Source: UB Post

Government officials spoke nostalgically on the history of Mongolia, and gave a few bold promises, including the goal to reach the status of a developed nation within two decades in a recent independence celebration. Mongolia celebrated the centennial of its independence from China in a ceremony led by Parliament where MPs, as well as foreign and national diplomats, assembled and gave speeches on the meaning of the revolution and what the future holds for the nation.

Prime Minister S. Batbold highlighted the establishment of the five ministries of government and their accomplishments throughout the revolutions of 1921 and 1911. He spoke warmly about the path of economic development the nation is on, citing the difference in the per capita gross domestic product of USD 300 10 years ago and today of USD 3,000.  He said the government plans to bring the per capita GDP to USD 10,000 by 2015, and bring Mongolia to the level of a developed nation in 20-years time.

President Ts. Elbegdorj gave a two-hour speech, repeatedly transitioning, between the distant past, recent history, and present times. During his speech, Elbegdorj included a solemn remark about the 1 July 2008 riots, which erupted following election results that angered the populace. He apologized to all Mongolians, saying he failed to uphold the human rights of his citizens on that day.