On the National Pride Day, the 862nd Anniversary of the Birth of Great Emperor Chinggis Khaan, President of Mongolia Khurelsukh Ukhnaa awarded the State Supreme Decoration of Mongolia, Order of Chinggis Khaan, to the 8th UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon in recognition of Ban Ki-Moon’s exceptional contributions to global peace, sustainable development, and the promotion of human rights and environmental protection.
Ban Ki-Moon was born on June 13, 1944, in the Republic of Korea. He pursued a career in public service after being inspired by the role of the United Nations in helping his country recover from war. He earned a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Seoul National University in 1970 and a master’s degree in public administration from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University in 1985. Before becoming Secretary-General, Ban held various prominent positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of South Korea. His extensive diplomatic career spanned over 37 years, with postings in New Delhi, Washington D.C., and Vienna, and key roles such as Foreign Policy Adviser and Chief National Security Adviser to the President of South Korea.
Ban Ki-Moon’s legacy as Secretary-General includes championing the Paris Agreement on climate change, leading efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, and advocating for gender equality through the establishment of UN Women. His leadership has inspired global unity, environmental stewardship, and social progress—values that resonate deeply with Mongolia’s cultural heritage and its spirit of resilience.
President Khurelsukh highlighted Ban Ki-Moon’s efforts in fostering cooperation between Mongolia and the United Nations, particularly in combating climate change and addressing desertification, as well as his support for multilateral diplomacy. Ban Ki-Moon’s instrumental role in launching the International Think Tank for Landlocked Developing Countries, headquartered in Mongolia, was also acknowledged as a significant contribution to addressing the challenges faced by landlocked nations.
In his acceptance speech, Ban Ki-Moon expressed his deep gratitude for receiving Order of Chinggis Khaan. Mr. Ban Ki-Moon emphasized the enduring significance of Chinggis Khaan’s legacy, which transcends Mongolia’s borders and symbolizes unity, vision, and determination. Ban called upon the international community to embrace cooperation, respect diversity, and work collectively towards a better future. He also underlined the importance of environmental protection, stating that humanity must honor and protect nature to ensure its survival.
Ban Ki-Moon is the second foreign laureate of the State Supreme Decoration of Mongolia, Order of Chinggis Khaan, following American scholar Jack Weatherford. This recognition is a testament to Mr. Ban Ki-Moon’s tireless efforts to advance peace, justice, and sustainability worldwide, and his commitment to ensuring that no nation is left behind in the pursuit of a prosperous and harmonious future.
The Order of Chinggis Khaan celebrates individuals whose achievements embody the values of leadership, courage, and dedication. By honoring Ban Ki-Moon, Mongolia has acknowledged his impactful journey in promoting global peace and sustainability, a contribution that aligns with the vision of Chinggis Khaan to create a unified and prosperous world. This award is not just an acknowledgment of Ban Ki-Moon’s past contributions but also an inspiration for continued efforts to build a peaceful and sustainable world for future generations.
