The inaugural UK-Mongolia political dialogue on February 26, 2025, focused on sovereignty, economic growth, climate change, and gender equality. The meeting led to commitments for increasing trade, supporting climate initiatives, and enhancing educational exchanges. Both nations emphasized the importance of responsible mineral extraction and civil society engagement, laying groundwork for future collaboration.
The UK and Mongolia’s inaugural political dialogue took place on February 26, 2025, in London, emphasizing respect for sovereignty, international law, and territorial integrity. British Minister Catherine West welcomed Mongolian Deputy Prime Minister Amarsaikhan Sainbuyan, reinforcing the countries’ strategic partnership based on shared democratic values and an evolving economic relationship.
The two nations recognized the escalating geopolitical tensions and reiterated their dedication to the principles of the UN Charter. They jointly advocated for the non-use of force against any state’s territorial sovereignty and pledged to collaboratively uphold international law.
Discussions centered on enhancing trade and investment, with an aim to stimulate mutual economic growth. The Ministers remarked on the ongoing conversations with UK Export Finance to support Ulaanbaatar’s metro construction and committed to removing trade barriers to foster a more stable business environment.
Addressing climate change impacts was a top priority, with the Ministers affirming their commitment to achieving their respective Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). They welcomed the recent funding from the NDC Partnership and encouraged extensive public-private partnerships for private sector investment in line with climate strategies.
The commitment to gender equality was reaffirmed, highlighting efforts to increase female representation in Parliament. Minister West commended the recent rise in female parliamentarians in Mongolia and acknowledged the UK’s progress in representation following the 2024 elections.
Discussions on Mongolia’s mineral resources underscored the necessity of responsible extraction while preserving the environment and developing local skills. The Ministers expressed their commitment to cooperate under a Memorandum of Understanding regarding critical minerals.
Both parties emphasized the strength of people-to-people connections, particularly through educational exchanges like the Chevening Scholarship. Plans to expand higher education opportunities for Mongolian students and cultural partnerships were also discussed, including an upcoming exhibition at the Royal Academy.
Additionally, the importance of civil society organizations in democratic discourse was acknowledged, with a commitment to engage with them for enhancing democratic debate. The Ministers anticipate future high-level visits to strengthen ongoing collaboration.
In conclusion, the first UK-Mongolia political dialogue highlighted significant commitments to democratic values, trade enhancement, and climate action. The nations reiterated their dedication to gender equality and responsible mineral extraction while fostering educational and cultural ties. This dialogue sets a foundation for future cooperation, with an emphasis on maintaining sovereignty and international law.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
