The United States and Mongolia held their 17th Annual Bilateral Consultations on March 17 in Ulaanbaatar, according to a joint statement released by both governments.
The meeting brought together senior officials from both countries to discuss cooperation on a range of issues, reflecting the ongoing partnership between the two nations. The dialogue was co-chaired by Michael George DeSombre, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, and L. Munkhtushig, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia. Ambassadors Richard Buangan and U. Batbayar also attended, along with representatives from various ministries and departments.
During the consultations, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to global peace, democracy, and economic prosperity. They expressed continued support for the U.S.-Mongolia Strategic Third Neighbor Partnership and pledged to deepen cooperation. The upcoming completion of the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s $462 million Mongolia Water Compact was celebrated as a significant achievement.
Officials discussed ways to promote peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region while respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity. The United States welcomed Mongolia’s increased contributions to international stability through its leadership in peacekeeping missions worldwide. Both countries highlighted efforts to encourage responsible travel through initiatives like the Travel Responsibly campaign and reiterated their dedication to upholding human rights such as freedom of expression and religious freedom.
Economic engagement was another focus area, with commitments made to expand energy cooperation—including alternative energy sources—and collaboration in digital technologies like artificial intelligence. Both sides recognized the importance of a transparent business climate for increasing trade and investment. They also agreed on strengthening people-to-people ties through educational exchanges and promoting English language learning in Mongolia.
Looking ahead, the United States and Mongolia decided to continue exchanging high-level visits and announced that the next Annual Bilateral Consultations will be held in Washington in 2027.
