On February 26, 2025, the UK and Mongolia held the 15th UK-Mongolia roundtable in London, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties through increased trade, addressing climate change, promoting gender equality, and responsible mining practices. Key commitments were made to enhance cooperation in various sectors, reflecting a mutual dedication to democratic values and shared goals.
On February 26, 2025, British Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Indo-Pacific, Catherine West, hosted Mongolian Deputy Prime Minister Amarsaikhan Sainbuyan in London at the 15th UK-Mongolia roundtable. This meeting initiated the annual political dialogue under the UK-Mongolia Joint Cooperation Roadmap aimed at strengthening their Comprehensive Partnership.
Minister West and DPM Amarsaikhan highlighted the robust partnership between the UK and Mongolia based on shared democratic principles and an evolving economic relationship. They recognized the rising geopolitical tensions and expressed a commitment to adhere to the principles of the UN Charter, advocating for the non-use of force against any nation’s territorial integrity.
The Ministers agreed to enhance trade and investment between their countries to stimulate mutual economic growth. They discussed potential UK Export Finance support for the Ulaanbaatar metro system and strategies to eliminate trade barriers, streamline processes, and foster transparent business environments.
Addressing climate change was a priority, with both nations affirming dedication to achieving their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). They welcomed financial support from the NDC Partnership to aid Mongolia’s climate objectives and encouraged public-private partnerships to enhance private investment aligned with their climate strategies, looking forward to COP17 on Desertification in 2026.
The dialogue emphasized a commitment to gender equality, spotlighting the increase in female representation within both parliaments. Minister West commended Mongolia’s goal of achieving 40% female candidates by 2028, while DPM Amarsaikhan noted the UK’s highest female parliamentary representation post-2024 election. They resolved to cooperate in multilateral forums to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration.
The importance of sustainable mineral extraction in Mongolia to protect its environmental heritage was highlighted, along with responsible mining practices and high standards. Both sides pledged to collaborate under a Memorandum of Understanding concerning critical minerals.
Ministers acknowledged the strong ties between the UK and Mongolia, particularly through student exchange programs such as Chevening Scholarships. They reaffirmed support for English language education in Mongolia and explored ways to enhance access and quality, especially in remote areas. There was also discussion on expanding higher education opportunities and partnerships between universities.
Looking ahead, the Ministers anticipate the exhibition of the Arts of the Mongol World at the Royal Academy in 2027 and emphasized increasing cultural cooperation. They recognized civil society organizations’ vital role in democracy, committing to engage with a diverse range of communities to enrich democratic discourse.
DPM Amarsaikhan also met with Minister Gareth Thomas to further discussions on broadening bilateral relations in mutual areas of interest, particularly in trade and economic cooperation.
The 15th UK-Mongolia roundtable marked a significant step in strengthening relations, with commitments to enhance trade, address climate change, promote gender equality, and ensure responsible mining practices. Both nations are dedicated to safeguarding democratic values and enhancing people-to-people connections, laying a solid foundation for future collaboration.
Original Source: www.gov.uk
