Admiral Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, visited Mongolia from September 8 to 10, 2024, to enhance NATO’s partnership with Mongolia. The visit included engagements with military leaders, discussions on modernizing military forces, and a review of Mongolia’s contributions to NATO peacekeeping missions. The evolving NATO-Mongolia partnership focuses on mutual military cooperation and addressing global security concerns.
From September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, undertook a significant visit to Mongolia, invited by the Chief of the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces. This visit aimed to reinforce NATO’s enduring partnership with Mongolia, emphasizing collaboration in enhancing military capacities and interoperability, and sharing insights from the recent 2024 Washington DC Summit. The bond between NATO and Mongolia is reflected in their joint efforts in peacekeeping, education, and capacity-building programs.
On September 8, Admiral Bauer inspected the Five Hills Peace Support Operations Training Center (PSOTC), an essential training facility recognized for over a decade for its contributions to NATO’s international peacekeeping missions. This visit provided Admiral Bauer an opportunity to appreciate Mongolia’s commitment to global stability and the experience gained from participating in NATO missions.
On September 9, Admiral Bauer was ceremonially welcomed at the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces, where he engaged with Major General Ganbyamba Sunrev regarding the modernization of Mongolia’s military forces. He also met with Mongolian troops who have served in NATO-led missions, having participated in deployments to Kosovo and Afghanistan for more than 16 years.
Later that day, Admiral Bauer had discussions at the Ministry of Defence with Brigadier General Gankhuyag.D and Mr. Byambajargal, Secretary of the National Security Council, highlighting the significance of military cooperation in addressing both regional and global security challenges. Military cooperation is tailored to foster mutual respect and benefits for all involved parties.
On September 10, Admiral Bauer met with allied diplomats residing in Mongolia, emphasizing the importance of integrating civilian and military diplomacy for a comprehensive understanding of international partnerships. His itinerary concluded with a visit to the statue of Chinggis Khaan, acknowledging Mongolia’s prominent historical and military heritage.
Since the establishment of dialogue in 2005, NATO and Mongolia have advanced their partnership through various frameworks, including the recent transition to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme in March 2024. This partnership encompasses several strategic areas, such as Women, Peace and Security, climate security, emergency management, and cyber defense, with military staff talks scheduled for October 2024 at NATO headquarters.
NATO has maintained a collaboration with Mongolia since 2005, marked by increasing engagement in military and diplomatic initiatives. The move to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme in 2024 signifies Mongolia’s evolving role within NATO’s partnership framework. This cooperation reflects shared commitments towards addressing security concerns and enhancing defense capabilities, underlining the strategic importance of Mongolia as a NATO partner. Discussions on global topics, including climate change and security, exemplify their mutual interests in contemporary challenges.
Admiral Bauer’s visit to Mongolia illustrates NATO’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the country, focusing on military cooperation, peacekeeping efforts, and shared democratic values. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, NATO and Mongolia are poised to address pressing global security challenges while enhancing their military capabilities. This partnership not only symbolizes historical ties but also serves as a model for international cooperation in maintaining peace and stability.
Original Source: www.nato.int
