Mongolia has cemented its position as a key player in regional energy cooperation by signing a trilateral agreement with China and Russia on the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline. The leaders announced the deal during the seventh China-Mongolia-Russia summit in China, hosted by President Xi Jinping.
Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa emphasized Mongolia’s strategic role in enhancing regional connectivity and cross-border infrastructure. “Mongolia is committed to being a reliable partner and transit hub for energy projects that benefit the region,” he said. Furthermore, his comments highlighted Mongolia’s growing importance in Eurasian energy trade.
The Power of Siberia 2 pipeline will transport Russian natural gas through Mongolia to northeast China. It will span 962.9 kilometers and could supply up to 50 billion cubic meters of gas annually. Gazprom and CNPC signed a legally binding memorandum to start the long-delayed project. In addition, the pipeline will complement the existing Power of Siberia network and strengthen energy ties between Russia and China.
Mongolia also secured other agreements during the summit. For example, leaders extended the China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor Program until 2031. Meanwhile, the “Transit Mongolia” initiative will expand railways, energy projects, and pipelines to boost trade and connectivity. These projects aim to make Mongolia a central logistics and energy hub in Asia. They will also attract foreign investment, support sustainable economic growth, and improve local infrastructure.
Experts note that the Power of Siberia 2 could further enhance Mongolia’s strategic role in the region and revive stalled energy projects, including potential Russia-North Korea collaborations. Moreover, Mongolian Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh described the summit as “a major step in advancing Mongolia’s multipillar foreign policy and building stable, mutually beneficial relations with our neighbors.”
The project will also provide indirect benefits to Mongolia’s economy. As a result, increased transit and energy-related activity may create jobs, expand industrial development, and strengthen Mongolia’s export capabilities. Local communities along the pipeline route may also see improved infrastructure and investment in public services.
With the Power of Siberia 2, Mongolia sits at the center of a growing energy corridor. Consequently, the project enhances its strategic importance, improves infrastructure, and opens new economic opportunities. By linking energy-rich Russia with energy-demanding China, Mongolia is becoming a crucial hub for trade, logistics, and regional development.
