Key facts
- Mongolia's Foreign Minister Battsetseg expressed a desire to strengthen ties with Japan as a 'third neighbor'.
- The nations aim to deepen their 'Special Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity'.
- Areas of focus include aviation, investment, infrastructure, renewable energy, technology, and critical minerals.
- Japan is interested in Mongolia's copper, fluorspar, and rare earth resources.
- Cooperation extends to food security, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
- The partnership supports trilateral initiatives involving the U.S., particularly concerning North Korea.
Mongolia is actively seeking to deepen its relationship with Japan, viewing it as a crucial 'third neighbor' alongside China and Russia. Foreign Minister Battsetseg highlighted the desire for enhanced cooperation across various sectors, including aviation, investment, infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology. This push comes as the two nations aim to further solidify their 'Special Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity,' established in 2022 with a 10-year plan.
Japan's interest in Mongolia's critical minerals, such as copper, fluorspar, and rare earths, is a significant driver of this closer relationship, aligning with Japan's advanced manufacturing needs. The partnership also encompasses cooperation on food security, regenerative agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, addressing growing global concerns.
Geopolitically, the strengthened ties serve Japan's diplomatic objectives by providing an additional platform for engagement in East Asia. The relationship supports trilateral partnerships with the United States, contributing to regional stability and diplomatic efforts concerning North Korea. The first-ever state visit by a Japanese emperor to Mongolia underscored the historical reconciliation and the new era of partnership.
Mongolia's Parliament is committed to improving the investment environment, with its 'Five-Year Development Policy for 2026-2030' including a comprehensive investment program and reforms in the banking sector to support foreign investors.