The UK and Mongolia held their fifteenth roundtable discussion, focusing on strengthening their partnership through trade, climate action, gender equality, and cultural exchange. Ministers emphasized the importance of democratic values and responsible practices in trade and mining. They expressed commitment to enhance student exchange programs and civil society engagements, aiming for mutual growth and sustainability.
On February 26, 2025, the British Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Indo-Pacific, Minister Catherine West MP, hosted Mongolian Deputy Prime Minister Amarsaikhan Sainbuyan in London for the fifteenth UK-Mongolia roundtable. This meeting marked the inaugural annual political dialogue under the UK-Mongolia Joint Cooperation Roadmap aimed at fortifying their Comprehensive Partnership.
During the discussions, both dignitaries emphasized the robust partnership between the UK and Mongolia, rooted in shared democratic values, open societies, and an expanding economic relationship. They expressed concern over rising geopolitical tensions, reaffirming their commitment to the principles of the UN Charter and advocating for peaceful resolutions that respect territorial integrity and political independence.
The Ministers affirmed their intention to enhance trade and investment between the two nations to foster mutual economic growth. They highlighted ongoing discussions with UK Export Finance to support the construction of Ulaanbaatar’s metro system while working to eliminate trade barriers and streamline procedures to create stable business environments.
Addressing climate change, the Ministers stressed the urgency of action and committed to achieving both nations’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). They acknowledged the recent funding from the NDC Partnership to aid Mongolia in reaching its climate objectives, promoting public-private partnerships to facilitate private sector investment aligned with climate strategies.
In terms of gender equality, both Ministers reiterated their dedication to increasing women’s representation in parliament. Minister West applauded Mongolia’s progress towards a 40% target for female candidates by 2028, while DPM Amarsaikhan recognized the UK’s highest level of female parliamentary representation post-2024 elections. They also agreed to collaborate in global forums, particularly in anticipation of the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
Regarding mineral extraction, the Ministers discussed the need for sustainable practices benefiting both Mongolia’s economy and environmental heritage. They committed to responsible mining standards and skills development in alignment with a Memorandum of Understanding on critical minerals.
The dialogue also highlighted the importance of exchanging students through initiatives like the Chevening Scholarship and ‘Mission 2100’. Minister West reiterated the UK’s support for English language education in Mongolia, aiming to enhance access and quality, especially in remote communities. They contemplated expanding opportunities for higher education for Mongolian students and fostering cultural cooperation, including an upcoming exhibition of the Arts of the Mongol World in 2027.
Both Ministers recognized the vital role of civil society in democratic frameworks and expressed their commitment to ongoing engagement with civil society organizations to enrich democratic dialogue. DPM Amarsaikhan also participated in a bilateral discussion with Minister Gareth Thomas, focusing on broadening trade and economic collaboration.
The UK-Mongolia political dialogue underscored the commitment of both nations to strengthen their partnership through enhanced trade, investment, climate action, gender equality, and cultural exchange. The ongoing collaboration is aimed at fostering mutual growth and upholding international democratic values. Looking forward, continued dialogue and cooperation will play a crucial role in addressing both challenges and opportunities on the global stage.
Original Source: www.gov.uk