China and Mongolia to Enhance Coal Transportation Cooperation

Mongolian News Agency, Ulaanbaatar, September 22 — Mongolia and China will further strengthen cooperation in railway infrastructure development and coal transportation, continuing to explore opportunities to expand transport capacity and improve operational efficiency.

During a visit to China, Mongolian Minister of Transportation B. Dugarjav led a delegation in talks with a team from China National Energy Investment Corporation, headed by Deputy General Manager Fu Zhenbang. The discussions covered the cross-border railway project between Gashuun Sukhai and Ganqimaodu border checkpoints, coal transportation collaboration, and the modernization of railway rolling stock. Both sides also explored broader cooperation in rail infrastructure, increased cross-border rail connectivity, accelerated construction timelines, and enhanced rail transport capacity.

The parties emphasized the importance of completing the Gashuun Sukhai–Ganqimaodu cross-border railway project according to schedule, and preparing for its operation and initial transport activities. They noted that upon commissioning, the railway would enable further technical and economic studies and planning to upgrade the transport and loading/unloading capabilities of the Tavan Tolgoi mine to Tavan Tolgoi station rail line and facilities.

In addition, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing coal transportation cooperation and studying ways to increase coal throughput and transport capacity at border crossings. To meet future growing demand, they discussed updating railway locomotives and rolling stock, procurement of necessary equipment from China, as well as expanding financing mechanisms, export credit insurance, and other forms of collaboration.

The Mongolian side underscored the need to implement phased development of additional cross-border railway projects, including Sibburen–Cek, Bichigtu–Jünnahadaburi, and Hangi–Mandula, alongside the ongoing Gashuun Sukhai–Ganqimaodu project. Furthermore, to ensure the sustained and safe operation of rail services, Mongolia proposed exploring joint initiatives to improve living conditions for railway personnel and enhance social infrastructure.

Discussions held on increasing air connectivity and potential new flight routes between Mongolia and China

On September 21, Minister B. Dugarjav met with Liang Nan, Vice Administrator of China’s Civil Aviation Administration. The two sides exchanged views on expanding civil aviation cooperation between the two countries.

During the meeting, they discussed increasing flight frequencies between Mongolia and China, optimizing flight schedules based on passenger demand, and expanding overflight routes through Mongolian airspace. They also considered the feasibility of establishing new air corridors.

Additionally, both sides addressed cooperation related to acquiring aircraft from Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), covering areas such as financing, airworthiness certification, regulatory coordination, personnel training, human resource development, and after-sales service.

In this context, both parties shared that under a memorandum of understanding signed between Mongolia’s National Center for Civil Aviation (a state-owned limited liability company) and AVIC International, collaborative efforts are underway. A plan has been established to send 40 Mongolian air traffic controllers and 10 engineers to China for specialized training.

The Mongolian side expressed hope for continued collaboration with Chinese counterparts, enabling regular and long-term training programs for Mongolian civil aviation professionals to enhance their skills and qualifications.

Vice Administrator Liang Nan stated that cooperation should be expanded in line with characteristics and travel interests of Chinese tourists, along with emerging route directions. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the personal safety of Chinese visitors traveling to Mongolia.

Moreover, the two sides exchanged views on the operations and staffing of Air China’s representative office in Mongolia. The Chinese side requested that Mongolia pay attention to the matter and provide support in relevant regulatory and coordination efforts.

Both sides reached consensus on further strengthening synergies among air transport, logistics, and tourism sectors, enhancing information exchange and sharing, and broadening cooperation across these domains.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1877034435589120/

Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.