Mongolian Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene wraps up historic visit to the Middle East

On December 8, 2024, L. Oyun-Erdene, the Prime Minister of Mongolia, concluded his first official visit to the Middle East, which lasted for a week. This visit marked a significant milestone as he engaged in discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation and promoting economic development with leaders from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. During the visit, Oyun-Erdene met with notable figures such as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, where they discussed opportunities in renewable energy, environmental protection, and minerals. In addition, he conferred with Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, aiming to develop strategies that foster economic growth and combat desertification challenges. His meetings included discussions with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the UAE, who shared insights about the importance of strengthening collaborations across multiple sectors, such as the digital economy and tourism. This visit is historically significant, as it included the first official engagement of a Mongolian Prime Minister with Bahrain, highlighting Mongolia’s growing appeal as a site for foreign direct investment. This diplomatic endeavor follows a remarkable economic growth rate of 7% for Mongolia in 2023, suggesting a willingness and readiness on Mongolia's part to foster international partnerships that can enhance its development agenda. In tandem with his diplomatic meetings, Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene delivered a keynote address at the 16th Session of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP 16) in Riyadh. In his speech, he emphasized the dire effects of desertification on Mongolia and the critical need for international collaboration to address environmental challenges. Mongolia is set to host the upcoming UNCCD COP 17 summit in 2026, which will allow it to showcase its commitment to combating desertification while fostering global partnerships. Additionally, during the One Water Summit in Riyadh, Oyun-Erdene held discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, expressing mutual interest in promoting sustainable practices in the mining sector while initiating significant joint projects. This visit underscores Mongolia's dedication to enhancing its economic and diplomatic relations with key 'Third Neighbors' in the Middle East, as articulated by Oyun-Erdene, as the country strives to secure investments aimed at improving living standards and confronting environmental challenges that threaten its nomadic culture. The positive outcomes from his visit reinforce the notion that nations in dynamic regions are increasingly recognizing Mongolia as a credible partner for future development.