Introduction and Core Outcome
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh called on the President of Mongolia, Mr. Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, in New Delhi on October 14, 2025. The high-level meeting took place during President Khurelsukh’s official visit to India (October 13-16, 2025). The two leaders unequivocally reaffirmed the strong Strategic Partnership between their nations, built on shared values and mutual trust. Both leaders acknowledged the shared interest of the two democracies in the peace and prosperity of the entire region and expressed hope that the meeting would diversify the relationship into new areas of cooperation.
Defence: The Key Pillar of Strategic Cooperation
Defence was highlighted as a key and central pillar of the strategic relationship. The discussions focused on expanding the already established bilateral defence engagements, which have grown over time to include a wide range of activities.
Key areas of existing and future collaboration discussed include:
- Military-to-Military Exchanges: Strengthening interactions between the armed forces.
- Capacity Building and Training: Expanding programs to enhance the capabilities of the Mongolian Armed Forces.
- Cyber Security: Continuing cooperation in the crucial domain of cyber defence.
- Joint Mechanisms: Utilizing platforms like the Joint Working Group meeting.
- High-Level Visits and Bilateral Exercises: Maintaining momentum through regular engagements.
The visiting Mongolian President specifically thanked India for its cooperation in cyber security and for its role in the capability enhancement of the Mongolian Armed Forces.
Context: 70th Anniversary of Diplomatic Ties
President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh’s visit was particularly significant as it coincided with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Mongolia. This milestone underscores the enduring ties between the two nations, which are rooted in historical and cultural linkages, including shared Buddhist heritage.
Economic and Past Engagements
In addition to defence matters, President Khurelsukh recalled the groundwork laid for the major Oil Refinery Project by Shri Rajnath Singh during his tenure as Home Minister. The President extended an invitation to the Raksha Mantri and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to visit Mongolia for the project’s inauguration. Raksha Mantri Singh reciprocated by recalling the warmth shown by the Mongolian President during his own past visits to the East-Asian country in 2018 and 2022.
