Belarusian and Mongolian Presidents Sign 14 Documents to Boost Bilateral Cooperation

During a historic state visit to Mongolia, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh signed 14 documents aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation between their countries. The ceremony took place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia's capital, marking the first-ever visit by a Belarusian president since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992.

The agreements, signed on June 3, 2024, cover a range of areas, including trade, economy, industry, and education. Among the key documents are an agreement on friendly relations and co-operation, a roadmap for agricultural cooperation, and agreements on the mutual recognition of driver's licenses and educational certificates.

President Lukashenko emphasized the strategic importance of these agreements, stating, 'Today we have identified strategic directions for bilateral cooperation. And not only strategic ones. Specific economic and cooperation projects were discussed in detail.' His counterpart, President Khurelsukh, highlighted the significance of the visit, calling it 'a historic visit that will strengthen our relations and cooperation'.

The visit included narrow and expanded talks between the two leaders, focusing on promising areas of cooperation. These discussions covered expanding trade and economic relations, supplying the Mongolian market with Belarusian food and industrial products, and joint work in the agro-industry sector.

Why this matters: The strengthening of bilateral cooperation between Belarus and Mongolia has significant implications for regional trade and economic development. This partnership could lead to increased investment, job creation, and economic growth in both countries, with potential ripple effects on the global economy.

Lukashenko's visit is not just symbolic but also practical, as it aims to lay the groundwork for long-term, mutually beneficial co-operation. The agreements signed are expected to pave the way for enhanced collaboration in various sectors, leveraging Belarus' expertise and Mongolia's market potential.

This state visit also saw the participation of a high-ranking Belarusian political and economic delegation, further underscoring the importance of the bilateral ties. The visit will continue until June 4, 2024, providing additional opportunities for both nations to solidify their partnership.

The historical context of the visit is significant. Diplomatic relations between Belarus and Mongolia were established on January 24, 1992. Since then, the two countries have maintained embassies in each other's capitals, promoting continuous diplomatic and economic cooperation.

In 2023, trade between Belarus and Mongolia amounted to $29.2 million, with Belarusian exports accounting for $29 million. Major exports include condensed and dried milk, oil products, plastic containers, tractors, and various food products. The trade in services also saw a surplus for Belarus, totaling $6.1 million.

The state visit progresses, both nations are on the verge of exploring further opportunities for cooperation. The agreements signed during this visit set the stage for a deeper and more comprehensive partnership, reflecting the mutual interests and strategic goals of Belarus and Mongolia.

This visit by President Lukashenko to Mongolia marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two countries, opening new avenues for co-operation and mutual development.

Key Takeaways

• Belarus and Mongolia sign 14 documents to expand bilateral cooperation.
• Agreements cover trade, economy, industry, education, and more.
• Partnership aims to increase investment, job creation, and economic growth.
• Trade between Belarus and Mongolia reached $29.2 million in 2023.
• Visit marks a historic milestone in bilateral relations between the two countries.