– As tensions continue to escalate on the Korean Peninsula, the situation in Northeast Asia has worsened drastically. How does this tension reflect on Mongolia?

– In the past few months, situation in Northeast Asia has worsened drastically. Since World War II and the Korean War, countries in the region still have not signed a Peace Treaty. Five out of six countries in Northeast Asia have unresolved conflicts –  island dispute between Japan and China,  nonexistence of a Peace Treaty between Russia and Japan, territorial dispute between Japan and Russia, to name but a few. The relations between the Koreas have been tense and an atmosphere of the Cold War is prevalent between the two countries. However, Mongolia enjoys positive relations with the five countries of the region. The main priority of Mongolia’s foreign policy and diplomacy is to create a favorable external environment in line with our sustainable development goals. In this sense, it is Mongolia’s duty to expand cooperation within Northeast Asia, to be involved in and contribute to keeping peace and stability in the region.

It’s clear that regional conflicts and wars pose threat to Mongolia’s external environment, hence affecting domestic development. Therefore, President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj believes that Mongolia should take the initiative to alleviate the tensions in the region.

– How is the situation between North and South Korea at present?

– Very tense. DPRK has carried out rocket launch test and conducted its third nuclear test. North Korean army has taken further steps to prepare for a military action. The United States declared its readiness to defend its allies, South Korea and Japan, and has deployed military units. Countries have started to worry about the citizens residing in North Korea. On April 5, 2013, the North Korean authorities warned about the safety and security of foreign citizens residing in the country to their respective Embassies. At present, over 30 Mongolian citizens are in North Korea and the President of Mongolia pays close attention to their safety.

If a war emerges, the issue of Mongolian citizens residing not only in North Korea, but also in South Korea will arise, won’t it?

Of course. In the recent years, the number of Mongolians working and living in South Korea has declined to 22.000. Seoul, where many Mongolians live and study, is located a mere 50-60 km from the nation’s border. Thus, we’re paying close attention to this issue as well. However, international experts have concluded that a war will not emerge so fast. The Embassies of the European Union and the Russian Federation believe that at present, there’s no need to call back their staff. Our country is doing the same, closely observing the situation.

– Recently, the Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe visited Mongolia. Did he exchange views on the Northeast Asia situation?

-During the Prime Minister’s visit, the focus of the visit was our bilateral relations. In addition, discussions about regional security were also held. Mongolia’s role is crucial in this respect. Last year, Japan and North Korea meetings were held twice in Ulaanbaatar, under the auspices of the President of Mongolia. As a result of the meeting, it was clear that Mongolia has the potential to play a substantial role in discussions on security and peace. On the other hand, Mongolia gained experience through facilitating the meetings.

Considering the importance of regional security of Northeast Asia for Mongolia, the President of Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj proposed the “Ulaanbaatar Dialogue on the Northeast Asian Security” initiative to Prime Minister Abe during his visit to Mongolia. The Prime Minister stated that it would consider and study the proposed initiative. We will discuss further about the initiative with the countries of the region.  As a country which maintains friendly relations with the five countries of Northeast Asia, Mongolia has the potential to play a key role in the matter. On the other hand, there is also the Six-Party Talks. Since it has come to a standstill, Mongolia can provide its support and make contribution to promoting regional peace and security talks.

In other words, Mongolia can be the country to settle peace in Northeast Asia?

As I mentioned before, Mongolia maintains friendly relations with the other five countries in Northeast Asia. Therefore, President Elbegdorj has made the abovementioned initiative as a way of actively participating in promoting and contributing to regional peace and security.