Tag Archive: Mongolia

Landlocked in East Asia between China and Russia, Mongolia spans vast steppes, rugged mountains, and the Gobi Desert. With a population of around 3. 3 million, Ulaanbaatar, the capital, is the cultural and economic center of this nomadic nation. Mongolia, having emerged from Soviet influence, transitioned to a multi-party democracy in 1990. The economy is traditionally based on nomadic herding, with minerals such as coal, copper, and gold becoming significant exports. Mongolia’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in nomadic traditions, exemplified by the enduring importance of the “ger” or traditional yurt. Despite economic growth, challenges such as rural poverty persist. In terms of foreign policy, Mongolia pursues a “Third Neighbor” policy, aiming to balance its relationships with Russia and China by cultivating ties with other nations. The country actively engages in regional and international forums, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and maintains partnerships with countries like the United States and Japan. Mongolia has sought to balance economic development with environmental conservation, given its rich biodiversity and the impacts of climate change on its nomadic way of life. As the nation navigates the complexities of geopolitics, it strives to preserve its cultural heritage while embracing modernization and global collaboration. RECIPESINTHEBOX: Features defense and foreign policy of Mongolia.