Among the key areas of UK investment in Mongolia are projects in education, the development of Ulaanbaatar's metro, and cooperation in the field of mineral resources.
MiddleAsianNews presents an interview given by UK Minister Sima Malhotra to the GOGO agency.
Sima Malhotra, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Indo-Pacific at the UK Foreign Office, visited Mongolia from March 23 to 25. On the last day of her visit, she met with students studying English as part of a teacher training project.
— This is your first visit to Mongolia. How do you assess your trip and what moments stood out the most?
— Yes, this is my first trip to Mongolia, and it left unforgettable impressions. I was pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome I received.
This event was also significant for me as I was able to co-chair the annual political dialogue with Deputy Foreign Minister Amartuvshin Gombosuren and meet with the Prime Minister of the country. We discussed the future of relations between the UK and Mongolia, which have a history of over 60 years, starting from the recognition of Mongolia and the establishment of diplomatic relations.
This partnership reflects our shared democratic values and the importance of interaction between people. Cooperation among governments, parliamentarians, the media, and civil society is crucial for creating a safe and prosperous future for our countries.
I am very grateful to everyone I had the opportunity to speak with. It was a busy and important visit during which we discussed current challenges and ways to work together to achieve sustainable progress and prosperity. Thank you very much.
— As a result of the 16th roundtable meeting between Mongolia and the UK, an agreement was reached on further cooperation, including on the Ulaanbaatar metro project. Can you tell us more about this?
— I was pleased to co-chair the annual political dialogue during my visit and to see the results achieved. The Ulaanbaatar metro project is a forward-looking initiative that will improve life in the city and be an important step for Mongolia.
It is wonderful that British specialists have provided consultations and support in implementing Mongolia's development plans. UK Export Finance also offers a unique opportunity for future support of this project. Such long-term initiatives aimed at reducing traffic congestion, decreasing pollution, and developing public transport have significant economic benefits and can truly change the situation. We have seen positive results from such investments in our country and continue to prioritize them.
I am also pleased to note our discussions on expanding cooperation in critically important mineral resources, where Mongolia has significant potential. During my visit, I visited Oyu Tolgoi, where I learned about existing partnerships and the emphasis on sustainable development and responsible resource extraction, which is important for the future.
In the context of escalating global conflicts and threats to the rules-based international order, the importance of economic security and supply chain diversification is becoming more evident. Deepening cooperation between the UK, which has experience in the mining industry, and Mongolia has significant potential, especially in the context of the UK's strategy on critical mineral resources and ensuring supply chain resilience.
Personally, I witnessed this potential during the Critical Minerals Conference in Washington, where I met with the Mongolian Foreign Minister and discussed recent exchanges between our ministries.
I also look forward to our cooperation in new technologies and renewable energy as we strive for a greener future. British expertise and university research can significantly contribute to this, as well as the continuation of cooperation in education, including through partnerships with UNICEF and the Ministry of Education.
Investments in education are particularly important. While current leaders shape ongoing discussions, it is education, especially the study of English, that helps us nurture the next generation. I was delighted to meet with Chevening scholars during my visit — over 200 individuals have received scholarships since 1993, with another 20 this year.
These efforts help shape future leaders who will contribute to the development of the economy and society, as well as strengthen ties between people. I am very proud of this.
— What changes in policy or legislation could facilitate attracting more British investment to Mongolia?
— I see significant potential for expanding cooperation with British companies, as well as opportunities for mutual learning and partnership.
It is essential to create a trustworthy business environment where disputes can be resolved effectively, contracts and terms are clear and transparent, and decision-making processes are timely.
In the context of fierce global competition, it is crucial to instill confidence in investors. Whether it is renewable energy, the mining of critical resources, infrastructure projects such as the Ulaanbaatar metro, or sectors like technology and education, businesses must be guaranteed stability, transparency, and reliable regulation.
This includes a high level of professional competence, a reliable legal and regulatory framework, and conditions that foster long-term partnerships. These factors are critical to ensuring the growth and prosperity of investments.
— The agreement on the second phase of the "Overcoming Language Barriers" project was signed in December 2025. What are the current achievements and is a third phase planned?
— It is extremely important for us to continue developing the results achieved. I am proud of the successes in teaching English thanks to our cooperation. More than 147,000 children across Mongolia have gained access to quality education in English.
This impact is felt not only in cities but also in rural areas. Young people talk about how learning the language has opened new opportunities for them and given them access to a broader world.
I also express my gratitude to everyone who supports the development of language teaching, especially teachers. About 750 teachers have undergone training, and many of them noted how it has improved their language skills and teaching abilities. This creates long-term potential and develops leadership qualities in Mongolia's education system, as well as brings satisfaction from supporting youth.
— You mentioned the importance of supporting civil society. How do you assess its current state and development prospects?
— I am proud of what we are doing to support civil society. This is important as our relationship with Mongolia is based on shared democratic values. To preserve and strengthen democracies in both countries, it is especially important that civil space remains active and develops.
During my visit, I supported the "Youth for Change" program and saw its results. We are working with over 25 youth organizations, helping young people develop confidence, leadership skills, and the ability to initiate change in Mongolia.
Investing in civil society means investing in leadership and opportunities for dialogue between civil society and policymakers at all levels. This supports a new generation of public and political leaders, ensuring decision-making based on real experience.
I am grateful for the strong partnership we have developed, including cooperation with local and national government institutions in Mongolia. It is important that we invest in the next generation of leaders and strengthen our cooperation.
Thank you for your time.
