Admiral Bauer, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, visited Mongolia from September 8-10, 2024, to strengthen NATO-Mongolia relations. He emphasized NATO’s commitment to cooperation, modernization of Mongolian forces, and integration of military and civilian diplomacy. This visit reflects 19 years of partnership and sets the stage for future collaboration in various security areas.
From September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, visited Mongolia at the invitation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces. This visit highlighted the significance of the NATO-Mongolia partnership, emphasizing NATO’s commitment to enhancing dialogue and cooperation in areas such as capability development and interoperability, as well as sharing the outcomes from the 2024 Washington DC Summit.
During his visit, Admiral Bauer toured the Five Hills Peace Support Operations Training Center and observed training exercises, showcasing Mongolia’s dedication to global stability through its involvement in peacekeeping efforts under NATO’s umbrella for over 16 years. Additionally, he met with military leaders, including Chief of the General Staff Major General Ganbyamba Sunrev, to discuss advancements in the modernization of Mongolian forces.
Admiral Bauer also held discussions with government officials, including the State Secretary of the Ministry of Defence and the Secretary of the National Security Council, emphasizing the critical nature of military cooperation in addressing global security challenges. He reiterated that collaboration with NATO partners is based on mutual respect and tailored to their specific needs.
On the final day, Admiral Bauer engaged with representatives from Allied embassies, highlighting the importance of integrating civilian and military diplomacy for a comprehensive approach to international relations. His visit concluded with a tribute to Mongolia’s military heritage at the statue of Chinggis Khaan.
Since 2005, NATO and Mongolia have been strengthening their cooperation, and Mongolia’s transition to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme in 2024 marks a significant milestone. Future cooperation will encompass various issues such as the Women, Peace and Security agenda, climate security, emergency management, human security, and cyber defense. Notably, military staff talks between NATO and Mongolia are scheduled for October 2024 at NATO headquarters.
The NATO-Mongolia partnership has grown since its inception in 2005, with formal engagements including an Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme initiated in 2012. The transition to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme signifies a deepening relationship, aligning Mongolia with NATO’s strategic objectives while addressing contemporary global challenges. This collaboration enhances Mongolia’s military capabilities and contributes to regional and global security efforts, particularly through peacekeeping operations.
The visit of Admiral Bauer to Mongolia underscores the importance of NATO’s partnerships and ongoing collaboration with Mongolia in military and security matters. Through discussions and visits to key military facilities, Admiral Bauer affirmed NATO’s commitment to supporting Mongolia’s modernization efforts and addressing global security challenges. The evolving partnership reflects shared democratic values and aspirations for peace and stability, cementing the alliance’s role in fostering international cooperation.
Original Source: www.nato.int
