In January, Mongolia recorded 44,767 tourist arrivals ahead of the 2026 Tourism Week www.open.kg

At the beginning of 2026, Mongolia recorded 44,767 international tourist arrivals in January, confirming a sustained interest in winter tourism. This data was presented by the Mongolian Tourism Organization (MTO) on their official platforms, highlighting the success of promotional activities and the strategic positioning of the country as a unique tourist destination with vast landscapes and nomadic heritage.

The MTO emphasized that January tourism holds special significance for the country, as winter tourism offerings, including cultural events and festivals, contribute to the diversification of the tourism sector beyond the traditional summer peak. The publication TravelDailyNews also noted the need to maintain international visibility for tourism throughout the year.

Additionally, the Mongolian Tourism Administration (MTO) announced preparations for "Tourism Week 2026," which will serve as an important platform for developing institutional coordination and professional standards in the tourism sector.

During "Tourism Week 2026," representatives from government bodies, tourism associations, and private operators are expected to participate. The event's program will focus on strategic priorities, product development, and human resource potential, while discussions will address improving service quality and adapting offerings to meet international market demands.

Industry forums, workshops, and professional certification are planned as part of the week, including the first summer examination cycle for licensed guides in 2026, which will help raise professional standards and prepare qualified personnel for the peak season.

This event will also promote cooperation between central authorities and regional stakeholders in the tourism sector, supporting structured planning and long-term sustainability of the sector. Previously, Mongolian authorities have emphasized the importance of enhancing service quality and coordinated marketing as key factors for future growth.

The combination of nearly 45,000 foreign tourists arriving in the country in January and the upcoming initiative "Tourism Week 2026" underscores the importance of maintaining positive momentum in inbound tourism.

Mongolian mining family buys $31.5M Hong Kong luxury home for retirement www.e.vnexpress.net

A wealthy Mongolian mining family has purchased a luxury detached house in Hong Kong’s Southern District for HK$247 million (US$31.5 million) to turn it into a 'retirement residence.'
Tisara Holdings, directed by Tselmuun Nyamtaishir, reached a provisional agreement on Jan. 29 to purchase House 5 at One Stanley, located along Wong Ma Kok Road in Stanley, according to Land Registry records as reported by Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post.

Nyamtaishir serves as president and chief executive of Mongolyn Alt (MAK), the diversified mining and industrial group established in 1993 by her father, Byambaa Nyamtaishir.

She is also a non-executive director at XacBank, a major financial services provider in Mongolia.

MAK is among Mongolia’s leading coal exporters and one of the country’s early domestic producers supplying coal to China. The group has collaborated with partners including Qinghua Group and Huawei Technologies, while investing in infrastructure upgrades at the Shiveekhuren border crossing to expand export throughput.

One Stanley, comprises 43 blocks, offering a total of 82 units. It has attracted wealthy local and overseas buyers seeking privacy, exclusivity and sea views.

The Southern District and The Peak are among Hong Kong’s most prestigious residential areas and have been at the forefront of a broader recovery in the city’s luxury housing market after years of falling prices, China Daily reported.

The two districts recorded 174 primary and secondary market transactions in 2025, with total deal value rising 21.2% year on year to HKD19.9 billion, according to brokerage data.

This marked the highest annual turnover since 2021, when transaction value reached HKD26.1 billion at the previous market peak.

Chinese Embassy denies ties to Mongolian pilot arrested in Zambales www.filipinotimes.net

The Embassy of China in the Philippines said the Mongolian national arrested in Iba, Zambales has no connection to the Chinese government.

“To the best of our knowledge, this individual has no affiliation with China,” the embassy’s deputy spokesperson said in a statement.

The official also cautioned against drawing conclusions while the investigation is ongoing, stressing that “prejudging the matter before the facts are fully ascertained is fundamentally flawed and runs counter to basic principles of objectivity.”

Authorities have initiated deportation proceedings against the foreign national.

According to information obtained by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Mongolian citizen was allegedly a jet fighter pilot of the People’s Liberation Army and had completed training at the PLA Air Force Aviation University.

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año earlier disclosed details of the suspect’s purported military background.

The foreigner is currently detained at the custodial facility of the Bureau of Immigration as the investigation continues.

Immigration authorities said the individual has denied the allegations against him.

Ancient DNA reveals Golden Horde elites’ Mongolian roots and ties to Central Eurasian populations www.archaeologymag.com

Researchers have analyzed ancient DNA from four elite burials in the Ulitau region of central Kazakhstan and traced their ancestry to the Mongolian Plateau. The graves belong to members of the Golden Horde, the northwestern branch of the Mongol Empire founded by descendants of Genghis Khan. The findings appear in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and offer rare genetic data from the ruling class of this medieval state.

The Golden Horde took shape in the thirteenth century under Jochi, the eldest son of Genghis Khan. His successors ruled large parts of Central Eurasia and Eastern Europe. Local tradition holds that one of the mausoleums studied in Ulitau contains Jochi’s remains. The research team did not confirm the identity of the individual in that tomb, but the genetic evidence places the buried elites within a clear Mongolian lineage.

Scientists extracted DNA from three men and one woman buried in the mausoleums. Genome analysis showed that the three men shared a paternal line. All carried a Y-chromosome lineage known as haplogroup C3, often linked to populations from the Mongolian Plateau. Around twenty years ago, researchers reported that a large number of men across Central Eurasia shared a related Y-chromosome pattern. Some estimates suggested that about one in 200 men carried a lineage traced to the Mongol expansion.

The new results add detail to that picture. The Golden Horde males belonged to a specific branch within the broader C3 group. Modern populations carry related branches at different frequencies, but the exact sublineage found in these tombs appears less common today than the larger cluster. Ancient DNA allows researchers to separate close branches that look similar in living populations.

The team also examined the full genomes of the four individuals. Most of their ancestry traces back to Ancient Northeast Asian groups. A smaller portion is linked to Ancient North Eurasians or steppe populations related to Scythians, including Kipchak tribes who lived in the region before and during Mongol rule. Historical sources describe alliances and integration between Mongol rulers and local steppe groups. The genetic data align with that record.
 
Archaeological evidence from the mausoleums supports this view. Burial structures and artifacts combine Mongol traditions with local elements, pointing to a ruling class that maintained eastern roots while governing western territories. The graves reflect a society in transition rather than one in isolation.

Ancient DNA reveals Golden Horde elites’ Mongolian roots and ties to Central Eurasian populations
Jochi Mausoleum, Ulytau Region, Kazakhstan. Public domain
Researchers also built an identity-by-descent network using genomic data. Through this method, they identified genetic ties between the Ulitau individuals and medieval populations on the Mongolian Plateau. These links show continued biological connections between western Mongol elites and their eastern homelands.

The burial site of Genghis Khan has never been found, and without his remains, no direct genetic comparison is possible. Even so, the Ulitau genomes narrow the range of likely lineages within the ruling family. The study provides direct ancient DNA evidence from high-status Golden Horde burials and refines long-standing claims about the spread of haplogroup C3 during the Mongol Empire.

By Dario Radley

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio Sends Tsagaan Sar Greetings to Mongolia www.montsame.mn

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended his greetings to the people of Mongolia on the occasion of Tsagaan Sar, the Mongolian Lunar New Year.

In his message, he conveyed warm wishes to all Mongolians and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to strengthening its Strategic Third Neighbor Partnership with Mongolia, wishing everyone health, happiness, and prosperity in the Year of the Fire Horse.

Industrial Sector Output Increases by 55 Percent www.montsame.mn

Mongolia’s industrial sector output reached MNT 5.4 trillion as of preliminary results of January 2026, marking an increase of 55 percent, or MNT 1.9 trillion, compared to the same period last year.

According to the National Statistics Office of Mongolia, the growth was mainly driven by the mining and quarrying sector, which rose by 68 percent (MNT 1.8 trillion), and the electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply sector, which increased by 34.3 percent (MNT 95.3 billion).

In January’s preliminary results, mining and quarrying output totaled MNT 4.4 trillion. This growth was largely due to a 2.2-fold increase (MNT 1.4 trillion) in metal ore mining and a 29.9 percent rise (MNT 396.4 billion) in hard coal and lignite mining.

In physical terms, production of iron ore and copper concentrate (in metal content), as well as hard coal and iron ore volume, increased between 3.5 percent and 2.3 times compared to the same period last year. However, output of unrefined gold, crude oil, fluorspar, lignite, silver, and zinc concentrate declined by 2.5 to 89.1 percent.

In the manufacturing sector, physical production of key products such as water, beverages and juice, metal castings, lime, cashmere knitwear, combed cashmere, and cement increased between 1.8 percent and 4.2 times year-on-year. Meanwhile, production of vodka, liquid milk, flour, pure alcohol, copper cathodes, cigarettes, and meat decreased by 1.5 to 60.4 percent.

Industrial sector sales reached MNT 8 trillion as of the preliminary result of January, up by MNT 4.6 trillion (2.4 times) from the same period last year. Mining sector sales accounted for the majority of the increase, rising by MNT 4.4 trillion (2.8 times).

In January, MNT 6.4 trillion worth of industrial products were sold to foreign markets, of which MNT 6.3 trillion came from the mining and quarrying sector.

Of total mining exports, 26.5 percent consisted of coal, 71.7 percent metal ores, 0.9 percent crude oil, and 0.9 percent other mineral products.

Atmospheric Distillation Column of the Oil Refinery Is Ready for Transportation www.montsame.mn

The Atmospheric Distillation Column, the core technological unit of the Oil Refinery being constructed in Altanshiree soum of Dornogobi aimag, has been manufactured by KCP Limited in Chennai, India. Following 17 stages of quality inspections and testing, the column has been filled with nitrogen and prepared for long-distance transportation.

Standing 58.4 meters tall, with a diameter of 3.2 meters and weighing 245 tons, the column will be transported in four sections. In mid-February, it will be shipped by sea from Mumbai, India, and subsequently delivered by trailer from Tianjin Port in China to the refinery site in Mongolia.

The management and engineers of the project implementer, “Mongol Oil Refinery” LLC, reviewed the production progress of the distillation column in December 2025. The manufacturing process has now been fully completed, and the unit is ready for shipment.

Record year for EBRD’s risk-sharing programme in Central Asia and Mongolia www.qazinform.com

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is actively rolling out its risk-sharing framework (RSF) in Central Asia and Mongolia. Under the RSF, the EBRD commits to sharing half of the risk on loans extended by partner financial institutions, helping to unlock critical development opportunities for local businesses, Qazinform News Agency learnt from the Bank's press service. 

Record year for EBRD’s risk-sharing programme in Central Asia and Mongolia
Photo credit: EBRD
In 2025, the EBRD signed 31 risk-sharing transactions worth €28.5 million with 26 companies in Central Asia and Mongolia, an all-time regional record. The Bank supported privately owned companies, typically small and medium-sized enterprises (SME), mainly in the manufacturing, food production and agribusiness sectors, as well as the ones providing services.

Many of these transactions went beyond traditional financing, combining capital with investment grants and advisory services to help companies strengthen their capacity to handle financial and operational challenges, and boost their social, environmental and governance (ESG) practices.
Projects across the region included:

In Kazakhstan, Temirservice Astana, a privately owned railway operator, received a KZT 1.9 billion (€3.2 million) loan from Bank CenterCredit for the construction of an 11,000 m² class-A warehouse complex.

In the Kyrgyz Republic, Steelex, a leading aluminium extrusion manufacturer, received  4.8 million UD dollars (€ 4 million) from Demir Kyrgyz International Bank, to support its vertical integration and help to expand aluminium scrap recycling. The project will help with the adoption of inclusive human resources (HR) policies, introduce flexible work arrangements and launch a university internship programme. The EBRD and Kyrgyz Investment and Credit Bank also provided a joint $ 1.1 million US dollars (€ 0.9 million) loan to HTI Group, the country's leading plastic packaging manufacturer, to modernise its equipment and reduce energy consumption. The project will benefit from an investment grant for energy-efficient solutions.

The EBRD has used risk-sharing agreements since the early 2000s. Over the years, the Bank has expanded these into unfunded risk participations, first loss guarantees and co lending frameworks. The modern, scaled up version of risk sharing, especially the unfunded risk participation model widely used today in some countries, accelerated in the mid 2010s as part of the EBRD’s push to mobilise more private capital and support SMEs and green transition projects.

The EBRD is the largest institutional investor in Central Asia. To date it has financed 1,250 projects worth more than €21 billion.

As written before, Kazakhstan is a leader in foreign investments in Central Asia, stated Hüseyin Özhan, EBRD Managing Director for Central Asia and Mongolia.

LUNAR NEW YEAR GREETINGS FROM AMBASSADORS www.gogo.mn

Each year, we share Lunar New Year greetings from ambassadors who live and work in Mongolia — a cherished tradition. Here, we present their messages for the Year of the Fire Horse, along with what they plan to accomplish in the year ahead. (Note: The ambassadors’ greetings are published in alphabetical order according to their respective countries) By B.Nyamdari

"ON BEHALF OF AUSTRALIA, I WISH YOU GOOD HEALTH, HAPPINESS, AND PROSPERITY IN THE YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE"

Leo Zeng, Ambassador of Australia

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
Warm greetings to the people of Mongolia as you celebrate Tsagaan Sar. This special time is about getting together with family, honouring elders and celebrating the values and traditions that bind generations. As we welcome the New Year, Australia looks forward to continuing to work closely with Mongolia to strengthen our partnership and deepen our ties. On behalf of Australia, I wish you good health, happiness, and prosperity in the Year of the Fire Horse. May the New Year bring fresh opportunities and success for you and your loved ones. Та бүхэн сар шинэдээ сайхан шинэлээрэй.

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?
I believe the Year of the Horse is about momentum and progress. In the year ahead, we aim to advance our partnership with Mongolia by further strengthening people-to-people links, and delivering tangible benefits for both our countries. We also look to deepen cooperation through education, skills development and cultural exchange.

On a personal note, I hope to see more of Mongolia, both officially and privately, in the New Year – its beautiful landscapes, rich culture and wonderful food.

"I WISH TO ALL MONGOLIAN FRIENDS FOR GOOD FORTUNE, STRONG HEALTH, AND ABUNDANT HAPPINESS IN THE YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE"

Shen Minjuan, Ambassador of China:

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
This year, Mongolia’s Tsagaan Sar and China’s Spring Festival fall just one day apart, and the two countries are about to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse together. The horse symbolizes courage, wisdom, and resilience. The Fire Horse year, which comes once every 60 years, carries the auspicious meaning in both Chinese and Mongolian cultures of forging bravely ahead and striving upward.

On the occasion of the arrival of the Year of the Fire Horse, I sincerely wish that the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Mongolia will gallop forward like swift steeds and achieve all its goals without obstacles. I also extend my heartfelt wishes to all Mongolian friends for good fortune, strong health, and abundant happiness in the Year of the Fire Horse.

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?
Over the past year, the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Mongolia has continued to deepen, and cooperation across all sectors has achieved fruitful results. In particular, amid a complex and rapidly changing international environment, bilateral trade has demonstrated remarkable stability and resilience, revealing enormous potential for development. In the Year of the Fire Horse, I would like to highlight three expectations for the future development of China–Mongolia relations.

First, strengthening strategic alignment.
This year marks the first year of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan. Mongolia has also adopted its new five-year development plan. We hope that the two plans will be closely aligned, enabling both countries to achieve mutual success and develop together. Next month, the sessions of the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference will deliberate and adopt the 15th Five-Year Plan, which will present Mongolia with a clearer “list of opportunities.” I invite our Mongolian friends to pay close attention to this.

Second, steadily advancing cooperative projects.
Last year saw notable progress in major bilateral projects. Construction began on the cross-border railway linking Gantsmod and Gashuunsukhait, meaning that the two countries will soon have their second cross-border railway in 70 years. The Erdeneburen Hydropower Plant project has commenced, which will effectively meet the electricity needs of thousands of households in the western region. The redevelopment housing project for 1,008 households in ger districts has been completed and handed over. Projects such as the sports complex named after the heads of state of the two countries are also planned to begin this year. The Chinese side stands ready to work with Mongolia to implement these projects in a practical manner and inject greater momentum into the modernization and development of both countries.

Third, increasing support for improving people’s livelihoods.
I was delighted to see Mongolian friends who had undergone cataract and congenital heart disease surgeries in China at the Spring Festival reception recently hosted by the Embassy, and to learn that their recovery has been very successful. China will continue to provide assistance to Mongolian citizens in need of medical treatment.

I also visited the home of Enkhsaikhan in a ger district area, who told me that thanks to the newly installed solar heating system, his family now enjoys a cleaner, warmer, and more comfortable life. With support from China, more than 500 additional households will similarly benefit.

Furthermore, in cooperation with United Nations agencies, China is working to enhance herders’ capacity to adapt to climate change, improve soil management capacity, and strengthen sanitary conditions for school-age girls, thereby supporting Mongolia in achieving its Sustainable Development Goals.

Taking this opportunity, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all sectors in Mongolia that have actively supported my work. I will continue to fulfill my responsibilities in building a China–Mongolia community with a shared future and strive to achieve even more fruitful outcomes in bilateral relations.

"MAY THE BONDS OF FRIENDSHIP AND COOPERATION BETWEEN MONGOLIA AND CUBA, LIKE THE ETERNAL BLUE SKY"

Emilio Pevida Pupo, Ambassador of The Republic of Cuba:

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
On behalf of the Republic of Cuba and its people, I extend my warmest and most sincere greetings to the people of Mongolia on the joyous occasion of Tsagaan Sar, the Lunar New Year. 

May this White Moon festival, marking the renewal of nature and the beginning of spring, bring boundless happiness, robust health, and lasting prosperity to every family across the vast and beautiful steppes of Mongolia. 

This celebration, centered on family unity, respect for elders, and shared hopes for the future, deeply resonates with the values we hold dear in Cuba. As your friend and partner, we celebrate with you the strength of your rich traditions and the bright promise of the year ahead. 

May the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Mongolia and Cuba, like the eternal blue sky, continue to grow stronger in this new cycle. 

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?
On the threshold of the Year of the Horse, my aims as Ambassador are guided by the shared vision of our leaders to elevate the 65-year friendship between Cuba and Mongolia to a qualitatively superior level. This year, symbolizing transformation and decisive leadership, is the perfect moment to charge ahead with concrete cooperation for the direct benefit of our people. 

Key Diplomatic Priorities for 2026 
Building on the strong foundation of our political solidarity, my mission will focus on activating cooperation in these specific areas of mutual interest: 

1. Political & Multilateral Solidarity: Strengthen coordination in international forums.
2. Economic & Commercial Ties: Identify and promote concrete business opportunities and work to diversify bilateral trade and investment.
3. Technical & Sectoral Cooperation: Share expertise in high-value sectors. Advance collaboration in public health, education, sports, and science & technology.
4. Cultural & People-to-People Exchange: Bring our distant nations closer. Foster cultural dialogue and mutual understanding. 

A Foundation of Mutual Support 
This work is inspired by the living example of our friendship. We will never forget Mongolia's generous humanitarian donation in food aid to help Cuba recover from natural disasters in 2024—a profound gesture of solidarity. This spirit of support, which we see repeated in Mongolia's steadfast stance against the U. S. economic blockade against Cuba at the United Nations General Assembly, is the bedrock upon which we will build this year's achievements. 

The Horse's energy of perseverance mirrors our own. As Cuba faces a complex international scenario, the friendship with Mongolia is a source of great strength. I am confident that in this Year of the Horse, by working with determination, we can achieve a lasting gallop forward in our bilateral relations. 
  

"A YEAR AHEAD WILL ALLOW US TO ACHIEVE EVEN MORE AND LAY A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR LAUNCHING THE NEXT SIXTY YEARS OF RELATIONS"

Corinne Pereira, Ambassador of France:

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
I am delighted to extend my warmest wishes for good health, happiness, and prosperity to you all. May the rising Year of the Fire Horse bring us energy, positive change, and peace.

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?
As the Year of the Wood Snake comes to a close, France and Mongolia proudly mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, concluding a truly special year in our bilateral ties. Over the past year, we have made meaningful progress in addressing our shared challenges, including reducing dependency, diversifying partnerships, combating climate change, decarbonizing our economies, and promoting regional development.

I am confident that the year ahead will allow us to achieve even more and lay a strong foundation for launching the next sixty years of relations between our two countries. In the coming years, we will further strengthen cooperation in civil protection, transport, and energy, while deepening economic ties and people-to-people exchanges. Together, we will continue contributing to the building of an open and pluralistic world.

“THIS YEAR, WE ARE PLACING PARTICULAR IMPORTANCE ON THE FIELD OF EDUCATION” 

Helmut Kulitz, Ambassador of Germany:

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
In the incoming Year of the Horse, I wish you and your families, above all, good health, happiness, and every blessing. May the new year be filled with energy, achievements, and hope, and may the unity and shared values passed down through hundreds of years of Mongolian history continue to thrive even more strongly.

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?
As the Year of the Horse begins, I am entering my third year serving as Ambassador to Mongolia. I am truly delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to deepening the friendly relations between our two peoples in your beautiful country, and I would like to emphasize that this is a great honor for me. The warm and open welcome I have received from the people of Mongolia has been especially meaningful.

This year, we are placing particular importance on the field of education. In line with the Government of Mongolia designating 2026 as the “Year of Supporting Education,” we aim to further expand our cooperation in this area. Education has long served as a strong pillar of German–Mongolian relations. A notable example is the famous Mongolian writer Natsagdorj Dashdorj, who went to study in Germany exactly 100 years ago. Continuing this tradition, we will work to strengthen cooperation between universities and vocational education institutions.

The Year of the Horse symbolizes energy, perseverance, and new beginnings. Just as these qualities reflect the spirit of Mongolia, they also guide our shared goals for the future. We will continue our close cooperation and strive to deepen the solid partnership between our two countries.

Obrusánszky Borbála, Ambassador of Hungary:

HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR, DEAR MONGOLIANS!

I extend my warmest Lunar New Year greetings for the Year of the Fire Horse, known as the “Soaring Steed,” to all Mongolian brothers and sisters across every corner of Mongolia.

In the past Year of the Snake, Hungary and Mongolia celebrated the 75th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations, marking a wonderful year of expanded cooperation in culture, education, and science.

In recent years, we have placed special focus on increasing bilateral trade. As a result, over the past three years, the volume of goods exported from Hungary to Mongolia has grown significantly. In the field of education, under the continuously implemented Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship program, 1,500 students are currently studying in Hungary. Additionally, 146 students are enrolled in Hungary under Mongolia’s Presidential “Mission 2100” program.

The Hungarian company Mozaik Kiadó, in partnership with Mongolia’s Mozaun, has successfully introduced the Mozaik digital platform into Mongolia’s education system. For the 2025–2026 academic year, teachers and students in public general education schools will have access to internationally recognized digital content and e-textbooks. Furthermore, the Hungarian Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Hungarian Studies and Mongolia’s Academy of Sciences’ Archaeology Institute have successfully continued excavations of the Xiongnu royal tombs at Ar Gunt.

In 2026, we aim to further deepen cooperation between the two countries’ Academies of Sciences. At the same time, we plan to focus on agriculture, the development of small and medium-sized enterprises, and expanding provincial and local-level relations.

I am confident that in the incoming Year of the Horse, relations and cooperation between our two countries will continue to grow and flourish.

Wishing you all a joyful and prosperous Lunar New Year!

"I AM AIMING 3 MAJOR THINGS TO FURTHER STRENGTHEN THE EXISTING INDIA MONGOLIA FRIENDSHIP"

 Atul Malhari Gotsurve, Ambassador of India

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
I convey my heartfelt greetings to all Mongolians a very Happy Tsagaan Sar 2026, the year of fire horse. I wish the Mongolian lunar New Year brings in more happiness, peace and prosperity to all the people living in Mongolia.

What are your aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?
I am aiming 3 major things to further strengthen the existing India Mongolia Friendship:
1. Completion of construction of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Information Technology Centre at the Mongolian University of Science and Technology.
2. Completion of the Construction of India Mongolia Friendship Secondary School at Zaisan.
3. Boost existing bilateral trade between the two countries.

"WE WILL WORK WITH GREATER EFFORT TO EXPAND AND DEEPEN JAPAN–MONGOLIA RELATIONS ACROSS MULTIPLE SECTORS"

Igawahara Masaru, Ambassador of Japan

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
I extend my warmest Lunar New Year greetings to the people of Mongolia on the occasion of the Year of the Fire Horse, also known as the “Soaring Steed.”

As the first warm days of spring arrive, I hope you are celebrating the holiday with joy, happiness, and the company of family and friends.

In the past Year of the Wood Snake, at the invitation of H.E. President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh, Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan paid a successful state visit to Mongolia. During their eight-day visit, the warm and heartfelt welcome from the people of Mongolia created unforgettable and deeply moving memories for us. During the visit, Their Majesties engaged kindly with citizens, especially children and youth, and their simple, smiling demeanor reflected the genuine respect and warmth with which they regard Mongolia. Daily coverage of the visit in both countries’ media helped deepen mutual understanding and bring our peoples closer together. I sincerely thank everyone who supported and hosted the visit with such warmth and hospitality.

This visit, etched in golden letters in the history of our bilateral relations, not only reaffirmed the close cooperation across all sectors built by many over the years, but also inspires confidence that the youth of both countries will continue to lead and illuminate the future of our partnership.

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?
This year, we will work with even greater effort to expand and deepen Japan–Mongolia relations across multiple sectors. In particular, we aim to support our youth and strengthen “people-centered” cooperation, thereby realizing the “Special Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity” between our countries and contributing to peace and development in the region and the world.

The Year of the Fire Horse arrives in 2026. Historically, Mongolians have revered the horse as a companion in life and daily work, and as a symbol of strength, vitality, freedom, and prosperity. To all Mongolians, I extend my heartfelt wishes that in this Year of the Fire Horse, you may be as swift, spirited, and energetic as a horse galloping across the steppe—enjoying health, abundance, and happiness in every aspect of life.

"WE AIM TO DEVELOP KAZAKHSTAN–MONGOLIA COOPERATION IN THE SPIRIT OF THE FIRE HORSE"

Almas Seitakov, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends, and Colleagues, On behalf of the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Mongolia, and personally, I extend my heartfelt greetings to you on the occasion of Tsagaan Sar, one of the most cherished and sacred celebrations of the Mongolian people.

Tsagaan Sar symbolizes the respect and reverence for spiritual values and traditions. During this holiday, the principles of honoring elders, caring for loved ones, and valuing social harmony and unity are especially evident. It also represents renewal, purity of heart, and the continuity of generations.

I wish the entire people of Mongolia good health, peaceful and prosperous lives, happiness, and abundance. May Tsagaan Sar bring joy and wellbeing to every household, open the way for good deeds, and inspire wonderful beginnings.

The Republic of Kazakhstan highly values the longstanding friendship and good-neighborly relations with Mongolia. May our bilateral cooperation continue to grow vigorously in the years ahead for the mutual benefit of our peoples.

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?

The Year of the Fire Horse is traditionally associated with strength, energy, and creativity. We aim to develop Kazakhstan–Mongolia cooperation in the spirit of the Fire Horse.

Our primary goal is to enrich bilateral relations with tangible achievements. This includes expanding trade and economic cooperation, advancing joint projects in transport, logistics, and agro-industrial sectors, and strengthening business linkages. It is also essential to deepen humanitarian cooperation, with a focus on education, cultural exchanges, youth initiatives, and tourism.

Furthermore, we are committed to enhancing political dialogue and coordination on international platforms. Our core principle remains unchanged: cooperation between Kazakhstan and Mongolia should bring tangible and meaningful benefits to the peoples of both countries.

"I HOPE THAT THE YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE WILL BE ESPECIALLY FAVORABLE FOR MONGOLIA"

Alexey Nikolaevich Evsikov, Ambassador of Russia

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
Dear friends,  I sincerely congratulate you on the traditional Mongolian holiday of Tsagaan Sar. 

This is a special occasion for the Mongolian people, symbolizing the arrival of spring, the renewal of nature, and people’s hopes for the future. It brings the warmth and joy of family celebrations, reflects the unity of the Mongolian nation, and highlights its unique identity and the enduring traditions passed down through generations. 

I know that people across Mongolia look forward to this nationwide holiday as an opportunity to spend time with relatives, loved ones, and friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional Mongolian dishes in a warm and welcoming family atmosphere. 

I hope that the Year of the Fire Horse will be especially favorable for Mongolia. May it bring happiness, harmony, good fortune, stability, and prosperity to every Mongolian family. 

What are your goals for the upcoming Year of the Horse? 
My goals as the Ambassador of Russia remain consistent and do not depend on the year ahead. First and foremost, this involves continuing systematic efforts to promote Russian interests in Mongolia, as well as doing everything possible to further develop the comprehensive Russian–Mongolian dialogue, identify areas of mutual interest, and find solutions to long-standing issues that hinder practical cooperation. 

Together with our Mongolian friends, I also plan to devote special attention to the joint celebration of significant milestones in the history of our two countries. These include the 105th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Russian House in Ulaanbaatar — formerly known as the House of Soviet Science and Culture (HSSC) and later as the Russian Center of Science and Culture (RCSC) — as well as the 45th anniversary of the Soviet–Mongolian spaceflight and other commemorative dates. 

As for my personal goals, I would like to visit those Mongolian aimags that I have not yet had the opportunity to travel to, learn more about the life, traditions, and culture of the friendly Mongolian people, and see with my own eyes the natural landmarks about which I have heard so much. 

"KEY GOALS THIS YEAR IS TO FURTHER ADVANCE BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS PARTICULARLY IN INFRASTRUCTURE, HEALTHCARE, AND THE LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY"

Choi Jin-won, Ambassador Republic of Korea to Mongolia 

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
With heartfelt warmth, I extend my sincere greetings and best wishes for a joyful Tsagaan Sar to all Mongolian people. May the year 2026 bring hope, happiness, and love to everyone across Mongolia. 

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?
Last year, Korea and Mongolia proudly commemorated the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. Since 1990, our two countries have broadened cooperation across diverse fields— including politics, economy, society, and culture—culminating in the elevation of our relationship to a Strategic Partnership in 2021. 

Robust people-to-people exchanges have long served as the backbone of our relationship, fostering friendship and mutual understanding between our two nations. Various initiatives under Korea’s official development assistance, led by KOICA, have also made significant contributions to Mongolia’s sustainable development and to the deepening of our bilateral cooperation. 

One of my key goals this year is to further advance business partnerships that will create new success stories between Korea and Mongolia, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare, and the livestock industry. I am confident that these efforts will lay a solid foundation for elevating our economic collaboration to new heights. 

I will also make my utmost efforts to further strengthen exchanges among younger generations, who I believe represent the true potential and promise of our future relationship. 

"I WISH YOU A HAPPY, HEALTHY, AND SUCCESSFUL YEAR AHEAD"

Fiona Blyth, Ambassador of the United Kingdom:

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians.
I would like to wish all Mongolians a bold progress in the upcoming year of fire horse. May your Tsagaan sar celebrations will be filled with happiness, good food and optimism. And I wish you a happy, healthy, and successful year ahead.

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?
I hope that the year of horse will bring UK-Mongolia relations even closer and make it stronger. The British embassy is aiming to achieve more in education, infrastructure, and critical minerals with Mongolia. In the upcoming year, we will concentrate more on bringing more positive impact and growth in our economies.  

 
"MAY THE YEAR OF THE RED FIRE HORSE BRING HEALTH, HAPPINESS, AND SUCCESS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES!"

Richard Buangan, Ambassador of the United States:

Please extend you Lunar New Years Greetings to all Mongolians. 
On behalf of the U.S. Embassy, I extend my warmest wishes to the Mongolian people for a happy and prosperous Tsagaan Sar! A Mongolian friend told me that this year is the Year of the Red Fire Horse, something that only happens once every 60 years. It symbolizes change, transformation, new beginnings, growth, and opportunities, qualities that I think reflect the dynamic partnership between the United States and Mongolia. May the Year of the Red Fire Horse bring health, happiness, and success to you and your families! 

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse? 
This is an extraordinary year for both our nations. This year, the United States will celebrate “Freedom 250”, the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. We have many plans to mark this momentous occasion. Mongolia will also celebrate the 820th anniversary of the Mongol Empire, a remarkable milestone in world history. The U.S. Embassy looks forward to collaborating with our Mongolian friends to honor these two significant anniversaries and highlighting the enduring partnership between our two nations. 

I'm thrilled to announce that the $462 million Ulaanbaatar Water Compact, funded by the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation, will be completed by March 31st. This transformative project includes developing new downstream wells, wastewater recycling, and measures to ensure long-term water sector sustainability for the capital city and its residents. 

In economic cooperation, this year we saw United Airlines become the first U.S. airline to serve Mongolia. We look forward to working with Mongolian partners to expand trade and investment opportunities. Also, this past month, Mongolia participated in the Critical Minerals Ministerial hosted by our Secretary of State. This year, we are eager to work with partners such as Mongolia to build secure and resilient critical mineral supply chains.  

Our security partnership remains strong. Khaan Quest will take place again this year, continuing our longstanding cooperation in support of UN peacekeeping operations. 

Looking ahead, we're already preparing to celebrate the 40th anniversary of U.S.-Mongolia bilateral relations in January 2027. 

Across all these endeavors, we remain committed to strengthening the ties between the people and governments of our two countries in this auspicious Year of the Horse. 

"I HAVE ALWAYS FELT THE SINCERITY, HOSPITALITY, AND SENSE OF COMMUNITY OF THE MONGOLIAN PEOPLE, QUALITIES THAT MAKE THIS COUNTRY SO UNIQUE"

Nguyen Tuan Thanh, Ambassador of Vietnam

Please extend your Lunar New Year greetings to the Mongolians
On the occasion of the traditional Tsagaan Sar New Year, I would like to extend my warmest and most sincere New Year wishes to the people of Mongolia. May every Mongolian family a Happy New Year filled with health, happiness, peace, and good fortune; and wishing Mongolia continued development, prosperity, and stability. Tsagaan Sar is not only the beginning of a new year, but also an occasion for people to gather, cherish traditional values, and strengthen family bonds. I have always felt the sincerity, hospitality, and sense of community of the Mongolian people, qualities that make this country so unique. On this occasion of the Lunar New Year, I hope that the friendship and understanding between the people of Vietnam and Mongolia will continue to be nurtured, becoming even stronger and closer in the future.

What are you aiming for in the upcoming Year of the Horse?
As we enter the Year of the Horse, I look forward to a year of dynamism, resilience, and stronger connections between Vietnam and Mongolia. In my capacity, I hope to work with Mongolian partners to promote practical cooperation in areas where both sides have strengths and complementary needs, such as trade, agriculture, education, people-to-people exchanges, and local cooperation. I place particular importance on bringing the relationship between the two countries closer to the daily lives of the people, so that each project and cooperation program brings concrete benefits. Like the image of a horse deeply connected to the Mongolian steppes, I believe that with trust, perseverance, and a shared forward-looking spirit, the Vietnam-Mongolia friendship will continue to make steady and lasting strides in the new year.

G.Zandanshatar and Rio Tinto agree to increase Mongolia’s share in Oyu Tolgoi www.gogo.mn

Representatives of Rio Tinto and Oyu Tolgoi met Prime Minister G.Zandanshatar today to review progress in negotiations aimed at increasing Mongolia’s benefits from the Oyu Tolgoi project and to agree a staged timetable for resolving outstanding issues. 

Attending the meeting from the Rio Tinto and Oyu Tolgoi side were Kh.Amarjargal, Country Director- Mongolia at Rio Tinto, S.Munkhsukh, Chief Executive of Oyu Tolgoi LLC, B.Dulamsuren, Deputy Chief Financial Officer of Oyu Tolgoi, and Andrew Laya, Chief Operating Officer. The company delegation presented a response letter from Rio Tinto Copper Group CEO Katie Jackson and reiterated the firm’s commitment to continued, constructive dialogue. 

Prime Minister G.Zandanshatar opened the meeting by reiterating the constitutional principle that the majority of benefits from the country’s natural resources should accrue to the Mongolian people. He said the government expects tangible progress on reducing financing costs and management fees associated with the project.

According to officials, Rio Tinto’s leadership, including a prior note from CEO Simon Trott, signalled willingness to continue open dialogue to support the long-term sustainability of Oyu Tolgoi operations. 

The Rio Tinto Copper Group’s response, delivered by its CEO Katie Jackson, confirmed that working groups set up under recent prime-ministerial decrees are cooperating actively with the company. Specific proposals aimed at cutting interest expenses and management costs have been submitted to the working group, and officials said these measures would directly increase Mongolia’s share of project returns if implemented.

S.Munkhsukh, Oyu Tolgoi LLC CEO, said the company agrees in principle with the government’s objectives and will actively cooperate to raise the project’s benefits for Mongolia.

Both sides agreed to intensify negotiations and resolve issues in clearly defined stages, with a target to reach final agreement in the first half of 2026. Government officials said the staged approach will allow technical, financial and legal items to be settled sequentially and enable earlier capture of benefits for Mongolia as adjustments are implemented.