President Ts.Elbegdorj held a meeting with journalists earlier today (6^th of October). Mr Elbegdorj, now in his final year as Mongolian President, answered questions about the purchase of 49% of the shares in the Erdenet Mining Corporation and other topics. The meeting organised by the Federal Union of Mongolian Journalists is a regular event, taking place twice a year.

• First of all, President Ts.Elbegdorj said he didn’t really have any personal interests in the Erdenet Mining Corporation, although he wished the company every success.. Rostec and Mongolian Copper Corporation LLC on June 24, 2016 signed an agreement on the sale of 49% of shares belonging to Rostec in two Russian-Mongolian joint-venture mining companies (Erdenet Mining Corporation and Mongolrostsvetmet) to Mongolian Copper Corporation.

• We must appreciate our neighbour, Russia. The relationship between Mongolia and Russia is extraordinary. Russians shed their blood for us and built many buildings in our towns. 60% of Mongolians answered ‘we must be closest to Russia’. Over the past two years, I have met Russian President and PM more than ten times.  There is a list of more than 36 projects, that  Mongolia, Russia and China  are working on together.

• My son, E.Erdene is running for local election. It was his choice. If he aims for the good of Mongolians, then I will support him.

• Job cuts are taking place everywhere in Mongolia. These are across the board from cleaners and janitors to party people. This has resulted in the diminished public service capacity. People with 20 or 30 years' work experience are precious.

• You asked me, What will you do after the presidency? I’m  worrying more about Mongolia's future than what I will do tomorrow.