During his visit to Mongolia from September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, highlighted the importance of the NATO-Mongolia partnership. He engaged with military officials, visited key training centers, and discussed past contributions to peacekeeping initiatives. This visit reinforced NATO’s commitment to collaborating on issues related to global security, aiming for enhanced interoperability and mutual support in military modernization efforts.
From September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, embarked on a visit to Mongolia, a longstanding NATO partner, at the invitation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces. This visit highlighted NATO’s commitment to fostering dialogue and enhancing cooperation in terms of military capabilities and interoperability. During this time, Admiral Bauer shared key outcomes from the 2024 Washington DC Summit and reiterated the strong connection between NATO member states and Mongolia, which both aspire towards democratic ideals and stability.
On September 8, Admiral Bauer toured the Five Hills Peace Support Operations Training Center (PSOTC), gaining insights into Mongolia’s notable contributions to global peacekeeping efforts. This training center has been recognized by NATO as a vital part of its Partnership Training and Education Centers for over a decade, illustrating Mongolia’s dedication to international stability. Admiral Bauer’s visit also showcased the significant lessons learned from Mongolia’s extensive participation in NATO-led missions over the years.
The following day, Admiral Bauer received a military guard of honor during his visit to the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces, where he engaged in discussions with Major General Ganbyamba Sunrev regarding the modernization of Mongolia’s military. Additionally, he met with Mongolian troops who have actively participated in NATO peacekeeping operations over the past sixteen years, reflecting on Mongolia’s contributions in missions in Kosovo and Afghanistan. These meetings emphasized the importance of military cooperation against a backdrop of global security challenges.
Later, Admiral Bauer also conferred with key officials, such as Brigadier General Gankhuyag D., the State Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, and the Secretary of the National Security Council, Mr. Byambajargal, at the Government Palace. Their discussions centered on mutual respect, tailored cooperation for partner needs, and military partnerships as vital frameworks in addressing contemporary security issues.
On September 10, he convened with representatives from Allied embassies in Mongolia to discuss the integration of civilian and military diplomacy, which he believes is crucial for a comprehensive perspective on international relations. His visit culminated with a trip to the statue of Chinggis Khaan, reinforcing Mongolia’s historical military legacy.
NATO and Mongolia have nurtured their partnership since 2005, with formal cooperation designated through an Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme established in March 2012. Mongolia has recently transitioned to its first Individually Tailored Partnership Programme, which encompasses various collaborative efforts on issues such as the Women, Peace and Security agenda, climate change, human security, and cyber defense. This momentum will continue, with bilateral military staff talks scheduled at NATO headquarters in October 2024.
The partnership between NATO and Mongolia has evolved since the initiation of dialogue in 2005, focusing on mutual interests and global security concerns. Mongolia first engaged with NATO formally through an Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme in 2012, aiding in the development of capacity-building efforts necessary for enhancing regional stability. The transition to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme signifies a new era in this collaboration, addressing salient issues such as security, humanitarian needs, and climate challenges. This relationship is grounded in shared democratic values and a commitment to collective peace and stability.
Admiral Bauer’s visit to Mongolia from September 8 to 10, 2024, exemplified NATO’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its partnership with Mongolia, emphasizing shared democratic ideals and the importance of military cooperation in addressing global security challenges. Through fruitful discussions and visits to key facilities, both parties reaffirmed their dedication to building capabilities and cooperation in peacekeeping efforts. As NATO and Mongolia progress into a new phase of tailored cooperation, the focus remains on collaborative efforts in diverse areas vital to ensuring stability and security in an increasingly complex world.
Original Source: www.nato.int
