Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on October 14 extended a warm welcome to Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa and his delegation on their arrival in India.
The visit comes as India and Mongolia celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations and 10 years of strategic partnership. To mark this special occasion, the two countries released a joint postage stamp symbolising India-Mongolia’s shared heritage, diversity, and deep civilizational ties. During the meeting, both sides exchanged MoUs for cooperation in Humanitarian aid, restoration of heritage sites in Mongolia, cooperation in immigration, geology and mineral resources, promotion of Cooperatives, and sharing of digital solutions.
In his address on the occasion, PM Modi said, “It is a great pleasure for me to welcome President Khurelsukh Ukhna. Our meeting began with the planting of a tree under the ‘One Tree for Mother’ campaign. The President has planted a banyan tree in the name of his late mother, which will remain a symbol of our friendship and our shared commitment to the environment for generations to come.”
PM Modi further noted that during his visit to Mongolia 10 years ago, the two countries elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership. He said, “Over the past decade, every aspect of our partnership has gained new depth and breadth. Defence and security cooperation has steadily strengthened.”
The Prime Minister also said that the relationship between India and Mongolia is not limited to diplomatic relations but is based on spiritual and emotional bonds. He said, “The true depth of our relations is reflected in our people-topeople ties. For centuries, both countries have been bound by the thread of Buddhism. This is why we are called ‘spiritual siblings’. I am happy to inform that next year, the sacred relics of two great disciples of Lord Buddha, Sariputra and Maudgalyayana, will be sent from India to Mongolia. This step will further deepen the intellectual and religious ties between the two countries.” In addition, India will also send a Sanskrit teacher to Gandan Monastery to promote the study of Buddhist texts and the ancient Indian knowledge tradition. The Prime Minister said, “Our relationship transcends political boundaries. Even though India and Mongolia do not share borders, India has always considered Mongolia as its neighbour.”
