which takes eight hours. Then for half the year it is very cold there. The ideal time to visit Mongolia is between mid-May and mid-September," the ambassador said.

"Despite all that we are trying to promote our country here and although I agree that our efforts have not been strong enough till now, it will be hereon; 2010 will the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and India and to mark that we are planning a host of cultural activities here which will showcase the rich diversity of our country," Enkhbold said.

"Also, through the recently held Grand Chinggis Khaan Golf Cup tournament and other such tournaments in the future we are promoting our country here. Mongolia is a beautiful and, very importantly, a peaceful country. So we want people to come and experience the nomadic way of life, wildlife and beauty of our country."

Enkhbold added that the Mongolian government is planning to invite Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to their country some time next year to further ties.

Source:Indian Asian News Service (IANS)

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IMF Executive Board Completes Third Review Under Stand-By Arrangement with Mongolia and Approves US$24.1 Million Disbursement

Press Release No. 09/475
December 22, 2009
The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) today completed the third review of Mongolia's economic performance under a program supported by an 18-month Stand-By Arrangement (SBA). The completion of the review enables the immediate disbursement of an amount equivalent to SDR 15.33 million (about US$24.1 million), bringing total disbursements under the arrangement to an amount equivalent to SDR 107.31 million (about US$168.6 million). The Board also approved the request for modification of performance criteria to reflect the revised macroeconomic data and framework.


The SBA was approved on April 1, 2009 (see Press Release No. 09/110) for an amount equivalent to SDR 153.3 million (about US$ 240.9 million) or 300 percent of Mongolia's quota. The Mongolian economy was hit hard by the global economic crisis earlier the year, and the Fund’s financial assistance via the SBA aims to support the country's economic stabilization efforts.

Following the Executive Board's discussion on Mongolia, Mr. Takatoshi Kato, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, stated:

“The global economic crisis and collapse in copper prices last year hit the Mongolian economy hard. Since then, the authorities’ strong policy implementation has helped to quickly stabilize market conditions. Growth is beginning to turn around and the outlook for next year and beyond is quite favorable, driven by development of the mineral sector.

“The authorities have made good progress in restoring health to public finances. Their commitment to strictly control the 2010 budget deficit is reassuring, especially their commitment to adjust spending to offset any revenue shortfalls while saving any revenue over-performance to help meet future financing needs and limit the pro-cyclicality of spending. Additional fiscal adjustment and expenditure rationalization will be needed in 2011 and beyond to ensure that the budget deficit can be comfortably financed. Adoption of a Fiscal Responsibility Law will help institutionalize fiscal discipline and prevent a repeat of the boom-bust fiscal policies of the past. Prompt passage of a comprehensive social transfer reform will be critical for fighting poverty by increasing support to low-income households and improving targeting.

“The combination of a flexible exchange rate and a monetary policy geared toward achieving low inflation and safeguarding international reserves is working well. In line with evolving market conditions, the central bank has appropriately lowered interest rates. Further monetary easing should be approached with caution as inflation is projected to rebound next year. In the years ahead, maintaining a flexible exchange rate will be critical for promoting macroeconomic stability, insulating the economy from external shocks, and facilitating the economy’s adjustment to the substantial expansion of the mineral sector. Over the medium term, the adoption of formal inflation targeting would complement the flexible exchange rate regime and help secure low inflation by allowing pressures for a real appreciation of the currency to feed through the nominal exchange rate instead of inflation.

“Strengthening the banking system remains a top priority. The authorities will need to respond proactively and vigorously to problems in individual banks as they arise, and to bolster confidence in the banking system. A comprehensive bank restructuring plan should be developed that builds on the findings of the ongoing external audits. Public financial support should be tied to governance and structural reforms at the recipient banks, and existing owners should be required to either inject new capital or be the first to absorb losses.

“The authorities’ success in implementing their economic program is commendable. The Mongolian economy stands to benefit considerably from the country’s significant mineral deposits, and maximizing these benefits will require a continued commitment to fiscal discipline, a flexible exchange rate, and a sound banking system. Staying the course with such policies will help ensure that Mongolia’s considerable mineral wealth translates into lower poverty, rising household income, and a steadily improving standard of living for all of Mongolia’s citizens,” Mr. Kato stated.




IMF EXTERNAL RELATIONS DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Media Relations
Phone: 202-623-7300 Phone: 202-623-7100
Fax: 202-623-6278 Fax: 202-623-6772

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Mongolian throat singing rocks the world

By Xing Daiqi
Hoomii, also known as Mongolian throat singing, is an ancient musical art dating back a thousand years. The exquisite art form has been brought back to life on the Chinese rock scene, where the mysterious sound has been blended into electric guitar rhythms.
You hear hoomii in several recent movie soundtracks, including the most recent Chinese blockbuster Bodyguards and Assassins, the historical epic Mongol, a German- Kazakhstan- Russian- Mongolian co-production, and in the arthouse film Mongolian Pingpong by avant-garde Chinese filmmaker Ning Hao.


Hoomii is also popular on TV, as well as in trendy bars and performance venues across China.
The sound imitates the ripples of a stream or an echo in the mountains. Throat singing produces two simultaneous vocal tones in the human voice and therefore is considered a great skill.
For the past 100 years, this original art form was on the edge of extinction on the vast Inner Mongolian plateau.
Nowadays, the talent is perfected by only a few singers in Inner Mongolia and Central Asia, notably in the Tuvan Republic and among certain other ethnic groups in the Altai Mountains. On October 1, 2009, Mongolian Hommii of China was successfully listed as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.
"Hommii is one of the most ancient and precious arts in the cultural heritage of mankind," said musicologist Moerjihu.
"This unique art form captures the essence of Mongolia, the sound of nature, the nomadic lifestyle, and the expression of a free spirit."
Since the 1990s, Chinese musicians and music scholars have attempted to preserve throat singing through extensive musical exchange programs with neighboring countries.
Hoomii has also been introduced in the curriculum of music academies. Meanwhile, indie bands and rock groups have taken the art form to a new level.
Gangzi Tuliguer, a ballad singer from Inner Mongolia now based in Beijing: "I didn't know about hoomii until 2006 when I went back to my hometown in Inner Mongolia and my parents told me about this unique technique of throat singing."
"I was captivated by the music of my own ethnic group and immediately started surfing the Internet and imitating other singers," he said, adding, "It was about that time that throat singing began to emerge on the mainland."
Gangzi created a fresh style of his own, a fusion of throat singing with Mongolian ballads and guitar strumming, making himself a fixture on the Chinese folk rock scene.
"One of my most popular hoomii songs is called Suluding, which means "god of war" in Mongolian. In the past, Mongolians used the vocal technique as a wartime battle strategy, because the magnifi cent bass sound could effectively exaggerate the size of their army and frighten away their enemies."
"Like many of my other compositions, the song was inspired by Mongolian history and legend.
The Blue Hometown was adapted from a song my mother taught me." He said hoomii performers don't mind blending their legendary folk art into modern electronic music, because it's another way to protect and preserve throat singing.
"Of course, there are groups sticking to the tradition by using the Mongolian fiddle and other conventional percussion instruments," Gangzi explained.
"Gradually, modern elements like the guitar and keyboard are being added to compositions because we want to appeal to a younger audience. "
At the same time, hoomii singers like Huun-Huur-Tu, a pop band based in Tuvan has played mix-and-match with other musical genres, such as blues, putting throat singing on the map of "world music".
"Nowadays, hoomii is blossoming throughout China, even in the south," exclaimed Gangzi. "People who are into music know about this art form and are beginning to practice the skill. They think it's a cool thing to do."
The performing art form is more commonly heard on festive occasions, such as the Nadam Fair, the most important festival for the Mongolian ethnic group.
Gangzi said the prevalence of Internet users in China also helps boost the popularity of the vocal technique.
"You can find many music videos uploaded by hoomii singers online. There are also quite a number of websites and forums dedicated to learning the technique."
"It takes a lifetime to master throat singing," Ganzi added. "Whether it is listed as an intangible cultural heritage or not, we should all do our part to safeguard and preserve this ancient art for all mankind."

Source:Global Times Newspaper of China

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Gulfside Minerals Ltd. - Onjuul Phase 1 drilling complete

TSX.V - GMG

VANCOUVER, Dec. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - Robert L. Card, President of Gulfside Minerals Ltd. (TSXV:GMG) ("Gulfside" or the "Company"), is pleased to report that Phase 1 of Gulfside's drilling program on the Onjuul coal project in Mongolia has been successfully completed. The Company has completed 10 planned holes in this phase, with an additional 10 or more holes planned to be completed during Phase 2.

Based on preliminary data review, it appears that the Phase 1 program will accomplish the original objectives, as follows:

- Validate historic drilling data;
- Acquire new coal quality data;
- Acquire basic hydrology and geotechnical information;
- Confirm existing geological model; and
- Demonstrate the opportunity in the remaining phases of drilling.
Drill holes 1 to 8 have been previously reported. Listed below are the results from drill holes 9 and 10 along with a summary of all holes drilled to date.



The ninth hole, NJ-09-31R, a rotary hole, was drilled to a depth of 162.0 meters and encountered a 42.4 meter coal seam between 62.7 and 105.1. Seam intercepts are as follows:

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gulfside Hole # NJ-09-31R*
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Top Base Thickness Seam
(m) ID*
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
62.7 105.1 42.4 2U
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
108.2 109.8 1.6 2L
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
134.8 146.3 11.5 3
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
151.8 154.0 2.2 4
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Depth 162.0
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Coal (Meters) 57.7
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Seam intercepts and correlations are preliminary, pending geophysical
log interpretation
The tenth hole, NJ-09-32R, a rotary hole, was drilled to a depth of 200.0 meters and encountered a 8.1 meter coal seam between 61.1 and 69.2. Seam intercepts are as follows:

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gulfside Hole # NJ-09-32R*
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Top Base Thickness Seam
(m) ID*
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
61.1 69.2 8.1 2U
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
101.1 104.3 2.8 2L
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
156.5 161.7 4.7 3
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Depth 200.0
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Coal (Meters) 17.6
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Seam intercepts and correlations are preliminary, pending geophysical
log interpretation
The newly acquired data will be analyzed and evaluated by Norwest. Seam correlations will be conducted and the geologic model will be updated. It is anticipated that the Phase 2 drilling plan may be modified to account for the model update and to optimize exploration expenditures.

Below is a table summarizing the drilling results to date.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Total Thickest Thickest
Identification Depth Coal Seam Interval
Number Number (Meters) (Meters) (Meters) (Meters)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 NJ-09-22C 204.0 56.59 38.10 46.5-84.60
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 NJ-09-23C 181.2 52.66 28.84 37.6-66.44
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 NJ-09-24C 201.4 34.36 12.10 26.8-38.9
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 NJ-09-25R 280.0 28.17 10.37 85.83-96.2
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5 NJ-09-26C 192.5 30.33 10.40 174.40-184.8
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6 NJ-09-27C No coal
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 NJ-09-29C 233.2 16.78 12.30 42.10-54.40
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8 NJ-09-30R 186.0 38.1 28.80 33.4-62.2
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9 NJ-09-31R 162.0 57.70 42.40 62.7-105.1
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
10 NJ-09-32R 200.0 16.50 8.10 61.1-69.2
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
The core for all holes has been logged and delivered to the Stewart Mongolia, LLC laboratory in Ulaanbaatar. Coal quality testing has begun. The camp has been put on maintenance status and the crews have gone home to spend the holidays with their families.

Phase 2 drilling is scheduled to resume early in the New Year, 2010. Once additional drilling has been completed and laboratory results analyzed, the Company will be in the position to further evaluate the viability of the coal project for a coal liquefaction project. Independent geological and engineering studies will be required to determine if this potential use is technically and economically viable.

Kerry F. Griffin BSc., Diploma Eng Geol, MAIG, an independent consultant to the Company and the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

Gulfside Minerals Ltd.

"Robert L. Card"

Robert L. Card

President

"Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release."

Forward-Looking Statements: This document includes forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning GMG's planned exploration program in Mongolia and other statements that are not historical facts. When used in this document, the words such as "could," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "potential," "should," and similar expressions are forward-looking statements. Although GMG believes that its expectations reflected in these forward looking statements are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties and no assurance can be given that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from these forward-looking statements are disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the corporation's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators.


SOURCE: Gulfside Minerals Ltd.

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Mitsubishi Corp Joins AREVA in Uranium Exploration Projects in Mongolia

Tokyo, Dec 22, 2009 (JCN) - Mitsubishi Corporation has agreed with AREVA to terms for joint participation in significant uranium exploration projects in Mongolia's Dornogobi and Sukhbaatar Provinces.

In exchange for a proportional contribution to AREVA's past and future expenditures in Mongolia, Mitsubishi Corporation will acquire the right to purchase 34% of the share capital of AREVA Mongol, an indirect owner of the exploration rights of these licenses and a wholly-owned subsidiary of AREVA.

AREVA has been successfully conducting uranium exploration activities in Mongolia for more than 10 years, and currently holds 36 uranium exploration licenses on more than 14,000 km2 in both the Dornogobi and Sukhbaatar provinces.

The Dornogobi Province has demonstrated a high potential for large uranium resources. AREVA and Mitsubishi Corporation will continue with both additional exploration, and development drilling and studies aimed at supporting potential future exploitation.

Producing lower levels of greenhouse gas emissions than other forms of power generation, nuclear energy is gathering attention as an environment friendly form of energy production. This project aims to provide a stable supply of uranium for nuclear power generators thereby contributing to the prevention of further global warming.

AREVA is a French-based, world-leading nuclear energy company with a significant presence in each industrial activity linked to the nuclear energy industry: mining, processing, combustibles, nuclear reactors, treatment and recycling.

Mitsubishi Corporation, through its subsidiaries, has over many years been promoting uranium exploration and development projects in Canada and Australia. Currently, Mongolia has the world's 15th largest national uranium resource inventory and reportedly, also contains the highest uranium exploration potential of any country.

By Saroj Shrestha Staff Writer

Copyright © 2009 JCN. All rights reserved. A division of Japan Corporate News Network KK.

Source:Japan Corporate News Network

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Collaborative Approach Passes Field Test on Mongolian Grasslands

A new approach known as co-management of natural resources is an effective alternative in many circumstances for managing common resources sustainably and equitably.

Common property resources such as soil and water are the stuff of life. But they are also potentially rivalrous and, if not managed wisely, can be used up. This year’s Nobel Prize in economics highlighted this fundamental global fact in honouring Elinor Ostrom for her work on the governance of “common pool” resources, such as forests, fisheries, and grasslands.

The world’s poorest people have frequently been blamed for mismanaging the natural resources on which their lives depend. But across the developing world, initiatives supported by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) have shown that there are ways to reduce poverty and protect a community’s resource base at the same time. These two important goals can complement each other, rather than compete, even in the most difficult environments.

Decades of IDRC-supported research and innovation in this field have generated a wealth of evidence: A new approach known as co-management of natural resources is an effective alternative in many circumstances for managing common resources sustainably and equitably. This international experience holds useful lessons for Canadians as we contend with our own tough resource management challenges.


Co-management refers to collaborative arrangements in which local resource users, such as fishers, farmers, or herders, share responsibility and authority with governments for managing natural resources. The approach draws on the experience and expertise of all the players involved. Local users contribute their deep knowledge of the resource and past customary practices. Governments provide an enabling environment, including supportive policies and technical advice.


Mongolia’s nomadic herders are at the centre of one such success story. In the early 1990s, the former Soviet satellite state entered a period of profound change. For 70 years, the state had owned all the land, as well as the goats, sheep, cattle, horses, and camels that form the backbone of the economy.



Ronnie Vernooy
As Mongolia moved toward a market-oriented economy, private ownership of livestock was reintroduced. The state retained ownership of the land, but had limited capacity to manage it. The result was an open-access situation that put mounting pressure on a fragile ecosystem.


Grasslands, increasingly affected by drought, became seriously overgrazed. Throughout the 1990s, the number of families engaged in herding more than doubled, and the livestock population increased by 30%. Currently, close to half of Mongolia’s three million people – and more than 40 million animals – are involved in the livestock sector.


Concerned about degraded grasslands and declining incomes, Mongolians were open to new ideas. As a result, for the past decade IDRC-supported researchers have been field testing the co-management approach in three of the country’s representative ecosystems – dry steppe, forested steppe, and high mountain steppe.


Dr Hijaba Yhkanbai of Mongolia’s Ministry of Nature, Environment and Tourism, who has led the field studies, is enthusiastic about the new approach. Comanagement has meant more productive pastureland, healthier herds, and increased incomes at the pilot sites.


Herders are organized into strong associations that are taking the lead in reshaping the use of the grasslands and other resources. Working alongside government officials, schoolteachers, forest wardens, and others, the herders have helped put together agreements that spell out how the grasslands and related resources are managed.


The successful pilot activities are now being extended to new communities. And they have already led to changes in national policies and laws governing grasslands, forests, and water use.


Co-management helps to secure access to resources for poor local communities, and to build new institutions that give them a greater voice. And together, everyone with a stake in the health of a resource experiments with new ways of doing things, including exploring alternative livelihoods.


This is not an easy form of management. But it can be made to work if all parties engage seriously in the effort, over a long period of time, learning by doing as they go along. Indeed, co-management both encourages and generates adaptability — a vital tool for Mongolia’s herders, and other local resource users around the world — in face of the climate-related challenges of today and tomorrow.


Author of this article, Ronnie Vernooy works with IDRC’s Rural Poverty and Environment program.


Source:The International Development Research Center

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Entree Gold 2009 Exploration and Corporate Update

VANCOUVER, Canada, December 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Entree Gold Inc. (TSX:ETG; NYSE Amex:EGI; Frankfurt:EKA - "Entree" or the "Company") reached a number of milestones in 2009. These include the conversion of key concessions at Lookout Hill, Mongolia into long term mining licences as part of the Oyu Tolgoi Investment Agreement; acquisition and consolidation of strategic exploration properties in the Yerington copper camp in Nevada, USA; and continued exploration and testing of porphyry copper targets in New Mexico and Arizona, USA.

Exploration and corporate highlights of 2009 include:

- Signing of the long-awaited Oyu Tolgoi Investment Agreement between
the Mongolian government and Entree's joint venture partner, Ivanhoe
Mines Ltd. (TSX: IVN; IVN; IVN - "Ivanhoe Mines") and
largest shareholder, Rio Tinto ( RTP; LSE: RIO.L; ASX: RIO.AX);

- The conversion of Entree's Shivee Tolgoi and Javhlant exploration
licences into mining licences;

- Acquisition and consolidation of a large, underexplored and highly
prospective porphyry copper land package in the Yerington district of
Nevada;

- Entree's agreement with PacMag Metals Ltd. (ASX:PMH - "PacMag") to
acquire all of their outstanding shares and options, as part of the
Yerington area consolidation;

- Expansion of porphyry copper-gold mineralization at Lordsburg, New
Mexico;

- Continued exploration of Togoot coal deposits through additional
drilling and the preparation of a Mongolian resource report in advance
of a mining licence application;

- Drill testing copper-gold targets on the Huaixi project in China.


Mongolia
Entree-Ivanhoe Joint VentureThe successful conclusion to negotiations that culminated in the signing of the Oyu Tolgoi Investment Agreement in October 2009 provides stability to Entree's Lookout Hill portion of the Oyu Tolgoi project and sets the stage for future project development. Entree's Hugo North Extension and Heruga deposits are key elements for consideration as the Oyu Tolgoi project advances towards production. Ivanhoe Mines is preparing an updated Integrated Development Plan that is expected to provide a projected timeline and work program related to the construction and completion of the massive Oyu Tolgoi mining complex.

Abolition of the 68% windfall tax, to take effect in January 2011, was also announced in August 2009. This move by the Mongolian government signaled an awareness that the mining industry has an important role to play as Mongolia recovers from the economic crisis. The Mongolian mining industry welcomed this decision by the government leaders, as the tax was perceived to be a deterrent to future mine exploration and development by both domestic and foreign investors.

Further studies along the Oyu Tolgoi mineralized trend indicate several target areas could be drill tested in order to expand known resources. Geophysical data, including the deep penetrating ZEUS induced polarization (IP) survey, gathered over the areas surrounding the Heruga and Hugo North Extension deposits indicate promising trends suggesting the continuation of mineralization associated with each deposit. A possible southern extension of the Heruga deposit is suggested by IP anomalies southwest of Heruga. The rich Hugo North Extension deposit is interpreted to continue along strike to the north, towards drill hole EGD081B which encountered Hugo North style mineralization 1,300 metres from the property boundary. Approximately 8 kilometres of relatively untested ground lies to north of the Hugo North Extension on the Shivee Tolgoi mining licence, between the Hugo North Extension deposit and the near surface Ulaan Khud copper showing.

100%-Owned Entree Licence Areas

Exploration programs are being prepared for 2010 to seek new mineralization on Entree's 100%-owned western portion of the Shivee Tolgoi mining licence ("Shivee West"). Exploration was temporarily suspended in 2009 to accommodate the protracted mining licence conversion process. Mining licences carry an initial term of 30 years with two possible extensions of 20 years. Entree may now continue investigating the potential of this prospective region of Lookout Hill without facing imminent licence expiry.

Shivee West is geologically similar to the Devonian-aged setting of the Oyu Tolgoi deposits. It is common in very large porphyry copper-gold systems, such as those found in South America, for mineralization to occur along parallel structural trends and be comprised of numerous separate ore bodies. Strong geophysical signatures, in combination with copper-gold-molybdenum geochemical evidence, make Shivee West highly prospective. An exploration program involving drilling of geophysical and soil geochemical targets within prospective Devonian rocks is expected to be finalized in preparation for budget approvals in January 2010.

On Entree's 100%-owned Togoot exploration licence, in-fill drilling continued at the Nomkhon Bohr coal deposit in 2009. Drill testing of other coal targets in the northwest corner of the Togoot exploration licence was also conducted. The Permian rocks hosting Nomkhon Bohr are similar to those at the giant Tavan Tolgoi coal deposit, 70 kilometres to the northwest. Multiple thin seams of bituminous to anthracite coal up to several metres thick, are present over a strike length of 1200 metres. A resource report is being prepared by Mongolian consultants in collaboration with Entree's technical team in preparation for submission of an application to convert all or part of Togoot to a mining licence.

Yerington, Nevada

In August and September 2009, Entree optioned two large contiguous properties in the historic Yerington porphyry copper district through agreements with HoneyBadger Exploration Ltd. and Bronco Creek Exploration. These included the Blackjack and Roulette land packages. Entree's strategy was to begin the acquisition of and eventual consolidation of key targets in this emerging, underexplored copper camp. Exploration and drill programs are being prepared for 2010 on these properties.

Entree Gold and PacMag Agreement

On November 29, 2009 Entree announced an agreement with PacMag Metals Limited to implement Australian Schemes of Arrangement to acquire all of the issued shares and options of PacMag (see news release dated November 29, 2009). PacMag holds the rights to a sizeable tract of land that is contiguous with the Blackjack and Roulette properties and hosts the Ann Mason copper-molybdenum deposit. PacMag has acquired a portfolio of several other copper, gold, and uranium projects in the US and Australia.

Entree believes the combination of the two companies will be very advantageous for their respective shareholders. Entree investors will now have access to a diversified project portfolio that includes the Ann Mason deposit. Ann Mason is a copper-molybdenum porphyry which has a JORC compliant inferred resource of 810 million tonnes grading 0.40% copper and 0.004% molybdenum at a 0.30% copper cut-off grade, containing more than 7 billion pounds of copper. The PacMag properties in Yerington host other significant, relatively untested copper prospects such as the Blue Hills discovery, Shamrock high-grade copper target and the Minnesota copper-iron target.

The acquisition of PacMag, including the Ann Mason copper deposit, should more than double Entree's current worldwide copper assets. The agreement will be subject to an independent assessment on behalf of PacMag, a PacMag shareholder vote and regulatory approval by the Australian Stock Exchange and governing bodies.

Lordsburg, New Mexico

Drilling in 2009 continued to successfully expand the mineralized zone at the Lordsburg copper-gold discovery. Six additional drill holes were completed. Significant copper and gold intervals were intersected in four of the six drill holes. One hole in particular, EG-L-09-012, returned potentially economic grades of 0.25% copper and 0.15 g/t gold (0.35% copper equivalent) over 94 metres. Furthermore, this same interval hosts a higher grade zone of 60 metres averaging 0.31% copper and 0.21 g/t gold (0.44% copper equivalent). Significant results are compiled in the table below.


Significant Lordsburg Drill Results
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interval Length Cu Au CuEq(x)
Hole No. (m) (m) (%) (g/t) (%)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
EG-L-08-002 156.0 - 466.0 310.0 0.14 0.08 0.19
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
including 182.0 - 211.3 29.3 0.21 0.12 0.29
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
including 240.0 - 254.0 14.0 0.33 0.26 0.50
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
EG-L-08-005 0.0 - 134.0 134.0 0.13 0.12 0.21
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
EG-L-08-006 11.2 - 130.0 118.8 0.20 0.20 0.33
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
EG-L-08-007 6.0 - 152.0 146.0 0.13 0.16 0.23
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
EG-L-08-008 280.0 - 332.0 52.0 0.18 0.05 0.21
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
EG-L-09-010A 34.0 - 84.0 50.0 0.18 0.21 0.31
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
And 216.0 - 256.0 40.0 0.15 0.13 0.23
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
EG-L-09-011 28.0 - 66.0 38.0 0.15 0.20 0.28
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
EG-L-09-012 96.0 - 252.0 156.0 0.19 0.12 0.27
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
including 118.0 - 212.0 94.0 0.25 0.15 0.35
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
including 152.0 - 212.0 60.0 0.31 0.21 0.44
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
(x) Copper Equivalent (CuEq) has been calculated using assumed metal
prices (US$1.35/pound for copper and US$650/ounce for gold) and no
metallurgical factor; % CuEq. equals % Cu + (g/t Au(x)18.98)/29.76.

The Lordsburg project lies in an area of known copper porphyry deposits, several of which are past or current producers. Freeport-MacMoRan's Safford, Tyrone and Morenci open-pit copper deposits are producing through SX/EW extraction methods from ore averaging 0.35%, 0.29% and 0.28% copper respectively. The currently suspended Chino deposit was also a commercially viable near-surface open-pit conventional mining-milling operation with an average copper grade of 0.52% Cu.

Entree is currently applying for additional drill permits for the 2010 field season. Any additional drilling will be directed towards expanding the existing drill defined copper and gold zone.

Huaixi, China

A drill program to test geochemical and geophysical anomalies commenced early in November 2009 and is ongoing. Four holes have been completed for a total of approximately 1700 metres of the planned 2700 metres. Assay results are pending but scattered base metal mineralization has been visually identified in hole three.

Entree's exploration to date has been successful in outlining a 7 kilometre long northwest-trending structural corridor with a strong, multi-element porphyry signature. This was done primarily through extensive soil and stream sediment sampling in 2008 and followed up with magnetic and IP geophysical surveys.

Crystal Property, British Columbia

The Crystal Property is an early stage molybdenum-copper prospect about 120 kilometres west-southwest of Prince George, BC that covers a sizeable, strong geochemical anomaly. The anomaly lies in an area of known molybdenum deposits, such as Thompson Creek's Endako Mine and has never been tested. A short prospecting and sampling program was completed in October 2009; results are pending.

About Entree Gold Inc.

Entree Gold Inc. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the worldwide exploration and development of gold and copper prospects. Entree's expertise is in exploring for deep and/or concealed ore deposits and with a treasury currently in excess of C$40 million, is well funded for future activities. Ivanhoe Mines and Rio Tinto are major shareholders of Entree, holding approximately 15% and 16% of issued and outstanding shares respectively.

Entree's flagship property is in Mongolia, where it holds two mining licences and one exploration licence comprising the 179,590 hectare Lookout Hill property that completely surrounds the 8,500-hectare Oyu Tolgoi project of Ivanhoe Mines, and hosts the Hugo North Extension of the Hugo Dummett copper-gold deposit and the Heruga copper-gold-molybdenum deposit.

The Lookout Hill property is subject to a joint venture with Ivanhoe Mines Mongolia Inc. (now renamed Oyu Tolgoi LLC) whereby following expenditure of US$35 million by Oyu Tolgoi LLC, Entree now retains a 20% to 30% carried interest through to production, with Entree's share of development costs to be repaid from future production cash flow.

The Hugo North Extension deposit hosts a 43-101 compliant Indicated Resource of 117 million tonnes grading 1.8% copper and 0.61 g/t gold, estimated to contain 4.6 billion pounds of copper and 2.3 million ounces of gold and an Inferred Resource of 95.5 million tonnes grading 1.15% copper and 0.31 g/t gold, estimated to contain 2.4 billion pounds copper and 950,000 ounces of gold. Entree retains a 20% carried interest in these resources.

The Heruga deposit contains an Inferred Resource of 760 million tonnes grading 0.48% copper, 0.55 g/t gold and 142 ppm molybdenum, estimated to contain 8 billion pounds of copper and 13.4 million ounces of gold. Entree also retains a 20% carried interest in this resource.

Both resources were calculated using a 0.6% copper equivalent cut-off. The copper equivalent grades were estimated using metal prices of US$1.35 per pound copper, US$650 per ounce gold and US$10 per pound molybdenum. All resources at Hugo North Extension and Heruga were calculated using a 0.6% copper-equivalent cut-off.

Entree continues to explore its large landholdings in Mongolia, including the coal discovery Nomkhon Bohr, and is also evaluating the Huaixi copper project in Zhejiang Province in China.

In North America, Entree is exploring for porphyry-related copper systems in Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada and British Columbia. Entree's Nevada property is contiguous with the western boundary of PacMag's Ann Mason copper project and increases substantially the area of prospective tenure within that district.

Qualified Person

Robert Cann, P.Geo., Entree's Vice-President, Exploration, and Lindsay Bottomer, P. Geo., FAIMM, both Qualified Persons as defined by National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101"), supervised the preparation of the technical information in this release relating to the Entree properties.

This News Release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements which relate to future events. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "may", "should", "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "estimates", "predicts", "potential" or "continue" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Such statements include those relating to the successful completion of the transaction and implementation of the Schemes of Arrangement, future work commitments on exploration projects and increases to Entree resources. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our or our industry's actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

While these forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect our current judgment regarding the direction of our business, actual results will almost always vary, sometimes materially, from any estimates, predictions, projections, assumptions or other future performance suggested herein. Except as required by applicable law, including the securities laws of the United States, the Company does not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements to conform these statements to actual results. Readers are referred to the sections entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's periodic filings with the British Columbia Securities Commission, which can be viewed at www.SEDAR.com, and with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, which can be viewed at http://www.SEC.gov.

For further information: Monica Hamm, Manager, Investor Relations, Entree Gold Inc., Tel: +1-604-687-4777, Toll Free: +1-866-368-7330, E-mail: mhamm@entreegold.com; Peter Oates, Corporate Communications, Entree Gold Inc., Tel: +1-604-687-4777, Toll Free: +1-866-368-7330, E-mail: poates@entreegold.com


SOURCE Entree Gold Inc.

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AREVA and Mitsubishi Corporation sign an agreement in Uranium Exploration

Monday, Dec 21, 2009
AREVA and Mitsubishi Corporation agreed terms for a partnership in Mongolia. AREVA has invited Mitsubishi Corporation to participate in the development of its uranium explo-ration assets in Mongolia with the possibility of acquiring 34% of AREVA Mongol over time. This agreement represents a substantial step in the development of uranium resources in Mongolia. Through their joint efforts, AREVA and Mitsubishi Corporation will create value in the exploration and future exploitation of Mongolian uranium resources based on proven expertise, professionalism and sustainable development practices. Mitsubishi Corporation, Japan’s largest general trading company, is seeking to reinforce its assets in the uranium mining industry.

In exchange for a proportional contribution to AREVA’s past and future expenditures in Mongolia, Mitsubishi Corporation will be granted the right to acquire 34% of the equity capital of AREVA Mongol. AREVA Mongol has been conducting successful exploration activities in Mongolia for more than 10 years. AREVA currently holds 36 uranium exploration licenses on more than 14 000 km2 in both the Dornogobi and Sukhbaatar provinces. Among the different areas to be explored, the Dornogobi Province has demonstrated a high potential for uranium. This zone is the primary target with respect to a future exploitation. Future drilling campaigns will be dedicated to identify new possible uranium resources. This contract illustrates how AREVA diversifies its uranium resources to guarantee future supply to all its customers.The group already exploits deposits in Kazakhstan and thus reinforces its presence in the most promising areas of Asia.

Source:Areva Group (www.areva.com)

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Mitsubishi joins Areva's Mongolia uranium projects

TOKYO, Dec 21 - Japanese trading house Mitsubishi Corp <8058.T> said on Monday it has agreed to participate in France's Areva-led uranium exploration projects in Mongolia.

The Japanese firm said that in exchange for contributing to Areva's past and future expenditures in Mongolia, it will acquire the right to buy 34 percent of Areva Mongol, a wholly owned subsidiary of Areva.

A Mitsubishi spokesman declined to comment on the value of its contribution.

"Areva currently holds 36 uranium exploration licenses on more than 14,000 km2 in both the Dornogobi and Sukhbaatar provinces," Mitsubishi said in a statement.

Source:Reuters news agency

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Areva, Mitsubishi strike Mongolia uranium deal

PARIS: French state-owned nuclear power group Areva and Japanese group Mitsubishi Corp have agreed terms for a Mongolia uranium partnership, Areva said on Monday.

Areva said it had invited Mitsubishi Corp to participate in the development of its uranium exploration assets in Mongolia, with the possibility of acquiring 34 percent of Areva Mongol over time.

Source:Nikkei of Japan

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SouthGobi May Spend $800 Million on Mongolian Output

By John Duce

Dec. 21 (Bloomberg) -- SouthGobi Energy Resources Ltd., a Canada-based coal producer operating in the southern deserts of Mongolia, plans to spend as much as $800 million in the next three years to increase output and supply customers in China.

The Toronto-listed company aims to boost its coal production in the Gobi desert by more than sixfold to 8 million metric tons by 2012, Chief Executive Officer Alexander Molyneux said at a media briefing on Dec. 10 at the Ovoot Tolgoi mine, about 950 kilometers (590 miles) south of the capital Ulan Bator. SouthGobi, 79 percent-owned by Ivanhoe Mines Ltd., embargoed the release of information at the press conference until today.


Ovoot Tolgoi is about the size of Paris and lies in one of the most sparsely populated areas in the world. The mine started production this year to supply power producers and steelmakers in the fastest-growing major economy. At least $500 million is needed for SouthGobi’s development, which includes building a 40-kilometer railway track to the Chinese border, Molyneux said.

“The increases in production talked about by the company are executable and achievable,” said Alisher Djumanov, managing partner of Singapore-based Eurasia Capital Management, which has about $100 million in investments in Central Asia and Mongolia, mainly in natural resources. “Developing a rail link to the border is a good way to reduce overheads. One of the key issues they have is how to get their products to customers in China.”

This year Ovoot Tolgoi produced 1.2 million tons of coal, currently carried by truck across arid dirt tracks to rail links in the Chinese province of Inner Mongolia, Molyneux said. The mine has 114.1 million tons of reserves, according to SouthGobi.

Coal Reserves

The mine is an 18-hour drive from Ulan Bator in South Gobi province, a desert region with a population of about 45,000 in an area larger than Greece. Ovoot Tolgoi operates seven days a week and winter temperatures can fall as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius (minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit).

“Mongolia is a new frontier for coal,” said Djumanov of Eurasia Capital, which owns SouthGobi stock. “I have not seen other figures, but the government estimates the country may have 100 billion tons of coal.”

Ivanhoe Mines Chairman Robert Friedland said on Oct. 23 that the Vancouver-based company, through SouthGobi, wants to supply 1 percent of China’s coal supply within 10 years and is targeting long-term production of 20 million tons annually from Mongolia. Rio Tinto Group has a 19.68 percent stake in Ivanhoe.

Seeks Funding

Excavators have started extracting coal from a 53-meter thick seam at an open pit at Ovoot Tolgoi, one of the thickest in the world, according to SouthGobi. The mine covers an area of 9,308 hectares (93 square kilometers or 36 square miles) and employs 278 workers. Paris spans 10,539 hectares, according to data from the office of the French city’s mayor.

“This is our first year of production at the mine and we are now planning to increase this rapidly,” Molyneux said.

The company, which has licenses to explore for coal in 800,000 hectares in Mongolia, will develop reserves at the nearby Soumber deposit in the next three years, he said.

SouthGobi is seeking additional institutional investors to fund its operations in Mongolia, Molyneux said, adding that the spending estimate for the next three years is still preliminary. The company said on Oct. 26 it secured $500 million of financing from China’s sovereign wealth fund.

“We have said we have an intention to list on an Asian stock exchange, and I guess the logical deduction is most regional energy companies are listed in Hong Kong and we have an office in Hong Kong, but I can’t say any more about it,” he said.

SouthGobi plans to raise $300 million in an initial share sale in Hong Kong, the Standard newspaper reported today, citing unidentified people in the market.

Rival Developments

Rivals including BHP Billiton Ltd., Vale SA and Xstrata Plc, are interested in developing coal mines in southern Mongolia, the nation’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Dashdorj Zorigt, said on Dec. 3. The government is planning “more intense discussions” with the companies over development rights, he said.

Mongolia is seeking $25 billion of overseas investments in mining in the next five years to develop some of the world’s largest untapped resources, including gold and copper, former Prime Minister Sanjaa Bayar said in a July interview.

Ivanhoe Mines is developing a $4 billion copper and gold mine at Oyu Tolgoi in Mongolia with Rio Tinto. Commercial production at the mine, which Rio has described as the world’s largest copper and gold resource, may begin in 2013, said Ivanhoe Mines in a statement on Dec. 7.

The Oyu Tolgoi project is about 80 kilometers north of the Mongolian border with China and may have copper resources of 78.9 billion pounds and 45.2 million ounces of gold resources, the company said last year.

To contact the reporter on this story: John Duce in Hong Kong at Jduce1@bloomberg.net

Last Updated: December 20, 2009 20:42 EST

Source:Bloomberg News Service

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Mitsubishi Corp. to Join Areva Mongolia Project, Nikkei Says

By Steven McPherson

Dec. 21 (Bloomberg) -- Mitsubishi Corp., a Japanese trading company, will invest in a project of Areva SA to explore for uranium in Mongolia, the Nikkei newspaper reported on its English service.


Mitsubishi will pay 34 percent of exploration costs to date, 34 percent of future costs, and acquire 34 percent of an Areva unit in Mongolia, according to the report. It didn’t say how much Mitsubishi would invest, or who provided the information.

Last Updated: December 20, 2009 16:15 EST

Source:Bloomberg News Service

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EBRD supports first private oil exploration project in Mongolia

The EBRD is supporting the development of the oil exploration industry in Mongolia with a $6 million equity investment in Petro Matad Limited, the first Mongolian oil exploration and production company.
"Majority owned by Petrovis LLC, the largest oil products distributor in Mongolia, Petro Matad Limited holds production sharing contracts with the government of Mongolia, which entitle the company to operate on three petroleum blocks, including the company’s main asset Block XX, located in Tamsag Basin, in the far eastern part of Mongolia, near the Chinese border," EBRD said.

The EBRD’s investment will be used to finance the drilling of three wells in the Block XX, as well as to support Petro Matad’s further exploration in the recently awarded Blocks IV and V.


The EBRD will purchase approximately 17 per cent of the Petro Matad’s newly issued shares and will have a seat on the company’s Board.

“The EBRD is pleased to support the first oil exploration project in Mongolia conducted by a local private company. This transaction will strengthen the role of the private sector in the Mongolian economy, and will help reduce Mongolia’s energy dependency on external providers by offering a new source of supply. In addition the project will bring new and improved environmental and corporate governance standards”, said Kevin Bortz, EBRD Director for Natural Resources.

“Petro Matad takes pride in the fact our Company has received such significant and considered investment from the EBRD. We are the first substantially-owned Mongolian company to list on an international Stock Exchange, and this investment demonstrates a meaningful path forward for the fast developing Mongolian private sector. Petrovis LLC the Company’s largest shareholder should also be applauded for its support in this process and its faith in international business disciplines. We look forward to continuing our exploration efforts in Mongolia with the EBRD as a substantial investor in our company,” said Gordon Toll, Chairman of Petro Matad Limited.

Since the beginning of the EBRD’s operations in Mongolia in 2006, the Bank has committed over €125 million across 28 projects in various sectors of the Mongolian economy, with total projects cost of €337 million.

Source:EBRD (European Bank for Reconstruction and Development)

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President Elbegdorj gave speech at the Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark

On 17, Dec, President Elbegdorj gave speech at the Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen.
Below is transcription of the speech.

Statement by his Excellency Mr. Tsakhia Elbegdorj, President of Mongolia, at the High-Level Plenary Session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference

Mr. President,
Excellencies,
Distinguished delegates,

I thank the Government of Denmark for the excellent arrangements and hosting of the Conference in this beautiful city of Copenhagen.

I have come from Mongolia with a legacy. A legacy of a country, fallen victim of climate change. And also of a country, with a solution to offer for our common mischief.
We hear of melting icebergs and rising waters, threatening the lowlands and islands.

Sands and dust rise, on another extreme of the climate change. This is happening in my country. 70 per cent of our lands is baring under ruthless sunburn.

Mongolia is a real-case and real-time example of climate change effects on landmasses. Boundaries of our 4 seasons are blurring. My country is experiencing an unusual pattern of temperature fluctuations: their range is a hundred degrees of Celsius. One out of every three springs, rivers and wetlands have dried up.


Climate change has stepped beyond the natural environment in Mongolia. Climate change threatens our lifestyle. It threatens our millennia-old harmony with nature.

Our herdsmen loose not only the lasting source of income, but eventually their lives. To most of our people the climate change became a climate genocide.

In the past, when a climate disaster would hit us, we used to simply move and settle in another area. Now we cannot. We have to solve the problem together.

Mr. President,

On one hand, Mongolia is becoming the most extreme example of injustice of climate change. But on the other hand, Mongolia has great potentials to reverse the effects of this calamity world-wide.

- We are a people which homes the world’s largest intact habitat of grasslands. Mongolia is the world’s least densely population country, which has staggering 1.5 million square kilometers of land.

- Mongolia can also hub the world’s renewable energy production. With 300 sunny days a year Mongolia perfectly fits to be the producer of clean energy. For Asia, and for the world.

- Mongolia has enacted to make 30% of our territories specially protected areas. And we will pursue this goal.

- Mongolia emerges as a rising star in the world’s minerals and mining industry. We will commit 10-15 per cent of our mining revenues to conservation of nature.

In June next year we will hold our Government meeting in sand dunes. Come to Mongolia.

The world sees its political leaders argue about climate change. The world scientists are arguing as well. Then come to Mongolia. Ask our herders. They will state the truth.

These are our responses to climate change. Then, what commitments do you make? We appeal to you to reach a legally binding agreement to combat climate change.

Two things for us are clear:

- emissions must be cut
- and we need funds. Money. Criteria for funding must be transparent, purposes – clear and the mechanisms - understandable.

Mr. President,

Our predecessors - the world’s leaders of past times did resolve the pressing issues of their times. They did away with the divide once existed among them. They established a new order. By establishing the United Nations. Now we need to enrich the meaning of the United Nations, a new mission to combat climate change. Mr. Secretary General, please don’t give up. We stand altogether. It’s just us. Just us to find the solution.

I came from over 7000 miles not to talk, but to act. Not to complain, but to contribute.

Copenhagen is an achievement as it brings together some 110 leaders from around the world. Perhaps, it is the largest congregation in more than a millennium-old history of Copenhagen. Thank you, Copenhagen, for your efforts to save the world.

Thank you.

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Mongolia Energy Shares Fall on Earnings Speculation

By John Duce

Dec. 17 (Bloomberg) -- Mongolia Energy Corp., the Hong Kong-listed mineral and energy explorer, fell the most in more than a year on speculation the company will report an earnings loss next week.

The shares declined as much as 21 percent in Hong Kong trading, the most since Oct. 27, 2008, to HK$3.76. The stock was at HK$4.06 at 2:32 p.m. local time. Mongolia Energy has risen 70 percent this year compared with a 49 percent gain on the benchmark Hang Seng index.

Mongolia Energy is developing a coal mine in the west of the country at Khushuut and the pit is due to go into production in the second quarter of next year. The company will announce first-half earnings on Dec. 23. It made a loss of HK$252.8 million ($32.6 million) in the second half of the last financial year.


“The stock has gained in value in recent months after the company announced agreements for the mine to go into production, so I think investors are taking profit ahead of a possible loss in their results,” said Timothy Kwai, an analyst at Quam Securities in Hong Kong. “It’s quite a volatile stock as the company is investing a lot ahead of going into production next year.”

Mongolia Energy is unaware of any reason for the drop in its share price, the company said in a statement to the Hong Kong stock exchange today.

Total investment in the Khushuut mine will likely reach $2.85 billion over its estimated lifetime of 19 years, said the company’s general counsel, Mohan Datwani on Nov. 11.

Mongolia Energy last month signed an agreement with contract miner Leighton Holdings Ltd., a unit of Australia’s largest construction company, to extract coal from the Khushuut pit. The mine will initially produce 3 million metric tons of the fuel a year.

The company also owns 330,000 hectares of mineral and energy concessions in the resource-rich north Asian country.

To contact the reporter on this story: John Duce in Hong Kong at Jduce1@bloomberg.net

Last Updated: December 17, 2009 01:40 EST

Source:Bloomberg

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Rights group accuses Mongolia over 2008 rioting

By Ganbat Namjilsangarav, AP writer
ULAN BATOR, Mongolia – An international human rights group accused the Mongolian government Friday of ignoring reported abuses after deadly post-election rioting in the summer of 2008.

Five people were killed and more than 200 were hurt in the riots over alleged election fraud. It was the worst violence since the impoverished but resource-rich country tucked between China and Russia shook off communism nearly two decades ago.

Amnesty International in a statement released Friday said police shot at least nine people in the July 2008 rioting, killing four.


Hundreds of people were taken to crowded detention centers and went without food and water for up to three days, and some were beaten by police, the statement said.

"Investigations into allegations of human rights violations have been delayed, ignored or inadequately investigated," said Roseann Rife, deputy director for Amnesty International's Asia-Pacific program.

But Munkh-Orgil Tsend, a lawmaker who was the country's Minister of Justice and Internal Affairs at the time of the rioting, told The Associated Press there were no human rights abuses.

"Lack of food and facilities to hold rioters just shows that we all were not prepared for such a riot," he said. "It cannot be misinterpreted as human rights violation."

He said an investigation continues into the shootings and that no one has proved that police were responsible.

"Many people forget about responsibility when they talk about human rights," he said.

Munkh-Orgil is with the Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party, the former ruling party that has long faced corruption complaints and was the target of the election fraud allegations.

Mongolia's opposition Democrats won presidential elections in May after pledging to crack down on graft and better distribute the country's mining wealth.

Investigations into the rioting continue. This month, a member of the National Human Rights Commission told a Parliament subcommittee hearing on human rights that 716 people were detained during the violence and 244 of them were convicted.

"Cases relating to the July 1 riot were treated harsher than usual," a member of the NHRC, identified as Dashdorj, told the committee, according to a Dec. 9 report by The Mongol Messenger newspaper.

There were no details on the charges they faced.

Source:AP (Associated Press) news agency

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Impunity and injustice are legacy of deadly July riots in Mongolia

The Government of Mongolia has failed to effectively respond to human rights abuses that took place during the July 2008 riot in Sukhbaatar Square, Ulaanbaatar, and its aftermath, leaving a legacy of impunity and injustice, Amnesty International said in a report released on Friday.

Amnesty International’s report describes how hundreds of people were taken to police detention centres where they were held in over-crowded cells without food or water for up to 72 hours during the riots. Police beat detainees while they were in custody and during interrogations to extract “confessions”.

Over 700 people were arrested and over 100 more in the weeks following, for suspected offences committed during the riot.


One year on from the riot, the scope of the investigation conducted remains limited. Allegations of torture and other ill-treatment in detention, and excessive and unnecessary use of force by police have largely been ignored.

“Investigations into allegations of human rights violations have been delayed, ignored or inadequately investigated”, said Roseann Rife, Asia-Pacific Deputy Programme Director at Amnesty International.

“A year on from the riot and there is no accountability on the part of authorities and no justice for the victims.”

Procedures for prosecution of ten police officers and four senior police officials suspected of using and authorizing the use of live ammunition during the riot was stalled by the defendants and their lawyers for over seven months until early November 2009. The case file is now being read by the families of the victims and their lawyers.

“There has been a failure on the part of the Mongolian government to seriously investigate allegations of torture and other ill-treatment of those held in detention following the riot or to prosecute those suspected of carrying out and ordering the use of live ammunition,” said Roseann Rife.

Mongolia has failed to comply with its international obligations which require them to take a range of legislative, judicial, administrative and other measures to prevent human rights violations and bring those responsible to justice and ensure victims receive reparations in line with international standards.

The secrecy surrounding the operations of police and other law enforcement agencies is further damaging their reputation leading to mistrust and fear. Such sentiments will persist as long as the authorities fail to take concrete steps to conduct independent investigations and prosecute any alleged perpetrators of offences involving human rights violations, and implement reforms to ensure non-repetition.

Background
Amnesty International calls on the Mongolian government to:

Ensure that the Special Investigation Unit of the State General Prosecutors’ Office is provided adequate funding and support to enable it to carry out prompt, independent, impartial and thorough investigations into allegations of offences involving human rights violations against officials and that procedures are in place to ensure that parties involved in the investigation are not able to stall or otherwise delay procedures unreasonably and prevent cases being prosecuted.

Ensure that any complaints or reports of human rights violations are investigated promptly, independently, impartially and thoroughly, and that those suspected of related offences are prosecuted. Investigations should be conducted by personnel who are competent, impartial and independent of the alleged perpetrators and the agency they serve.

Initiate a review of regulations, policy, and training to ensure that the practices of the police, including the use of force, in policing demonstrations are consistent with international human rights standards, including the UN Code of Conduct for Law Enforcement Officials and the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms.

Establish effective mechanisms to receive complaints, provide timely and accessible information on the progress of cases, and ensure that any person wishing to submit a complaint against law enforcement officials is not in any way obstructed from doing so. Where a complaint is rejected as inadmissible, the complainant should be given clear and detailed reasons for the decision, in writing, and information on appeals mechanisms and alternative avenues of recourse.

Ensure that victims of crimes committed by law enforcement officials have access to an effective remedy and receive adequate reparation, including compensation, restitution, rehabilitation, and guarantees of non-repetition in accordance with international standards.

On 1 July 2008 thousands of people protested at Sukhbaatar Square amid allegations of widespread election fraud. The riot was unexpected and unexpectedly violent. At least nine people were shot by the police, four fatally, and a fifth person died allegedly from smoke inhalation.

The Government called the country’s first state of emergency since transitioning to a democratic system of government in 1990 for four days from midnight 2 July, 2008.

Source:Amnesty International

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MONGOLIA SET TO RECEIVE SWINE FLU VACCINE 'IN WEEKS'

17/12/2009

Mongolia is set to receive shipments of the swine flu vaccine in the next few weeks, it has been reported.

The World Health Organization (WHO) flu chief Keiji Fukuda made the announcement today, the Associated Press reports.

Azerbaijan and Afghanistan are also due to receive the vaccine in the near future.

The news provider notes that the WHO has a stockpile of around 180 million swine flu vaccinations, which were donated by countries and drug producers.


Some 32 other developing nations are due to be sent the treatment soon, but the health agency is prioritising countries in the northern hemisphere because they are being hit by swine flu harder than their more southerly counterparts.

Mr Fukuda said that the WHO expects the swine flu virus to continue circulating for the next couple of years and that it would be "premature" to speculate as to whether or not it is in decline.

Written by John Curtis of VSO (Volunteer Services Overseas)

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ADB, Japan To Support Mongolia Resolve Banking Problems

Published: 18-Dec-2009

With $2mn technical assistance grant to strengthen institutional capacity for banking supervision
Asian Development Bank (ADB) has said that it will assist Mongolia to implement reforms in the banking sector to promote growth and economic recovery in the wake of the global economic crisis.

The Japan Special Fund, funded by the government of Japan and administered by ADB, will provide a $2mn technical assistance grant to strengthen institutional capacity for banking supervision. It will also review the regulatory environment and help develop guidelines to strengthen corporate governance and improve risk management.


The aim of this project is to establish an improved policy and operating framework for managing risks in the banking sector and to resolve the problem of distressed assets, which in turn will help deliver a broad-based economic recovery.

Mongolia’s economy came under pressure as a result of the global downturn, with copper prices slumping and domestic growth slowing sharply since the end of 2008. This in turn has caused a weakening of the country's financial institutions.

The central bank is the executing agency for the project, which is due for completion by the end of 2012.

Source:ADB (Asian Development Bank)

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Japan, Mongolia agree to study possibility of bilateral FTA

TOKYO, Dec 18 (Kyodo) - Japan and Mongolia on Thursday agreed to hold working-level talks to study whether the two countries should conclude a bilateral free trade agreement, the Japanese Foreign Ministry said.

The agreement was reached between Japanese Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada and his Mongolian counterpart Gombojavyn Zandanshatar in Tokyo, who expressed his country's intention an seeking an FTA.

Zandanshatar is visiting Japan for the first time since he assumed the post of minister of foreign affairs and trade in November.

During the working-level talks, the two countries hope to look into the economic benefits of an economic partnership agreement. The talks will be a step toward considering the launching of government-private sector research on the matter, a Japanese Foreign Ministry official said.



An economic partnership agreement goes beyond a free trade agreement, which aims mainly at removing tariffs on goods and trade barriers for services, and covers areas such as intellectual property rights and investment protection rules.

Meanwhile, Zandanshatar also voiced hope that Japan would cooperate in his country's development of mineral resources, such as uranium. Okada promised to enhance Japan's support, according to the official. (Kyodo)

Source:Kyodo news agency of Japan

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Gulfside Minerals Ltd. - Onjuul drilling update

TSX.V - GMG

VANCOUVER, Dec. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - Robert L. Card, President of Gulfside Minerals Ltd. ("Gulfside" or the "Company"), is pleased to report four additional holes of Gulfside's drilling program on the Onjuul coal project in Mongolia have been completed.

The results of the first four holes were reported in news releases on November 24, 2009 and December 7, 2009.



The fifth hole, NJ-09-26C cored to depth of 192.5 meters and encountered a 10.4 meter seam between 174.4 and 184.8 meters; other thinner, but significant seams were also encountered. Seam intercepts are as follows:

Gulfside Hole # NJ-09-26C*
----------------------------------------------------
Coal Intercept (m)
----------------------------------------------------
Top Base Thickness Seam ID*
----------------------------------------------------
35.5 43.0 7.5 2U
----------------------------------------------------
79.1 81.5 2.4 2L
----------------------------------------------------
115.0 122.2 7.2 3
----------------------------------------------------
174.4 184.8 10.4 4
----------------------------------------------------
Total 192.5 27.5
----------------------------------------------------

* Seam intercepts and correlations are preliminary, pending geophysical
log interpretation
The sixth hole was drilled to a depth of 113.2 meters before losing circulation and was abandoned. No coal seams were apparent.

The seventh hole, NJ-09-28C, was drilled to a depth of 51.5 meters before running into technical problems. This hole was abandoned and re-drilled as a rotary hole to a depth of 186.0 and encountered a 28.80 meter seam between 33.4 meters and 62.14 meters. Seam intercepts are as follows:

Gulfside Hole # NJ-09-30R*
----------------------------------------------------
Coal Intercept (m)
----------------------------------------------------
Top Base Thickness Seam ID*
----------------------------------------------------
33.4 62.2 28.8 2U
----------------------------------------------------
65.3 66.4 1.1 2L
----------------------------------------------------
76.0 76.7 0.7 2L
----------------------------------------------------
88.0 91.0 3.0 2L
----------------------------------------------------
118.8 122.5 3.7 3
----------------------------------------------------
129.5 131.3 1.8 3
----------------------------------------------------
136.2 138.3 2.1 3
----------------------------------------------------
Total 186.0 41.2
----------------------------------------------------
* Seam intercepts and correlations are preliminary, pending geophysical
log interpretation

The eighth hole, # NJ-09-29C was drilled to a depth of 233.2 meters and
encountered a 12.3 meter seam between 42.1 meters and 54.4 meters. The hole
was positioned as an offset to Hole #14 of the 1973 Russian/Mongolian
exploration program.

HISTORIC ONJUUL - 2009
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coal Intercept Comparison
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Historic Hole # 14 Gulfside Hole # NJ-09-29C*
----------------------------------------------------------------
Thickness Thickness Seam
Top Base (m) Top Base (m) ID*
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
0 7.5 9.0 1.5
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
10.4 11.2 0.8
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
30 41.5 11.5 42.1 54.4 12.3 2U
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
47 50.5 3.5 61.0 63.2 2.2 2L
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Depth 61.2m Total Depth 233.2m
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Coal (Meters) 15 (Meters) 16.8
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

* Seam intercepts and correlations are preliminary, pending geophysical
log interpretation
The core has been logged, boxed and ready for testing at the Stewart Mongolia LLC laboratory in Ulaanbaatar.

Once additional drilling has been completed and laboratory results analyzed, the Company will be in the position to further evaluate the viability of the coal project for a coal liquefaction project. Independent geological and engineering studies will be required to determine if this potential use is technically and economically viable.

Kerry F. Griffin BSc., Diploma Eng Geol, MAIG, an independent consultant to the Company and the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,
Gulfside Minerals Ltd.

"Robert L. Card"

Robert L. Card
President
"Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release."

Forward-Looking Statements: This document includes forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning GMG's planned exploration program in Mongolia and other statements that are not historical facts. When used in this document, the words such as "could," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "potential," "should," and similar expressions are forward-looking statements. Although GMG believes that its expectations reflected in these forward looking statements are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties and no assurance can be given that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from these forward-looking statements are disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the corporation's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators.


SOURCE Gulfside Minerals Ltd.

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Level 3 to Deliver U.S. Internet Traffic for GemNet

U.S. High-Speed IP Connectivity to Improve Global Network Reach

BROOMFIELD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Level 3 Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: LVLT) today announced an agreement with GemNet LLC, a Mongolian telecommunications and Internet wholesale provider. Level 3 will deliver high-speed Internet Protocol (IP) services in the United States to support GemNet’s broad customer base of Mongolian Internet service providers (ISPs).

“As broadband penetration continues to grow across Mongolia and neighboring countries, demand for high-quality global communications is increasing dramatically,” said Ts Bat-Erdene, chief executive officer of GemNet. “Level 3 offers extensive network connectivity for carriers located across Asia, Europe and the United States to meet the growing demand for Internet services in Mongolia.”

Under the terms of the five-year agreement, Level 3 will deliver high-speed IP services in the U.S. for GemNet to connect their growing customer base directly to global Internet destinations. The Level 3 network provides a key component of the trans-continental network infrastructure for GemNet.


The GemNet network delivers a high-capacity, low-latency transit route – via Mongolia – between Asia and Europe and between Asia and the United States. These capabilities build on GemNet’s regional network partnerships with the People’s Republic of China and Russian Federation to position GemNet as a valuable provider to international carriers and more than 30 ISPs across Mongolia.

“Emerging international markets represent a significant opportunity for traffic growth over the Level 3 network,” said Andrew Crouch, president of Wholesale Markets for Level 3. “As GemNet extends its network reach to a greater number of end-user customers in Mongolia and around the region, Level 3 is well positioned to provide an international network platform to support their ongoing growth and innovation.”

Renesys Corporation measures Level 3 as the world’s largest IP transit network. Connectivity via the Level 3 network offers global carriers the network reach, performance and scale to meet the growing demands of residential and business communications.

About Level 3 Communications

Level 3 Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: LVLT) is a leading international provider of fiber-based communications services. Enterprise, content, wholesale and government customers rely on Level 3 to deliver services with an industry-leading combination of scalability and value over an end-to-end fiber network. Level 3 offers a portfolio of metro and long-haul services, including transport, data, Internet, content delivery and voice. For more information, visit www.Level3.com.

© Level 3 Communications, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Level 3, Level 3 Communications and the Level 3 Communications Logo are either registered service marks or service marks of Level 3 Communications, LLC and/or one of its Affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. Level 3 services are provided by wholly owned subsidiaries of Level 3 Communications, Inc. Any other service names, product names, company names or logos included herein are the trademarks or service marks of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statement

Some of the statements made in this press release are forward looking in nature. These statements are based on management’s current expectations or beliefs. These forward looking statements are not a guarantee of performance and are subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside Level 3’s control, which could cause actual events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the statements. The most important factors that could prevent Level 3 from achieving its stated goals include, but are not limited to, the current uncertainty in the global financial markets and the global economy; disruptions in the financial markets that could affect Level 3’s ability to obtain additional financing; as well as the company’s ability to: successfully integrate acquisitions; increase the volume of traffic on the network; defend intellectual property and proprietary rights; develop effective business support systems; manage system and network failures or disruptions; develop new services that meet customer demands and generate acceptable margins; attract and retain qualified management and other personnel; and meet all of the terms and conditions of debt obligations. Additional information concerning these and other important factors can be found within Level 3’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Statements in this press release should be evaluated in light of these important factors. Level 3 is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any such obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

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Letter to Mongolian dictator sold for $ 12,500 US

Stalin's letter to Marshal Choibalsan Khorloo, Mongolian Communist dictator from 1930-1952 was sold at $ 12.500 US last week during Sotheby Auction in New York. Bidding price did not reach expected $ 12,000-25,000 US.

The letter was signed personally by the Soviet Dictator and VYACHELAV MIKHAYLOVICH MOLOTOV, foreign minister. The letter requested thousands of wool and downs to clothe soldiers of the Red Army. Until 1990, Mongolia complied with all requests and every whim of the leaders of Soviet Union.


By Research Unit of the MonInfo News Service

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