The relationship between India and Mongolia is based on shared culture and spiritual ties. President Murmu stated that both countries are now taking their strategic partnership into a new era, which will open up new opportunities for development and cooperation.
New Delhi: The relationship between India and Mongolia has always been based on deep cultural and spiritual ties. Now, this relationship is entering a new era. Welcoming Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhna and his delegation at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday, President Droupadi Murmu said that the relations between the two countries are set to expand further with contemporary dimensions of cooperation. She emphasized that India and Mongolia are not just strategic partners but also spiritual neighbours.
Strong Relationship Rooted in Shared Cultural Heritage
President Murmu stated that the relationship between India and Mongolia is not merely political or strategic, but is founded on shared cultural heritage and democratic values. She recalled that Buddhism has forged a deep spiritual bond between the two countries, which continues to connect both societies today. Over the past 25 years, India has initiated several cultural projects in Mongolia, including initiatives like the renovation of Buddhist monasteries and the reprinting of ancient manuscripts.
Murmu expressed confidence that the new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the cultural exchange program will further strengthen relations between the two countries. This agreement will not only promote cooperation between artists and scholars but also reinforce mutual understanding and respect among people.
A New Chapter in 70 Years of Friendship
This year, India and Mongolia are celebrating the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. This visit marks a historic moment in the ties between the two nations. President Murmu stated that India is not only keen to maintain its relations with Mongolia but is also committed to deepening them further.
She stated, “India accords the highest priority to its development and capacity building partnership with Mongolia. We are committed to ensuring that ongoing projects between the two countries are completed on time and become lasting symbols of India-Mongolia friendship.”
A New Era of Strategic Partnership and Development
The strategic partnership between India and Mongolia is not merely formal but is based on concrete economic, cultural, and technological cooperation. India has invested in several important projects in Mongolia, with infrastructure, education, and energy sectors being prominent.
President Murmu said that India, as part of the Global South, values cooperation with Mongolia in multilateral forums, particularly the United Nations. She appreciated that both countries share similar ideologies at the international level and are jointly addressing global challenges.
Spiritual Neighbours: The Unique Relationship of India-Mongolia
India and Mongolia are called spiritual neighbours because the shared tradition of Buddhism between the two countries is centuries old. This spiritual connection is not only religiously significant but also enhances emotional proximity between the people of both nations.
India has played a significant role in the preservation and development of Buddhist sites located in Mongolia. Under this initiative, India has launched projects like the Mahatma Gandhi Institute for Peace in Mongolia, which provides an opportunity for the youth of both countries to connect with each other's cultures.
Steps Towards a New Era of Partnership
The relations between India and Mongolia are no longer limited to traditional sectors. Now, both countries are also enhancing cooperation in modern areas such as technology, education, defence cooperation, and renewable energy.
President Murmu stated, "This is the time when we should add contemporary dimensions to our bilateral relations and provide more opportunities and benefits to the people of both countries through new partnerships."
Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhna also expressed gratitude towards India, stating that India has always been a true friend to Mongolia. He said that the growing understanding and cooperation between the two countries will symbolize stability and progress for Asia.
Shared Values of Democracy and Peace
Both India and Mongolia are democratic nations where public participation and respect for human rights are paramount. Both countries advocate for values such as democracy, peace, and equality on global platforms. President Murmu stated that India and Mongolia are partners not only in their internal development but also in global stability. She added that India will remain a reliable partner in Mongolia's development journey.
