Geographically remote and marginalized from participation in regional security dialogue, Mongolia has once again made a small foray into multilateral discussions over North Korea-related issues. 

During a recent visit to Ulaanbaatar for talks with his Mongolian counterpart Damdin Tsogtbaatar, Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono implored Mongolian assistance in resolving the issue of Japanese citizens abducted by North Korea.

The two sides also reportedly agreed on the need to maintain pressure against Pyongyang in the form of sanctions. 

Tokyo has recently sought to engage Pyongyang directly, with Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe expressing willingness to meet with Kim Jong Un. North