House of Commons · Westminster Hall
12 July 2023 · 3 other contributors · 9,150 words
Opened by Daniel Kawczynski Con Shrewsbury and Atcham
Responding minister: Anne-Marie Trevelyan
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Daniel Kawczynski raised concerns about uk-mongolian relations in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
Kawczynski asks the Minister to support British efforts in Mongolia by facilitating technology transfer for copper refining, encouraging UK Export Finance to provide soft credit loans, and promoting infrastructure projects such as a ring road around Ulaanbaatar. He also suggests the need for a state visit from the Prime Minister or President of Mongolia.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Daniel Kawczynski is concerned about the geopolitical significance of Mongolia, highlighting its importance as a beacon of democracy in the region surrounded by oppressive regimes like Russia and China. He mentioned the country's economic potential, particularly in mining and critical minerals, but noted that only 7% of the territory has been explored. He also expressed worries about Chinese exploitation of Mongolian resources and pollution issues in Ulaanbaatar.
Trade between the UK and Mongolia has dropped by 58% over three years, to less than £0.4 billion in 2023 from more than £0.5 billion in 2020. The SNP MP welcomes opportunities for Scottish businesses in energy, education, and agriculture sectors but highlights issues with trade barriers and environmental protections.
Praised the warm relationship between the UK and Mongolia, highlighting contributions to NATO missions in Afghanistan. Emphasised opportunities for trade and cultural exchange, including best practices in traffic management to improve air quality.
He announced a change to the normal procedure for chairing the debate, taking on the role of chairman until Sir Roger Gale arrives. Mr. Gray thanked his colleague for initiating the debate and praised his efforts in developing UK-Mongolia relations. He shared personal anecdotes about his early impressions of Mongolia, emphasizing its importance as a democratic beacon surrounded by authoritarian states. Mr. Gray highlighted Mongolia's cultural heritage, including traditional dress and the Mongol Derby. He advocated for supporting Mongolia's constitutional changes and expressed appreciation for the work done by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the new British ambassador to Mongolia.
Government Response
Anne-Marie TrevelyanThe UK Government praised the longstanding relationship with Mongolia, noting 60 years of diplomatic ties. Opportunities in trade, education, and critical minerals were highlighted, emphasizing support for Mongolian businesses through export finance and educational programs. The minister also addressed concerns about Russian influence and stressed the importance of combating disinformation through English language teaching initiatives. Plans to sign a memorandum of partnership and cooperation to deepen relations across various areas, including infrastructure development and environmental protection, were announced.