According to information provided by MiddleAsianNews, Mongolia considers the United States as its "third neighbor." Since the establishment of a democratic regime in 1990, the country has regularly held elections at both presidential and parliamentary levels. The U.S. actively supports Mongolia in its pursuit of market reforms, as well as in expanding cultural and economic relations.
From August 2003 to September/October 2008, Mongolia sent over 2,000 military personnel to Iraq as part of 10 rotations, supporting U.S.-led coalition operations. Primarily operating within the multinational division "Center-South," led by Poland, Mongolian troops were engaged in security provision, camp "Echo" protection, and patrolling the Kerbala area.
With the increase of deployments in Iraq, Mongolia gradually enhanced its participation in coalition missions. In 2006, infantry units were stationed in Kosovo alongside Belgian troops under the KFOR mandate. In 2010, two companies were deployed to Kabul, where one provided security for a military base at Kabul Airport, while another group of instructors trained Afghan soldiers in operating the Russian Mi-17 helicopter. That same year, Mongolia was recognized by NATO as a partner country.
In 2003, Mongolia and Alaska officially signed a partnership agreement under the State Partnership Program of the National Guard. Since 2004, members of the Alaska National Guard have become part of the Armed Forces of Mongolia and served together in Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, from 2017 to 2021, 30 female soldiers from Mongolia participated in service in Afghanistan.
In August 2024, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Mongolia for meetings with Foreign Minister Battsereg Batmunkh. The discussions were held in a closed format. According to the Mongolian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issues related to the expansion and strengthening of strategic partnership within the framework of the "Third Neighbor" foreign policy concept were discussed. On the same day, Blinken met with Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhna and Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai, where they discussed international and regional issues of mutual interest.
On May 30, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a meeting with Mongolian Foreign Minister Battsereg Batmunkh. During this meeting, ways to increase economic cooperation between the two countries were discussed. Rubio emphasized the importance of supporting Mongolia's democratic values and its independent foreign policy.
On September 25, 2025, Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau met with Battsereg Batmunkh during the United Nations General Assembly held in New York. Both ministers reaffirmed the common interests and democratic values that underpin the "Third Neighbor" strategic partnership between the U.S. and Mongolia, and explored opportunities for expanding economic ties.
U.S. exports to Mongolia include vehicles, machinery, agricultural products, as well as optical and medical instruments. In turn, Mongolia exports tungsten ore, antiques, knitted clothing, jewelry, and agricultural goods to the U.S.
On the 39th year of relations between the countries, a high level of interaction is noted, aimed at strengthening security and developing civil society.
"Today, January 27, we celebrate 39 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Mongolia. Since 1987, our partnership has contributed to strengthening democratic values, developing ties between our peoples, and promoting peace, security, and prosperity for both countries. Happy anniversary to the enduring friendship between the United States and Mongolia," noted Ambassador Richard Buangan on his X page.
