Ulan Bator, 9 August 2022 (TDI): UN Chief Antonio Guterres paid an official visit to Mongolia at the invitation of the country’s President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa.
The official lauded Mongolia’s commitment to peace and security in the world. In this regard, he extended appreciation towards Mongolian peacekeepers and the country’s commitment to nuclear peace.
My gratitude to President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa & the people of Mongolia for their generous hospitality.
Mongolia has shown its commitment to non-proliferation & disarmament by declaring itself a nuclear-weapon-free zone.
I hope many other countries will follow this example. pic.twitter.com/wmdI4Cgfag
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) August 9, 2022
Highlights from the visit
The official was received by the Foreign Minister of Mongolia Battsetseg Batmunkh. The two also held a high-level meeting later. The UN Chief also took part in a tree planting ceremony in the capital city of Ulan Bator.
This was subsequently aimed at recognizing Mongolia’s “One Billion Trees” initiative which aims to plant 1 billion trees by 2030 as part of Mongolia’s efforts to reduce the impact of climate change.
I applaud Mongolia’s ambition to plant one billion trees by 2030.
If we work hard to restore ecosystems, we will heal nature and ourselves. pic.twitter.com/gx3OgTe94g
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) August 9, 2022
Mongolia’s role in peace and security
The UN Chief declared Mongolia a symbol of peace. In this regard, the official highly praised Mongolia’s contribution to efforts in strengthening international peace and security.
Particularly ensuring nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, as well as stability on the Korean Peninsula.
The official also appreciated Mongolia on its commitment to non-proliferation and disarmament by declaring itself a nuclear-weapons-free zone.
The visit subsequently coincided with the 30th anniversary of Mongolia’s declaration of its territory a nuclear-weapon-free zone.
Moreover, the UN Chief also lauded Mongolian peacekeepers on the 20th anniversary of their first deployment to UN peacekeeping operations.
I pay tribute to Mongolia’s peacekeepers and their commitment to the protection of civilians worldwide.
Mongolia has the largest per capita contribution to peacekeeping operations. pic.twitter.com/LLZNSK0lvU
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) August 9, 2022
Finally, he appreciated Mongolia for its contribution to the activities of the United Nations. The official also affirmed the UN’s support to the country in the areas of peace, human rights, and sustainable development.
