Mongolia: Geopolitics of Balancing www.hungarianconservative.com

Few countries in the world face a geopolitical predicament as unique as Mongolia. Occupying a vast territory of more than 1.5 million square kilometres but home to only around 3.5 million inhabitants, Mongolia is wedged between two great powers: Russia to the north and China to the south. This geographical reality has shaped Mongolian foreign policy for centuries and continues to determine the country’s strategic choices today. Since the democratic transition of the early 1990s, Mongolia has sought to preserve its sovereignty through a delicate balancing act between its two neighbours while simultaneously cultivating ties with distant partners under its famous ‘Third Neighbour Policy’.

The historical memory of the Mongol Empire remains central to Mongolia’s national identity. In the 13th century, the empire established by Genghis Khan and his descendants stretched from the Eastern border of the Kingdom of Hungary to the Pacific Ocean, making it the largest contiguous land empire in history. Its capital, Karakorum, located in the Orkhon Valley, in the centre of contemporary Mongolia, served as a cosmopolitan centre attracting people, merchants and diplomats from across Eurasia. It was famous for its religious tolerance, allowing the erection of places of worship for Buddhists, Christians, and Muslims, beyond the local cults of the Mongols.

The decline and finally the dissolution of the empire transformed Mongolia from the centre of power into a peripheral region caught between larger states in the upcoming centuries. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Qing dynasty gradually incorporated the Mongol territories into its empire. Following the collapse of the Qing dynasty in 1911, Outer Mongolia declared independence, although its status remained contested for decades.

After that, Russia and, later on, the Soviet Union emerged as Mongolia’s principal protector during the 20th century. The Mongolian People’s Republic became one of Moscow’s closest allies, serving as a strategic buffer between the USSR and China. Following the collapse of communism, Mongolia embarked on a peaceful democratic transition in 1990 and adopted a multi-party political system and market economy. Yet while the political system changed dramatically, geography remained unchanged.

‘The decline and finally the dissolution of the empire transformed Mongolia from the centre of power into a peripheral region caught between larger states’

Mongolia’s geopolitical dilemma is simple but profound. To the south lies China, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion. To the north lies Russia, with approximately 140 million inhabitants. Mongolia’s population is tiny in comparison, and its economy remains heavily dependent on trade with its neighbours.

The country’s economy is built largely on mineral exports. Coal, copper, gold and rare earth elements constitute the backbone of Mongolian exports. The giant Oyu Tolgoi copper mine, operated by the mining company Rio Tinto, has become one of the world’s most significant mining projects. Coal exports from the Tavan Tolgoi deposits similarly provide substantial state revenue.

This resource-based economic model has reinforced Mongolia’s dependence on China. In recent years, Mongolia’s foreign trade reached approximately USD 25 billion, with China accounting for more than 90 per cent of Mongolian exports and around 40 per cent of imports—a rare exception in which China runs a trade deficit.

China’s importance stems not only from its enormous market but also from geography. Most Mongolian coal and copper exports travel south across the border to Chinese industrial centres. Beijing has invested heavily in border infrastructure, rail links and logistics facilities, making itself indispensable to Mongolia’s export economy. Not surprisingly, it launched the China–Mongolia–Russia Corridor (CMRC) as part of the Belt and Road Initiative to strengthen ties and facilitate transport in the region.

Russia, meanwhile, remains crucial in a different way. Although trade volumes are considerably smaller than with China, Mongolia depends heavily on Russian fuel and energy supplies. Much of Mongolia’s petroleum products originate in Russia, creating a strategic vulnerability that became especially apparent after the outbreak of the Russo–Ukraine war. Relations with Russia remain rooted in historical memory. Russian and Soviet assistance was instrumental in preserving Mongolian independence during the 20th century, and many Mongolians continue to view Russia favourably. At the same time, Mongolia has been careful not to become politically subordinate to Moscow. The Russian invasion of Ukraine placed Ulaanbaatar in a particularly uncomfortable position. Mongolia avoided openly condemning Russia but also refrained from endorsing the invasion. It consistently attempted to maintain neutrality while preserving relations with Western partners.

Consequently, Mongolia faces the challenge of avoiding excessive dependence on either neighbour. Economic logic pulls it towards China, while historical ties and energy dependence connect it to Russia. Since the early 1990s, Mongolian governments have pursued a strategy of ‘equidistance’ between Moscow and Beijing. This balancing act was visible in Mongolia’s diplomatic activity during the past decade. The country has simultaneously welcomed Chinese investment, maintained defence ties with Russia and expanded cooperation with Western democracies.

Recognizing the limitations imposed by geography, Mongolia developed its ‘Third Neighbour’ policy after the democratic transition. The concept emerged in the early 1990s and refers to building strong partnerships with countries beyond Russia and China. The policy seeks to diversify Mongolia’s diplomatic, economic and security relationships by engaging with the United States, Japan, South Korea, India, the European Union, Canada and Australia. The underlying objective is straightforward: the broader Mongolia’s international network, the less vulnerable it becomes to pressure from its two immediate neighbours.

Among Mongolia’s most important third neighbours is Japan, one of the country’s largest providers of development assistance. South Korea has become an increasingly important economic partner, while the United States regularly conducts military cooperation and joint exercises with Mongolian forces.

‘The broader Mongolia’s international network, the less vulnerable it becomes to pressure from its two immediate neighbours’

Recent years have produced several notable examples of the policy in action. Mongolia has strengthened cooperation with France in uranium mining and intensified engagement with the European Union and other member states, such as Hungary, as well as Indo-Pacific partners, positioning itself as a democratic actor in a region increasingly marked by geopolitical competition.

Although Mongolia is not a Turkic state, it maintains increasingly close relations with the Turkic countries of Central Asia and Türkiye. Historical connections between Turkic and Mongolic peoples run deep. The Eurasian steppe has long served as a zone of interaction among nomadic civilizations. Modern Mongolia has therefore sought to strengthen ties with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Türkiye. Kazakhstan is particularly important because it hosts a large ethnic Kazakh population in western Mongolia.

In March 2025, the Organization of Turkic States’ Secretary-General made an official working visit to Ulaanbaatar—the first in the organization’s history. The meetings held in the Mongolian capital explored potential cooperation in different fields, ranging from energy to tourism.

Despite the considerable geographical distance, relations between Mongolia and Hungary are exceptionally friendly. The two countries established diplomatic relations on 28 April 1950, making 2025 the 75th anniversary of ties that were maintained and gradually deepened.

Hungary’s historical and scholarly interest in the Eurasian steppe has contributed to sustained engagement with Mongolia. Academic cooperation is particularly strong, with Hungarian researchers making important contributions to Mongolian and Inner Asian studies.

Educational relations have become one of the pillars of bilateral cooperation. Through the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme, approximately 200 Mongolian students are able to study at Hungarian universities each year. These students represent an important bridge between the two societies and contribute to the long-term development of bilateral relations.

Labour mobility has emerged as another growing area of cooperation. In recent years, several thousand Mongolian guest workers have arrived in Hungary, helping to address labour shortages in certain sectors of the Hungarian economy. This trend has added a practical economic dimension to the traditionally cordial political relationship.

For Hungary, Mongolia also represents a valuable partner in Asia and an example of a successful democratic transition in the post-socialist world. For Mongolia, Hungary serves as a gateway to Europe and an important educational and cultural partner within the European Union.

Mongolia’s foreign policy is fundamentally shaped by geography. Situated between Russia and China, it cannot escape the influence of either neighbour. Yet rather than accepting dependency, Mongolia has developed a sophisticated strategy of balancing. It maintains pragmatic relations with both Moscow and Beijing while simultaneously cultivating a wide network of partners through its Third Neighbour policy.

The country’s challenge in the coming decades will be to preserve this strategic autonomy amid intensifying great-power competition. As global demand for critical minerals increases and geopolitical rivalries deepen across Eurasia, Mongolia’s importance is likely to grow. The success of its balancing strategy may therefore become one of the most interesting geopolitical stories of contemporary Asia.

British Polymath Antony D. Miller Expands His Legacy In Mongolia Through Research And Public Policy www.financialcontent.com

In the high-altitude chill of Mongolia’s capital, an unlikely academic revolution has reached its zenith. Professor Antony D. Miller, a British-born mathematician and political economist, was officially honoured by the Mongolian Academy of Sciences – a rare feat for a foreigner, cementing his status as one of the most influential foreign intellectuals in the nation’s modern history.

Yet, as Miller receives the highest accolades in Central Asia, a glaring silence persists 5,000 miles away in London.

The Architect of the "Mongolian Model

A protégé of the legendary chaos theorist Mitchell Feigenbaum, Miller did not choose the well-trodden path of Oxbridge or Ivy League comfort. Instead, this reserved and modest middle-aged man has brought a formidable arsenal of chaos mathematics and geopolitical strategy to Ulaanbaatar’s Otgontenger University and to Mongolia.

Over the last decade, Miller has become a fixture of Mongolian policy discourse. From his critical dissections of the Development Bank of Mongolia’s reforms to his pioneering work in computational economics, he has provided the intellectual scaffolding for a nation navigating the complexities between two superpowers.

"He doesn’t just teach here; he integrates," says a university colleague. "He applies world-class mathematical rigour to the unique problems of the steppe."

A Prophet Without Honour

The irony of Miller’s career lies in the "Great British Cold Shoulder." While the Mongolian state celebrates him as a visionary, the British academic establishment has largely overlooked his contributions.

This disconnect became starkly apparent in early 2026, as Miller’s 1987 research on migration and social integration, once a niche academic paper, was rediscovered by global think tanks. As the West grapples with the very integration crises Miller predicted decades ago, the man himself remains an expatriate icon rather than a domestic hero.

The "Miller Effect"

Professor Antony D. Miller's career reflects the growing global influence of academic expertise beyond traditional Western institutions. After academic engagements in 15 countries, he chose Mongolia, where he serves as a Full Professor and Fellow of the UK's Chartered College of Teaching, mentoring future leaders through game theory, political economy, and economic resilience.

The Scientific Architect: Chaos, Policy, and Prediction

Miller applies chaos theory and computational economics to public policy within a given society - viewing national economies as dynamic, nonlinear systems. His interdisciplinary approach has informed discussions on economic strategy and governance in Mongolia.

The Feigenbaum Lineage: From Chaos to Governance

Drawing on his academic background under chaos theorist Mitchell Feigenbaum at Rockefeller University, Miller adapted mathematical models of complex systems to political economy. His work focuses on applying computational methods to improve long-term policy planning and economic forecasting.

Transforming the Development Bank of Mongolia (DBM)

In 2025, Miller published an analysis of the Development Bank of Mongolia's transformation into a policy-focused financial institution. He advocated for strategic planning, export expansion, trade facilitation, and rigorous project evaluation to strengthen fiscal development and public confidence.

The 1987 Prophecy: "The Worst is Yet to Come"

Miller's 1987 study, The Worst is Yet to Come: The Challenges of Multiculturalism in Britain, examined the effects of migration and social integration. The work gained renewed attention decades later as international observers revisited its analysis in light of contemporary policy debates.

The Final Pillar: Securing Mongolia's Mineral Future

Beyond academia, Miller has contributed to discussions surrounding Mongolia's mining sector, applying computational economics to issues of taxation, resource management, and long-term economic sustainability.

Mining Taxation and Economic Sovereignty

Miller has advocated for dynamic mining taxation models that adapt to changing commodity markets while supporting fiscal stability. His research also encourages the responsible use of mining revenues, including the development of a sovereign wealth fund suited to Mongolia's economic landscape.

Resource Nationalism vs. Global Integration

Miller's research encourages Mongolia to increase domestic value creation through mineral processing while promoting transparency and sustainable resource management. His work has also explored the use of blockchain technology for royalty tracking and the application of chaos theory to help mitigate the economic risks associated with resource-dependent economies.

Recently published deeply-rooted books

Origins of Chaos Theory in Science and Society: Exploring the Roots of This Concept in a Troubled Society (2023) – A highly-rated work on Amazon that applies the "Feigenbaum Constants" of chaos to modern societal collapse. www.amazon.com/dp/B0CDNGSH4B

CONSPIRACY AND MISINFORMATION LABELS: “Stifling Investigation to Protect the Powerful” (2026) – The definitive critique of modern digital censorship and the "misinformation paradigm." www.amazon.com/dp/B0GS2YKD5D

A Legacy of Mentorship

At Otgontenger University, Professor Antony D. Miller has helped shape the next generation of scholars by mentoring students whose research has been published in international journals. Since arriving in Mongolia in 2017, he has become a Full Research Professor and a respected contributor to the country's academic and policy landscape. In January 2026, he reflected on his recognition by the Mongolian Academy of Sciences as the culmination of nearly a decade of academic service, and confirmed that he was heading in the right direction for the country.

His work has earned recognition across Mongolia, where he is regarded as a leading educator and researcher. His professional profile is available at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prof-antony-d-miller/

Global Sustainability Rankings Success

In June 2026, Miller helped position Otgontenger University as the leading Mongolian institution in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings. The recognition highlighted the university's contributions to UN Sustainable Development Goal 4, Quality Education, and reflected its commitment to academic excellence, global engagement, and sustainable education.

A Bridge to the East, A Wall in the West

Prof. Miller has contributed to Mongolian higher education through research mentorship, policy engagement, and support for institutional development. His work has included guidance on the Development Bank of Mongolia reforms and mentoring students toward international publication while applying interdisciplinary approaches to political economics, governance, and public policy management.

The Cost of Intellectual Independence

Miller's independent scholarship has distinguished him within Mongolia's academic community. His research applies chaos theory and game theory to political and economic issues, while his commitment to Mongolian institutions has earned him recognition from colleagues and students.

Intriguing Interview: The Mathematics of Power

In a February 2026 interview with They Said So, Miller discussed the intersection of geopolitics, computational modelling, economics, and education. Drawing on decades of international academic experience, he explored governance, digital diplomacy, ethical leadership, and the role of interdisciplinary thinking in helping emerging nations navigate an increasingly complex global landscape.

A Legacy Defined by Ulaanbaatar

After nearly a decade in Mongolia, Professor Miller has become a respected figure in research, education, empirical calculations, and policy. Honoured by the Mongolian Academy of Sciences, he continues to mentor future scholars and advance interdisciplinary approaches to governance and economic development.

About Professor Antony D. Miller

Professor Antony D. Miller is a Full Research Professor at Otgontenger University in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, specialising in political economy, computational economics, chaos theory, game theory, and educational leadership. His work spans research, policy, and higher education, with a focus on interdisciplinary approaches to governance and economic development. Learn more at Otgontenger University or contact Professor Miller at miller@otgontenger.edu.mn.

Nationwide Mining Inspection Uncovers 883 Violations www.montsame.mn

Mongolia has launched a nationwide joint state inspection of the mining sector to strengthen enforcement of mining legislation, improve environmental protection, and reduce sector-related risks, in line with the Prime Minister's Directive No. 10 of 2026 and instructions issued by the Chair of the State Emergency Commission.

Deputy Prime Minister and Chair of the State Emergency Commission Nomtoibayar Nyamtaishir, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Sandag-Ochir Tsend, and Secretary of the State Emergency Commission Colonel Bayarkhuu T. monitored the progress of the inspections during visits to several aimags and soums.

In Tuv aimag, inspectors examined the operations of 38 mining companies holding exploration and mining licenses across 11 soums. Eight companies were fined under the Law on Violations for failing to maintain required environmental documentation and for breaching their legal obligations related to mineral extraction. Inspections are continuing in Zaamar soum.

Inspections covered 141 companies in Uvurkhangai, Uvs, Darkhan-Uul, Zavkhan, Dornod, Arkhangai, and Gobi-Altai aimags. Authorities identified 281 violations, issued inspection orders and official compliance notices, and imposed fines totaling MNT 44.5 million.

In Ulaanbaatar, inspectors reviewed 130 companies licensed to extract common minerals, of which 65 were actively operating. Preliminary findings revealed common violations, including mining beyond licensed boundaries, failure to comply with open-pit safety requirements, and the absence of approved environmental management plans. Six companies were fined a combined MNT 25.3 million, while investigations into violations involving eight other companies are ongoing.

To date, joint inspection teams have examined 134 companies and mining sites, uncovering 883 violations, including 168 environmental violations; 516 occupational safety and health violations; and 199 metrology-related violations.

Authorities have referred 17 cases with suspected criminal elements for criminal investigation, ordered the temporary or partial suspension of operations at 14 companies or sites, and issued inspection reports, mandatory compliance orders, and recommendations.

According to the Government's Media and Public Relations Department, the nationwide inspection campaign aims to prevent industrial accidents, fatalities, environmental degradation, and illegal mining activities while strengthening the protection of human life, public health, and the environment.

Mongolia and the USA Will Collaborate on Implementing Next-Generation Technologies Such as 5G and 6G www.open.kg

On June 24, 2026, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Washington between the Communications Regulatory Commission of Mongolia and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) of the USA. This event marks a new stage in the cooperation between the two organizations aimed at developing the telecommunications sector.

The memorandum was signed by the Chairman of the Mongolian Commission Bat-Erdene Jalvasuren and the head of the Federal Communications Commission of the USA Brendan Carr. The document creates a legal platform for the exchange of experiences and the implementation of joint projects in areas such as communications, digital infrastructure, modern technologies, and information security.

Brendan Carr expressed his pride in the opportunity to sign the memorandum with his Mongolian counterpart, emphasizing the importance of this step for expanding cooperation on key technological issues.

As part of the agreement, the parties plan to work in the following areas:

Exchange of experience in the management and regulation of the radio frequency spectrum;

Development of broadband communication and digital infrastructure in remote and rural areas;

Implementation of the latest communication technologies, including 5G and 6G;

Strengthening trust in suppliers and ensuring network security;

Exploring opportunities for cooperation in advanced technologies and innovations.

Genghis Khan's legacy explored in exhibition www.bbc.com

The life and legacy of Mongolian warlord Genghis Khan is being explored in an exhibition in Leeds.

"Genghis Khan: How the Mongols Changed the World" opened at the Royal Armouries on 26 June and runs until November.

It brings 248 rare Mongolian artefacts to the UK for the first time, dating from the 1st to the 14th centuries - and many of the pieces have never left Mongolia before.

Curator Dr Marie Favereau said: "The Mongolians created new maps, science was very developed, they loved astronomy, they loved art."

She added: "Paintings were important, ceramics. So the idea is to recreate this world that you can now touch."

Ongoing archaeology efforts in Mongolia have recently unearthed objects from the 13th and 14th centuries.

These include coins, ceramics, fine textiles and felts, which highlight a rich and varied material culture beyond warfare and mobility.

The French historian added: "For the first time, we have objects coming directly from Mongolia and not from other museums, because they are starting to recreate their own history with objects they found in archaeological excavations."

"It's what men and women actually used to wear to ride horses, to live their life as herders."

She said they needed beautiful clothes because they were a nomadic elite.

"It is really exceptional to, you know, to feel the person almost inside the tunic."

According to the museum, the exhibition offers an "unparalleled insight" into one of history's most influential empires and lessons still relevant to today.

Highlights include ancient saddles, ceramics, inscribed coins and the largest spearhead found in Mongolia.

The exhibition also features the stories of those living under Mongol rule, including Genghis Khan's daughter, Alakai Beki, revealing the significant and surprising power wielded by women in the Mongol Empire.

It reveals how a nomadic people created a network of exchange and production on a previously unseen scale, connecting regions from China to the Middle East, Africa and Europe - ultimately transforming the course of global history.

Royal Armouries A number of artefacts from Mongolia on display in a museum. Royal Armouries
It will be at the museum, which is located at Leeds Dock, until November
Director General and Master of the Royal Armouries, Nat Edwards, said: "Cutting across ethnic, cultural and religious distinctions, Genghis Khan forged a new political and military force, the like of which had never before been seen.

"In a moment of vision and commitment, history changed and the balance of power began to shift.

He said: "Today, the epic story of the Mongol Empire, brought into life through these amazing treasures, feels like something to which we should all pay attention and it's an honour to bring this exhibition to the Royal Armouries."

The exhibition is produced by Nomad Exhibitions in association with Nantes History Museum and in partnership with the Chinggis Khaan National Museum.

Global Battery Giant CATL to Invest in Energy Project in Mongolia www.montsame.mn

Prime Minister Uchral Nyam-Osor met with Robin Zeng, Founder and Chairman of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), during the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting of the New Champions, also known as the Summer Davos Forum, held in Dalian, China, from June 23 to 25.

CATL is a global leader in electric vehicle batteries, energy storage systems, battery recycling, battery-swapping technologies, and smart energy solutions. In 2025, the company generated revenue of CNY 423.7 billion and sold 661 GWh of lithium-ion batteries, maintaining its position as the world's largest battery manufacturer for the ninth consecutive year with a 39.% share of the global market. It has also ranked first globally in energy storage battery shipments for five consecutive years.

During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on cooperation in Mongolia's energy transition, battery energy storage infrastructure, maintenance services, battery recycling, and value-added manufacturing.

As an initial step, CATL plans to invest in a battery energy storage project with a capacity of 100–400 MWh in Sergelen soum, Tuv aimag. The project is expected to create opportunities to process and refine battery-grade raw materials, assemble battery components in Mongolia, develop battery recycling regulations, and expand technological cooperation.

The project is expected to strengthen the stability of Mongolia's power grid, facilitate greater integration of renewable energy, improve peak-load management, and lay the foundation for future industries, including electric mobility, green data centers, and artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Officials noted that the investment by one of the world's leading technology manufacturers reflects growing international confidence in Mongolia's energy sector reforms, green transition, and battery storage infrastructure.

Under the government's "Liberate" initiative, which aims to remove longstanding regulatory bottlenecks, streamline approval processes, and accelerate delayed energy projects, Mongolia launched its first open and competitive tender for renewable energy projects across five locations connected to the Central Energy System. A total of 115 companies expressed interest, with 19 firms participating in the bidding process. The competitive bidding process lowered the electricity supply tariff to 4.8 U.S. cents per kilowatt-hour, demonstrating the effectiveness of a transparent, market-based procurement system.

According to the Media and Public Relations Department of the Government, both domestic and foreign investors participated in the tender without requesting additional government guarantees, reflecting confidence in Mongolia's fair, transparent, and competitive investment environment.

The Bank of Mongolia and the People’s Bank of China renew the Bilateral Currency Swap Agreement www.montsame.mn

Narantsogt Sanjaa, Governor of the Bank of Mongolia (BOM), met with Pan Gongsheng, Governor of the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) on the margins of a high-level symposium co-hosted by the People’s Bank of China and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS).

During the meeting, the Governors exchanged views on bilateral cooperation in the banking and financial sectors and underscored the importance of further deepening collaboration in trade, trade finance, and cross-border payments.

In this context, the Bank of Mongolia and the People’s Bank of China extended and re-signed the bilateral currency swap arrangement for a further three-year period. The arrangement aims to strengthen financial cooperation between the two countries, promote bilateral economic and trade exchanges, and support financial market stability.

Mongolia Opens First Green Station for EV Charging, Roadside Services www.montsame.mn

Mongolia has opened its first “Green Station” in Khutag-Undur soum of Bulgan aimag, combining electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities, traveler rest areas, and retail and service outlets as part of Prime Minister Uchral Nyam-Osor's “Liberate” policy, promoting the country's green transition.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Uchral said the project marks an important step toward reducing Mongolia's dependence on imported fossil fuels and retaining an estimated USD 200 million currently spent on fuel imports within the domestic economy. He noted that the government is undertaking sweeping reforms in the energy and transport sectors to support the green transition.

While serving as Speaker of Parliament, the Prime Minister launched the "3x100" program, which enabled households to generate electricity for their own use and supply excess power to the national grid by removing regulatory and grid connection barriers.

Since taking office as Prime Minister, he has continued energy sector reforms by accelerating policies that encourage private investment in new power generation projects. Under this approach, Mongolia held its first competitive auction for renewable energy projects at five sites, attracting expressions of interest from 119 companies, with 19 firms submitting competitive price bids. Six additional projects have since been announced, marking what Uchral described as a new phase of transparent, competitive, and privately financed energy development.

PM Uchral emphasized that the Green Station serves as practical infrastructure linking energy reform with transport modernization. He said that charging infrastructure, roadside services, rest areas, and support for local businesses must be developed in tandem to expand EV adoption.

The government plans to develop EV infrastructure through three models. In Ulaanbaatar, express and premium charging stations will be installed based on available space and consumer demand, while rural areas will see the rollout of Green Stations, combining charging facilities with rest stops, showers, retail services, and support for local enterprises.

On May 28, 2026, under the government's initiative to accelerate implementation of the Green Resolution aimed at reducing dependence on imported fuel and energy, the Prime Minister met with private sector representatives to discuss policy measures. During the meeting, the Ulaanbaatar Chamber of Commerce presented its EV charging infrastructure development program.

According to the program, approximately 500 Green Stations could be established across Ulaanbaatar and aimags over the next two years. The government aims to install 40 charging stations before the UNCCD COP17 conference. Projections indicate that Mongolia could have a demand for 50,000 electric vehicles by 2030, with the transition expected to reduce fuel consumption by 300 million liters and save approximately USD 200 million over five years.

The government also plans to support the establishment of Green Stations at major border crossings and high-traffic areas, including Zamiin-Uud and Tsagaan Khad, to modernize transport, energy, and roadside service infrastructure.

"The government should not do everything itself," Uchral said. "Its role is to create opportunities for the private sector by removing bottlenecks related to land, grid connections, permits, and regulations. That is the core principle of the Liberate policy. The Green Station is a tangible example of that policy in action."

Officials said the initiative will help reduce Mongolia's fuel and energy dependence, encourage wider adoption of electric vehicles, support local businesses, and establish a new standard for roadside services nationwide.

The facility in Khutag-Undur also becomes the 600th CU convenience store operated by Premium Nexus LLC. Designed to promote EV use, improve roadside services, and create green infrastructure, it is the country's first privately developed Green Station. Prime Minister Uchral thanked the company for pioneering the project and reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting private-sector initiatives that advance Mongolia's green development.

First-Ever Mongolian Player Joins Orlando Magic for NBA Summer League www.montsame.mn

Enkhiin-Od (Mike), the son of the Honored Athlete of Mongolia, Sharavjamts, has officially joined the NBA’s Orlando Magic and is set to compete in the NBA Summer League.

Although he declared for the 2026 NBA Draft, which concluded two days ago, he went unselected. However, despite being undrafted, his participation in the Summer League opens up opportunities to secure a two-way contract, which could grant him the chance to play in the NBA regular season games. The Summer League is scheduled to kick off on July 9 in Las Vegas, USA, and will run for 10 days.

By entering the draft pool, Enkhiin-Od had already made history as the first Mongolian to do so. By earning a place on an NBA team's Summer League roster, he has taken a major step toward becoming the first Mongolian to appear in an NBA game.

Known in U.S. college basketball as Mike Sharavjamts, the 23-year-old standout is 208 cm (6'9") tall. His collegiate career includes stints with:

Dayton (2022/23 season)
San Francisco (2023/24 season)
Utah (2024/25 season)
South Carolina (2025/26 season)
During his final season with South Carolina, he averaged 10.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. Before the draft, he was invited to pre-draft workouts by five NBA franchises: the Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, and Memphis Grizzlies.

The "One Million Tourists" Myth: If You Can't Measure It, You Can't Manage It www.gogo.mn

The most significant challenge facing Mongolia’s tourism sector is the inability to accurately calculate tourist numbers and their real economic impact. If we could precisely track domestic tourism data according to international standards, Mongolia would have the potential to climb at least 20 places in the Global Travel & Tourism Development Index. According to the latest report by the World Economic Forum, Mongolia currently ranks 85th out of 119 countries—a position directly linked to statistical ambiguity and the omission of domestic tourism data.

The Illusion of "One Million Tourists"

For years, sector ministers have annually announced the ambitious goal of "welcoming one million tourists," yet foreign tourism statistics remain questionable. Researchers emphasize a shift from "quantity to quality"—focusing on high-value tourists and economic yield—but these recommendations often fail to gain traction among policymakers. Currently, there is no integrated methodology to distinguish between genuine tourists and foreign laborers entering from Russia or China.

Furthermore, the number of Mongolians traveling abroad significantly exceeds the number of incoming tourists, creating a tourism trade deficit. This underscores the urgent need for policies that protect the local market and incentivize domestic tourism to keep capital circulating within the national economy.

The "Three Pillars" of Tourism

Theoretically, the tourism sector rests on three fundamental pillars:

1. Inbound Tourism: International travelers visiting Mongolia (Foreign currency inflow/Exports).

2. Outbound Tourism: Mongolian citizens traveling abroad (Foreign currency outflow/Imports).

3. Domestic & Internal Tourism: Citizens traveling within their own country (Economic resilience/Internal circulation).

By focusing solely on inbound numbers, we fail to calculate the sector's net economic effect. To achieve a balanced and profitable industry, domestic tourism must be supported as a strategic priority. In 2025, the National Statistics Office (NSO) conducted its first-ever domestic tourism sample survey involving 13,260 participants. The findings revealed:

3.2 million domestic trips (1.6 million unique travelers) were made in 2024.
These trips generated an economic turnover of 3.2 trillion MNT.
Evidence-Based Research: The Onon-Balj Case Study

A study commissioned by WWF Mongolia proves that it is possible to track domestic travelers even at the smallest administrative level (soum). Led by Dr. B. Yerbakhyt of Otgontenger University, a team of scientists used mathematical modeling to calculate tourist flows into five soums witihin the Onon-Balj National Park: Binder, Bayan-Adarga, Dadal, Norovlin, and Bayan-Uul.

By analyzing traffic patterns through the Nalaikh-Terelj checkpoint, they found that 209.6 thousand passengers were tourists. The study mapped their movements:

Binder: 24.9 thousand travelers via Jargaltkhaan.
Dadal: 21.7 thousand via Bayan-Adarga and 37.9 thousand via Norovlin.
Total for Dadal Soum: 53.5 thousand tourists per year, peaking with 16,000 in July and 14,000 in August.

Validating Numbers through Fuel Consumption

To verify these results, scientists employed an innovative method: Fuel-Based Calculation. By taking the total fuel sold in a soum and subtracting the estimated consumption of local vehicles (categorized by type and age), they identified "excess sales" attributable to tourists.

This calculation suggested that 316,000 tourists traveled within Khentii Province—a figure 2 to 2.5 times higher than the official NSO statistics. This indicates that current statistical methods likely significantly undervalue the actual market size.

Why Accurate Data Matters

Accurate domestic data is the foundation for evidence-based management and opens several doors:
Investment: Private investors and international organizations do not invest based on guesses. Concrete data builds the business confidence needed to develop hotels and resorts.
Infrastructure & Carrying Capacity: Infrastructure (roads, power, waste management) is usually planned for local populations. However, during peak season, a soum’s "temporary" population can increase 10–20 times. Data allows for scientifically grounded infrastructure planning.
Environmental Conservation: Every protected area has an ecological carrying capacity. Real-time monitoring allows managers to mitigate overcrowding and reroute flows to protect the environment.
Local Economic Valuation: Uncovering "hidden" tourism revenue is vital for local budget planning and supporting SMEs and local craftsmanship.
The Solution: Leveraging Existing Digital Infrastructure

The research team suggests the most efficient solution lies in Mongolia’s roughly 40 Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) points. These points are already digitized, recognizing and recording every vehicle by its license plate.

Real-time Database: By identifying vehicle registration codes, the system can instantly categorize "visitor flows" from other regions.
Big Data Integration: Correlating ETC data with local fuel sales and hospitality revenue can provide a "soum-by-soum" economic impact report.
Inter-Agency Cooperation: This requires the Ministry of Road and Transport, the Ministry of Tourism, and the NSO to integrate their data. This would create a high-accuracy system without the need for expensive new surveys.
Today, we possess the scientific solutions, the raw data, and the tested methodologies to transform Mongolia’s tourism sector. What remains absent at the decision-making level is the political will to turn this potential into reality.

While we chase the unattainable "One Million Tourists" myth, a 3.2 trillion MNT domestic market remains unmanaged, unplanned, and unsupported by infrastructure. This lack of coordination continues to drag down Mongolia’s global competitiveness. We do not need more slogans; we need the political courage to implement data-driven planning. If we cannot count, we cannot plan.

References:

World Economic Forum. (2024). Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024.
National Statistics Office of Mongolia. (2025). Domestic Tourism Sample Survey Results.
WWF Mongolia. (2026). Development of Policy Recommendations with a Strategic Roadmap for Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Tourism in the Onon-Balj PA.
WWF Mongolia. (2023). Tourism Impact Assessment Report on Onon-Balj PA.
United Nations Tourism. (2008). International Recommendations for Tourism Statistics.