Sukhbaataryn Batbold, foreign minister of Mongolia, is seen attending a news conference in the file photo dated on July 28, 2009. The Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party's (MPRP) Leading Council nominated Sukhbaataryn Batbold as the new prime minister on Oct. 28, 2009. (Xinhua/Asigang) Photo Gallery>>>

    ULAN BATOR, Oct. 28. (Xinhua) -- The Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party's (MPRP) Leading Council on Wednesday nominated Sukhbaataryn Batbold, the current foreign minister of Mongolia, as the new prime minister.

    The Mongolian parliament on Wednesday accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Sanjaa Bayar, who apologized for not being able to continue to perform his duties due to health reasons.

    Observers here predict that Batbold's appointment will be easily approved by parliament.

    It is reported that Bayar suffers from liver problems and used to seek treatment in South Korea. He was hospitalized in Ulan Bator last week.

    The parliament had decided that First Vice Prime Minister N. Altankhuyag would temporarily carry out the premier's duties untilan appointment of a new prime minister.