On the sidelines of the 45th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum, President Elbegdorj attended the session “Global Water Agenda – 2015”. And met with global political and economic leaders and exchanged views on the Strategic Competition in the New Global Context. During the session “The Mining and Metallurgy Policy”, President Elbegdorj answered questions from the journalists. 

The Group of 77 at the United Nations recognized that the economic stability of a country depends on water security. Has Mongolia made any progress in this regard?
President Elbegdorj: Mongolia participates in the WEF sessions on mining, infrastructure, environment, governance, corruption and many other issues. One of the most concerning issues of Mongolia at the WEF is water security issue. Water security is one of the most pressing issues in Mongolia. My idea was supported by the representatives at today’s session. Mongolia will impose a higher tax and strict requirements on the mining companies that use groundwater resources. There are many solutions of water shortage in Mongolia such as storing rainwater, preserving river conditions, filtered water and etc. We should support the mining companies that pursue for proper water management.

The mining and the economy of China are the most concerning topics for Mongolia in the Forum. You have just attended the session on mining. What issues have been discussed at the session?
President Elbegdorj: The WEF has become the arena for international discussion this week. Premier of the State of the People’s Republic of China Li Keqiang opened this year’s mining session of the WEF. The world economy is becoming even more dependent on the economy of China. Mongolia shares the longest land border with China and our two countries enjoy strong economic relationship. Therefore, the economy of Mongolia is dependent on China. First, we should pay attention to the issues that we have settled, during a State Visit of the President of China last year. In particular, we need to implement works related to infrastructure investment. We must start building the new power plants and railways. On the other hand, Mongolia should pay attention to the sectors that will further benefit, such as agriculture. We should invest more in the processing plant industry of the agricultural sector. 

The world geopolitical situation is changing and distrust takes place. What is role of Mongolia’s initiative in overcoming the distrust? 
President Elbegdorj: We cannot mention about the national security without touching value issues. There is no difference between large and small countries. The national security has only one criterion. If Mongolia will propose a good initiative, it will receive wide support from the world countries. Most of our initiatives of relevant to the relations between our two neighbors are supported in the world. If we will maintain our friendly relations with our two neighbors we will find a common language with any other world countries, particularly, in the infrastructure sphere.