India to launch new capacity-building program for Mongolia’s border security forces: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a new capacity-building program for Mongolia’s border security forces as part of efforts to deepen cooperation between the two countries, reports 24brussels.

At a joint press conference with Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, PM Modi emphasized the increasing defense and security collaboration, stating, “India will also launch a new capacity-building program for Mongolia’s border security forces.” He articulated shared values and mutual interests that underpin the partnership, highlighting their joint commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

PM Modi described the India-Mongolia relationship as a “soulful and spiritual bond” forged through centuries of cultural ties rooted in Buddhism. “The true depth and breadth of our ties is reflected in our people-to-people connections,” he said, marking the relationship as more than diplomatic. To fortify this connection, he announced several cultural and educational initiatives.

Among the initiatives, PM Modi announced that the Holy Relics of Sariputra and Maudgalyayana would be sent from India to Mongolia next year, along with the appointment of a Sanskrit teacher to the Gandantegchinlen Monastery for an in-depth study of Buddhist texts, furthering the preservation of ancient knowledge. He also mentioned the acceleration of the digitization project of One Million Ancient Manuscripts and plans to strengthen ties between Nalanda University and Gandan Monastery.

Reflecting on the strategic partnership established a decade ago, PM Modi recalled his visit to Mongolia which elevated bilateral relations. He noted the “new depth and breadth” the partnership has gained over the years, particularly in defense and security cooperation, including new training initiatives and the appointment of a Defense Attache at the Indian embassy in Mongolia.

The meeting commenced with a symbolic tree planting, named ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam,’ by the President of India, symbolizing deep friendship and a shared commitment to environmental sustainability for future generations.

During the visit, PM Modi and President Ukhnaa jointly released a commemorative stamp marking 70 years of diplomatic relations. The event also featured the exchange of Memoranda of Understanding between the two nations, reinforcing their collaborative efforts across various sectors.

PM Modi expressed his satisfaction with the visit, stating, “I am delighted to welcome President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa and his delegation to India. The Mongolian President’s visit after a 6-year hiatus is significant in itself, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of our political ties and 10 years of strategic partnership.” He added that the joint poster stamp launched during this occasion reflects the deepening of their bilateral relations.

President Ukhnaa arrived in Delhi on Monday for a four-day state visit, received by Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol.