Top U.S. diplomat to embark on trip to South Korea, Japan, Mongolia next week: State Department www.koreajoongangdaily.joins.com

 
The top U.S. diplomat for East Asia policy will embark on a trip to South Korea, Japan and Mongolia next week to strengthen cooperation with the countries for "shared priorities" across the Indo-Pacific, the State Department said Thursday.
 
From Monday through March 17, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Michael DeSombre will travel to Tokyo, Seoul and Ulaanbaatar, the department's Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs said in a post on X.
 
His planned Northeast Asia swing will come as U.S. President Donald Trump plans to visit China for a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly from late March to early April, fueling speculation that Trump could seek to resume dialogue with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un while in Asia.
 
During a recent key party congress, Kim said that Pyongyang has "no reason not to get along with the U.S." if Washington withdraws its hostile policy, noting that the prospects of U.S.-North Korea ties "entirely depend on the U.S. attitude," according to the North's state media.

Mongolian, Japanese Companies Discuss Cooperation Opportunities www.montsame.mn

Trade Development Bank (TDB), together with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), organized the Japanese-Mongolian Business Networking Event on February 3, 2026.

During the event, held for the third time, the Director of the Business Development Department of JETRO, Norikazu Mori, stated, “While IT and innovation sectors dominated the event the first couple of years, a wider range of organizations participated in this year’s event. Specifically, the participation of representatives from high-tech industries, such as space research, makes this year’s event special. Three consecutive days were dedicated to organizing business meetings and networking sessions, which were significant in strengthening newly formed business relations and helping them reach tangible results. Worthy mentions include a company that develops technology for transporting blood for medical purposes and solar panel organizations. I am positive these cooperations will contribute to the prosperity of both countries, elevate the bilateral partnership, and enable the emergence of new Mongolian-Japanese joint businesses.”

Interim Director of the Representative Office of TDB in Tokyo, Myagmardorj Jamiyansuren, stated, “The main goals of our representative office are to introduce Mongolia to Japanese entrepreneurs and provide all-around support for Japanese companies in entering the Mongolian market. In particular, we consult them along every step, including establishing the company, opening an account, commencing operations, and establishing partnerships once operating in Mongolia. As of today, a total of 96 Japanese companies have entered Mongolia through our representative office and are currently operating in Mongolia. The consistent growth of these companies is a testament to our work. Also, TDB’s client organizations are participating, networking, holding business meetings, and discussing innovative ideas and cooperation opportunities.”

Over 40 representatives from 27 Japanese companies participated in the event. The organizers aim to hold similar networking and business events regularly and to connect Mongolian and Japanese businesses.

Visitors Explore the 100-Year History of Mongolian Stamps www.montsame.mn

The nationwide event “Museum Open Days,” traditionally held during the first week of March each year, is currently taking place across Mongolia.

As part of the event, stamp enthusiasts, children, and young people are visiting the Mongolian Stamp Museum to learn about the history of Mongolian postage stamps. On this occasion, teachers and students from the General Education Sports Central School, the Mongolian-Russian Joint School No. 3, and the School of Young Inventors visited the museum.

The Mongolian Stamp Museum, located in the Central Post Office, first opened its doors in 2014. Visitors to the museum have the chance to explore the 100-year history of Mongolian stamps. Notably, the museum exhibits “Eldev-Ochir,” Mongolia’s first postage stamp issued in 1924. In 2024, this historic stamp was registered as cultural heritage by UNESCO, becoming the first postage stamp in the world to be included in UNESCO’s heritage register.

The museum displays more than 4,500 stamps across over 1,200 themes, reflecting Mongolia’s history and culture and that of the wider world, along with over 200 first-day covers. Among the exhibits are the world’s largest postage stamp, triangular stamps, high-tech gold and silver stamps, as well as foil and silk stamps, priceless philatelic works, and awards received from successful participation in international stamp exhibitions and competitions.

During the “Museum Open Days,” which will run until March 7, visitors to the Stamp Museum can explore the variety and design of Mongolian postage stamps and learn about the country’s history, culture, nature, flora and fauna, arts, sports, and development, from the era of the Mongol Empire to the present day, while also gaining insight into the history and culture of other nations represented through stamps.

Snowmelt Flood Risk Warning Issued Across Mongolia www.montsame.mn

With warmer weather approaching, conditions are forming for snowmelt flooding along river basins, the National Emergency Management Agency has warned, urging the public to take precautions.

The agency also noted that carcasses of livestock and animals discarded in gullies and ravines in areas that experienced a severe winter may be washed into waterways by melting snow, posing risks of water contamination and the spread of disease. Relevant organizations are therefore advised to take prompt measures and carry out proper clean-up and disposal operations.

According to the Institute of Meteorology, Hydrometeorology and Environmental Research and Information, about 65 percent of Mongolia’s territory is currently covered with snow, with an average snow depth of 7.5 cm. The total snow water reserves are estimated at 14.2 cubic kilometers.

Specifically, 90–99 percent of the basins of the Yeruu, Khalkh, Kharaa, Kherlen, Ulz, Khukh Nuur Lake, Menengiin Tal, Bulgan, Onon, Shishhed, Tuul, Selenge, Lake Khuvsgul–Eg, Ider, Uvs Lake, and Tes rivers are covered with snow, with an average snow water reserve of 0.59 cubic kilometers.

Meanwhile, 45–80 percent of the basins of the Uyench-Bodonch, Orkhon, Delgermurun, Khyargas Lake, Zavkhan, Khanui, Chuluut, Umard Gobi, Khar Nuur Lake, Khovd River, Khuisiin Gobi–Tsetseg Lake, Taats, and the Buuntsagaan and Baidrag river systems remain snow-covered, with an average snow water reserve of 0.51 cubic kilometers, the institute reported.

66 hectares at Gashuunsukhait Port returned to state after government revokes land-use order www.gogo.mn

The Cabinet revoked Order No. A/618 of the Acting Ministry of Environment and Climate Change — dated 13 June 2025 and titled “Granting of Land Use Rights”, during its regular session on March 4, 2026, after inspectors found the decision violated constitutional and border-law safeguards.

A working group established by an Order (A/03) of the Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs reviewed implementation of Government Resolutions No.95 and 349 (2022) and reported that the 66 hectares at Gashuunsukhait had been used without the required contract or permissions. The group recommended that the government revoke the A/618 order and restore the land to state control; the Cabinet accepted that recommendation at the session.

The land had originally been allocated under the 2022 resolutions to establish an automated container/terminal facility. Officials said that Smart Eco Trans LLC, the firm named in the earlier decision, used the 66 hectares between 2022 and 2025 without a formal contract or proper authorisation, in breach of the government’s conditions. The Cabinet therefore moved to annul the authorising order and return the territory to state administration.

Mongolian metal band The Hu announces its biggest tour in the UK and Europe www.open.kg

As reported by MiddleAsianNews, in July the Mongolian band The Hu will open for Iron Maiden before returning to the UK.

The band The Hu, known for their unique folk metal, is preparing for their largest tour in the UK and Europe.

The tour will kick off on September 29 in Glasgow and will conclude on October 11 in Norwich. After that, the band will continue performing in Europe, wrapping up in Luxembourg on October 31, Halloween day.

In their statement, The Hu emphasized that the new setlist will be filled with "hope and energy."

"As always, in our style, we have prepared a completely new show with a vibrant atmosphere," the musicians noted. "Come to our long-awaited performances, let’s enjoy the music together!"

All concerts will feature the French folk band Skald as the opening act.

This tour is part of the band's busy schedule this year. In May, The Hu will head to the USA, where they will headline a concert with Apocalyptica and also open for Iron Maiden at their 50th-anniversary concert in Knebworth in July.

While there is no news about a continuation of the album Rumble Of Thunder, released in 2022, the band previously released the single The Real You, styled like Iron Maiden, which may indicate possible changes in the next album.

The Hu's Tour in the UK and Europe in 2026

September 29: UK, O2 Academy Glasgow, Glasgow
October 1: UK, Prospect Building, Bristol
October 2: UK, O2 Academy Bournemouth, Bournemouth
October 3: UK, O2 City Hall, Newcastle
October 5: UK, The Telegraph, Belfast
October 6: IE, 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin
October 8: UK, O2 Academy Birmingham, Birmingham
October 9: UK, O2 Academy Brixton, London
October 10: UK, O2 Apollo, Manchester
October 11: UK, UEA, Norwich
October 14: BE, Ancienne Belgique, Brussels
October 15: Germany, Sporthalle, Hamburg
October 17: Germany, Tonhalle, Munich
October 18: Germany, Columbiahalle, Berlin
October 19: POL Stodola, Warsaw
October 20: POL Stodola, Warsaw
October 22: GER Palladium, Cologne
October 23: NED Tivoli Vredenburg, Utrecht
October 24: NED 013, Tilburg.
October 27: FRA L’Olympia, Paris.
October 28: FRA Le Radiant, Lyon
October 30: SWI X-tra, Zurich
October 31: LUX Rockhal, Esch-sur-Alzette

Beyond the "Third Neighbor": Mongolia-U.S. Relations in the Era of Great Power Competition, — The Diplomat www.open.kg

U.S. Ambassador Richard L. Buangan in Ulaanbaatar
The interview with the U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia by The Diplomat highlights key aspects of bilateral relations between the two countries and their strategic partnership.

Richard L. Buangan, U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia, shares his views on the future of cooperation in an interview with The Diplomat.

On January 27, the United States and Mongolia celebrated 39 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, which began in 1987 during the Cold War. These diplomatic ties laid the foundation for Mongolia's strategy known as the "Third Neighbor," aimed at strengthening sovereignty and expanding foreign economic relations beyond Russia and China.

In the context of growing global competition and changes in Washington's strategy in the Indo-Pacific region, as well as in light of the "America First" policy of Trump's second administration, the strategic partnership between Mongolia and the U.S. has reached a new level of significance.

This important moment was confirmed on January 22, when Mongolian Prime Minister Zandanshatar Gombojav signed the Charter of the Council of Peace in Davos, making Mongolia one of the founders of this international organization initiated by Trump. This marked a significant step in renewing Mongolia's "Third Neighbor" strategy and coincides with the end of the UN mission in South Sudan in 2026, opening new opportunities for Mongolian peacekeepers.

However, not everything is smooth in the relations between Mongolia and the U.S. On February 2, the United States suspended the issuance of immigration visas for Mongolian citizens, categorizing the country as "high risk" due to concerns that its citizens might "illegally receive social benefits." This move has worsened bilateral relations.

Since the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership in 2019, important questions remain about the actual depth of this cooperation. Is it being implemented in practice, or is it merely declarations and symbolic aid that do not address Mongolia's core issues, such as energy security and economic diversification?

In the context of changing dynamics in global relations, Russia and China continue to develop economic ties with Mongolia, as demonstrated during two recent diplomatic visits in February 2026. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong visited Ulaanbaatar to reaffirm Beijing's political priorities, while the Speaker of the Mongolian Parliament, Uchrala Nyam-Osor, held a working meeting in Moscow to discuss energy cooperation.

To understand what is happening and its implications for future relations between Mongolia and the U.S., Sumyaa Chuluunbaatar conducted an exclusive interview with Ambassador Richard L. Buangan, who has held this position since November 2022.

Buangan, a diplomat with years of experience in East Asia, has served in his role during a significant period marked by Secretary of State Antony Blinken's historic visit to Mongolia in August 2024 and the early months of Trump's second term, when Mongolia became one of the founders of the Council of Peace.

While in Mongolia, Buangan emphasized community-oriented diplomacy: he studied traditional Mongolian writing, participated in cultural events such as Naadam and Tsagaan Sar, and traveled extensively across the country, engaging with local residents. He described the Mongolians as "hospitable and open," which he believes resonates with American values. His stance on bilateral relations is based on significant achievements in security, education, and development, while also highlighting existing structural barriers that hinder the realization of the full potential for both countries.

ANNIVERSARY DATES

Buangan began the conversation by noting that 2026 will be "special" for both countries, linking the 39th anniversary of diplomatic relations with two significant events: the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, dubbed "Freedom 250," and the 820th anniversary of the founding of the Mongol Empire. "These are two important milestones, and we have many plans," he stated, emphasizing hopes for cooperation with Mongolia in celebrating these anniversaries and strengthening the partnership.

While symbolic anniversaries create a foundation for cooperation, Buangan emphasized the real investments that have defined bilateral relations. A key element of this cooperation is the $462 million Water Resources Agreement of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), which concludes in March 2026. This project, in which Mongolia is investing $112 million, will increase clean water supplies in Ulaanbaatar by 80%, helping to address issues caused by rural migration.

"This is a concrete symbol of the long-term U.S. commitment to partnership with Mongolia," Buangan noted, adding that the agreement reflects the Trump administration's commitment to supporting recipient countries' self-sufficiency through sustainable development.

This important project is complemented by initiatives to expand Mongolia's global economic relations. In February 2026, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Mongolia signed a technical assistance agreement for Mongolia to achieve Category 1 (CAT 1) safety status from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. USTDA emphasized that this could be a game changer, ensuring safe air travel between the countries and facilitating the export of Mongolia's vital mineral resources to new global markets.

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP SEVEN YEARS ON

Seven years after the announcement of the strategic partnership between Mongolia and the U.S., Buangan assessed its achievements, emphasizing that the United States is Mongolia's most consistent "third neighbor." "Despite the distance, we take pride in being Mongolia's 'third neighbor' and take this seriously," he said, highlighting three areas of progress that have strengthened the partnership amid global changes.

First, defense and security cooperation has become the foundation of relations, aligning with Mongolia's neutral policy and U.S. priorities in the Indo-Pacific region. Buangan noted the importance of the annual multilateral Khaan Quest exercises conducted in conjunction with the U.S. Army Pacific Command, which involved 24 countries in 2025.

"We are actively working to strengthen defense cooperation, helping to modernize and professionalize the Mongolian Armed Forces, and the results are evident," Buangan added.

Mongolia ranks among the top countries in the world for the number of UN peacekeepers per capita, with over 23,000 troops deployed in various international missions, underscoring its role as a responsible global participant and a reliable partner for the U.S.

Second, educational and cultural ties have created a solid foundation for a partnership that extends beyond political circumstances. Buangan noted that this is one of the most significant themes, as "people-to-people connections are the foundation of everything we do." He mentioned that about 1,500 Mongolian students study in the U.S. each year, while only about 100 Americans study in Mongolia.

Since 1991, around 1,500 Peace Corps volunteers have served in Mongolia, with 50 actively working in local communities. Over 39 years, more than 8,000 Mongolians have participated in exchange programs, creating a network of connections between the peoples.

However, structural issues remain, such as new visa restrictions that may hinder mobility, despite U.S. efforts to support sustainable development.

Third, the countries have deepened cooperation in economic diversification and the extraction of critical minerals, aligning with the strategies of both nations. Buangan pointed to the vast potential for mutually beneficial investments due to Mongolia's extensive mineral reserves, such as copper and lithium.

He also mentioned Mongolia's recent participation in the U.S. ministerial conference on critical minerals, where Foreign Minister Battsereg Batmunkh represented the country among 53 participants to strengthen supply chains.

Buangan praised Mongolia's participation in the Council of Peace as a "historic initiative," noting that it opens new opportunities for the country on the global stage.

Mongolia presented its membership in the Council as consistent with its neutral policy and emphasized that this body is not a military alliance but a platform for cooperation based on respect for sovereignty.

Buangan agreed that this initiative will allow Mongolia to strengthen its position on the international stage while developing its partnership with the U.S.

"AMERICA FIRST," SOVEREIGNTY, AND COOPERATION IN REFORMS

The main topic of our conversation was the U.S. National Security Strategy through 2025 and its impact on Mongolian-American relations, especially in light of Mongolia's decision to become one of the founders of the Council of Peace.

Buangan dismissed assumptions that this policy indicates isolationism. "'America First' does not mean 'America alone,'" he emphasized. "It implies a more purposeful and strategic approach in our foreign policy."

He noted that the priority is cooperation that brings tangible benefits to both the American people and partners, including Mongolia. This means that the U.S. respects Mongolia's multi-vector approach and its neutrality in international affairs.

Buangan confirmed the U.S. commitment to supporting internal reforms in Mongolia, including the launch of the second phase of the transparency project, which will begin in December 2025. He also noted that Mongolia faces challenges such as high levels of corruption, which hinder investment and trade.

When asked about the possibility of a U.S. presidential visit to Mongolia, which has not occurred since 2005, Buangan did not confirm specific plans but emphasized the importance of bilateral engagement.

"President Trump is actively involved in the affairs of the Indo-Pacific region, as evidenced by his active contribution to the APEC summit in 2025," he noted, adding that the meeting between the Mongolian Foreign Minister and the Secretary of State at the conference in Washington also confirms the high level of engagement.

FINAL REFLECTIONS

In conclusion, Buangan expressed confidence in the future of Mongolian-American relations, based on values and mutual respect. Thirty-nine years of diplomatic relations and seven years of strategic partnership have created strong ties that continue to evolve.

For Mongolia, the U.S. remains an important "third neighbor," supporting its sovereignty, democracy, and economic development amid global competition. The U.S. sees Mongolia as a reliable partner in the Indo-Pacific region and an important player in ensuring the resilience of critical supply chains.

Buangan emphasized the importance of human connections as the foundation of bilateral partnership, helping to prevent empty rhetoric and laying the groundwork for further cooperation for decades to come.

In the context of geopolitical instability, the partnership between the U.S. and Mongolia serves as a powerful example of what sovereign states can achieve by cooperating based on shared values and mutual respect.

Author: Sumyaa Chuluunbaatar — economist and international affairs expert. Sumyaa currently works as a freelance researcher at the Institute of International Studies of the Mongolian Academy of Sciences.

Translation: MiddleAsianNews

Source: The Diplomat

Government Issues USD 500 Million Bonds, Saves MNT 51.7 Billion in Interest Costs www.montsame.mn

Government successfully issued “Century-5” bonds in the international financial market on March 3.

The USD 500 million bond was issued for a six-year term with an interest rate of 5.95 percent. As part of a debt management operation, the Government will use the proceeds to buy back USD 321.6 million of its previous bonds — the “Nomad” bond with a 5.125 percent interest rate due in 2026, and the “Century-2” bond with an 8.65 percent interest rate due in 2028.

By doing this, the Government reduced its high-interest debt that was due in 2028. It will save about USD 14.5 million, or MNT 51.7 billion, in interest payments. This will lower pressure on the state budget, help keep the exchange rate stable, and support overall financial and economic stability.

The bond was issued at a time when international financial markets were unstable due to recent military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran. 

The successful issuance shows that investors trust Mongolia’s economic outlook and debt management policy.

According to the Ministry of Finance, Mongolia was the only country issuing bonds in the international market during this period. Investor demand was very strong. Orders reached USD 1.6 billion, which is 3.2 times more than the amount offered, showing high interest in Mongolia’s bonds.

Government to Submit Revised Draft Law on State Secrets to Parliament www.montsame.mn

During its regular session on March 4, 2026, the Cabinet decided to submit to the State Great Khural a revised draft Law on State Secrets, a draft Law on Approving the List of State Secrets, and related legislative proposals.

The draft proposes renaming the current Law on State and Official Secrets to the Law on State Secrets and establishing a legal framework regulating only matters related to state secrets.

Deputy Minister of Justice and Home Affairs Munkh-Erdene Dembereltseren stated, “There are more than 894 items classified as official secrets. Once the Law on State Secrets is adopted, all of these will become public.”

Although the existing Law on State and Official Secrets stipulates that information must be lawfully and reasonably classified as state or official secrets, in practice, government agencies and officials have unlawfully and unjustifiably classified information as official secrets. This has negatively affected transparency and openness in state operations, undermined citizens’ right to information, and created conditions conducive to corruption and abuse of office.

The draft law therefore seeks to establish a legal environment ensuring that information held by government agencies — except for matters legitimately classified as state secrets — remains open and transparent.

Under the current law, information that could “cause harm to the interests of sectors, government bodies, or other legal entities” may be classified as official secrets. This broad formulation has significantly expanded the scope, type, and content of information that may be kept confidential and has enabled information to be classified based on narrow institutional interests. Accordingly, the draft removes all provisions related to official secrets from the law in their entirety.

Government Approves Air Services Agreement www.montsame.mn

During its regular session on March 4, 2026, the Cabinet approved the “Air Services Agreement between the Governments of Mongolia and the Republic of Bulgaria.”

With the approval of the agreement, Mongolian air carriers will have opportunities to expand operations in Bulgaria and European market. The agreement will also enable airlines to connect international transport and logistics network, expand flight routes, increase passenger traffic, and promote tourism. In addition, it is expected to contribute significantly to the development of bilateral relations, trade, economic ties, and cooperation between Mongolia and Bulgaria.

The agreement includes provisions on the designation of airlines, traffic rights, granting and revocation of operating permits, compliance with laws and regulations, fair competition, social and environmental matters, recognition of licenses and certificates, aviation safety and security, aircraft accident investigation, ground handling services, user charges, customs duties, capacity and tariff regulation, transfer of revenues, and codeshare arrangements.