From September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, visited Mongolia to reinforce NATO’s partnership and discuss military cooperation. His agenda included engagements with Mongolian military officials, a visit to peacekeeping training centers, and discussions on ongoing initiatives to modernize Mongolia’s armed forces. The visit emphasized mutual aspirations for global stability and peace, reflecting shared values between NATO members and Mongolia.
From September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, visited Mongolia at the invitation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces. This visit emphasized the importance of NATO’s enduring partnership with Mongolia, promoting further dialogue and collaboration aimed at enhancing capabilities and interoperability. Admiral Bauer had the opportunity to discuss recent developments from the 2024 Washington Summit, indicating NATO’s commitment to shared democratic values and mutual aspirations for peace and stability.
On September 8, Admiral Bauer toured the Five Hills Peace Support Operations Training Center, assessing its role in Mongolia’s dedication to global stability and the training of peacekeepers. The facility has been recognized for its contributions to NATO’s Partnership Training and Education Centres, highlighting Mongolia’s proactive engagement in international security missions.
The following day, Admiral Bauer received a military honor guard upon his visit to the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces, where he engaged in discussions with Chief of the General Staff Major General Ganbyamba Sunrev regarding the modernization of Mongolia’s military forces. He also had the privilege of meeting with Mongolian troops who have participated in NATO-led missions, underscoring Mongolia’s 16 years of contributions to such efforts, including deployments in Kosovo and Afghanistan.
Later on September 9, Admiral Bauer convened with the State Secretary of the Ministry of Defense, Brigadier General Gankhuyag.D, and Secretary of the National Security Council, Mr. Byambajargal to deliberate on the importance of military cooperation in addressing global security challenges. The essence of these discussions revolved around fostering mutual respect and collaboration tailored to the needs of Mongolia.
On the final day of the visit, Admiral Bauer met with representatives of the Allied embassies in Mongolia, where he articulated the significance of integrating civilian and military diplomacy for a comprehensive perspective on international partnerships. His visit concluded with a homage paid to Chinggis Khaan, a symbol of Mongolia’s military heritage and history.
NATO and Mongolia have maintained a cooperative dialogue since 2005, formalizing this relationship through an Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme initiated in March 2012. In 2024, Mongolia transitioned to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme with NATO, encompassing diverse issues from Women, Peace and Security to climate change and cyber defense. Upcoming military staff talks scheduled at NATO headquarters in October 2024 underscore the continued commitment to this collaboration.
The NATO-Mongolia partnership dates back to 2005, emphasizing military collaboration, peacekeeping, and capacity-building initiatives. As Mongolia transitions to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme in 2024, the relationship is set to address contemporary global challenges including security, climate change, and cyber defense. Admiral Bauer’s recent visit reinforced NATO’s commitment to this partnership, highlighting both nations’ alignment on democratic values and shared goals for global stability.
Admiral Bauer’s visit to Mongolia represents a reaffirmation of NATO’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Mongolia amid evolving global security landscapes. By enhancing collaboration in areas such as military modernization and peacekeeping, both entities aim to cultivate a more stable and cooperative international environment. This ongoing partnership seeks to equip Mongolia to effectively contribute to future security challenges while reflecting shared democratic principles and aspirations for peace.
Original Source: www.nato.int