Mongolia strengthens US ties on rare earths to counter China, Russia: Analysts
Mongolia’s Partnership with the United States on Rare Earths Could Challenge China’s Monopoly
Mongolia, a resource-rich country located between China and Russia, is solidifying its partnership with the United States on rare earth minerals. This move is seen as a significant geopolitical step that has the potential to break China’s monopoly on these valuable minerals.
Mongolian Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrain recently visited Washington, where the joint mining of rare earths, including copper, was a key topic of discussion during the U.S.-Mongolia bilateral talks. In an interview with Reuters, Mr. Oyun-Erdene emphasized that the cooperation on rare earth minerals will be further deepened under a memorandum of understanding signed in June. He referred to the United States as an “important strategic third neighbor.”
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In addition to rare earth mines, Mongolia also possesses abundant metal mines, including copper, lead-zinc, and bauxite.
Mr. Oyun-Erdene expressed concern about the potential negative impact of superpower competition on countries bordering China and Russia.
Given its border with Russia, Mongolia has already experienced the consequences of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, such as inflation of goods like explosives for mining, according to Mr. Oyun-Erdene.
The Biden administration has been actively strengthening its relationships with countries in Asia to counter China’s growing influence. The partnership between the United States and Mongolia on rare earths is seen as a symbolic move in the U.S.-China confrontation in resources, science, and technology.
Mongolia’s Rare Earths: A Potential Solution to Overdependence on China
Mongolia’s rare earths could provide an alternative supply chain for the United States, Europe, and other Western countries, reducing their reliance on China. China observer Tang Jingyuan believes that the U.S.-Mongolia cooperation is a significant achievement in breaking China’s monopoly on rare earths. He stated that it will put more pressure on the Chinese Communist Party in its strategic competition with the United States.
According to BP’s energy review, China produced 59 percent of the world’s rare earth elements in 2021, down from nearly 100 percent in 2010. The United States has been gradually reducing its dependence on Chinese rare earth imports, with the percentage dropping from 80 percent between 2014 and 2017 to 74 percent between 2018 and 2021.
Mongolia’s partnership with the United States signifies a shift in its geopolitical strategy. With its rich resources, Mongolia aims to strengthen ties with the West, gaining more strategic space and diplomatic flexibility. This move also positions Mongolia as a key player in U.S. efforts to counter China and Russia.
Expanding Business Cooperations and Strengthening Ties
During his visit to Washington, Mr. Oyun-Erdene met with Vice President Kamala Harris and agreed to sign the ”Open Skies” civil aviation agreement between the two countries. This agreement will enhance air services, promote economic and commercial partnerships, and create new opportunities for trade and tourism.
Last month, the Mongolian government approved the use of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network service to improve internet communications and security.
The warming relations between Mongolia and the United States are expected to attract Western investment in Mongolia. The mining and processing of rare earths require advanced technology and infrastructure investment. This collaboration will not only boost Mongolia’s economic status but also change its geopolitical landscape, making it a crucial player in U.S. efforts to counter China and Russia.
Rare earths are essential materials for high-tech industries and national defense. They are used in various technological products, including cell phones, missiles, wind turbines, electric vehicles, unmanned airplanes, and robots. The United States and its allies are actively seeking alternative rare earth suppliers to reduce their dependence on China.
Nathan Worcester and Reuters contributed to this report.
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