Admiral Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, visited Mongolia from September 8 to 10, 2024, affirming NATO’s commitment to enhancing dialogue and military cooperation. Highlighting Mongolia’s contributions to NATO missions and the ongoing modernization of its armed forces, the visit included key discussions on global security issues and concluded with a commitment to future military collaboration and strategic partnership.
From September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, undertook a significant visit to Mongolia, a key NATO partner, at the invitation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces. This visit reaffirmed NATO’s dedication to enhancing dialogue and collaboration with Mongolia, particularly in developing military capabilities and ensuring interoperability. Admiral Bauer shared insights from the recent 2024 Washington DC Summit and emphasized shared objectives between NATO member states and Mongolia in their mutual pursuits for peace and stability.
During his visit, Admiral Bauer toured the Five Hills Peace Support Operations Training Center (PSOTC), recognized for its contributions to peacekeeping training and education over the past decade. This engagement allowed him to assess Mongolia’s commitment to international stability and the invaluable experience acquired from NATO missions. Additionally, his meeting with Major General Ganbyamba Sunrev of the Mongolian Armed Forces focused on the modernization efforts being undertaken by Mongolia.
On September 9, following a ceremonial welcome, Admiral Bauer engaged with troops who participated in NATO-led missions, highlighting Mongolia’s significant contributions over 16 years in Kosovo and Afghanistan. His discussions extended to meetings with high-ranking officials, including the State Secretary of the Ministry of Defence and the Secretary of the National Security Council, where the focus was on the importance of military partnerships in an era of global security challenges.
The concluding day of Admiral Bauer’s visit on September 10 included deliberations with representatives from various Allied embassies, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach to civilian and military diplomacy. The visit culminated with a tribute at the statue of Chinggis Khaan, acknowledging Mongolia’s rich historical legacy and military tradition. Since 2005, NATO and Mongolia have continuously expanded their cooperation, moving towards an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme in 2024, addressing critical issues such as Women, Peace, and Security, as well as climate security.
Looking ahead, NATO and Mongolia are scheduled to hold military staff talks at NATO headquarters in October 2024, further solidifying their strategic partnership.
The NATO-Mongolia partnership has evolved since their initial dialogue began in 2005. As Mongolia seeks to strengthen its military capabilities and global cooperation, NATO’s support plays a crucial role. The ongoing collaboration highlights mutual interests in peacekeeping, military training, and addressing pressing global security issues. The Individually Tailored Partnership Programme adopted in 2024 signifies an important milestone in the relationship, demonstrating a shared commitment to peace and security while addressing contemporary challenges such as climate change, cyber security, and women’s empowerment in peace processes.
Admiral Bauer’s visit to Mongolia reinforces the strategic partnership between NATO and Mongolia, highlighting shared objectives centered around global peace and security. The engagement at various military and governmental levels underscores the commitment to enhancing military capabilities and international cooperation. With the transition to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme, both entities are poised to address contemporary global challenges more effectively, strengthening their alliance for future endeavors.
Original Source: www.nato.int
