In a pivotal meeting held in New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa engaged in discussions focusing on critical areas of bilateral interest. Key among these were the sourcing of uranium, the ambitious $1.7-billion oil refinery project, and strengthening defense and security cooperation between the two nations. Prime Minister Modi conveyed India’s assurance to be a “strong and reliable partner” in Mongolia’s developmental journey.
President Ukhnaa’s visit, the first by a Mongolian president in six years, aimed at deepening bilateral ties across various sectors. The leaders finalized ten agreements designed to boost cooperation in areas such as digital solutions, mineral resource exploration, and quick impact projects, signaling a forward momentum in the India-Mongolia strategic partnership, which was established a decade ago.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the growing defense and security cooperation, stating, “We stand as close partners…supporting a free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific. Together, we work to amplify the voice of the Global South.” He emphasized India’s perspective of Mongolia as a close neighbor, despite the geographical distance, and reiterated India’s role as a steadfast development partner.
President Ukhnaa underscored the importance of developing new transport and logistics gateways to foster trade and economic collaboration. On the resource front, India expressed keen interest in sourcing uranium, copper, gold, and zinc from Mongolia, which holds substantial uranium reserves. Discussions also centered on the Mongol Refinery, a flagship project funded by an Indian line of credit, expected to commence operations in 2028 and significantly enhance Mongolia’s energy security. Prime Minister Modi noted this project as India’s largest global development partnership.
The leaders also agreed on several initiatives to enhance defense and security collaboration. These include the appointment of a resident Indian defense attaché in Ulaanbaatar and the expansion of training programs and joint military exercises. India is set to launch a new capacity-building initiative for Mongolia’s border security forces. Both nations also finalized agreements on immigration, digital solutions, humanitarian aid, cultural exchanges, and more, including a cooperation pact between India’s Ladakh region and Mongolia’s Arkhangai province.
Further demonstrating the cultural ties, India announced it would send relics of two disciples of Lord Buddha to Mongolia in 2026. Additionally, free e-visas will be provided to Mongolian nationals. In a move to boost tourism, a Mongolian carrier plans to introduce charter flights to New Delhi and Amritsar.