Admiral Bauer’s visit to Mongolia from September 8 to 10, 2024, highlighted NATO’s strengthening partnership with the nation. During this visit, he discussed military cooperation, modernized armed forces, and Mongolia’s commitment to peacekeeping missions. His itinerary included meetings with military leadership, visits to training centers, and a focus on mutual democratic values, underscoring the ongoing strategic collaboration between NATO and Mongolia.
From September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, conducted a significant visit to Mongolia, showcasing the enduring NATO-Mongolia partnership. This visit, initiated by an invitation from the Chief of the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces, allowed Admiral Bauer to reaffirm NATO’s commitment to enhancing dialogue and cooperation in military capabilities and interoperability. He addressed the accomplishments established at the 2024 Washington DC Summit and emphasized the shared democratic values that bind NATO member states and Mongolia, particularly the common pursuit of peace and stability.
During his visit, Admiral Bauer toured the Five Hills Peace Support Operations Training Center, observing firsthand the practical training that underpins Mongolia’s dedication to global peacekeeping efforts. He acknowledged the center’s integral role within the Partnership Training and Education Centres network. On September 9, upon his arrival at the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces, Admiral Bauer received a military guard of honor before engaging in discussions with Major General Ganbyamba Sunrev regarding the ongoing modernization endeavors of the Mongolian Armed Forces. His interactions with Mongolian troops who had participated in NATO-led missions notably highlighted Mongolia’s longstanding commitment to international peace, having contributed forces to NATO missions in Kosovo and Afghanistan for over sixteen years.
Admiral Bauer further engaged with high-ranking officials, including Brigadier General Gankhuyag.D at the Ministry of Defence and Mr. Byambajargal at the National Security Council, where he reiterated the importance of military collaboration in addressing contemporary global security challenges. His discussions underscored NATO’s principle of mutual respect and tailored cooperation based on individual partner needs.
On the final day of his visit, Admiral Bauer met with representatives from Allied embassies in Mongolia, emphasizing the necessity of combining civilian and military diplomatic approaches for a comprehensive international partnership strategy. The conclusion of his trip included a visit to the statue of Chinggis Khaan, symbolizing Mongolia’s rich historical narrative and military heritage.
NATO and Mongolia have collaborated since 2005, advancing their partnership through an Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme inaugurated in March 2012. In 2024, Mongolia will implement its first Individually Tailored Partnership Programme with NATO, addressing diverse concerns such as the Women, Peace and Security agenda, climate security, emergency management, and cyber defense. Upcoming military staff talks will be held in October 2024 at NATO headquarters, further reinforcing this strategic alliance.
The relationship between NATO and Mongolia has been progressively established since 2005, focusing on mutual interests in security and defense. The Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme, initiated in March 2012, has paved the way for collaboration across various security dimensions. In 2024, Mongolia’s transition to the Individually Tailored Partnership Programme highlights a deepening of existing ties, reflecting contemporary global security concerns and the shared goal of effective defense cooperation.
The visit of Admiral Bauer to Mongolia underscores NATO’s commitment to fostering enduring military partnerships. Through discussions and collaborative initiatives, both NATO and Mongolia can address pressing global security challenges while benefiting from their shared democratic values and commitment to international peace. The events and meetings during this visit set a pivotal stage for future cooperation, particularly with the anticipated military talks at NATO headquarters in October 2024.
Original Source: www.nato.int
