In the state visit of Indian President Narendra Modi to Mongolia, the countries signed ten significant agreements updating a 70-year history of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The agreements were signed following the delegation-level discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House, with a strengthened strategic coverage of the countries in the energy, defence, cultural, and digital sectors.
The ten Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) address various issues such as cultural exchange, humanitarian aid, immigration cooperation, digital transformation, promotion of cooperatives and heritage site restoration. Notable among them are:
A cultural association between the LAHDC, Leh and the Arkhangai Province of Mongolia.
Cooperation between Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga and the Mongolian Yoga Federation.
Rebuilding of the Bogd Khan Palace by Archaeological Survey of India.
Collaboration in geology and mineral resources which is essential in provision of critical minerals in India.
India reiterated its pledge to provide Mongolia with its first oil refinery via a 1.7 billion dollars line of credit its biggest foreign development cooperation. The refinery will help Mongolia become independent in terms of energy and lessen the reliance on imports. Engaging more in uranium sourcing and rare-earth minerals is also a possibility that India is considering as an indicator of increased economic involvement.
Focusing on common Buddhist heritage, India will take a Sanskrit teacher to the Gandan Monastery of Mongolia, digitalise ancient Buddhist literature, and bring sacred relics of the followers of Buddha to Mongolia in 2026. The two leaders introduced commemorative stamps in 70 years of bilateral relations.
There was also increased defence coordination when India posted a Resident Defence Attache in Ulaanbaatar and started training new Mongolian security forces. The Prime Minister, Modi, also declared free e-visas to the citizens of Mongolia, which increased even more travel, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Both sides committed their interest in a rules-based Indo-Pacific, collaboration in the International Solar Alliance and Big Cat Alliance, and backing of the Indian request to have permanent membership in the UN Security Council in their joint statement. President Ukhnaa said that India was a reliable development partner and Prime Minister Modi termed the relationship as a spiritual and strategic synergy between two democratic countries, which share ancient civilizational ties.
