Festive Swearing-in for Mongolian Peace Corps Volunteers

Written by Ch.Sumiyabazar

Tuesday, August 25, 2009.

The 66 members of the 20th class of Mongolian Peace Corps Volunteers were sworn in by US Ambassador Minton on August 19 at the Mongol Tuurgatan Theater, Zuun Mod, Tov Aimag. “The volunteers represent the largest incoming class of Volunteers in Mongolia’s history,” stated US Embassy in Ulaanbaatar. Mongolian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade S.Batbold expressed his thankfulness to the Peace Corps Volunteers for their contribution to Mongolia. US Ambassador Mark Minton also made brief remarks to the volunteers, putting their service into the broader context of the expanding U.S. commitment to foreign affairs.  Mongolia Peace Corps Director Jim Carl spoke of the opportunity to contribute to society in general and Mongolia specifically. Then several of the new volunteers addressed the audience in Mongolian. Others gave performances of traditional Mongolian songs and dances.  Around 800 Volunteers have served in Mongolia under a country agreement signed by the Mongolian and U.S. Governments in 1991. Volunteers presently work in the majority of provinces, serving in a variety of jobs. Volunteers learn Mongolian languages and customs and share in the daily life of their communities.