A recent article in the The Diplomat, by Bolor Lkhaajav titled “Expanding Mongolia’s Partnership With Japan and South Korea”, discusses the potential for Mongolia to strengthen its ties with Japan and South Korea through a trilateral partnership focused on critical minerals, renewable energy, and food security.

Both Japan and South Korea are key partners under Mongolia’s “third neighbor” policy, and all three nations share democratic values in a region facing rising authoritarianism. Mongolia has benefited from strong trade, investment, and diplomatic ties with Tokyo and Seoul, including South Korea’s interest in Mongolia’s rare earth minerals and Japan’s continued economic and technical support.

South Korea is expanding trade with Mongolia and negotiating an Economic Partnership Agreement, targeting energy, mining, and digital infrastructure. Japan has upgraded its strategic partnership with Mongolia and is increasingly interested in Mongolia’s copper, fluorspar, and rare earths.

Given Mongolia’s challenges in renewable energy transition and economic diversification, securing investment and infrastructure support from both Tokyo and Seoul through a trilateral framework could be a strategic step forward. By leveraging its rich natural resources, Mongolia can play a significant role in global supply chains, aligning with Japan and South Korea’s economic and security interests. For the full analysis, you can read the original article at The Diplomat https://thediplomat.com/2025/02/expanding-mongolias-partnership-with-japan-and-south-korea/.