Recently, the 11th meeting of the India-Mongolia Joint Working Group took place in India. Both nations acknowledged their growing ties and expressed satisfaction at the ongoing defense cooperation despite the limitations imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Historical Relations between India and Mongolia
India and Mongolia have a rich history of interactions largely due to Buddhism. In fact, Mongolia regards India as its “third” neighbour in line with the U.S., Japan, and Germany and furthermore sees it as a “spiritual neighbour”.
Diplomatic Ties between India and Mongolia
Diplomatic relations between India and Mongolia were established in 1955, making India the first country outside the Soviet bloc to form such relations with Mongolia. The Indian Resident Mission opened in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia in 1971 – thus beginning an enduring relationship that was further upgraded to a “strategic partnership” in 2015.
India and Mongolia’s International Cooperation
Mongolia has repeatedly declared its support for India’s bid for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). India, in turn, played a significant role in securing Mongolia’s membership to important international forums like the United Nations (UN), even in the face of strong opposition from China and Taiwan. In addition, India helped facilitate Mongolia’s inclusion in the Non-Aligned Movement.
Economic Cooperation: An Overview
In 2022, an oil refinery built by India at a cost exceeding USD 1 billion opened in southern Mongolia. This refinery will reportedly satisfy 75% of Mongolia’s oil refining needs. Despite a slight dip, the bilateral trade between the two countries remained fairly stable, with figures standing at USD 35.3 million in 2020.
The Cultural Linkages between India and Mongolia
The India-Mongolian Agreement on Cultural Cooperation, signed in 1961, has been the bedrock of the Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) between these two countries. This agreement encourages cooperation in education, expert exchanges, conference participation, etc.
Defence Ties: An Introduction
The defense cooperation between India and Mongolia is underscored by joint defense exercises like Nomadic Elephant and Khaan Quest – an annual week-long joint training exercise hosted by Mongolia.
Cooperation over Environmental Issues
Both countries are signatories to the Bishkek Declaration, aiming to conserve the snow leopard – a species native to Mongolia.
Key Facts about Mongolia
Mongolia, the world’s second-largest landlocked country, is located in East and Central Asia. It shares borders with Russia in the north and China in the south, east, and west. Despite rapid modernization, Mongolia still safeguards its traditional identity – one reflected in its nomadic herding practices and significant historical landmarks.
The Way Forward for India-Mongolia Relations
There is immense potential to expand India-Mongolia relations by building on historical and cultural ties, and enhancing political, economic, and cultural cooperation. Moreover, considering Mongolia’s strategic location and rapid modernization, India could look towards this nation as a hub for economic development, contributing to further strengthening the relationship in the coming years.