Discussion on Noyon Uul Held

Ulaanbaatar /MONTSAME/ A discussion on Noyon Uul cultural heritage site was held on February 27 at the Citizen’s Chamber under the President of Mongolia. It gathered representatives of the stakeholders: Government and NGO’s, civil society organizations, Mongolian Academy of Sciences and Centerra Gold Inc. Chief of Staff of the President’s Office P.Tsagaan opened the discussion noting that in the recent times, disputes and movements are intensifying on mining of Noyon Uul site. “Noyon Uul” movement, “Bosoo Khukh Mongol” NGO and Mongol Nature NGO submitted over 10 letters to President of Mongolia. “President’s position on cultural heritages and development in mining sector is clear. During the visit to the Russian Federation in 2011, President Elbegdorj visited the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg and got acquainted with its exhibits that found by P.K.Kozlov’s expedition in Noyon Uul site in 1924-1925. And the President and former President of Russia D.Medvedev agreed to release a comprehensive catalogue of Noyon Uul exhibits. In the scope of this initiative, a joint team of Mongolian and Russian researchers are working to release this catalogue within this year. It is well known for our historians and archeologists that this catalogue includes the rarest and the most remarkable cultural treasures of Noyon Uul” he said. President’s position on mining of Noyon Uul heritage site has never changed, he added and noted that the President took a strong stance against the mining of Noyon Uul and wants to leave the cultural heritage site intact. “Archeologists and experts should undertake research and then make decision on mining this site and mining companies should fully ensure their exploration costs. Findings will be introduced to the local or state museums and this site will be one of Mongolia’s major tourist attractions” concluded Mr Tsagaan.