Outgoing Chinese Ambassador Shen Minjuan reflected on strengthening China-Mongolia ties during her nearly three-year tenure. She highlighted major infrastructure projects, growing trade figures and frequent high-level exchanges between both governments. Her reflections capture a relationship advancing steadily across politics, economy and cultural cooperation.
During her posting, Shen accompanied Mongolian leaders on several diplomatic trips, including visits tied to Belt and Road forums. Meanwhile, exchanges between government officials and party leaders occurred frequently across various levels throughout her tenure. These interactions, she explained, reinforced the strength of China-Mongolia ties consistently.
Significant infrastructure projects also advanced during this period, including the Gantsmod-Gashuunsuhait cross-border railway construction. Additionally, the long-planned Erdeneburen hydropower plant finally broke ground after decades of anticipation. Furthermore, completed projects in Ulaanbaatar included housing developments and a new wastewater treatment facility.
Bilateral trade growth stood out prominently, nearly reaching fifty percent growth during the first half of this year. Consequently, officials expect trade to surpass twenty billion dollars while coal exports approach one hundred million tons. These milestones, Shen noted, reflect deepening China-Mongolia ties across economic sectors.
Beyond economics, cooperation extended into public health and humanitarian assistance efforts as well. When foot-and-mouth disease emerged recently, China supplied 1.6 million vaccine doses within a week. Similarly, during a severe dzud years earlier, Chinese relief agencies provided urgent assistance to affected herders.
Shen also emphasized cultural symbolism, describing airag, a traditional fermented drink, as representing hospitality and friendship. She noted that Mongol proverbs about neighborly bonds closely mirror similar sayings found within Chinese culture.
Looking ahead, Shen expressed confidence that emerging sectors like artificial intelligence would create fresh cooperation opportunities. She encouraged her successor to travel widely and engage more deeply with local communities. Ultimately, she framed her tenure as one chapter within a continuously strengthening partnership.
