Mongolia’s State Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications B. Bolor-Erdene posted on her social media earlier this month, stating “Starlink” has informed of a setback in its service launch in Mongolia.

Elon Musk’s Starlink emphasized the need to build several power plants in Mongolia for full coverage considering the vast territory of the country. Starlink has officially announced a rollout date in Mongolia in 2023. Initiation of the internet service of Starlink will provide full coverage of Internet access in rural and remote areas, as well as tourist hubs.

Additionally, the Acting Minister of Digital Development and Communications L.Enkh-Amgalan had previously expressed welcoming signals for foreign internet service providers. The Communications Regulatory Commission of Mongolia, however, informed that they have not received an official request for a license from Starlink.

“The Starlink service is of great importance for the on-going national coverage of digital infrastructure under the Digital Nation policy of the Government of Mongolia, and provision of internet services in rural and remote areas,” emphasized the Ministry of Digital Development, and informed that they have agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding with Starlink for further cooperation.