In this week’s Global Compass, we have the top stories of the week gone by so that you get into this week informed and updated. Don’t miss the fashion show at the end!
In our focus story, we interview Prof. Rajan Kumar, a Eurasia expert from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), where we discuss Mongolia’s complex geopolitical landscape amidst rising tensions between Russia, China, and the West.
Mongolia’s “third neighbor” policy, developed in the 1990s, was aimed at diversifying its foreign relations, looking beyond its powerful neighbors—Russia and China.
However, recent developments, including the Russia-Ukraine war and the ICC ruling against President Putin, have put Mongolia in a challenging position. Despite calls from the West to arrest Putin during his recent visit, Mongolia rolled out the red carpet for the Russian leader.
Prof. Kumar sheds light on why Mongolia took this stance and discusses the limitations of the International Criminal Court (ICC), particularly when it comes to holding powerful leaders accountable.
The conversation also explores Mongolia’s strategic importance to Russia as it pivots toward the East following its isolation from Western economies due to sanctions.
Putin’s visit to Mongolia is crucial for accelerating the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline and strengthening regional ties through organizations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
India’s role is also examined, with Prof. Kumar highlighting India’s growing ties with Mongolia, especially in sectors like energy and rare metals.
The historic cultural connection between India and Mongolia through Buddhism, as well as India’s recent economic investments, position it as a crucial partner in the region’s evolving dynamics.
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