NATO Military Committee Chair Admiral Bauer Strengthens Ties with Mongolia
Admiral Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, visited Mongolia from September 8-10, 2024, to strengthen NATO’s partnership with Mongolia. The visit included tours of military facilities, discussions on military modernization, and emphasizes cooperation on global security challenges. Mongolia’s contributions to NATO missions were acknowledged, and the visit marked a transition to a more tailored partnership program.
From September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, 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 NATO’s ongoing partnership with Mongolia, emphasizing mutual aspirations for peace and stability. Admiral Bauer reiterated NATO’s commitment to enhancing dialogue and cooperation with Mongolia in terms of capability building and interoperability, while also sharing insights from the 2024 Washington DC Summit.
During his visit, Admiral Bauer toured the Five Hills Peace Support Operations Training Center, an integral part of the educational networks recognized for fostering peacekeeping capabilities. This visit enabled him to appreciate the lessons derived from Mongolia’s dedication to international stability. The strong commitment of Mongolia to NATO missions, including contributions in Kosovo and Afghanistan, was acknowledged, showcasing both nations’ respect for democratic values.
On the second day, Admiral Bauer was officially welcomed at the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces, where he had productive discussions with Major General Ganbyamba Sunrev regarding the modernization of the Mongolian Armed Forces. He also engaged with troops who served in NATO-led operations. Later, he held meetings with senior officials at the Ministry of Defence and the National Security Council, reinforcing the importance of military cooperation in addressing global security challenges efficiently.
On September 10, Admiral Bauer met Allied embassy representatives, underscoring the significance of integrating both civilian and military diplomacy for more holistic partnerships. Concluding his visit, he paid homage to Mongolia’s historical legacy by visiting the statue of Chinggis Khaan.
Since 2005, NATO and Mongolia have worked closely, with an Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme established in March 2012. The beginning of an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme in 2024 will focus on several issues such as climate security, emergency management, and cyber defense. Future military staff talks are scheduled to take place at NATO headquarters in October 2024.
The strategic partnership between NATO and Mongolia has evolved since their collaboration began in 2005, primarily focusing on education, peacekeeping efforts, and capacity-building initiatives. Mongolia’s active participation in NATO’s missions, notably over 16 years in Kosovo and Afghanistan, illustrates both nations’ commitment to democratic values and regional stability. The recent transition to a more tailored partnership program signifies an intent to deepen cooperation on pressing global security concerns, including climate change, human security, and cyber defense. This progress highlights NATO’s flexibility in partnering with non-member states to address complex international security challenges.
Admiral Bauer’s visit to Mongolia reinforces NATO’s commitment to enhancing partnerships with non-member states, focusing on shared values of democracy and stability. The discussions and visits during this trip underscore the importance of military cooperation amid global security challenges. The advancement from a generic partnership to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme signifies a pivotal shift in how NATO collaborates with Mongolia on vital issues that resonate beyond regional borders, ensuring a comprehensive approach to security.
Original Source: www.nato.int
