1 39 MONGOLIAN STUDENTS TO STUDY IN GERMANY UNDER “PRESIDENT'S SCHOLAR - 2100” PROGRAM WWW.MONTSAME.MN PUBLISHED:2025/07/30      2 MONGOLIAN FLAG CARRIER TO START NON-STOP FLIGHTS BETWEEN SINGAPORE AND ULAANBAATAR FROM NOV 4 WWW.STRAITSTIMES.COM PUBLISHED:2025/07/30      3 WHEN CHINA SNEEZES, MONGOLIA CATCHES A COLD WWW.INTELLINEWS.COM PUBLISHED:2025/07/30      4 MONGOLIA–JAPAN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS INNOVATION FORUM TO BE HELD ON AUGUST 18 WWW.MONTSAME.MN PUBLISHED:2025/07/30      5 GREENHOUSE PROPAGATION TECHNOLOGY FOR CONIFEROUS TREES UNDER TESTING WWW.MONTSAME.MN PUBLISHED:2025/07/30      6 DIRECT FLIGHTS FROM KOREA TO MONGOLIA'S KHUVSGUL LAUNCHED WWW.AKIPRESS.COM PUBLISHED:2025/07/30      7 8 KILLED, 41 INJURED IN ROAD ACCIDENTS IN MONGOLIA OVER NAADAM FESTIVAL WWW.XINHUANET.COM PUBLISHED:2025/07/30      8 CONSOLIDATING PARLIAMENTARY DEMOCRACY IN MONGOLIA WWW.VERFASSUNGSBLOG.DE  PUBLISHED:2025/07/29      9 MONGOLIA’S NEW CHALLENGE: ILLEGAL DRUGS WWW.THEDIPLOMAT.COM PUBLISHED:2025/07/29      10 PRESIDENT OF MONGOLIA PARTIALLY VETOES PARLIAMENTARY RESOLUTION ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF “GOLD-3” NATIONAL CAMPAIGN WWW.MONTSAME.MN PUBLISHED:2025/07/29      ГАНГИЙН ЭРСДЛИЙН ҮНЭЛГЭЭГЭЭР ТАВАН АЙМАГ ЭРСДЭЛ ИХТЭЙ ГАРЧЭЭ WWW.MONTSAME.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/07/30     МОНГОЛЫН КОКСЖИХ НҮҮРСНИЙ ҮНЭ ХЯТАДЫН БООМТУУДАД ДАХИН ӨСЛӨӨ WWW.ITOIM.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/07/30     НИЙСЛЭЛД ХЭРЭГЖҮҮЛЖ БУЙ МЕГА ТӨСЛҮҮДЭД ХАМТРАН АЖИЛЛАХААР САНАЛ СОЛИЛЦЛОО WWW.ITOIM.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/07/30     ОХУ-ЫН ШАТАХУУН ЭКСПОРТЫН ХОРИГ МОНГОЛ УЛСАД ҮЙЛЧЛЭХГҮЙ WWW.NEWS.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/07/30     ЕРӨНХИЙ САЙДЫН АХЛАХ ЗӨВЛӨХӨӨРӨӨ Б.ДАВААДАЛАЙГ ТОМИЛЖЭЭ WWW.ITOIM.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/07/30     НИЙТИЙН ЭЗЭМШЛИЙН 50 БАЙРШИЛД ТӨЛБӨРТЭЙ ЗОГСООЛ БАЙГУУЛЖ, ТОХИЖИЛТ ХИЙГДЭЖ БАЙНА WWW.EGUUR.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/07/30     “MONGOLZ” БАГ УКРАИНЫ “NATUS VINCERE” БАГТАЙ БААСАН ГАРАГТ ТОГЛОНО WWW.EAGLE.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/07/30     МӨРӨН НИСЭХ БУУДАЛ АНХ УДАА ОЛОН УЛСЫН НИСЛЭГ ХҮЛЭЭН АВЛАА WWW.MONTSAME.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/07/29     ХОТЫН ДАРГА Х.НЯМБААТАР БЭЭЖИН ХОТЫН ДАРГА ИН ЮНТАЙ УУЛЗАВ WWW.ITOIM.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/07/29     ЧИНГИС ХААН БАНКНЫ ӨР ТӨЛБӨРТ ХӨРӨНГӨ АВАХААР БОЛЛОО WWW.ITOIM.MN НИЙТЭЛСЭН:2025/07/29    

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Events

Events

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MBCC “Doing Business with Mongolia seminar and Christmas Receptiom” Dec 10. 2024 London UK MBCCI London UK Goodman LLC

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Steppe Diplomacy: Mongolia Deepens Central Asia Ties www.timesca.com

Late on July 20th, the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, touched down in Bishkek as part of a two-day state visit to Kyrgyzstan. It forms part of Khürelsükh’s wider Central Asian tour, with the President set to fly to Dushanbe following his sojourn in the Kyrgyz capital.
The trip builds on Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov’s 2023 visit to Ulaanbaatar, where he oversaw the opening of Kyrgyzstan’s first embassy in Mongolia and toured the Genghis Khan Museum in the capital.
A warm greeting
Khürelsükh was welcomed by Japarov on the red carpet at Manas International Airport, where traditional dances, music, and even a ceremonial eagle were laid on. The pair greeted each other like old friends before the motorcade swept along the empty roads towards the city.
Like Japarov, Khürelsükh has been president since 2021, although, unlike his Kyrgyz counterpart, his role is largely ceremonial. Indeed, current Mongolian politics offers a hint of nostalgia to those in Kyrgyzstan with fond memories of the pre-Japarov era. In June, the Mongolian Prime Minister was forced to resign after losing a vote of confidence in the country’s parliament. This followed months of protests after press reports covering his son’s extravagant spending.
The second day of the visit afforded Japarov the chance to play to statesman-like host and welcome a new visitor to the Presidential Palace – the Yntymak Ordo – which is still less than a year old. With temperatures hitting 37°C (98° Fahrenheit) in the Kyrgyz capital, the Mongolian leader arrived at the palace in a blacked-out Mercedes, flanked by a horse-mounted honor guard. The besuited leaders then stood in the baking sunshine to receive a military salute from Kyrgyzstan’s army.
A burgeoning friendship
Perhaps the scale of the pomp masks the limits of what can be achieved bilaterally.
Iskander Sharsheyev, an independent Kyrgyz economist, was keen to stress to The Times of Central Asia that the leaders did achieve some breakthroughs in terms of agriculture:
“Veterinary certificates were signed… This provides a new market for Kyrgyz producers. Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia signed a memorandum of cooperation in the field of wool processing, including cashmere. Mongolia is one of the world leaders in cashmere production, and the transfer of technology and training of specialists can dramatically improve the Kyrgyz textile sector.”
However, real announcements were thin on the ground and the language of diplomacy was heavy with blandishments: “We strive to develop mutually beneficial cooperation in all areas, especially in the trade and economic sphere,” said Khürelsükh, while Japarov noted that “comprehensive cooperation with Mongolia is one of the priority areas of the development of Kyrgyzstan’s foreign policy.”
The question is whether there is any substance behind this.
Economically, the numbers are hardly going to move the dial. In the first five months of this year, Kyrgyzstan exported $3.1 million worth of goods to Mongolia, much of it confectioneries. Mongolian exports in the other direction are even lower. While officials are trumpeting the rate of growth, which tripled in 2024, it’s worth having a sense of proportion – $3.1 million would struggle to get you a two-bedroom apartment in New York’s Upper East Side. Indeed, former Mongolian Prime Minister Sukhbaatar Batfold was forced to relinquish two apartments in New York worth $14 million after they were found to have been purchased using the proceeds of “unlawfully awarded mining contracts.”
But the limited economic rationale does not mean the visit is without merit: symbolism can often lay the foundation for strategic benefits in the long term.
Joining the regional club
As is customary amongst foreign leaders visiting Kyrgyzstan, Khürelsükh proceeded into the foothills of the Ala-Too mountains to lay a wreath at the Ata-Beyit memorial complex, which remembers Kyrgyz intellectuals purged during the 1930s.
Such memorials have particular resonance in Mongolia, which, although never officially part of the Soviet Union, was also a People’s Republic from 1924–1990, and effectively a vassal state of Moscow. Between 1937-39, it witnessed its own purges under Khorloogin Choibalsan, the “Stalin of the Steppe”, in which over 20,000 people were killed. Buddhist monasteries were burned down, and tens of thousands of monks were imprisoned or shot.
While not entirely compensating for trade turnover, such connections have the potential to be more than fodder for historians.
The two nations have a shared nomadic identity, with horses and yurts being amongst their cherished national symbols. Indeed, the past decade has seen the reemergence of the idea of a Greater Central Asia – including not just the Soviet “stans” but also Afghanistan and Mongolia.
Mongolia has been working hard to integrate itself into the regional club. In particular, hosting Uzbekistan’s president Shavkat Mirziyoyev in June this year, the first trip of an Uzbek head of state to Mongolia in the independence era. This came on the back of a visit to Tashkent by Khürelsükh in 2024.
This week’s trip, taking in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, is part of a similar regional push.
“It highlights Mongolia’s strategic interest in new economic routes and strengthening political alliances,” said Sharsheyev, adding that this is especially important in the context of landlocked countries. “This can be perceived as an effort to strengthen regional resilience and reduce dependence on giant neighbors – China and Russia.”
Limited Options
Mongolia is currently experiencing rapid economic growth, primarily through its export of raw materials, especially coal. Its GDP is forecast to expand by 6.6% this year on the back of the growing economic benefits from the controversial Oyu Tolgoi copper mine on the Chinese border.
Even more so than Turkmenistan, the Mongolian economy is highly dependent on Beijing to buy its products. Some sources estimate that up to 92% of the country’s exports go to China.
In short, Mongolia is stymied by geography. While the countries of post-Soviet Central Asia have alternative trading routes with the rest of the world via Iran, the Caspian Sea, and a burgeoning route across Afghanistan, Mongolia is surrounded on all sides by Russia and China.
In the Altai region, Mongolia is tantalizingly close – 23 miles – to having a border with Kazakhstan, and many ethnic Kazakhs live in Mongolia. However, Russia and China are wedged between the two countries.
This is likely to limit Mongolia’s ability to reap the full benefits of any regional groupings that do not involve Russia or China, and is perhaps why Ulaanbaatar is seeking membership of the Moscow-led Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), with which it signed an interim free-trade agreement in late June.
Kyrgyzstan has stated that it welcomes Mongolia’s bid to join the EAEU, while Ulaanbaatar has also expressed interest in becoming an observer member of the Organization of Turkic States.
Integration can also be seen on the academic front, with Ulaanbaatar hosting the 10th CAMCA Forum in June, a regional get-together for journalists, academics, and business people from Central Asia, Mongolia, the Caucasus, and Afghanistan.
For a country as isolated as Mongolia, perhaps establishing the idea that it is part of Central Asia has merits in itself. On that front, if the visit was about setting a benchmark and increasing Mongolia’s visibility in the region, it has been a success.
“Interest in the visit of the President of Mongolia [has been] observed not only in political and business circles, but also among the general public,” said Sharsheyev. This is facilitated by a high level of media coverage… The visit is [also] being discussed on social networks, which indicates a growing interest in cooperation between the two countries.”
“What a handsome President of Mongolia,” commented one Kyrgyz user on Instagram.
“We are brothers after all,” noted another.
BY Joe Luc Barnes

 

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Mongolian Chess Federation receives Outstanding Contribution Award 2025 www.akipress.com

The Mongolian Chess Federation has been recognized by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) with the Outstanding Contribution Award 2025 for its achievements in the first half of 2025.
The award was presented by First Vice President of the Mongolian Chess Federation Batchuluun Khurelbaatar to Prime Minister of Mongolia and President of the Mongolian Chess Federation Zandanshatar Gombojav. 
Team Mongolia won a bronze medal at a stage of the World Grand Prix, their first silver medal at the Asian Championship, and a bronze medal at the Asian Championship in the 3.3 category.
They also received first place in the 2400+ category at the World Rapid Chess Team Championship in London.
Tselmuun Ider won Mongolia's first World Cup medal in the World Junior Chess Cup in Batumi, Georgia.
The Mongolian Federation also successfully organized the Asian 3.3 Championship in Ulaanbaatar last April.

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An Imperial Week in Photos: Emperor and Empress Conclude Historic Mongolia Trip www.japan-forward.com

The Emperor and Empress commented, "We sincerely hope that the friendship and cooperative relationship between Japan and Mongolia will continue to deepen."
(See the photos on the link below https://japan-forward.com/an-imperial-week-in-photos.../ )
imperial week in photos
Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress attend the opening ceremony of Naadam — morning of July 11, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
On July 11, Their Majesties Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended the opening ceremony of Naadam, Mongolia's largest national festival. They watched traditional archery events and participated in shagai, a game in which animal bones are flicked with the fingers to hit a target. When Empress Masako successfully hit a high-scoring target, the audience erupted in applause.
Empress Masako playing shagai, a traditional game in which animal bones are flicked at a target — afternoon of July 11, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Last Days in Mongolia
On July 12, Their Majesties observed the festival's main event: horse racing. They applauded enthusiastically as children rode horses across the course. His Majesty also took photographs with his personal camera.
Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress tour the information center at Hustai National Park — afternoon of July 12, Töv Province, Mongolia.
Later that day, the Emperor and Empress visited Hustai National Park to observe a herd of Przewalski's horses, considered the world's oldest breed of wild horse. They were invited to name a foal. Emperor Naruhito chose "Tomo" (Friend), while Empress Masako chose "Ai" (Love).
Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress observe Przewalski's horses at Hustai National Park — afternoon of July 12, Töv Province, Mongolia.
On July 13, the imperial couple concluded their 8-day trip with a meeting with President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh at the presidential residence. That evening, they returned to Japan aboard the government aircraft. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed by Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko, and officials. The couple exchanged friendly words with those who came to greet them.
Reflections on a Historic Visit
After their return, Their Majesties released a statement reflecting on the trip: "We sincerely hope that the friendship and cooperative relationship between Japan and Mongolia will continue to deepen." Although His Majesty had previously visited Mongolia in 2007 as Crown Prince, this was their first visit as a couple. They described the journey as a "very memorable experience."
Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress depart from Chinggis Khaan International Airport — afternoon of July 13, outskirts of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. (©Sankei by Kazuya Kamogawa)
They also spoke about their visit to a memorial for Japanese internees who were held in Mongolia by the Soviet Union after World War II. His Majesty remarked, "It reminded us of the importance of never forgetting those who perished in the war, deepening our understanding of the past, and fostering a spirit that cherishes peace."
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Emperor Emeritus Begins New Treatment
On July 14, Emperor Emeritus Akihito, father of the current emperor, was admitted to the University of Tokyo Hospital. He began a new treatment for asymptomatic myocardial ischemia and related conditions. Empress Emerita Michiko accompanied him. According to the Imperial Household Agency, doctors have prescribed a new oral medication to ease the strain on his heart. His condition will be closely monitored through tests such as electrocardiograms as physicians adjust the dosage.
Remembering Hiroshima Through Photography
On July 11, Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko, and their family visited the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum in Meguro Ward. They viewed the exhibition Hiroshima 1945, which marks 80 years since the atomic bombing. The exhibition featured around 160 photographs, including images taken shortly after the bombing by news agencies and others. 
Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko, with their second daughter Princess Kako and son Prince Hisahito, view the "Hiroshima 1945" exhibition — morning of July 11, Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, Meguro Ward, Tokyo.
While viewing a photo taken near the hypocenter, Prince Fumihito remarked, "The blast must have been extremely powerful." According to a museum guide, their second daughter, Princess Kako, also reflected, "I could sense the inner conflict the photographers must have felt as they took these pictures."
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Princess Kiko in Miyagi
On July 15 and 16, Princess Kiko visited Miyagi Prefecture to attend several events, including the 61st National Convention for Promoting Blood Donation. On July 16, she visited the Akiu Kagayaki Support School in Sendai City, where she visited Doma Café, a space designed for interaction and learning between students and local residents. She also toured the Tohoku History Museum in Tagajo City.
On July 15 in Sendai City, Crown Princess Kiko speaks with students at Doma Café of Miyagi Prefectural Akiu Kagayaki Support School.
Later that day, she attended the national blood donation convention at Sendai Sunplaza Hall. In her remarks, she stated, "To ensure a stable supply of blood in the future, it is important for younger generations to understand and participate in blood donation."
Princess Hisako Honors Young Innovators
Also on July 14, Princess Hisako attended the 38th Advanced Technology Award for Pioneering Originality ceremony, held at the Meiji Kinenkan in Minato Ward, Tokyo. The award recognizes outstanding achievements by students in science and engineering, as well as by young corporate researchers. Her Imperial Highness offered words of praise to the recipients.

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Mongolia’s Ancient Elk Petroglyphs Show 12,000 Years of Cultural and Environmental Shift www.indiandefencereview.com

A recent study published in the Cambridge Archaeological Journal examines the evolution of elk petroglyphs in western Mongolia, which span over a period of 12,000 years. Initially, these carvings depicted elk with remarkable realism, reflecting an intimate understanding of the natural world. However, as time progressed, these representations transformed into more abstract, wolf-like symbols. According to Archaeology Magazine, this shift not only represents changes in artistic style but also indicates significant transformations in the environment, human mobility, and cultural identity. The evolution of these petroglyphs offers a fascinating insight into the complex interplay between art, society, and the surrounding landscape.
In the early depictions of elk in the Altai region, these majestic animals were drawn in meticulous detail, showcasing natural poses and even interactions with other extinct species like mammoths and woolly rhinos.
However, over time, these realistic images began to transform.
By the Bronze Age, elk were depicted with exaggerated features and distorted facial characteristics, hinting at an evolution from observational art to more abstract, symbolic forms.
The Role of Environment and Climate in Shaping These Changes
As the climate shifted during the Holocene, the Eurasian steppe grew cooler and drier. Forests—once home to elk (Cervus elaphus sibiricus)—receded, pushing the elk to migrate westward. In response to these changes, human populations also adapted, increasingly embracing pastoralism and moving to higher altitudes.
This transformation is mirrored in the rock art, where carvings appear at progressively higher elevations over time. The Altai region itself, where Mongolia, Russia, China, and Kazakhstan meet, holds one of the longest continuous rock art traditions in the world, spanning from the Late Paleolithic (around 12,000 years ago) to the Bronze Age and Early Iron Age.
By the later stages of the Bronze Age, the elk ceased to be merely a representation of the natural world. Instead, it became a symbol, possibly reflecting status, clan affiliation, or spiritual beliefs. Over time, the elk’s representation became more stylized and abstract, eventually disappearing from art altogether by the Turkic period. One of the most fascinating aspects of this shift is the discovery of an elk image carved on a vast glacial boulder in Tsagaan Salaa IV. Dr. Esther Jacobson-Tepfer, who discovered this artifact in 1995, remarked,
“It seemed to reflect a complex interweaving of deep geological time, iconography, and its social implications,” she described the boulder as not only an artifact
—but a symbol of evolving cultural identity, highlighting how art transformed alongside environmental and societal changes.
The Impact of Mobility and Social Hierarchy on Artistic Traditions
Dr. Jacobson-Tepfer’s fieldwork in the region also illustrates how these petroglyphs represent a broader shift in human social structures. As mounted travel became more prevalent, art began to incorporate stylized depictions of animals on personal items, signaling the emergence of new social hierarchies and a more mobile way of life.
Over time, the elk’s representation evolved, becoming an emblem of changing social identities rather than a mere depiction of nature. The elk, once a central element of life in the region, completely vanished from the art tradition by the time of the Turkic period, marking a distinct break in the cultural continuity of these ancient peoples.

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Russian experts remind China: There is a neighboring country that is obviously in the opposite direction and may very likely "betray" China and Russia www.vocal.media

In 2024, Russian East Asian expert Andrei Gubin issued a warning: China should be careful of Mongolia, as this neighbor is quietly "changing its heart".
Gubin is an old professor at Moscow State University who has studied East Asian politics for more than 30 years, and his words carry a lot of weight.
Gubin further explained: Mongolian young people are increasingly yearning for the West, and the government's "third neighbor" policy is actually preparing for the future to turn to the West.
Although this sounds harsh, if you think about it carefully, it really makes sense.
In August 2024, US Secretary of State Blinken visited Ulaanbaatar in a high-profile manner, and the two countries signed a "Strategic Third Neighbor Partnership" agreement.
A month later, Putin rushed to Mongolia to "put out the fire". In June 2025, the pro-Western Mongolian Prime Minister Oyun Erdene stepped down for corruption, but the newly appointed Zandanshatar still had to balance between the major powers.
Why does this small country sandwiched between China and Russia make Gubin so worried? Is it really possible for it to "betray" China and Russia?
Why is Mongolia so important: there are treasures underground and the sky above
When it comes to Mongolia, many people's first impression is grasslands, herdsmen, and horse-head fiddles. But this idea is too superficial.
Mongolia has an area of 1.56 million square kilometers, which is larger than Xinjiang, but has a population of only 3.6 million, which is less than the population of a district in Beijing. How sparsely populated is it? On average, there are less than 3 people per square kilometer, the lowest in the world.
But don't underestimate this place.
The treasures buried underground are enough to make the whole world jealous. There are 173 billion tons of coal reserves, tens of billions of tons of copper mines, rare earths, molybdenum, uranium, etc. Especially rare earths, which are now more precious than gold, and are indispensable for making chips and missiles.
The location is even more amazing.
It is adjacent to Russia's Siberia for more than 8,000 kilometers in the north and China's 4,677-kilometer border in the south. Completely surrounded by the two great powers of China and Russia, this is the "heartland" in geopolitics.
It is no exaggeration to say that whoever controls this place can influence the entire Eurasian continent.
From China's perspective, Mongolia is a "treasure pot" plus a "buffer zone".
In 2024, the trade volume between China and Mongolia was 18 billion US dollars, accounting for 80% of Mongolia's foreign trade. More than 90% of the 83.76 million tons of coal exported by Mongolia were sold to China. Half of the coking coal used by steel mills in North China and Northeast China was shipped from Mongolia.
But Mongolia does not only do business with China.
80% of its oil and natural gas are imported from Russia, and winter heating depends entirely on Russian supply. Although trade with the United States accounts for only 2%, the United States' influence in technology investment and mining development is rapidly increasing.
Speaking of this, we have to mention history.
During the Qing Dynasty, Outer Mongolia was under the jurisdiction of China for more than 200 years, and the political, economic and cultural ties were very close.
After the Xinhai Revolution in 1911, Outer Mongolia declared "independence" with the support of Tsarist Russia. During the Soviet period, Mongolia became a "satellite state" of the Soviet Union, and its political and economic model was completely copied from the Soviet model for 70 years. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1990, Mongolia began to implement a multi-party system and market economy, but it always felt that it was used to being controlled by big countries and wanted more "autonomy".
This historical experience has left the Mongolian government and people with a knot in their hearts: they don't want to rely entirely on any big country anymore. This is the psychological root of the "third neighbor" policy.
The United States' "boiling frog in warm water": 20 years of layout to see the real results
The United States has always been patient in geopolitics, and its layout in Mongolia has been in place for more than 20 years.
Now the effect is beginning to show.
Blinken's visit to Ulaanbaatar in August 2024 is not just a formality.
The United States has promised to significantly increase investment, focusing on mining and clean energy. What's even more ruthless is that the United States helped Mongolia design a trade route that "bypasses China and Russia" - going directly to the sea through the Busan Port in South Korea.
Although the cost is several times more expensive than going through Chinese and Russian ports, it gives Mongolia the psychological comfort of "not completely relying on China and Russia".
For Mongolia, this is like buying insurance, spending money to buy peace of mind. It is precisely because of the lessons learned from being controlled by big powers in history that Mongolia particularly cherishes this feeling of "diversity".
The military cooperation between the two sides seems insignificant, but the impact is not small.
Since 2003, the "Khan Quest" military exercise has been held every year, with the participation of the United States, Japan, and South Korea.
The Mongolian army has a total of only 12,000 people, less than one division of China, but the political signal released by this exercise is very clear: Mongolia must maintain a certain balance between big powers.
For Mongolia, the most powerful thing is the cultural infiltration of the United States.
The US Embassy has set up an "American Corner" project in Mongolia, building libraries, showing movies, and holding English training everywhere. It looks harmless to people and animals, but it has the greatest lethality.
Why do you say that? Just look at the effect.
Sixty percent of Mongolia's population is under 35 years old. These young people have watched American TV series and learned English since childhood, and they are particularly yearning for American life. There are more coffee shops in Ulaanbaatar than milk tea shops, and English training classes are everywhere.
According to data from 2024, the number of Mongolian students learning English is twice that of those learning Russian.
The changes in political concepts brought about by this cultural influence are more worthy of vigilance.
Young people are increasingly disappointed with their own political elites, and instead feel that the Western "democratic system" is better. According to data from Transparency International in 2023, Mongolia's integrity score is 33 points, ranking 116th among 180 countries, and the corruption problem is quite serious.
This disappointment was just taken advantage of by the United States.
When Blinken was asked by reporters in Ulaanbaatar about containing China, he answered slyly: "Our focus is on the vision of regional cooperation, which has nothing to do with China." It is obviously aimed at China and Russia, and it is said so high-soundingly.
In the final analysis, what the United States is doing is "boiling a frog in warm water".
It is not about pulling Mongolia away all at once, but slowly changing its ideas. Economic interests can still be discussed, but once cultural identity changes, it will be difficult to reverse it.
Mongolia wants to "have its feet on two boats": but will the boat capsize?
Faced with the wooing of three major powers, the Mongolian government is very shrewd: do not offend anyone and get benefits from all parties.
This is the legendary "sitting on the fence".
But from China's perspective, this approach is not small.
The new Prime Minister Zandanshatar is an old hand. Born in 1970, he has served as foreign minister and speaker of the parliament and knows a lot about diplomacy. After he came to power, he immediately showed goodwill to China and said that he wanted to deepen Sino-Mongolian relations.
But he turned around and said that the "third neighbor" policy would not change and that he would continue to cooperate with the West.
This approach of pleasing both sides may be useful in the short term, but it is dangerous in the long run. Why? Public opinion is changing.
Polls show that 60% of young Mongolians believe that they should "learn more from the West", and only 30% support "continuing to maintain good relations with China and Russia". Once this generational difference is transformed into political power, the consequences are serious.
The most telling example is the "Power of Siberia II" natural gas pipeline.
This large pipeline, which transmits 50 billion cubic meters of gas per year, was originally the highlight of China-Russia energy cooperation, and Mongolia could make a lot of money by transiting. But the negotiations dragged on for several years, and Mongolia's attitude became increasingly vague.
Why is this so? In the final analysis, they still want more bargaining chips. The Mongolian government thought: Since China and Russia need me so much, I will ask for more benefits. But the problem is that China and Russia's patience is limited.
In April 2025, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui said something meaningful: "The pipeline will be built, the key is which route to take."
He clearly mentioned two options: transiting Mongolia or entering China directly from the Altai region.
This is equivalent to a warning to Mongolia: Don't think we can't do without you. China and Russia can completely take a detour. Although the cost is higher, it avoids being "choked" by a third party.
Mongolia's current dilemma is obvious: it cannot do without China and Russia economically, it yearns for the West culturally, and wants to strike a balance politically. But in the game between big countries, if a small country wants to "step on two boats", it depends on whether the boat is stable.
How China and Russia respond: Be patient but not without bottom line
For Mongolia's speculative mentality, China and Russia's strategy is very clear: pull if you can, push if you should.
From China's perspective, the policy towards Mongolia has always been relatively tolerant.
After all, the two countries have deep historical and cultural roots. During the Yuan Dynasty, the Mongolians also established a dynasty in China, and the national sentiment is there. Economic cooperation continues to strengthen, and the trade volume between China and Mongolia will reach a new high in 2024.
China has set up a RMB clearing bank in Mongolia to promote the de-dollarization of trade. Infrastructure construction is also progressing steadily, and railway, highway and power projects are being carried out.
In terms of cultural exchanges, China is also making efforts.
With 5 Confucius Institutes and multiple Confucius Classrooms, the number of people learning Chinese is increasing. Although the influence among young people needs to be improved, the profound heritage of Chinese culture and the development achievements of modern China are still attractive to the Mongolian people.
Russia's approach is more direct.
In September 2024, Putin visited Mongolia, reaffirmed traditional friendship, and signed a bunch of energy and military agreements. The relationship between Russia and Mongolia has a 70-year historical foundation, and the political, economic, and cultural ties established during the Soviet period still have an impact.
More importantly, Russia controls Mongolia's energy supply, and winter heating and industrial production cannot be separated from Russian oil and gas.
This is equivalent to strangling Mongolia's "neck". You can swing politically, but once the energy supply is cut off, you will be honest immediately. This is the cruelty of real politics.
But China and Russia are obviously also making the worst plan. The multi-route design of the "Power of Siberia 2" pipeline is a signal. If Mongolia really "turns against the water", China and Russia can completely take a detour.
Behind this "two-handed preparation" strategy is a deep concern about the political direction of Mongolia. Once Mongolia really "changes color", it will be a heavy blow to the geopolitical security of China and Russia.
From China's perspective, this not only means the loss of an important resource supply base, but also the possibility of American forces directly infiltrating into China's northern hinterland.
In particular, traditional economic ties are no longer enough in the information age.
The values of young people are more susceptible to external influences, and China and Russia must work harder in this regard.
But this takes time, and time may not be on our side.
A new generation of political elites in Mongolia is growing up, and their values will largely determine the future direction of the country.
Professor Gubin's concerns are based on this understanding.
He saw the power of American cultural penetration and foresaw Mongolia's possible political shift.
The time window is shrinking. From China's perspective, we must act quickly, with both strategic patience and bottom-line thinking.
After all, in the cruel reality of great power games, today's "friends" may be tomorrow's "opponents."
Mongolia's choice is not only related to its own destiny, but also likely to reshape the geopolitical landscape of the entire Northeast Asia.
Gubin's warning is worth our deep consideration.
Every move of this small country may trigger a chain reaction on the chessboard of the game between major powers. China must be prepared.
About the Creator    HuaxunNews

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France, Mongolia Expand Civil Security and Emergency Response Cooperation www.thediplomat.com

Beyond political and cultural relations, Ulaanbaatar and Paris have built up robust cooperation in civil security and disaster relief.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of Mongolia and France’s establishment of diplomatic ties. In the last six decades, the expansion of this bilateral partnership has engulfed tangible and assessable cooperation mechanisms. Beyond political and cultural relations, Ulaanbaatar and Paris have build a robust cooperation mechanism in civil security and disaster relief management.  
In June, the French Academy of Medical Sciences Foundation, France’s General Directorate for Civil Security and Crisis Management, and Mongolia’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) co-organized a two-day training as part of the France-Mongolia 60th anniversary. The joint training focused on rapid response to disaster relief included airlifting with NEMA’s Air Rescue Unit 111 – Mongolia’s first joint air ambulance training. The training encompassed over 100 medical and emergency response professionals from Mongolia.
While such civil security cooperation projects began in 2010, the French government began to initiative emergency response trainings in Mongolia during the 1990s, while also providing assistance to hospitals in rural areas. 
In 2010, the Disaster Management Agency of France and Mongolia’s NEMA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which financed the partnership through a soft loan and private-public partnership, laying the foundation for joint efforts in disaster risk management. The agreement also included a capacity building element, under which France would provide 12 helicopters, 12 mechanics, and French professionals to provide training for emergency response medical teams. 
In 2019, the governments of Mongolia and France signed a 30-year soft loans for 57.9 million euros, which secured the delivery of three helicopters, 42 specialized fire trucks, and the establishment of an aerial search and rescue unit in Mongolia. 
The emergency response cooperation between Mongolia and France continued without interruption despite the COVID-19 pandemic and a change in personnel. The 2019 deal was signed during the tenure of Philippe Merlin as France’s ambassador to Mongolia. Sebastien Surun, Merlin’s successor, received the emergency response vehicles and helicopters in 2022. That same year, the first evacuation rescue mission was completed with one of the new helicopters. 
Identifying the successful cooperation and the implementation of the agreement, Ambassador of Mongolia to France Nyamkhuu Ulambayar told The Diplomat, “Between 2020 and 2023, this aerial search and rescue unit responded to 157 emergency calls and rescued over 200 individuals. A second phase launched in 2024 focuses on advanced training and additional equipment to further build operational independence.”
“Our cooperation with Mongolia’s National Emergency Management Agency is ground-breaking,” Surun, who is now France’s deputy ambassador in Ukraine, highlighted in an interview with Bolor Lkhaajav. In the same interview, he announced that “this year, we will have a civil security officer based in Ulaanbaatar. We want to take our cooperation in emergency management to the next level.”
Mongolia’s NEMA has been working toward further strengthening and expanding cooperation mechanisms with France’s General Directorate for Civil Security and Crisis Management.
In 2023, during President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa’s state visit to France, a financial agreement was signed to continue financing France-Mongolia emergency response programs, and the two sides agreed that France would provide additional training for the Air Search and Rescue Unit. 
Following the agreement, in 2024, the head of NEMA, director of Fire Fighting Department, and directors of the Air Search and Rescue Unit all visited France and signed technical agreements that aimed to contract French companies to deliver the firefighting vehicles and technical equipment that will ensure rescue operations are completed properly. One of the highlights of this meeting was a deal on constructing a new helicopter base. 
According to NEMA, the emergency and disaster relief sector has received robust support from a wide range of global partners, including Russia, China, South Korea, Japan, the United States, France, Hungary, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. 
On a multilateral level, Mongolia seeks a deeper cooperation with international organizations such as the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center. 
Mongolia’s global partnerships have helped expand these relationships, and NEMA units have participated in global disaster relief efforts. A Mongolian search and rescue K-9 unit worked in Turkiye in 2023 in the aftermath of a deadly earthquake that killed around 55,000 people.  
The advancement of Mongolia’s emergency response mechanism also correlates to the increase in international tourism to Mongolia. As more tourists immerse themselves in nomadic activities in remote locations, having a robust emergency response unit is critically important for Mongolia’s civil security sector. A spokesperson for Mongolia’s NEMA told The Diplomat that the Air Search and Rescue Unit has saved “the lives of 210 people, including 157 adults and 53 children,” since cooperation with France began. 
Looking ahead, cooperation between Mongolia and France will likely to expand – not only in mining, education, and culture, but also capacity building in civil security, particularly in emergency response.
BY
Bolor Lkhaajav
Bolor Lkhaajav is a researcher specializing in Mongolia, China, Russia, Japan, East Asia, and the Americas. She holds an M.A. in Asia-Pacific Studies from the University of San Francisco.

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Mongolia's president calls Kyrgyzstan important partner in Central Asia www.xinhuanet.com

Kyrgyzstan is an "important partner in Central Asia" for Mongolia, Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh said Monday during a state visit to Bishkek, local media reported.
"We strive to develop mutually beneficial cooperation in all areas, especially in the trade and economic sphere," Khurelsukh told Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov during their meeting.
Japarov noted that "comprehensive cooperation with Mongolia is one of the priority areas of the development of Kyrgyzstan's foreign policy."
The two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in trade, transport, agriculture, digitalization, tourism and cultural exchanges.
Following the talks, the two sides signed a Joint Declaration establishing a comprehensive partnership between their countries, along with several documents to deepen Kyrgyz-Mongolian ties.

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Kyrgyz-Mongolian strategic dialogue strengthened by 13 new multisectoral accords www.qazinform.com

A wide-ranging package of bilateral documents was signed today following high-level talks between President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov and President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, Trend reports via the press service of the Kyrgyz president.
The centerpiece of the agreements was the signing of a Joint Declaration on the establishment of a comprehensive partnership between the two countries, reflecting a shared intent to elevate cooperation across multiple sectors.
The sides formalized arrangements in key areas including legal cooperation, agriculture, digital development, science, culture, and education. Among the notable accords were an Extradition Treaty, an agreement on mutual recognition of national driving licenses, and a cooperation program between the foreign ministries for the years 2026–2027.
Sectoral cooperation will also expand through memoranda on wool processing, digital innovation, cultural exchange, strategic studies, and joint academic research. Agreements were also reached between the national academies of science and broadcasting corporations of both countries.
The scope of signed documents reflects the growing momentum in Kyrgyz-Mongolian relations, as both sides seek to institutionalize deeper collaboration built on historical and cultural affinity.
As reported previously, Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev today signed into a law the Treaty on deepening and expanding allied relations between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, signed on April 19, 2024, in Astana.

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Maven Wireless expands sales to Mongolia – secures order in the mining industry www.mavenwireless.com

Maven Wireless has received an order for a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) for public safety through a new local partner in Mongolia. The order is valued at approximately SEK 1 million and marks the company’s entry into a new geographical market.
The system will be installed in a copper mine owned by one of the largest mining companies in the world. The solution will provide robust and reliable wireless communication in demanding underground environments – a critical component of the mine’s safety infrastructure.
“I’m very pleased with our continued expansion in the mining industry. This particular deal is especially exciting as it involves a brand-new geographic market for us, a new local partner, and a new end customer who represents one of the largest mining companies globally,” says Fredrik Ekström, CEO of Maven Wireless.

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President of Mongolia Arrives in the Kyrgyz Republic for a State Visit www.montsame.mn

The President of Mongolia, Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, arrived in the city of Bishkek for a State Visit to the Kyrgyz Republic on July 20, 2025.
President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa and accompanying delegates were welcomed by the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sadyr Japarov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to the Kyrgyz Republic, Gankhuyag Sodnom, and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kyrgyz Republic to Mongolia Aibek Artykbaev at the Manas International Airport, Bishkek.
Kyrgyz artists presented a cultural entertainment performance to the Mongolian representatives at the Manas International Airport.
The significance of the State Visit lies in Mongolia further developing traditional friendly relations, enriching economic cooperation, and strengthening bilateral friendship with Central Asian countries, particularly the Kyrgyz Republic.
The two sides plan to sign intergovernmental and interagency documents as a crucial contribution to strengthening bilateral legal foundations.
A total of 28 embassies, 50 consular and representative offices from foreign countries are currently operating in Bishkek.
Past Presidential State Visits from Mongolia to the Kyrgyz Republic include Bagabandi Natsag in 1999, Enkhbayar Nambar in 2007, Elbegdorj Tsakhia in 2012, and Battulga Khaltmaa in 2019. Meanwhile, past Presidential State Visits from the Kyrgyz Republic to Mongolia include Askar Akaev in 2002 and Sadyr Japarov in 2023.

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