According to information from MiddleAsianNews, Mongolia refers to the United States as its "third neighbor." Since the establishment of a democratic regime in 1990, the country has held presidential and parliamentary elections. The U.S. actively supports Mongolia in implementing market reforms and seeks to develop cultural and economic ties.
From August 2003 to September/October 2008, Mongolia sent more than 2,000 of its military personnel to Iraq as part of 10 rotations to participate in coalition operations led by the U.S. The majority of Mongolian troops operated within the multinational "Center-South" division, led by Poland, participating in security provision, camp "Echo" protection, and patrolling the Kerbala region.
Mongolia gradually increased its participation in coalition operations after the deployment in Iraq. In 2006, an infantry unit was sent to Kosovo as part of Belgian forces under KFOR mandate, and in 2010, two companies were stationed in Kabul, where one platoon provided security at Kabul airport, and a group of instructors trained Afghan military personnel in operating Mi-17 helicopters.
In 2003, Mongolia and Alaska signed a partnership agreement under the State Partnership Program of the National Guard. Since 2004, members of the Alaska National Guard have served alongside the Armed Forces of Mongolia in Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, from 2017 to 2021, 30 female soldiers from Mongolia served in Afghanistan.
In August 2024, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Mongolia for talks with Foreign Minister Battsereg Batmunkh. The negotiations were held behind closed doors, and reportedly, the parties discussed strengthening the strategic partnership within the framework of Mongolia's foreign policy doctrine "Third Neighbor." During the visit, Blinken also met with the President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh and Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai, where international and regional issues of mutual interest were discussed.
On May 30, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held meetings with Mongolia's Foreign Minister Battsereg Batmunkh, where the prospects for expanding economic cooperation between the two countries were considered. Rubio emphasized support for 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 UN General Assembly in New York. The ministers reaffirmed their countries' mutual interests and the shared democratic values that underpin the "Third Neighbor" strategic partnership. Opportunities for deepening economic ties between the U.S. and Mongolia were also discussed.
Regarding trade, the United States exports vehicles, machinery, agricultural products, as well as optical and medical instruments to Mongolia. In turn, Mongolia supplies tungsten ore, antiques, knitted clothing, and jewelry to the U.S.
As of the 39th anniversary of relations between the countries, they are characterized by active cooperation aimed at strengthening security and developing civil society.
"Today, January 27, we celebrate 39 years of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the United States. Since our partnership began in 1987, we have strengthened democratic values, fostered human connections, and promoted peace, security, and prosperity in both Mongolia and the U.S. Congratulations on the anniversary of the enduring friendship between our countries," wrote Ambassador Richard Buangan on his page on X.
