Filipino- American Richard Buangan has taken his oath as the US ambassador to Mongolia, the US State Department has confirmed.

“I was honored to swear in Richard Buangan as @USAmbMongolia,” tweeted US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Tuesday. “Distinguishing himself through hard work, skilled diplomacy, and positive, collegial relationships, Ambassador Buangan will reinforce our pride as Mongolia’s Third Neighbor.”

US President Joe Biden appointed Buangan as ambassador to Mongolia last April.

Born to a Filipino family in San Diego, California, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics from St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas, and speaks four languages fluently.