Source: News on Air
Context:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa on Tuesday, reaffirming India’s commitment to deepening its strategic and developmental partnership with the mineral-rich nation. The talks emphasized cooperation in defence, security, critical minerals, and cultural exchange, with a strong focus on amplifying the voice of the Global South and promoting a rules-based Indo-Pacific.
Key Highlights:
MoUs Signed (10 total):
- Areas of cooperation: Humanitarian aid, restoration of heritage sites, immigration, geology & mineral resources, promotion of cooperatives, and digital solutions.
- Symbolic milestone: Joint release of commemorative stamps marking 70 years of India-Mongolia relations.
Key Announcements by PM Modi:
- Free e-visas for Mongolian citizens.
- Sponsorship of annual visits of young Mongolian cultural ambassadors to India.
- Strengthening historic Buddhist ties: linking Nalanda University with Gandan Monastery; continued promotion of Buddhist heritage.
- Emphasis on shared values and rules-based, free, inclusive Indo-Pacific.
- India remains a reliable partner in Mongolia’s development; $1.7 billion line of credit for Oil Refinery Project to boost energy security.
