During his visit to Mongolia from September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer emphasized NATO’s commitment to strengthening partnerships, discussing military modernization and collaboration in peacekeeping. The visit marked significant dialogues on global security challenges and affirmed NATO’s support for Mongolia as a strategic partner.
Between September 8 and 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, embarked on an official 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 dedication to enhancing its partnership with Mongolia, emphasizing the mutual aspirations for peace and stability shared by both NATO member states and Mongolia.
On the initial day, Admiral Bauer toured the Five Hills Peace Support Operations Training Center (PSOTC), observing its field training area. Over the past decade, this facility has been recognized within NATO’s network of training and education centers. The visit allowed Admiral Bauer to gain insights into Mongolia’s commitment to global stability and the expertise acquired through participation in NATO-led international missions.
The following day, Admiral Bauer met with Major General Ganbyamba Sunrev at the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces, where discussions ranged around the ongoing modernization efforts within the Mongolian military. He also interacted with Mongolian troops who had previously participated in NATO missions, including deployments in Kosovo and Afghanistan over a span of more than 16 years.
Subsequently, Admiral Bauer held meetings with key officials, including Brigadier General Gankhuyag.D from the Ministry of Defence and the Secretary of the National Security Council, Mr. Byambajargal. These discussions emphasized the importance of military collaboration in addressing global security challenges, reinforcing that NATO partnerships are founded upon mutual respect and tailored to the specific needs of the partner.
On September 10, Admiral Bauer engaged with representatives from various Allied embassies in Mongolia, elaborating on the significance of integrating civilian and military diplomacy to foster a comprehensive understanding of international alliances. His visit concluded with a visit to the statue of Chinggis Khaan, symbolizing Mongolia’s rich military heritage.
NATO’s collaboration with Mongolia has been underway since 2005, further strengthened by the establishment of the Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme in March 2012. The relationship progressed to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme in 2024, encompassing cooperative efforts in areas such as the Women, Peace and Security agenda, climate change, emergency management, human security, and cyber defense. In October 2024, NATO and Mongolia will convene military staff talks at NATO headquarters, further solidifying their partnership.
NATO has been engaging with Mongolia since 2005, gradually developing its partnership through various frameworks aimed at enhancing military cooperation and capacity building. The Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme was initiated in 2012, serving as a platform for collaborative efforts in areas such as peace and security. In 2024, Mongolia transitioned to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme, reflecting an advanced stage in their cooperative relationship. This partnership not only supports Mongolia’s military modernization but also aligns it with NATO’s strategic objectives.
Admiral Bauer’s visit to Mongolia signifies NATO’s ongoing commitment to strengthen ties with its partners. Through dialogues focused on military modernization, peacekeeping experiences, and collaborative security initiatives, both NATO and Mongolia are poised to enhance their partnership further. The upcoming military staff talks in October 2024 will further expand the framework of cooperation, addressing critical global security challenges.
Original Source: www.nato.int
