Press Release

UN Resident Coordinator in Mongolia presents his letter of credence

23 January 2025

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia -- The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Jaap van Hierden, presented his letter of credence to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, H.E. Battsetseg Batmunkh, on 23 January 2025.

Mr Hierden presents letter of credence
Caption: UN Resident Coordinator Jaap van Hierden presents his letter of credence to Minister for Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, Mrs Battsetseg Batmunkh

Following the UN Development System reform in 2019, Mr. van Hierden is the second independent and empowered Resident Coordinator, appointed by the UN Secretary-General to serve in Mongolia, leading the UN System in Mongolia to deliver sustainable development impacts. 

Upon receiving his credentials, Minister Battsetseg expressed her readiness and commitment to expanding the fruitful partnership between the Government of Mongolia and the United Nations and under Mr. van Hierden’s leadership. She also elaborated on the recently formed Coalition Government, emphasizing its determination to advance major development projects for the nation’s progress.

Highlighting Mongolia’s successful and diversifying foreign relations, including deepening ties with the United Nations, Minister Battsetseg remarked, 

“Our cooperation with the UN has been successful. The visit of UN Secretary-General António Guterres to Mongolia [in 2022] was very special. He witnessed Mongolia as a peaceful country advancing democracy and human rights in the region.”

RC Hierden meets Minister Battsetseg
Caption: Minister for Foreign Affairs of Mongolia, Mrs. B. Battsetseg receives UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Jaap van Hierden

In response, Mr. Jaap van Hierden thanked the Minister for her warm welcome and commended her leadership in foreign policy, particularly her strong advocacy for women’s empowerment and gender equality in Mongolia and beyond.

He also applauded the remarkable outcome of Mongolia’s 2024 Parliamentary Election, which resulted in 25.4% of seats being held by women, reflecting the nation’s commitment to gender equality. He also noted the Coalition Government’s potential to foster stronger consensus and inclusive development by bringing diverse voices together.

In his remarks, Mr. van Hierden emphasized Mongolia’s dedication and contributions to UN peacekeeping efforts and the global peace agenda. 

“I am honored to serve as the UN Resident Coordinator in Mongolia. I am committed to working with you, the people, and the Government of Mongolia to build a better future, leaving no one behind,” he assured.

Learn more about the newly appointed Resident Coordinator in Mongolia here and stay updated on his engagements by following him on X (Twitter) https://x.com/jaapvanhierden 

About UN Mongolia

The United Nations in Mongolia supports the country in achieving sustainable development and addressing critical national and global challenges. Guided by the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023-2027, the UN in Mongolia works closely with the Government of Mongolia, civil society, and other partners to advance human development and well-being, green and inclusive growth, and human-centred governance. Through its 24 resident and non-resident agencies, funds, and programs, the UN contributes to Mongolia’s efforts to build a more inclusive, prosperous, and resilient society. For more information, visit mongolia.un.org.

Soyolmaa

Soyolmaa Dolgor

RCO
Development Coordination Officer for Communications and Advocacy

UN entities involved in this initiative

RCO
United Nations Resident Coordinator Office

Goals we are supporting through this initiative