23 February 2011

2 minute read

The Gillard Government today signed four bilateral agreements with Mongolia to strengthen ties between the countries.

A Memorandum of Understanding on agriculture promotes development in the sector and the sharing of information and agricultural technologies, with the aim of improving livestock and crop production in Mongolia.

“We welcome a closer relationship with Mongolia. The signing of this MoU will strengthen existing trade ties,” Minister Ludwig said.

“Australia has limited agricultural trade with Mongolia. In 2009-10, Australia’s agricultural exports to Mongolia consisted of mostly wine and small volumes of processed animal and vegetable oils, and beef and lamb cuts.

“Agricultural industries are very important in both countries and we share common interests especially in the field of livestock production and the challenge of farming in a variable climate.

“This agreement supports the ongoing work by both countries to pursue investment and collaboration opportunities across primary industries,” Minister Ludwig said.

The MoU has been co-signed by the Mongolian Vice Minister for Food, Agriculture and Light Industry, Saulye Janimkhan, who is accompanying the Mongolian Prime Minister Sükhbaataryn Batbold on an official visit to Australia this week.

Agriculture, primarily livestock, is a key area of employment and income for rural communities in Mongolia. The sector provides around 34 per cent of national employment and contributes around 20 per cent to GDP.

“Activities encouraged under the MoU will benefit Mongolia through training programs and projects to assist with improving food security and productivity in the agriculture sector.”

“Recent cooperation between Australia and Mongolia on animal health protocols will also facilitate export of Australian bovine reproductive materials to Mongolia.”