Mongolian Member of Parliament Batshugar Enkhbayar expressed appreciation for India for organising the ceremony where the four Holy Relics of Lord Buddha were publically exhibited at Ganden Tegchenling Monastery in Ulaanbaatar.

"I would like to express my deep appreciation for the Indian government that allowed this event to happen", Batshugar Enkhbayar.

He further said that this is the last time, India is sending the Holy Relics outside the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/buddha-connect-kapilvastu-relics-from-india-taken-to-mongolia-for-exposition-487891">Buddha connect: Kapilvastu relics from India taken to Mongolia for exposition</a>

Referring to the public exposition of the four Holy Relics of Lord Buddha ceremony, Mangolian MP said, "I believe this ceremony is exceptionally significant for Magnolia, for the Mongolian culture and Buddhist community as a whole".

He further said that "this is the second time that the Holy Relic came to Mongolia. Earlier, it came in 1994".

Enkhbayar said that he believed that India played a significant role after the first communism in Mongolia.

He also called India a "cultural and economic friend" and said that India has helped the country with financial assistance.

Earlier, on Monday, Buddhist devotees and the people in the Mongolian capital gave a rousing welcome to an Indian delegation led by Union Minister Rijiju as they arrived here with the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi visits Buddhism founder's birthplace in Nepal, wishes world

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The four Holy Relics known as the "Kapilvastu Relics" were brought in two special bulletproof caskets on board an Indian Air Force aircraft.

The Holy Relics will be displayed at the Batsagaan Temple in Gandan Tegchenling Monastery complex in Ulaanbaatar for 11 days.

They were under the care of the National Museum in Delhi and during the 11-day visit to Mongolia the relics will be accorded the status of a "state guest".

The Holy Relics of Lord Buddha which are returning to Mongolia after 29 years are considered one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism.

In 2015, the Holy Relics were placed under the "AA"&nbsp;category of Antiquities and Art Treasures which should not be ordinarily taken out of the country for exhibition, considering their delicate nature.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/people-in-mongolia-wait-eagerly-to-pay-obeisance-to-lord-buddhas-relics-from-india-487806">People in Mongolia wait eagerly to pay homage to Lord Buddha's relics from India</a>

However, upon the request of the Mongolian government, the government made a special exception and permitted the exposition of the Holy Relics in Mongolia.

The display of sacred "Kapilavastu relics"&nbsp;at Ganden Tegchenling Monastery is called a historic milestone in India-Mongolia relations and will further boost cultural and spiritual relations between the two countries.

Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first-ever Prime Minister of India to visit Mongolia, and taking the relics to Mongolia is an extension of the vision of the PM to revive the relations with the countries with whom India had cultural and spiritual ties centuries ago.&nbsp;

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Mongolian Member of Parliament Batshugar Enkhbayar expressed appreciation for India for organising the ceremony where the four Holy Relics of Lord Buddha were publically exhibited at Ganden Tegchenling Monastery in Ulaanbaatar.

Mongolian Member of Parliament Batshugar Enkhbayar expressed appreciation for India for organising the ceremony where the four Holy Relics of Lord Buddha were publically exhibited at Ganden Tegchenling Monastery in Ulaanbaatar. "I would like to express my deep appreciation for the Indian government that allowed this event to happen", Batshugar Enkhbayar. He further said that this is the last time, India is sending the Holy Relics outside the country. Also read | Buddha connect: Kapilvastu relics from India taken to Mongolia for exposition Referring to the public exposition of the four Holy Relics of Lord Buddha ceremony, Mangolian MP said, "I believe this ceremony is exceptionally significant for Magnolia, for the Mongolian culture and Buddhist community as a whole". He further said that "this is the second time that the Holy Relic came to Mongolia. Earlier, it came in 1994". Enkhbayar said that he believed that India played a significant role after the first communism in Mongolia. He also called India a "cultural and economic friend" and said that India has helped the country with financial assistance. Earlier, on Monday, Buddhist devotees and the people in the Mongolian capital gave a rousing welcome to an Indian delegation led by Union Minister Rijiju as they arrived here with the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha. Watch | Indian PM Modi visits Buddhism founder's birthplace in Nepal, wishes world The four Holy Relics known as the "Kapilvastu Relics" were brought in two special bulletproof caskets on board an Indian Air Force aircraft. The Holy Relics will be displayed at the Batsagaan Temple in Gandan Tegchenling Monastery complex in Ulaanbaatar for 11 days. They were under the care of the National Museum in Delhi and during the 11-day visit to Mongolia the relics will be accorded the status of a "state guest". The Holy Relics of Lord Buddha which are returning to Mongolia after 29 years are considered one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism. In 2015, the Holy Relics were placed under the "AA" category of Antiquities and Art Treasures which should not be ordinarily taken out of the country for exhibition, considering their delicate nature. Also read | People in Mongolia wait eagerly to pay homage to Lord Buddha's relics from India However, upon the request of the Mongolian government, the government made a special exception and permitted the exposition of the Holy Relics in Mongolia. The display of sacred "Kapilavastu relics" at Ganden Tegchenling Monastery is called a historic milestone in India-Mongolia relations and will further boost cultural and spiritual relations between the two countries. Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first-ever Prime Minister of India to visit Mongolia, and taking the relics to Mongolia is an extension of the vision of the PM to revive the relations with the countries with whom India had cultural and spiritual ties centuries ago. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mongolian MP lauds India for exhibiting four Holy Relics of Buddha in Ulaanbaatar

Devotees at the Batsagaan temple in Gandan Monastery of Ulaanbataar are eagerly awaiting to get a glimpse of Lord Buddha's holy relics that arrived here from India on Monday.

The sacred "Kapilvastu relics"&nbsp;were brought in two special bulletproof caskets on board an Indian Air Force aircraft and will be displayed for 11 days at the Ganden Tegchenling Monastery.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dalai-lama-buddhist-spiritual-leaders-from-12-countries-participate-in-indian-govt-co-hosted-event-479318">Dalai Lama, Buddhist spiritual leaders from 12 countries participate in Indian govt co-hosted event</a>

The relics of Lord Buddha which are returning to Mongolia after 29 years are considered as one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju who led an Indian delegation accompanying the relics, said it is a historic milestone in the India-Mongolia relations aimed at further boosting cultural and spiritual relations between the two countries.

India's relations with Mongolia got a boost after the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Mongolia in 2015.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi visits Buddhism founder's birthplace in Nepal, wishes world

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He had visited the Ganden Monastery, where the relics will now be displayed for the common people.

"This will give a message of peace to the world. The friendship between India and Mongolia is very old. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Mongolia in 2015, the bond between both countries have become very strong", Rijiju earlier said.

Recalling the visit of the Prime Minister to Mongolia in 2015, the Union Minister added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first-ever Prime Minister of India to visit Mongolia, and taking the relics to Mongolia is an extension of the vision of the PM to revive the relations with the countries with whom India had cultural and spiritual ties since centuries ago.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mongolias-east-west-balancing-act-buffeted-by-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-458389">Mongolia's East-West balancing act buffeted by Russian invasion of Ukraine</a>

The relics are part of the collection on display at the National Museum in New Delhi.

They will be displayed in Mongolia in an 11-day exposition as part of celebrations of the Mongolian Buddh Purnima falling on June 14.

While Rijiju will return to India on June 16 after attending the Buddha Purnima celebrations on June 14, a team of officials from the National Museum will remain in Mongolia through the 11-day period during which the relics will be on display and will bring them back to India.&nbsp;

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Devotees at the Batsagaan temple in Gandan Monastery of Ulaanbataar are eagerly awaiting to get a glimpse of Lord Buddha's holy relics that arrived here from India on Monday.

Devotees at the Batsagaan temple in Gandan Monastery of Ulaanbataar are eagerly awaiting to get a glimpse of Lord Buddha's holy relics that arrived here from India on Monday. The sacred "Kapilvastu relics" were brought in two special bulletproof caskets on board an Indian Air Force aircraft and will be displayed for 11 days at the Ganden Tegchenling Monastery. Also read | Dalai Lama, Buddhist spiritual leaders from 12 countries participate in Indian govt co-hosted event The relics of Lord Buddha which are returning to Mongolia after 29 years are considered as one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju who led an Indian delegation accompanying the relics, said it is a historic milestone in the India-Mongolia relations aimed at further boosting cultural and spiritual relations between the two countries. India's relations with Mongolia got a boost after the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Mongolia in 2015. Watch | Indian PM Modi visits Buddhism founder's birthplace in Nepal, wishes world He had visited the Ganden Monastery, where the relics will now be displayed for the common people. "This will give a message of peace to the world. The friendship between India and Mongolia is very old. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Mongolia in 2015, the bond between both countries have become very strong", Rijiju earlier said. Recalling the visit of the Prime Minister to Mongolia in 2015, the Union Minister added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first-ever Prime Minister of India to visit Mongolia, and taking the relics to Mongolia is an extension of the vision of the PM to revive the relations with the countries with whom India had cultural and spiritual ties since centuries ago. Also read | Mongolia's East-West balancing act buffeted by Russian invasion of Ukraine The relics are part of the collection on display at the National Museum in New Delhi. They will be displayed in Mongolia in an 11-day exposition as part of celebrations of the Mongolian Buddh Purnima falling on June 14. While Rijiju will return to India on June 16 after attending the Buddha Purnima celebrations on June 14, a team of officials from the National Museum will remain in Mongolia through the 11-day period during which the relics will be on display and will bring them back to India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

People in Mongolia wait eagerly to pay homage to Lord Buddha's relics from India

Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the imposition of tough sanctions on Moscow has put landlocked Mongolia in a tight spot economically and diplomatically, and experts warn that its delicate balancing act between East and West could be upset.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, a small group of protesters gathered on Ulaanbaatar's Sukhbaatar Square to call for an end to hostilities in Ukraine, only to be confronted by residents worried about antagonising Russia.

The stand-off reflected the fault lines in a country that underwent a democratic transition in 1990 following decades of Soviet hegemony and now worries about the growing regional dominance of China.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/putin-is-at-war-with-children-russian-police-detain-5-children-for-laying-flowers-at-ukrainian-embassy-458420" hreflang="en">'Putin is at war with children': Russian police detain 5 children for laying flowers at Ukrainian embassy</a>

Surrounded by Russia in the north and China in the south, Mongolia has cultivated allies such as Japan, South Korea and the United States in a "third neighbour" diplomatic strategy aimed at reinforcing its political independence, but its economy has continued to rely on its two giant neighbours.

Mongolia's central bank warned at the start of the week that most of its foreign trade is facilitated through Russian banks and it sources nearly all of its oil from its northern neighbour, which is now facing international isolation.

Bank Governor Lkhavgasuren Byadran warned there were risks that payments could not be made, and deliveries of food and consumer goods from Europe also faced disruption.

“We are too dependent on Russia and it will hit us in many aspects, not only petrol," said Sumati Luvsandendev, a Mongolian political analyst and opinion pollster, noting that Mongolia sourced large amounts of grain from Russian suppliers.

"Our banks are reliant on transfer through Russian banks so SWIFT will hit our import-export operations as well," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/business-economy/russia-ukraine-crisis-day-8-swift-says-will-comply-with-eu-instructions-disconnect-7-russian-banks-458393" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine Crisis Day 8: SWIFT says will comply with EU instructions, disconnect 7 Russian banks</a>

Mongolia also remains one of the few remaining member countries of the Russia-led International Bank for Economic Cooperation and the International Investment Bank, following the withdrawal of five European nations on Wednesday.

Sandwiched&nbsp;

By making Russia more dependent on China as a market for its raw materials, the crisis in Ukraine could undermine years of Mongolian efforts to escape from its neighbours' shadow. &nbsp;

"For a country like us, sandwiched between two giants, a landlocked but extremely open economy relies on smooth border trade," said Otgochuluu Chuluuntseren, economist and former government official. "The situation was tense anyway. Now, this war has made the Mongolian economy even more troubled."

Following a decision by Germany to cancel the Nord Stream II gas pipeline, Mongolia is also likely to become more strategically important for Russia's energy-dependent and increasingly east-facing economy.

Mongolia signed an agreement this week to build the Mongolian section of a transnational gas transmission project aimed at supplying 50 billion cubic metres of Russian gas to China, known as Power of Siberia 2.

Mongolia has usually tried to keep out of geopolitical disputes. It did not comment on Russia's decision to send troops to Kazakhstan to help quell protests last year, or on the US&nbsp;withdrawal from Afghanistan – even though its own soldiers have been deployed there.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/silence-the-gunsnow-world-is-rejecting-russias-lies-heres-how-world-leaders-reacted-to-unga-vote-458355">'Silence the guns...now', 'world is rejecting Russia’s lies': Here's how world leaders reacted to UNGA vote</a>

So far, it has stayed silent over the invasion of Ukraine, and it was one of 34 countries to abstain on a U.N. resolution demanding the withdrawal of Russian troops on Wednesday.

“The current leadership... is disinclined to rustle Putin or Xi's feathers," said Julian Dierkes, an expert in Mongolian politics at the University of British Columbia. &nbsp;

But it could come under pressure to take sides in an increasingly polarised geopolitical conflict, especially if Moscow – ostracized by Europe and the West – pivots eastwards.

"I used to think that Russia didn't really pay enough attention to Mongolia to be upset, but in the current circumstances that may not be the case," said Dierkes.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine under attack: The 4 hotspots

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The more it is forced to take sides on issues like Ukraine, the less room for manoeuvre Mongolia will have when it comes to its strategy aimed at counterbalancing Russian and Chinese economic and political influence through the cultivation of "third neighbours" like the United States and Japan.

"Regarding our third neighbours, we hope that they understand our unique situation," said Otgochuluu. "Mongolia is committed to universal values of freedom and democracy. But its economy is not self-sufficient."

Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the imposition of tough sanctions on Moscow has put landlocked Mongolia in a tight spot economically and diplomatically, and experts warn that its delicate balancing act between East and West could be upset.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the imposition of tough sanctions on Moscow has put landlocked Mongolia in a tight spot economically and diplomatically, and experts warn that its delicate balancing act between East and West could be upset. On Tuesday, a small group of protesters gathered on Ulaanbaatar's Sukhbaatar Square to call for an end to hostilities in Ukraine, only to be confronted by residents worried about antagonising Russia. The stand-off reflected the fault lines in a country that underwent a democratic transition in 1990 following decades of Soviet hegemony and now worries about the growing regional dominance of China. Also read | 'Putin is at war with children': Russian police detain 5 children for laying flowers at Ukrainian embassy Surrounded by Russia in the north and China in the south, Mongolia has cultivated allies such as Japan, South Korea and the United States in a "third neighbour" diplomatic strategy aimed at reinforcing its political independence, but its economy has continued to rely on its two giant neighbours. Mongolia's central bank warned at the start of the week that most of its foreign trade is facilitated through Russian banks and it sources nearly all of its oil from its northern neighbour, which is now facing international isolation. Bank Governor Lkhavgasuren Byadran warned there were risks that payments could not be made, and deliveries of food and consumer goods from Europe also faced disruption. “We are too dependent on Russia and it will hit us in many aspects, not only petrol," said Sumati Luvsandendev, a Mongolian political analyst and opinion pollster, noting that Mongolia sourced large amounts of grain from Russian suppliers. "Our banks are reliant on transfer through Russian banks so SWIFT will hit our import-export operations as well," he said. Also read | Russia-Ukraine Crisis Day 8: SWIFT says will comply with EU instructions, disconnect 7 Russian banks Mongolia also remains one of the few remaining member countries of the Russia-led International Bank for Economic Cooperation and the International Investment Bank, following the withdrawal of five European nations on Wednesday. Sandwiched By making Russia more dependent on China as a market for its raw materials, the crisis in Ukraine could undermine years of Mongolian efforts to escape from its neighbours' shadow. "For a country like us, sandwiched between two giants, a landlocked but extremely open economy relies on smooth border trade," said Otgochuluu Chuluuntseren, economist and former government official. "The situation was tense anyway. Now, this war has made the Mongolian economy even more troubled." Following a decision by Germany to cancel the Nord Stream II gas pipeline, Mongolia is also likely to become more strategically important for Russia's energy-dependent and increasingly east-facing economy. Mongolia signed an agreement this week to build the Mongolian section of a transnational gas transmission project aimed at supplying 50 billion cubic metres of Russian gas to China, known as Power of Siberia 2. Mongolia has usually tried to keep out of geopolitical disputes. It did not comment on Russia's decision to send troops to Kazakhstan to help quell protests last year, or on the US withdrawal from Afghanistan – even though its own soldiers have been deployed there. Also read | 'Silence the guns...now', 'world is rejecting Russia’s lies': Here's how world leaders reacted to UNGA vote So far, it has stayed silent over the invasion of Ukraine, and it was one of 34 countries to abstain on a U.N. resolution demanding the withdrawal of Russian troops on Wednesday. “The current leadership... is disinclined to rustle Putin or Xi's feathers," said Julian Dierkes, an expert in Mongolian politics at the University of British Columbia. But it could come under pressure to take sides in an increasingly polarised geopolitical conflict, especially if Moscow – ostracized by Europe and the West – pivots eastwards. "I used to think that Russia didn't really pay enough attention to Mongolia to be upset, but in the current circumstances that may not be the case," said Dierkes. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine under attack: The 4 hotspots The more it is forced to take sides on issues like Ukraine, the less room for manoeuvre Mongolia will have when it comes to its strategy aimed at counterbalancing Russian and Chinese economic and political influence through the cultivation of "third neighbours" like the United States and Japan. "Regarding our third neighbours, we hope that they understand our unique situation," said Otgochuluu. "Mongolia is committed to universal values of freedom and democracy. But its economy is not self-sufficient."

Mongolia's East-West balancing act buffeted by Russian invasion of Ukraine

A prominent activist who has been an outspoken critic of China was arrested in Mongolia for “engaging in illegal activities”, local media reported.

The arrest sparked outrage in the landlocked country, with many supporters viewing it as a part of a wider effort to “clean up” China's critics in the country.

Munkhbayar Chuluundorj was arrested Friday in Ulaanbaatar on suspicion of "receiving instructions and funds from a foreign intelligence group", the country's spy agency, the General Intelligence Agency, said, without giving further details.

Supporters of Chuluundorj suspects that his remark on China had brought him under official scrutiny.

In Facebook posts, he recently called for the Mongolian prime minister to resign over his close relationship with Beijing, saying "our nation's independence will be lost and all citizens of Mongolia will become slaves of China", reports AFP.

Footage of the arrest published by Mongolian outlet Eguur News showed Chuluundorj being led away by armed police down a shop-lined road.

According to local media reports, a closed-door trail is underway and the visits from relatives are being denied, the Southern Mongolian Human Rights Information Centre, an overseas NGO that advocates for ethnic Mongols, quoted his brother Munkh-erdene as saying.

The NGO said Munkhbayar is “one of the most vocal critics of the Mongolian government's cosy relationship with China”.

Inner Mongolian activists in Mongolia say they have faced threats and intimidation from authorities after a widespread protest movement against Chinese-language curriculum reforms across the border was met with a harsh police crackdown.

Activists also say China has pressured Mongolia to deport Inner Mongolian political refugees back to the country.

Mongolia is dependent on mineral exports to its giant neighbours, Russia and China.

There have also been protests in the capital Ulaanbaatar over Beijing’s language policy in Inner Mongolia.

Critics of the policy in the Chinese border region —home to an estimated 4.5 million ethnic Mongolians —say it mirrors moves in other areas such as Xinjiang and Tibet to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han culture and eradicate minority languages.

(With inputs from agencies)

A prominent activist who has been an outspoken critic of China was arrested in Mongolia for “engaging in illegal activities”, local media reported. The arrest sparked outrage in the landlocked country, with many supporters viewing it as a part of a wider effort to “clean up” China's critics in the country.

A prominent activist who has been an outspoken critic of China was arrested in Mongolia for “engaging in illegal activities”, local media reported. The arrest sparked outrage in the landlocked country, with many supporters viewing it as a part of a wider effort to “clean up” China's critics in the country. Munkhbayar Chuluundorj was arrested Friday in Ulaanbaatar on suspicion of "receiving instructions and funds from a foreign intelligence group", the country's spy agency, the General Intelligence Agency, said, without giving further details. Supporters of Chuluundorj suspects that his remark on China had brought him under official scrutiny. In Facebook posts, he recently called for the Mongolian prime minister to resign over his close relationship with Beijing, saying "our nation's independence will be lost and all citizens of Mongolia will become slaves of China", reports AFP. Footage of the arrest published by Mongolian outlet Eguur News showed Chuluundorj being led away by armed police down a shop-lined road. According to local media reports, a closed-door trail is underway and the visits from relatives are being denied, the Southern Mongolian Human Rights Information Centre, an overseas NGO that advocates for ethnic Mongols, quoted his brother Munkh-erdene as saying. The NGO said Munkhbayar is “one of the most vocal critics of the Mongolian government's cosy relationship with China”. Inner Mongolian activists in Mongolia say they have faced threats and intimidation from authorities after a widespread protest movement against Chinese-language curriculum reforms across the border was met with a harsh police crackdown. Activists also say China has pressured Mongolia to deport Inner Mongolian political refugees back to the country. Mongolia is dependent on mineral exports to its giant neighbours, Russia and China. There have also been protests in the capital Ulaanbaatar over Beijing’s language policy in Inner Mongolia. Critics of the policy in the Chinese border region —home to an estimated 4.5 million ethnic Mongolians —say it mirrors moves in other areas such as Xinjiang and Tibet to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han culture and eradicate minority languages. (With inputs from agencies)

Arrest of Mongolian activist and outspoken critic of China sparks outrage

Max Johnson, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's brother, is trying hard to save a 14 million pound investment. The transaction has gone badly wrong and his attempts to invest in a Mongolian goldmine in Gobi Desert has resulted in conmen stealing the cash. Johnson is facing 'significant' personal loss.

However, he maintains that he is not asking for any favours from his brother who heads the British government.

"I am not asking for any favours," he was quoted as saying by The Times.

Max (36) an Oxford graduate, studied Russian and Polish at the university. During his final year he travelled to Russia and then took a train to Beijing as he was taken in by China's growth story. He was the first UK citizen to join Tsinghua University, a respected institution in China to pursue MBA degree.

Today, he runs his own investment and advisory firm MJ Capital. The firm invests in companies looking to sell products in China.

Max is in quite a situation as his failed investment can potentially be a bad reflection on his brother Boris Johnson as well.

Max Johnson, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's brother, is trying hard to save a 14 million pound investment. The transaction has gone badly wrong and his attempts to invest in a Mongolian goldmine in Gobi Desert has resulted in conmen stealing the cash.

Max Johnson, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's brother, is trying hard to save a 14 million pound investment. The transaction has gone badly wrong and his attempts to invest in a Mongolian goldmine in Gobi Desert has resulted in conmen stealing the cash. Johnson is facing 'significant' personal loss. However, he maintains that he is not asking for any favours from his brother who heads the British government. "I am not asking for any favours," he was quoted as saying by The Times. Max (36) an Oxford graduate, studied Russian and Polish at the university. During his final year he travelled to Russia and then took a train to Beijing as he was taken in by China's growth story. He was the first UK citizen to join Tsinghua University, a respected institution in China to pursue MBA degree. Today, he runs his own investment and advisory firm MJ Capital. The firm invests in companies looking to sell products in China. Max is in quite a situation as his failed investment can potentially be a bad reflection on his brother Boris Johnson as well.

UK PM Boris Johnson's brother conned over 'gold mine in Gobi desert'

Vesak (Pali: Vesākha, Sanskrit: Vaiśākha), known as Buddha Jayanti or Buddha Purnima and Buddha Day is observed by Buddhist communities in and beyond India as the day of the birth, enlightenment and death (Parinirvāna) of Gautama Buddha.&nbsp;

We in Mongolia also plan to celebrate the Buddha Day on 26th May declared as a public holiday. &nbsp;

Historically, Buddhism was introduced to Mongolia not once but three times. The first transmission happened over two thousand years ago when in ancient times Indian acharyas went to Mongolia for disseminating Dharma. A famous Mongol scholar, Gabju Zava Damdin (1867-1937) who was one of the founding members of the Institute of Sutras and Letters of Mongolia, has recorded in a book on history- Buddhism was introduced into Mongolia through the Silk road at the time of Hunnu (Xiangnu) empire, known as the first state established by the Mongols, nearly 2200 years back”.&nbsp;

Other sources claim that Buddhist monasteries and temples were built on the Mongolian land at the time of Xianbei state which had emerged afterwards.

In 7th century Xuanzang, a Chinese traveler, who was a Buddhist monk and a scholar recorded that while traversing the Gobi desert on the way to reach the Silk Road, he saw Buddhist temples in the territory of Mongols, where monks were doing puja and studying, as well as chanting in Indian language.

Also, there is a record that states that in the 6th and 7th centuries an Indian Pandita Narendra-yashas and a teacher at a school in Magadha, Baragawara Midara, came to the land of the Mongols.

Historical sources corroborate that Mongolia was indeed the earliest to receive the Bauddha dharma among the three dharmic lands after India.

There are archeological evidences to prove the second spread of Buddhism in Mongolia. For instance, a Buddha’s statue found in the tomb of a Uyghur nobleman is directly related to the time of Uyghur empire (9th-10th century) in Tsagaan– Ovoo soum of Dornod province.

The ancient Indian culture and arts reached Mongolia through its dharma. Based on these and other records, we can say that our ancestors adopted the Bauddha dharma from India through Sogdian and Uyghur panditas in ancient past.

Kavyadarsha by Dandini (a Mirror of Poetry) is an ancient systematic methodology of poetry in Sanskrit, which was composed in the 7th century in India. Kavyadarsha plays an important role in oriental literature. This text on Indian theories of poetry was translated into Mongolian language like Pali and Tibetan. Learned lama Gelegjaltsan had translated this text on theories from Tibetan into Mongolian in the17th century and other lamas wrote commentaries in Sanskrit language. Even nowadays, the young generation of scholars like D. Shirendev, who studied at the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies in Varanasi, translated 13 volumes of Pali Tripitaka into Mongolian. 8 volumes of the 13 are already published. “The Tsogt Khurden” an editorial group is also doing translation and comparative studies of these ancient sutras from Pali and Sanskrit languages.

Later, since 13th century Mongolian emperors invited the spiritual masters and assigned them the tile of “Imperial guru” for enlightening the commoners with Bauddha Dharma. Chinggis Khan exempted Buddhist monasteries from taxes. His successor, Ugedei khan established a Buddhist monastery in the capital of then Mongolian empire- Khar Korin. Guyug Khan, Godun Khan, Mongke Khan and Kublai Khan and their descendants disseminated the Bauddha Dharma during their respective times. During the time of Khaisan khuleg Khan and Buyan Khan Buddhist sutras such as “Pancha Ragsha Sutra”, “Saddharmapundarika Sutra” and “Arya Manju Shiri Nama Samgiri” and “Bodhicaryavartara” were translated into the Mongolian language and Kanjur was casted in gold.

Thus, from Chinggis to Togoontumur all the great khans were relying on Dharma and Damma Gurus.&nbsp;

The monasteries, statues and stupas built during the Yuan dynasty are countless. The manuscripts “Shebya Rabsel” composed by Phagva Lama at the request of Chingim, a son of Kublai Khan was block-printed. This sutra, written in the Square script the then formal script of the Yuan dynasty, obviously attracts interests of scholars because Mongolians used all the Buddhist terms and notions that were used in the old Mongol script when they translated Buddhist sutras.&nbsp;

Prof. B Rinchen made a catalogue of the texts translated into Mongolian which could be partly published during his life-time. Now Dr. Shashibala, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan is editing the remaining part and contemplates to publish them in four volumes.

The Grand White Stupa built in the capital city of the Yuan dynasty by the decree of Kublai Khan is a historical property that provides with valuable information of the Yuan dynasty in modern time.

The 13th century’s famous annals “The Sacred History of Mongols” (Chapter 261 to 264) referred to India as Hindu or Hindustan and the river of Indus as Sindhi or a “Shine gol or New river”. By the way this manuscript was first translated into English language in 1959 at Aligarh Muslim University by noted historian Mohammad Habib.

At the time of Ligden Khan Mongolian scholars completed translating the entire Kanjur and Tanjur consisting of over 5000 sutras. By the end of 15th century Mongolian noblemen extensively contributed to the spread of Bauddha Dharma. Amongst them, Altan Khan of Tumed invited His Holiness Sonam Gyatso to Mongolia and himself became his spiritual disciple and bestowed the famous title of “Dalai Lama” to His Holiness (Lama with knowledge as vast as ocean).

In the 16th century, there were three great Buddhist figures spreading Dharma. At the grace of Neij toin (Avid) from Inner Mongolia, Lofty Venerable Zanabazar (Gyani Vajaru) from Khalkha and Jaya Pandit Namkhaijamtso from Oirad, the Gelugpa tradition flourished in its full zenith. At this time, all Mahayana manuscripts were entirely translated into the Mongolian language. Many if not all of them, are preserved in the Gandantegchilin monastery and Public Library of Mongolia.

Honorable Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India during his official visit to Mongolia in 2015 graciously presented saplings of Banyan tree and pledged to help in building statue of Lord Buddha and his two disciples as well as digitalizing these ancient and rare Buddhist manuscripts. His offer was deeply appreciated as a vivid indication of our bonds of Dharma and common civilizational affinities.&nbsp;

Two years back, Government of India built up and gifted statues of Lord Budha and his two main disciples’ beautifully crafted by well-known sculptors Ram and Anil Sutars to the Gandantegchilin monastery in Ulaanbaatar. And 108 volumes Mongol Kanjur a compilation of Buddha’s teachings have also being republished by the National Mission for Manuscripts, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Ministry of Culture, GOI along with International Academy of Indian Culture in order to present to Mongolia on the upcoming Buddha Day.

Teachings of Buddha and Buddhism have become inseparable part of Mongolian way of living. Madhyamika, known as the Middle Path or Noble Eightfold Path, consisting of perfect view, perfect thought, perfect speech, perfect action, perfect mode of living, perfect endeavor, perfect mindfulness and perfect consciousness helped to form our thoughts and turned into a philosophy that has huge impact on our state policy. &nbsp;Henceforth, Mongolians attach highest value to gyan (knowledge), dharma (realization) and karma (action). Though, sitting on the northern and southern fringes of the Buddhist Asia Mongolia and India have been intertwined with such spiritual legacies which has grown into a solid basis of our state-to-state relations. Recently, we jointly marked the 65th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations.

These dharmic and cultural ties, in my belief will continue to contribute to the growth of our relations in the coming years too. By the way Mongolians adhere to oriental calendar and account by sixty-years instead of a century. For instance the date of 26th May, 2021 is defined as day of Dog of month of Snake of White Ox year of the 17th Sixtieth. 
&nbsp; 
Since Buddhism adopted in my country came from India and many of our learned scholars studied at the ancient centers of Buddhist studies such as Nalanda. Coming back to Mongolia after the attainment of high religious order they significantly contributed to the promotion of humane values in their native land. Mongolian Buddhist scholars wrote a large number of sacred texts on the tradition of Dharma. With enormous suffering and great sacrifices Mongolians have preserved their national culture and Buddhist heritage. I wish to note that majority of Mongolians practice Buddhism, not only as religion but as a philosophy of empowerment and contentment. Even nowadays a large number of novitiates are cloistering in monasteries in India. &nbsp;Thus, Bharat regarded as a sacred land of Dharma and a source of wisdom and knowledge.These spiritual ties constitute another pillar of our close cultural and educational exchanges.&nbsp;

On this auspicious occasion, I pay heartfelt tributes to those Buddhist masters who cultivated Dharma and Damma and brought our two nations as closer as strategic partners. &nbsp;

Both of us, peace-loving nations, free from any military alliances are constructively collaborating within the framework of the Asian Buddhist for Peace Conference over 50 odd years and &nbsp;International Buddhist Confederation in order to avoid conflicts and facilitate understanding and amity. Undoubtedly, the contemporary world needs more spiritual and moral empowerment for sustainable development. It is worth to be underlined here that the Teachings of the Gautam Buddha are more relevant today. They not only inspire the people for cultivation of wisdom but also for peaceful co-existence, mutual respect and togetherness.&nbsp;

When people get associated through faith and conviction, their bonds become more durable since spiritual mind that never aggravates but cultivates truthful consciousness and ensures the path of compassion and enlightenment.

Our collaborations are exponentially growing in multiple areas including information and communication technology, agriculture and mining industry. Collaboration between Mongolia and India have ample room for growth and will play &nbsp;a substantive role in their economies. &nbsp;

Mongolia ranks as one of the richest countries in Asia as well as in the world in terms of variety and value of its mineral resources. More than 8 thousand deposits of 440 different minerals including cooking coal are discovered, of which around 600 deposits are being exploited.&nbsp;

Mongolia exports primarily commodities such as minerals and agricultural products. These account for about 80 percent of our exports. However, the Government pursues policies supporting investors who export not just raw material, such as ores and concentrates, but bring in deep processing and produce value-added products. There is immense potential still available to increase non-mineral exports, especially of agriculture-based Mongolian brand products. Today 80 million heads of animals have been counted which constitute untapped resources of ecologically clean hides, dairy, cashmere and wool.&nbsp;

To bolster sustainable growth, Mongolia has undertaken a comprehensive set of initiatives over the past years in such areas as taxation, visa regime and trade policy that provide for a stable investment and legal environment and clear guidelines for the role of Government in major projects.&nbsp;

Mongolia currently offers a range of tax concessions for export-oriented industries and priority sectors of economy. Foreign investment is encouraged in tourism. Indian tourist companies used to work in the area of studying market and legal environment are now showing interest to ramp up their presence and increase their operations in Mongolia. Given the promising initiative of the “Hunnu Air” a company of Mongolia to launch scheduled flights connecting Ulaanbaatar and New Delhi and brand new International Airport at Khoshigt valley, outskirt of Ulaanbaatar coming into operation. I am optimistic that India’s involvement in the field of tourism and hospitality industry would be enhanced.

Considering the fact of full vaccination of 5.9 lakh of the eligible citizens Mongolia is reopened for international air travellers by 10th May 2021, and resumed scheduled flights with countries, those recognize its immunization certificates for COVID-19, named International Travel Health Certificate (ITHC) I believe that it would be another favourable destination for their brothers and sisters in dharma.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Vesak (Pali: Vesākha, Sanskrit: Vaiśākha), known as Buddha Jayanti or Buddha Purnima and Buddha Day is observed by Buddhist communities in and beyond India as the day of the birth, enlightenment and death (Parinirvāna) of Gautama Buddha.

Vesak (Pali: Vesākha, Sanskrit: Vaiśākha), known as Buddha Jayanti or Buddha Purnima and Buddha Day is observed by Buddhist communities in and beyond India as the day of the birth, enlightenment and death (Parinirvāna) of Gautama Buddha. We in Mongolia also plan to celebrate the Buddha Day on 26th May declared as a public holiday. Historically, Buddhism was introduced to Mongolia not once but three times. The first transmission happened over two thousand years ago when in ancient times Indian acharyas went to Mongolia for disseminating Dharma. A famous Mongol scholar, Gabju Zava Damdin (1867-1937) who was one of the founding members of the Institute of Sutras and Letters of Mongolia, has recorded in a book on history- Buddhism was introduced into Mongolia through the Silk road at the time of Hunnu (Xiangnu) empire, known as the first state established by the Mongols, nearly 2200 years back”. Other sources claim that Buddhist monasteries and temples were built on the Mongolian land at the time of Xianbei state which had emerged afterwards. In 7th century Xuanzang, a Chinese traveler, who was a Buddhist monk and a scholar recorded that while traversing the Gobi desert on the way to reach the Silk Road, he saw Buddhist temples in the territory of Mongols, where monks were doing puja and studying, as well as chanting in Indian language. Also, there is a record that states that in the 6th and 7th centuries an Indian Pandita Narendra-yashas and a teacher at a school in Magadha, Baragawara Midara, came to the land of the Mongols. Historical sources corroborate that Mongolia was indeed the earliest to receive the Bauddha dharma among the three dharmic lands after India. There are archeological evidences to prove the second spread of Buddhism in Mongolia. For instance, a Buddha’s statue found in the tomb of a Uyghur nobleman is directly related to the time of Uyghur empire (9th-10th century) in Tsagaan– Ovoo soum of Dornod province. The ancient Indian culture and arts reached Mongolia through its dharma. Based on these and other records, we can say that our ancestors adopted the Bauddha dharma from India through Sogdian and Uyghur panditas in ancient past. Kavyadarsha by Dandini (a Mirror of Poetry) is an ancient systematic methodology of poetry in Sanskrit, which was composed in the 7th century in India. Kavyadarsha plays an important role in oriental literature. This text on Indian theories of poetry was translated into Mongolian language like Pali and Tibetan. Learned lama Gelegjaltsan had translated this text on theories from Tibetan into Mongolian in the17th century and other lamas wrote commentaries in Sanskrit language. Even nowadays, the young generation of scholars like D. Shirendev, who studied at the Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies in Varanasi, translated 13 volumes of Pali Tripitaka into Mongolian. 8 volumes of the 13 are already published. “The Tsogt Khurden” an editorial group is also doing translation and comparative studies of these ancient sutras from Pali and Sanskrit languages. Later, since 13th century Mongolian emperors invited the spiritual masters and assigned them the tile of “Imperial guru” for enlightening the commoners with Bauddha Dharma. Chinggis Khan exempted Buddhist monasteries from taxes. His successor, Ugedei khan established a Buddhist monastery in the capital of then Mongolian empire- Khar Korin. Guyug Khan, Godun Khan, Mongke Khan and Kublai Khan and their descendants disseminated the Bauddha Dharma during their respective times. During the time of Khaisan khuleg Khan and Buyan Khan Buddhist sutras such as “Pancha Ragsha Sutra”, “Saddharmapundarika Sutra” and “Arya Manju Shiri Nama Samgiri” and “Bodhicaryavartara” were translated into the Mongolian language and Kanjur was casted in gold. Thus, from Chinggis to Togoontumur all the great khans were relying on Dharma and Damma Gurus. The monasteries, statues and stupas built during the Yuan dynasty are countless. The manuscripts “Shebya Rabsel” composed by Phagva Lama at the request of Chingim, a son of Kublai Khan was block-printed. This sutra, written in the Square script the then formal script of the Yuan dynasty, obviously attracts interests of scholars because Mongolians used all the Buddhist terms and notions that were used in the old Mongol script when they translated Buddhist sutras. Prof. B Rinchen made a catalogue of the texts translated into Mongolian which could be partly published during his life-time. Now Dr. Shashibala, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan is editing the remaining part and contemplates to publish them in four volumes. The Grand White Stupa built in the capital city of the Yuan dynasty by the decree of Kublai Khan is a historical property that provides with valuable information of the Yuan dynasty in modern time. The 13th century’s famous annals “The Sacred History of Mongols” (Chapter 261 to 264) referred to India as Hindu or Hindustan and the river of Indus as Sindhi or a “Shine gol or New river”. By the way this manuscript was first translated into English language in 1959 at Aligarh Muslim University by noted historian Mohammad Habib. At the time of Ligden Khan Mongolian scholars completed translating the entire Kanjur and Tanjur consisting of over 5000 sutras. By the end of 15th century Mongolian noblemen extensively contributed to the spread of Bauddha Dharma. Amongst them, Altan Khan of Tumed invited His Holiness Sonam Gyatso to Mongolia and himself became his spiritual disciple and bestowed the famous title of “Dalai Lama” to His Holiness (Lama with knowledge as vast as ocean). In the 16th century, there were three great Buddhist figures spreading Dharma. At the grace of Neij toin (Avid) from Inner Mongolia, Lofty Venerable Zanabazar (Gyani Vajaru) from Khalkha and Jaya Pandit Namkhaijamtso from Oirad, the Gelugpa tradition flourished in its full zenith. At this time, all Mahayana manuscripts were entirely translated into the Mongolian language. Many if not all of them, are preserved in the Gandantegchilin monastery and Public Library of Mongolia. Honorable Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India during his official visit to Mongolia in 2015 graciously presented saplings of Banyan tree and pledged to help in building statue of Lord Buddha and his two disciples as well as digitalizing these ancient and rare Buddhist manuscripts. His offer was deeply appreciated as a vivid indication of our bonds of Dharma and common civilizational affinities. Two years back, Government of India built up and gifted statues of Lord Budha and his two main disciples’ beautifully crafted by well-known sculptors Ram and Anil Sutars to the Gandantegchilin monastery in Ulaanbaatar. And 108 volumes Mongol Kanjur a compilation of Buddha’s teachings have also being republished by the National Mission for Manuscripts, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Ministry of Culture, GOI along with International Academy of Indian Culture in order to present to Mongolia on the upcoming Buddha Day. Teachings of Buddha and Buddhism have become inseparable part of Mongolian way of living. Madhyamika, known as the Middle Path or Noble Eightfold Path, consisting of perfect view, perfect thought, perfect speech, perfect action, perfect mode of living, perfect endeavor, perfect mindfulness and perfect consciousness helped to form our thoughts and turned into a philosophy that has huge impact on our state policy. Henceforth, Mongolians attach highest value to gyan (knowledge), dharma (realization) and karma (action). Though, sitting on the northern and southern fringes of the Buddhist Asia Mongolia and India have been intertwined with such spiritual legacies which has grown into a solid basis of our state-to-state relations. Recently, we jointly marked the 65th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations. These dharmic and cultural ties, in my belief will continue to contribute to the growth of our relations in the coming years too. By the way Mongolians adhere to oriental calendar and account by sixty-years instead of a century. For instance the date of 26th May, 2021 is defined as day of Dog of month of Snake of White Ox year of the 17th Sixtieth. Since Buddhism adopted in my country came from India and many of our learned scholars studied at the ancient centers of Buddhist studies such as Nalanda. Coming back to Mongolia after the attainment of high religious order they significantly contributed to the promotion of humane values in their native land. Mongolian Buddhist scholars wrote a large number of sacred texts on the tradition of Dharma. With enormous suffering and great sacrifices Mongolians have preserved their national culture and Buddhist heritage. I wish to note that majority of Mongolians practice Buddhism, not only as religion but as a philosophy of empowerment and contentment. Even nowadays a large number of novitiates are cloistering in monasteries in India. Thus, Bharat regarded as a sacred land of Dharma and a source of wisdom and knowledge.These spiritual ties constitute another pillar of our close cultural and educational exchanges. On this auspicious occasion, I pay heartfelt tributes to those Buddhist masters who cultivated Dharma and Damma and brought our two nations as closer as strategic partners. Both of us, peace-loving nations, free from any military alliances are constructively collaborating within the framework of the Asian Buddhist for Peace Conference over 50 odd years and International Buddhist Confederation in order to avoid conflicts and facilitate understanding and amity. Undoubtedly, the contemporary world needs more spiritual and moral empowerment for sustainable development. It is worth to be underlined here that the Teachings of the Gautam Buddha are more relevant today. They not only inspire the people for cultivation of wisdom but also for peaceful co-existence, mutual respect and togetherness. When people get associated through faith and conviction, their bonds become more durable since spiritual mind that never aggravates but cultivates truthful consciousness and ensures the path of compassion and enlightenment. Our collaborations are exponentially growing in multiple areas including information and communication technology, agriculture and mining industry. Collaboration between Mongolia and India have ample room for growth and will play a substantive role in their economies. Mongolia ranks as one of the richest countries in Asia as well as in the world in terms of variety and value of its mineral resources. More than 8 thousand deposits of 440 different minerals including cooking coal are discovered, of which around 600 deposits are being exploited. Mongolia exports primarily commodities such as minerals and agricultural products. These account for about 80 percent of our exports. However, the Government pursues policies supporting investors who export not just raw material, such as ores and concentrates, but bring in deep processing and produce value-added products. There is immense potential still available to increase non-mineral exports, especially of agriculture-based Mongolian brand products. Today 80 million heads of animals have been counted which constitute untapped resources of ecologically clean hides, dairy, cashmere and wool. To bolster sustainable growth, Mongolia has undertaken a comprehensive set of initiatives over the past years in such areas as taxation, visa regime and trade policy that provide for a stable investment and legal environment and clear guidelines for the role of Government in major projects. Mongolia currently offers a range of tax concessions for export-oriented industries and priority sectors of economy. Foreign investment is encouraged in tourism. Indian tourist companies used to work in the area of studying market and legal environment are now showing interest to ramp up their presence and increase their operations in Mongolia. Given the promising initiative of the “Hunnu Air” a company of Mongolia to launch scheduled flights connecting Ulaanbaatar and New Delhi and brand new International Airport at Khoshigt valley, outskirt of Ulaanbaatar coming into operation. I am optimistic that India’s involvement in the field of tourism and hospitality industry would be enhanced. Considering the fact of full vaccination of 5.9 lakh of the eligible citizens Mongolia is reopened for international air travellers by 10th May 2021, and resumed scheduled flights with countries, those recognize its immunization certificates for COVID-19, named International Travel Health Certificate (ITHC) I believe that it would be another favourable destination for their brothers and sisters in dharma. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: Brothers and sisters in Dharma

Mongolia's prime minister resigned Thursday following protests and public outrage over the treatment of a coronavirus patient and her newborn baby.

Landlocked Mongolia reported just a handful of Covid-19 cases last year after imposing strict border controls, but in November its first domestic transmissions caused a new wave of lockdowns and restrictions.

Anger mounted this week after TV footage showed a woman who appeared to have recently given birth being moved to an infectious disease centre wearing only hospital pyjamas and plastic slippers, despite temperatures dipping to minus 25 degrees Celsius.

After protests outside government buildings on Wednesday, the Mongolian politician apologised on behalf of the government and said he would stand down immediately.

"Unfortunately, we made mistake during relocating that mother," admitted Prime Minister Khurelsukh Ukhnaa Thursday. "It was heartbreaking to see how she was treated."

"As a prime minister, I must take the responsibility."

The video of the woman in an ambulance clutching her baby prompted fierce criticism, particularly as Mongolian tradition dictates new mothers should avoid the cold weather and cold food for the first month after birth.

On Wednesday around 5,000 mostly young protesters gathered in a square opposite government buildings in the capital Ulaanbaatar, some carrying wrapped up bundles to represent babies.

Ulziibayar Purevsuren, 30, held a banner reading "resign" and said she was there to complain about "incompetent doctors".

The vice prime minister -- also head of the national emergency commission handling the pandemic -- had already resigned on Wednesday evening, followed by the minister of health.

The head of the hospital and disease centre in the middle of the row also resigned.

Political instability has been a constant problem for the young Central Asian democracy, which passed its first constitution in 1992 after decades of Communist rule.

The outgoing prime minister had already survived a parliament vote to sack him in 2018 over a corruption scandal that implicated high-level politicians in a state fund embezzlement scheme -- a year after his predecessor was sacked over allegations of corruption.

As the prime minister stands down, President Battulga Khaltmaa remains in place as head of state.

But Khurelsukh has previously said he intends to stand for president in upcoming elections this year, and in his resignation speech he said he had "lost faith" in Battulga as head of state.

- 'Voices heard' -

This week's row is the latest clash over the government's handling of the Covid-19 outbreak as anger simmers over Mongolian nationals stuck overseas after the country closed its borders.

"I don't think Mongolians will die of Covid-19, instead they will die of poverty and hunger," said 20-year-old student Odbayar Lkhagvadorj.

"We are here to make our voice heard," said Batzul Batenkh, a 21-year-old mining worker.

Restrictions on movement between provinces have been imposed since November, leaving about 80,000 people stranded in the capital.

Many have complained of waiting weeks for virus tests to allow them to return to their homes or of having to sleep in their cars with hotels closed due to lockdowns.&nbsp;

Officials were forced to apologise when a 58-year-old woman died in December after being refused entry to a hospital because she did not have a negative Covid-19 test result.

Since March, Mongolia has only allowed citizens to enter the country on chartered flights and required 21 days of quarantine in centralised facilities, followed by two weeks of further isolation at home.

There have been 1,584 coronavirus cases in the country so far.

Mongolia's prime minister resigned Thursday following protests and public outrage over the treatment of a coronavirus patient and her newborn baby. Landlocked Mongolia reported just a handful of Covid-19 cases last year after imposing strict border controls, but in November its first domestic transmissions caused a new wave of lockdowns and restrictions.

Mongolia's prime minister resigned Thursday following protests and public outrage over the treatment of a coronavirus patient and her newborn baby. Landlocked Mongolia reported just a handful of Covid-19 cases last year after imposing strict border controls, but in November its first domestic transmissions caused a new wave of lockdowns and restrictions. Anger mounted this week after TV footage showed a woman who appeared to have recently given birth being moved to an infectious disease centre wearing only hospital pyjamas and plastic slippers, despite temperatures dipping to minus 25 degrees Celsius. After protests outside government buildings on Wednesday, the Mongolian politician apologised on behalf of the government and said he would stand down immediately. "Unfortunately, we made mistake during relocating that mother," admitted Prime Minister Khurelsukh Ukhnaa Thursday. "It was heartbreaking to see how she was treated." "As a prime minister, I must take the responsibility." The video of the woman in an ambulance clutching her baby prompted fierce criticism, particularly as Mongolian tradition dictates new mothers should avoid the cold weather and cold food for the first month after birth. On Wednesday around 5,000 mostly young protesters gathered in a square opposite government buildings in the capital Ulaanbaatar, some carrying wrapped up bundles to represent babies. Ulziibayar Purevsuren, 30, held a banner reading "resign" and said she was there to complain about "incompetent doctors". The vice prime minister -- also head of the national emergency commission handling the pandemic -- had already resigned on Wednesday evening, followed by the minister of health. The head of the hospital and disease centre in the middle of the row also resigned. Political instability has been a constant problem for the young Central Asian democracy, which passed its first constitution in 1992 after decades of Communist rule. The outgoing prime minister had already survived a parliament vote to sack him in 2018 over a corruption scandal that implicated high-level politicians in a state fund embezzlement scheme -- a year after his predecessor was sacked over allegations of corruption. As the prime minister stands down, President Battulga Khaltmaa remains in place as head of state. But Khurelsukh has previously said he intends to stand for president in upcoming elections this year, and in his resignation speech he said he had "lost faith" in Battulga as head of state. - 'Voices heard' - This week's row is the latest clash over the government's handling of the Covid-19 outbreak as anger simmers over Mongolian nationals stuck overseas after the country closed its borders. "I don't think Mongolians will die of Covid-19, instead they will die of poverty and hunger," said 20-year-old student Odbayar Lkhagvadorj. "We are here to make our voice heard," said Batzul Batenkh, a 21-year-old mining worker. Restrictions on movement between provinces have been imposed since November, leaving about 80,000 people stranded in the capital. Many have complained of waiting weeks for virus tests to allow them to return to their homes or of having to sleep in their cars with hotels closed due to lockdowns. Officials were forced to apologise when a 58-year-old woman died in December after being refused entry to a hospital because she did not have a negative Covid-19 test result. Since March, Mongolia has only allowed citizens to enter the country on chartered flights and required 21 days of quarantine in centralised facilities, followed by two weeks of further isolation at home. There have been 1,584 coronavirus cases in the country so far.

Mongolian PM resigns after protests over Covid-19 mother's treatment

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;departed for Japan on Sunday&nbsp;but will not go to Mongolia and South Korea as originally planned, the State Department said, after President Donald Trump was diagnosed and hospitalized due to the coronavirus.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heres-who-has-tested-positive-and-negative-in-trumps-circle-332571">In pics: Here's who has tested positive and negative in Trump's circle</a>

Initially,&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;planned to visit all three countries between October&nbsp;4 and October&nbsp;8. He is still set to leave for Tokyo on Sunday but will be returning to Washington on October&nbsp;6 after consultations with his Japanese counterparts and attending a wider meeting with foreign ministers of India and Australia.

In a statement, the State Department said&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;was expecting to travel to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule the visits in his original itinerary.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-china-protests-erupt-in-mongolia-ahead-of-mike-pompeos-visit-331996">Anti-China protests erupt in Mongolia ahead of Mike Pompeo's visit</a>

Pompeo's visit to East Asia, his first to the region in over a year, comes at a time when US&nbsp;ties with Beijing are at their worst in decades. Apart from Trump, the coronavirus has infected his wife Melania and several Republican senators, as well as millions of other Americans.

Anti-China protests erupted in Mongolia last week in&nbsp;Ulaanbaatar&nbsp;demanded the release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China.

Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population.

Earlier, protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia.

&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo departed for Japan on Sunday but will not go to Mongolia and South Korea as originally planned, the State Department said, after President Donald Trump was diagnosed and hospitalized due to the coronavirus.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo departed for Japan on Sunday but will not go to Mongolia and South Korea as originally planned, the State Department said, after President Donald Trump was diagnosed and hospitalized due to the coronavirus. Also see: In pics: Here's who has tested positive and negative in Trump's circle Initially, Pompeo planned to visit all three countries between October 4 and October 8. He is still set to leave for Tokyo on Sunday but will be returning to Washington on October 6 after consultations with his Japanese counterparts and attending a wider meeting with foreign ministers of India and Australia. In a statement, the State Department said Pompeo was expecting to travel to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule the visits in his original itinerary. Also read: Anti-China protests erupt in Mongolia ahead of Mike Pompeo's visit Pompeo's visit to East Asia, his first to the region in over a year, comes at a time when US ties with Beijing are at their worst in decades. Apart from Trump, the coronavirus has infected his wife Melania and several Republican senators, as well as millions of other Americans. Anti-China protests erupted in Mongolia last week in Ulaanbaatar demanded the release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China. Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population. Earlier, protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. The Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia.

Pompeo shortens Asia trip; cuts visits to Mongolia and South Korea

Mongolians took to streets just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to the country. On Thursday, dozens of protesters demanded release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China. The protests took place in Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar.

Protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Mongolia next week during his Asia tour. His Asia tour includes a visit to Japan and South Korea but not China.

Some of the protesters on Thursday wore facemasks as a precaution against the coronavirus -- were dressed in traditional Mongolian outfits and carried banners showing pictures of alleged Chinese atrocities against ethnic Mongolians. 
Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population.

Ethnic Mongolians in China and elsewhere fear the move -- which limits the opportunity to use Mongolian in schools -- will lead to the language's extinction.

Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi's visit to Mongolia last month was also overshadowed by protests.

"During the Wang Yi's visit Mongolian leadership should have spoken up and stated that China must release the arrested Inner Mongolians," protester Elbegdorj told AFP.

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Rallies in Inner Mongolia last month were the largest seen for decades, but a crackdown was swift, with armoured vehicles surrounding schools in some areas.&nbsp;

Police also offered cash bounties for leads on ringleaders and publicised the arrests of dozens of suspects accused of gathering signatures and sharing dissenting messages on WeChat.

The clampdown echoes Beijing's moves in Xinjiang and Tibet, where similar policies to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population were implemented in line with Xi's vision of national and ideological unity through cultural identity.

"Obtaining an education in its native language is universally recognised human rights," protest organiser Zolzaya Nyamdorj said.

"China is violating those rights."

(With AFP inputs) 
&nbsp;

Mongolians took to streets just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to the country. On Thursday, dozens of protesters demanded release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China.

Mongolians took to streets just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to the country. On Thursday, dozens of protesters demanded release of ethnic Mongolian arrested in China. The protests took place in Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar. Protests have also erupted in Chuinese province of Inner Mongolia after Chinese government took a decision to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language. Chinese province of Inner Mongolia shares borders with Mongolia. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Mongolia next week during his Asia tour. His Asia tour includes a visit to Japan and South Korea but not China. Some of the protesters on Thursday wore facemasks as a precaution against the coronavirus -- were dressed in traditional Mongolian outfits and carried banners showing pictures of alleged Chinese atrocities against ethnic Mongolians. Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population. Ethnic Mongolians in China and elsewhere fear the move -- which limits the opportunity to use Mongolian in schools -- will lead to the language's extinction. Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi's visit to Mongolia last month was also overshadowed by protests. "During the Wang Yi's visit Mongolian leadership should have spoken up and stated that China must release the arrested Inner Mongolians," protester Elbegdorj told AFP. Also Read | Internet explodes with memes after Trump, who called COVID-19 a 'hoax', tests positive Rallies in Inner Mongolia last month were the largest seen for decades, but a crackdown was swift, with armoured vehicles surrounding schools in some areas. Police also offered cash bounties for leads on ringleaders and publicised the arrests of dozens of suspects accused of gathering signatures and sharing dissenting messages on WeChat. The clampdown echoes Beijing's moves in Xinjiang and Tibet, where similar policies to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population were implemented in line with Xi's vision of national and ideological unity through cultural identity. "Obtaining an education in its native language is universally recognised human rights," protest organiser Zolzaya Nyamdorj said. "China is violating those rights." (With AFP inputs)

Anti-China protests erupt in Mongolia ahead of Mike Pompeo's visit

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The new policy for Inner Mongolia, a northern province that borders the country of Mongolia, affects schools where Mongolian is been the principal language of instruction.

Students in Mongolia Protest Chinese language Policy

Tens of thousands took part in demonstrations and school boycotts in Inner Mongolia to protest against an edict mandating Mandarin-language teaching, over fears it will wipe out their language.

Your Story: Beijing presses Mandarin at schools in inner Mongolia

Chinese police are offering a bounty for people accused of taking part in protests in Inner Mongolia. Ethnic Mongolians in China's north have staged rare protests over changes to school curriculums that remove the Mongolian language from core subjects, a show of defiance that has led to curfews in some areas, according to an advocacy group.

Chinese cops offer bounty for suspected Inner Mongolia protesters

After Xinjiang, Tibet, Hong Kong & Taiwan, China is now waging a 'culturally assimilation' war in Inner Mongolia. Mandarin has replaced Mongolian at schools located in this province. Thousands of families have hit the streets.

Gravitas: China's war on Ethnic Mongolians

China is slowly trying to wipe out the culture and heritage of the Mongolian people of the Inner Mongolia region.

&nbsp;China’s policy aimed at replacing Mongolian with Mandarin&nbsp;as the language of instruction in all core subjects. 
&nbsp; 
And for Mongolian families, this policy is a step too far. They consider their language as one of the last surviving markers of their Mongolian identity. They do not want to learn about the world through China's prism but they are being forced to.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinas-war-on-ethnic-mongolians-324600/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp; 
In protest, students have started boycotting classes. Police officials are trying to send them back. Parents are clashing with the police, the images are moving — to say the least.

Entire families — out on the streets — fighting the might of the Chinese regime. This is nothing less than a civil disobedience movement.It has spread throughout Inner Mongolia.

Even in Ulaanbaatar — the capital of Mongolia. Hundreds of people are standing in solidarity with their ethnic Mongolian brethren. These are visuals of a demonstration that was held outside the Mongolian foreign ministry yesterday.

These people want their government to speak for the plight of every ethnic Mongolian and they want their voices to be heard internationally.&nbsp;

"I am proud of our brothers &amp; sisters, who are very few but are fighting hard against a billion. That is why we have to send them our love and support. I am afraid that they might get in danger. And we are here to ensure that it does not happen,” said a school teacher Tseren Tuvshinjargal.

"Our traditional script is registered in the Unesco’s list of intangible cultural heritage under the name of the Mongolian nation. The inner Mongolians preserve their Mongolian ethnic immunity with its language. That’s why I want their voice is heard to the international community,” said Banzragch Bazarsad, Member of Bosoo Khukh Mongol, a Mongolian nationalist organization.

China is slowly trying to wipe out the culture and heritage of the Mongolian people of the Inner Mongolia region. China’s policy aimed at replacing Mongolian with Mandarin as the language of instruction in all core subjects.

China is slowly trying to wipe out the culture and heritage of the Mongolian people of the Inner Mongolia region. China’s policy aimed at replacing Mongolian with Mandarin as the language of instruction in all core subjects. And for Mongolian families, this policy is a step too far. They consider their language as one of the last surviving markers of their Mongolian identity. They do not want to learn about the world through China's prism but they are being forced to. In protest, students have started boycotting classes. Police officials are trying to send them back. Parents are clashing with the police, the images are moving — to say the least. Entire families — out on the streets — fighting the might of the Chinese regime. This is nothing less than a civil disobedience movement.It has spread throughout Inner Mongolia. Even in Ulaanbaatar — the capital of Mongolia. Hundreds of people are standing in solidarity with their ethnic Mongolian brethren. These are visuals of a demonstration that was held outside the Mongolian foreign ministry yesterday. These people want their government to speak for the plight of every ethnic Mongolian and they want their voices to be heard internationally. "I am proud of our brothers & sisters, who are very few but are fighting hard against a billion. That is why we have to send them our love and support. I am afraid that they might get in danger. And we are here to ensure that it does not happen,” said a school teacher Tseren Tuvshinjargal. "Our traditional script is registered in the Unesco’s list of intangible cultural heritage under the name of the Mongolian nation. The inner Mongolians preserve their Mongolian ethnic immunity with its language. That’s why I want their voice is heard to the international community,” said Banzragch Bazarsad, Member of Bosoo Khukh Mongol, a Mongolian nationalist organization.

Protests erupt as China moves to end Mongolian-medium teaching in schools

Chinese government efforts to replace the language of instruction in schools in Inner Mongolia appear to have backfired, prompting parents and students to boycott classes and take to the streets in protest

Your Story: China moves to curb Mongolian schools

Naadam sports festival held in Mongolia behind closed doors without COVID precautions

A Chinese city in the country's Inner Mongolia region on July 4 reported its first suspected case of bubonic plague or 'Black Death'. As the health officials found a suspected bubonic plague case from Bayan Nur City. Watch report.

Your Story: China reports case of Bubonic plague, Farmers falls victim

Case of Bubonic plague in China: China imposes strict control measures

Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent a personal audio message to the Mongolian Prime Minister Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh. Watch this video to know more.

Chinese President Xi Jinping sends audio message to Mongolian PM

The Mongolian health ministry has requested for Remdesivir from Indian companies, India's envoy to Mongolia M P Singh has said.&nbsp;Remdesivir though still experimental holds promise in treatment for COVID.&nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar, Ambassador M P Singh while talking about current collaboration during the pandemic said, "best in our relationship with Mongolia is yet to come."&nbsp;

India is also reaching out to Mongolia at the current times of COVID crisis by sending consignments of Paracetamol and HCQ to the country and offering training to its officials in COVID management.

WION: How is India and Mongolia cooperating with each other to deal with the COVID pandemic?

M P Singh: I can say that Mongolia is relatively less impacted by the COVID pandemic, the reason being they acted quite early, as early as last week of January, even before the first case broke out. So comparatively, situation here is quite better than other countries in the region and worldwide. Yes, we have received a request from Mongolia. As a matter of fact, as we speak, a consignment of Paracetamol and HCQ is on its way via Korea into Mongolia.&nbsp;

In addition, we offered to Mongolia national centre for communicable diseases which is the main centre for dealing with preparedness and management of this pandemic, we have offered them online courses which was offered by PGI Chandigarh and two of the officials have already undergone that training and in addition to this, there is request already made by the ministry of health to one or two Indian companies for supply of Remdesivir which is being used for the treatment of COVID pandemic.&nbsp;

These are some of the initiatives done, we are in regular touch with the Mongolian health ministry and national centre of Health. I personally visited that, it is the only day before we had flown in 158 Mongolian nationals from India and flown out some people from here. We are cooperating well at all levels wherever we could and with Mongolia, as you rightly said, we have a strategic partnership and it is one of the 5 countries with which Mongolia has partnership and India has a partnership with Mongolia which is strategic in nature announced during the visit of PM Modi which brought in paradigm shift into our relationship.

WION: How many Indians are stranded in Mongolia and are there any plans to repatriate them?

M P Singh: As compared to other countries, Mongolia has a small size of the Indian diaspora. They number around 200. Mostly they are professionals scattered all around. Yes, we have had requests for repatriation of Indian nationals. So far, we have repatriated five Indians about a month back and 10 Indians were evacuated in a special relief flight which was operated by Mongolian airlines to bring back own citizens. So, we have taken about 15 Indian nationals out of the country, and two more requests are pending and they are procedural in nature and once we complete will try and see how we assist those two people also.

WION: Life for Indian diplomats during COVID times in Mongolia and is it impacting interaction with Indians?

M P Singh: As I said, Mongolia has been less impacted, so life here has not been like life in India or the lockdown. We had a very small lockdown in early January and thereafter life has been relatively normal. Yes, we are using all virtual tools in our interaction. There is no ban per se on movement of Indian diplomats. Even local people can move around.

Only thing, we have to follow some norms, like wearing a mask which is mandatory. Keeping some distance and all big events are cancelled but we are able to meet freely with any of the local dignitaries including the ministers. We have been attending all of the briefings. We have certain norms--10 to 20 people in the room at a certain distance. So we are normal in other sense of the word, but doing much more business via online, through virtual mode rather than in person.&nbsp;

The Indian community is small, 200+, what we do is we remain in touch with them and we have formed a WhatsApp group in which there are about 80+ members. Separately, we post regular updates from the Mongolian government and the Indian government on the travel restrictions and the guidelines that need to be followed.&nbsp;We have also called few online sessions with representatives of Indian associations, and in-person I have met the office bearers of the only Indian association in Mongolia--The India Club. So all of these, I would say, technological tools are helping us keep the connect intact, and we are sharing updates. We remain in touch with each other.

WION: How do you see long term cooperation with Mongolia?

M P Singh: I will put you question in 2 brackets, pre-COVID and post COVID.&nbsp;

India is among the 5 countries with which Mongolia has a strategic partnership, we were the 4th country and the US the 5th. From 2015, there has been a paradigm shift in our relationship with Mongolia in all walks of lives, all aspects of the relationship. The fact that India's single largest project of assistance, outside immediate neighbourhood of 1.236 billion dollars has been made to Mongolia for construction of Mongol refinery. The first-ever Mongol refinery here capable of refining 1.5 million metric tonnes of crude speaks volume of our relationship.

We are helping Mongolia is current times, in terms of providing special assistance for providing them HCQ, Paracetamol and request pending from Mongolian health ministry to some of our companies for supply of Remdesivir. This is going on and going on I would see, this cooperation going to be expanded further for 2 reasons. One is the oil refinery, it is 1.236 billion dollars, so you can imagine the volume and its impact in every single economic activity in this country. Recently the three consignments that have come in have made them aware of India's strength in the Pharma sector. Many now call us as Pharmacy of the world. This sector is certainly going to grow.

I am glad to share news, just a few months ago acknowledging this potential, centre called India Mongolia health cooperation centre that has come up which is looking into the ways and means of our cooperation. So, the areas of cooperation will not only focus on pharma, health care medicine but will go beyond. These challenging time has provided us not only opportunity and PM has given self-reliant or atamnirbhar bharat, which is going to provide a greater framework for expanding India's cooperation into this region and especially the part of act east policy into it, so yes I see us cooperating well with Mongolia. But the best in our relationship with Mongolia is yet to come.

The Mongolian health ministry has requested for Remdesivir from Indian companies, India's envoy to Mongolia M P Singh has said. Remdesivir though still experimental holds promise in treatment for COVID.

The Mongolian health ministry has requested for Remdesivir from Indian companies, India's envoy to Mongolia M P Singh has said. Remdesivir though still experimental holds promise in treatment for COVID. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar, Ambassador M P Singh while talking about current collaboration during the pandemic said, "best in our relationship with Mongolia is yet to come." India is also reaching out to Mongolia at the current times of COVID crisis by sending consignments of Paracetamol and HCQ to the country and offering training to its officials in COVID management. WION: How is India and Mongolia cooperating with each other to deal with the COVID pandemic? M P Singh: I can say that Mongolia is relatively less impacted by the COVID pandemic, the reason being they acted quite early, as early as last week of January, even before the first case broke out. So comparatively, situation here is quite better than other countries in the region and worldwide. Yes, we have received a request from Mongolia. As a matter of fact, as we speak, a consignment of Paracetamol and HCQ is on its way via Korea into Mongolia. In addition, we offered to Mongolia national centre for communicable diseases which is the main centre for dealing with preparedness and management of this pandemic, we have offered them online courses which was offered by PGI Chandigarh and two of the officials have already undergone that training and in addition to this, there is request already made by the ministry of health to one or two Indian companies for supply of Remdesivir which is being used for the treatment of COVID pandemic. These are some of the initiatives done, we are in regular touch with the Mongolian health ministry and national centre of Health. I personally visited that, it is the only day before we had flown in 158 Mongolian nationals from India and flown out some people from here. We are cooperating well at all levels wherever we could and with Mongolia, as you rightly said, we have a strategic partnership and it is one of the 5 countries with which Mongolia has partnership and India has a partnership with Mongolia which is strategic in nature announced during the visit of PM Modi which brought in paradigm shift into our relationship. WION: How many Indians are stranded in Mongolia and are there any plans to repatriate them? M P Singh: As compared to other countries, Mongolia has a small size of the Indian diaspora. They number around 200. Mostly they are professionals scattered all around. Yes, we have had requests for repatriation of Indian nationals. So far, we have repatriated five Indians about a month back and 10 Indians were evacuated in a special relief flight which was operated by Mongolian airlines to bring back own citizens. So, we have taken about 15 Indian nationals out of the country, and two more requests are pending and they are procedural in nature and once we complete will try and see how we assist those two people also. WION: Life for Indian diplomats during COVID times in Mongolia and is it impacting interaction with Indians? M P Singh: As I said, Mongolia has been less impacted, so life here has not been like life in India or the lockdown. We had a very small lockdown in early January and thereafter life has been relatively normal. Yes, we are using all virtual tools in our interaction. There is no ban per se on movement of Indian diplomats. Even local people can move around. Only thing, we have to follow some norms, like wearing a mask which is mandatory. Keeping some distance and all big events are cancelled but we are able to meet freely with any of the local dignitaries including the ministers. We have been attending all of the briefings. We have certain norms--10 to 20 people in the room at a certain distance. So we are normal in other sense of the word, but doing much more business via online, through virtual mode rather than in person. The Indian community is small, 200+, what we do is we remain in touch with them and we have formed a WhatsApp group in which there are about 80+ members. Separately, we post regular updates from the Mongolian government and the Indian government on the travel restrictions and the guidelines that need to be followed. We have also called few online sessions with representatives of Indian associations, and in-person I have met the office bearers of the only Indian association in Mongolia--The India Club. So all of these, I would say, technological tools are helping us keep the connect intact, and we are sharing updates. We remain in touch with each other. WION: How do you see long term cooperation with Mongolia? M P Singh: I will put you question in 2 brackets, pre-COVID and post COVID. India is among the 5 countries with which Mongolia has a strategic partnership, we were the 4th country and the US the 5th. From 2015, there has been a paradigm shift in our relationship with Mongolia in all walks of lives, all aspects of the relationship. The fact that India's single largest project of assistance, outside immediate neighbourhood of 1.236 billion dollars has been made to Mongolia for construction of Mongol refinery. The first-ever Mongol refinery here capable of refining 1.5 million metric tonnes of crude speaks volume of our relationship. We are helping Mongolia is current times, in terms of providing special assistance for providing them HCQ, Paracetamol and request pending from Mongolian health ministry to some of our companies for supply of Remdesivir. This is going on and going on I would see, this cooperation going to be expanded further for 2 reasons. One is the oil refinery, it is 1.236 billion dollars, so you can imagine the volume and its impact in every single economic activity in this country. Recently the three consignments that have come in have made them aware of India's strength in the Pharma sector. Many now call us as Pharmacy of the world. This sector is certainly going to grow. I am glad to share news, just a few months ago acknowledging this potential, centre called India Mongolia health cooperation centre that has come up which is looking into the ways and means of our cooperation. So, the areas of cooperation will not only focus on pharma, health care medicine but will go beyond. These challenging time has provided us not only opportunity and PM has given self-reliant or atamnirbhar bharat, which is going to provide a greater framework for expanding India's cooperation into this region and especially the part of act east policy into it, so yes I see us cooperating well with Mongolia. But the best in our relationship with Mongolia is yet to come.

Mongolia requests for Remdesivir used COVID treatment from Indian companies

A fourth person in northern China has been diagnosed with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-plague-outbreak-risk-minimal-after-two-new-cases-in-beijing-262088">plague this month</a>, officials confirmed, as a flea and rat eradication campaign was carried out by local government.

The Ulanqab government in central Inner Mongolia said on Wednesday that a herder who had been diagnosed with bubonic plague was currently being treated in isolation and was in a stable condition.

Another person was diagnosed with bubonic plague in Inner Mongolia's Xilin Gol league on November 16, more than 400 kilometres (250 miles) away.

And in mid-November two patients from Inner Mongolia were moved to Beijing for treatment of the highly-contagious pneumonic strain of the plague.

The pneumonic strain can prove fatal in 24 to 72 hours and is the "most virulent form" of the disease according to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organization-says-e-cigarettes-undoubtedly-harmful-238779">World Health Organisation</a> (WHO), while the bubonic form is less dangerous.

The Ulanqab government said earlier that it had sprayed almost 200 acres of land last week as part of "rat- and flea-extermination work."

Ulanqab officials didn't disclose the specifics of how the latest patient caught the plague, but said the patient had been "active" in a plague-affected location prior to falling ill.

The plague germ Yersinia pestis can be transmitted to humans from infected rats via fleas.

Though the highly-contagious plague is rare in China, several cases have proven deadly in the past few years.

According to China's National Health Commission, a total of five people have died from the plague between 2014 and September of this year. &nbsp;

In 2014, a man died of the plague in northwestern Gansu province and sparked the quarantine of 151 people.

The 30,000 people living in Yumen, the town where the man died, were also prevented from leaving, with police at roadblocks placed on the town perimeter.

In neighbouring Mongolia, a couple died of the bubonic plague in May after they ate raw marmot meat, another carrier of the plague germ.

A fourth person in northern China has been diagnosed with the plague this month, officials confirmed, as a flea and rat eradication campaign was carried out by local government.

A fourth person in northern China has been diagnosed with the plague this month, officials confirmed, as a flea and rat eradication campaign was carried out by local government. The Ulanqab government in central Inner Mongolia said on Wednesday that a herder who had been diagnosed with bubonic plague was currently being treated in isolation and was in a stable condition. Another person was diagnosed with bubonic plague in Inner Mongolia's Xilin Gol league on November 16, more than 400 kilometres (250 miles) away. And in mid-November two patients from Inner Mongolia were moved to Beijing for treatment of the highly-contagious pneumonic strain of the plague. The pneumonic strain can prove fatal in 24 to 72 hours and is the "most virulent form" of the disease according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), while the bubonic form is less dangerous. The Ulanqab government said earlier that it had sprayed almost 200 acres of land last week as part of "rat- and flea-extermination work." Ulanqab officials didn't disclose the specifics of how the latest patient caught the plague, but said the patient had been "active" in a plague-affected location prior to falling ill. The plague germ Yersinia pestis can be transmitted to humans from infected rats via fleas. Though the highly-contagious plague is rare in China, several cases have proven deadly in the past few years. According to China's National Health Commission, a total of five people have died from the plague between 2014 and September of this year. In 2014, a man died of the plague in northwestern Gansu province and sparked the quarantine of 151 people. The 30,000 people living in Yumen, the town where the man died, were also prevented from leaving, with police at roadblocks placed on the town perimeter. In neighbouring Mongolia, a couple died of the bubonic plague in May after they ate raw marmot meat, another carrier of the plague germ.

China confirms fourth plague case

One cold night in October, Gerel Ganbaatar decided to stay with her parents in one of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mongolian-president-arrives-in-india-to-intensify-bilateral-ties-250746">Mongolia's traditional ger</a> communities on the outskirts of the capital -- a decision which would prove fatal.

Within hours of arriving, she and her parents both became breathless and nauseous. They desperately called for help,&nbsp;but by the time medics arrived Gerel, who was four months pregnant, was already dead.

The 29-year-old's parents were using smokeless briquettes to warm their home for the first time that night: A government-issued fuel,&nbsp;made of coking coal from the southern Gobi region and washed coal powder,&nbsp;it has been linked to deaths and ill-health.

Since residents started using the briquettes in October, there have been seven other deaths,&nbsp;mainly children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Nearly one thousand have been hospitalised in Ulaanbaatar's outer slum districts, prompting fears the fuel can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.&nbsp;

Gerel's grieving mother, Jargalsaikhan Mishigdorj, warns the fuel should be used with care.

"I have burned coal all of my life, we have never ever been suffocated," she explains.&nbsp;

The Mongolian government is trying to battle dangerous smog levels in one of the world's most polluted cities by trying to offer replacements for raw coal, which produces a dense, dangerous smoke, but is often&nbsp;used by the poor to warm their homes in a place where temperature can plummet to minus 40C.&nbsp;

Mongolian officials say the briquettes last longer and emit fewer fumes.

Toxic air

One nurse at the National Poison Emergency hospital, who declined to say her name, told AFP she had never seen the numbers of carbon monoxide poisoning patients so high.

"We are working under an enormous amount of pressure," she says.

The city's emergency unit said issues were easing once people were told the "correct ways to burn the briquettes".&nbsp;

They said public service workers were spending time in the ger district to teach people about the new fuel as well as to report if any raw coal was still being used.

Its the latest example of governments in Asia struggling to find a safe, workable solution to replacing coal, in a region that is battling toxic levels of air pollution.

In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's promise to provide cooking gas connections to millions of rural residents has been beset by corruption.&nbsp;

In neighbouring China, three million homes near Beijing were ordered to switch from coal to gas or electric heating in 2017, but a difficult transition left many without any heating at all.

Ulaanbaatar is the world's coldest capital and only half of the residents have central heating, and Ulaanbaatar regularly exceeds World Health Organisation recommendations for air quality.

The government has been trying to force low-grade coal out of commission to reduce the thick air pollution that has plagued the city.&nbsp;

And experts say there is evidence that the move is already having a positive impact on the environment.

Sonomdagva, associate professor at the National University of Mongolia, told AFP that PM 2.5 -- tiny particles that get into the lungs and bloodstream -- had decreased by 40 per cent compared with October last year.

"However, an incredibly long and warm autumn, plus the usage of the new refined fuel, and fear of suffocation meaning people use only wood (for fuel) can also be reasons of the 40 per cent decrease," he said.

Fear of suffocation

Byambajargal Losol, a physicist at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-time-in-a-decade-mongolian-president-to-visit-india-250052">Mongolian Science Academy</a>, told AFP that he believes the smokeless briquettes are the best way to reduce air pollution -- but that more needs to be done to help their safe use.

"People are using briquettes just like the old raw coal and burning it the same way," he said, adding: "The briquettes are thick and compact so they require twice as much oxygen to burn, compared to raw coal."

Carbon monoxide poisoning happens when there is a restricted oxygen supply.

The state-owned factory that produces the briquettes said families should also clean their stoves before burning the new fuel.

It has started providing free stove repair services after issues were highlighted in the local press. The government has also promised to distribute free smoke detectors in ger districts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While citizens say the briquettes have benefits, some remain wary.

Ger resident Turbold Sainbuyan told AFP that the new briquettes save time and last longer.

"I had to break up the raw coal, (but) the briquettes are ready to use," he says.&nbsp;

"Now we use one bag of briquettes for three days compared to one bag of raw coal for only one day," he adds.

His mother Enkhjargal Chuluun, a nurse at a private dental clinic, said the briquettes are warmer than raw coal.

She says: "But we still have fear of suffocation, so we started opening the window at night."

One cold night in October, Gerel Ganbaatar decided to stay with her parents in one of Mongolia's traditional ger communities on the outskirts of the capital -- a decision which would prove fatal.

One cold night in October, Gerel Ganbaatar decided to stay with her parents in one of Mongolia's traditional ger communities on the outskirts of the capital -- a decision which would prove fatal. Within hours of arriving, she and her parents both became breathless and nauseous. They desperately called for help, but by the time medics arrived Gerel, who was four months pregnant, was already dead. The 29-year-old's parents were using smokeless briquettes to warm their home for the first time that night: A government-issued fuel, made of coking coal from the southern Gobi region and washed coal powder, it has been linked to deaths and ill-health. Since residents started using the briquettes in October, there have been seven other deaths, mainly children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Nearly one thousand have been hospitalised in Ulaanbaatar's outer slum districts, prompting fears the fuel can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Gerel's grieving mother, Jargalsaikhan Mishigdorj, warns the fuel should be used with care. "I have burned coal all of my life, we have never ever been suffocated," she explains. The Mongolian government is trying to battle dangerous smog levels in one of the world's most polluted cities by trying to offer replacements for raw coal, which produces a dense, dangerous smoke, but is often used by the poor to warm their homes in a place where temperature can plummet to minus 40C. Mongolian officials say the briquettes last longer and emit fewer fumes. Toxic air One nurse at the National Poison Emergency hospital, who declined to say her name, told AFP she had never seen the numbers of carbon monoxide poisoning patients so high. "We are working under an enormous amount of pressure," she says. The city's emergency unit said issues were easing once people were told the "correct ways to burn the briquettes". They said public service workers were spending time in the ger district to teach people about the new fuel as well as to report if any raw coal was still being used. Its the latest example of governments in Asia struggling to find a safe, workable solution to replacing coal, in a region that is battling toxic levels of air pollution. In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's promise to provide cooking gas connections to millions of rural residents has been beset by corruption. In neighbouring China, three million homes near Beijing were ordered to switch from coal to gas or electric heating in 2017, but a difficult transition left many without any heating at all. Ulaanbaatar is the world's coldest capital and only half of the residents have central heating, and Ulaanbaatar regularly exceeds World Health Organisation recommendations for air quality. The government has been trying to force low-grade coal out of commission to reduce the thick air pollution that has plagued the city. And experts say there is evidence that the move is already having a positive impact on the environment. Sonomdagva, associate professor at the National University of Mongolia, told AFP that PM 2.5 -- tiny particles that get into the lungs and bloodstream -- had decreased by 40 per cent compared with October last year. "However, an incredibly long and warm autumn, plus the usage of the new refined fuel, and fear of suffocation meaning people use only wood (for fuel) can also be reasons of the 40 per cent decrease," he said. Fear of suffocation Byambajargal Losol, a physicist at the Mongolian Science Academy, told AFP that he believes the smokeless briquettes are the best way to reduce air pollution -- but that more needs to be done to help their safe use. "People are using briquettes just like the old raw coal and burning it the same way," he said, adding: "The briquettes are thick and compact so they require twice as much oxygen to burn, compared to raw coal." Carbon monoxide poisoning happens when there is a restricted oxygen supply. The state-owned factory that produces the briquettes said families should also clean their stoves before burning the new fuel. It has started providing free stove repair services after issues were highlighted in the local press. The government has also promised to distribute free smoke detectors in ger districts. While citizens say the briquettes have benefits, some remain wary. Ger resident Turbold Sainbuyan told AFP that the new briquettes save time and last longer. "I had to break up the raw coal, (but) the briquettes are ready to use," he says. "Now we use one bag of briquettes for three days compared to one bag of raw coal for only one day," he adds. His mother Enkhjargal Chuluun, a nurse at a private dental clinic, said the briquettes are warmer than raw coal. She says: "But we still have fear of suffocation, so we started opening the window at night."

Mongolia's new 'cleaner' fuel linked to deaths, illness

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 17th, 2019

Earlier on Thursday, Khaltmaagiin Battulga, the President of Mongolia&nbsp;arrived in India on a five-day visit to intensify bilateral ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Mongolian President will jointly unveil the statue of Lord Buddha at Gandan Monastery via a video conference later today.

Battulga on Friday paid a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat here. He was joined by the Union Minister, Kiren Rijiju. Earlier today, Battulga received a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here and was received by the President, Ram Nath Kovind.&nbsp;

"I am very happy that I am on a state visit to India with which [sic] we have centuries of spiritual and cultural relations and ties", President Battulga said. "We [President Ram Nath Kovind and I] were elected around the same time in July 2017, and I would like to invite the President of India to pay an official visit to Mongolia", he added.

The Mongolian President will also meet Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu. Battulga's visit to India is the first state visit by a Mongolian President in the last 10 years, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, noting that the two sides will hold in-depth discussions on a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues.&nbsp;

It also said that the two countries would review ongoing cooperation in the fields of infrastructure, energy, disaster management, defence, security, culture, and capacity building. The two countries had reached a strategic partnership in 2015 during the visit of Prime Minister Modi to Mongolia. Several high-level exchanges have taken place since then and the partnership has seen considerable progress during the last few years.

Earlier on Thursday, Khaltmaagiin Battulga, the President of Mongolia arrived in India on a five-day visit to intensify bilateral ties between the two countries.

Earlier on Thursday, Khaltmaagiin Battulga, the President of Mongolia arrived in India on a five-day visit to intensify bilateral ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Mongolian President will jointly unveil the statue of Lord Buddha at Gandan Monastery via a video conference later today. Battulga on Friday paid a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat here. He was joined by the Union Minister, Kiren Rijiju. Earlier today, Battulga received a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here and was received by the President, Ram Nath Kovind. "I am very happy that I am on a state visit to India with which [sic] we have centuries of spiritual and cultural relations and ties", President Battulga said. "We [President Ram Nath Kovind and I] were elected around the same time in July 2017, and I would like to invite the President of India to pay an official visit to Mongolia", he added. The Mongolian President will also meet Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu. Battulga's visit to India is the first state visit by a Mongolian President in the last 10 years, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, noting that the two sides will hold in-depth discussions on a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues. It also said that the two countries would review ongoing cooperation in the fields of infrastructure, energy, disaster management, defence, security, culture, and capacity building. The two countries had reached a strategic partnership in 2015 during the visit of Prime Minister Modi to Mongolia. Several high-level exchanges have taken place since then and the partnership has seen considerable progress during the last few years.

Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga on five-day visit to India to intensify bilateral ties

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday hosted his Mongolian counterpart Khaltmaagiin Battulga over a banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan and expressed confidence that the latter's visit will be a milestone in India-Mongolia bilateral ties.

Welcoming Battulga to India, the President said this is the first visit of a Mongolian president in the last 10 years.

Kovind said India greatly values its close and friendly relations with Mongolia.

"We are not just 'strategic partners'&nbsp;but also 'spiritual neighbours'&nbsp;connected by our shared Buddhist heritage," the President said in a statement released by his office.

He was also happy to note that bilateral relations between the two countries are now expanding into economic cooperation in several areas such as infrastructure, space and digital connectivity.

Both sides further reviewed cooperation in the fields of cybersecurity, information technology, disaster management, mining and animal husbandry, the statement said.

The two countries signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) in areas regarding disaster management and risk reduction, and cooperation and usage of outer space for peaceful and civilian purposes.

They also secured a comprehensive work plan for cooperation in the field of animal health and dairy.

Kovind appreciated Mongolia for its consistent support to India's candidature for permanent membership of the UN Security Council.

He also appreciated Mongolia's decision to join the International Solar Alliance and said this will strengthen the partnership in the renewable energy sector and help the two countries combat climate change.

Subsequently, in his banquet speech, Kovind said the "centuries-old people-to-people exchanges have been the bedrock of our ties".

"Buddhist monks and traders from India travelled to Mongolia with the message of peace, harmony and friendship. Similarly, over the ages, Mongolian scholars and pilgrims came to India in pursuit of Buddhist studies and spiritual blessings. This ageless tradition continues. India, today, is privileged to host around 800 Mongolian students engaged in Buddhist studies," Kovind said.

Battulga received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier today. He arrived in India on a five-day visit with an aim to intensifying bilateral ties between the two countries.

He also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the two jointly unveiled the statue of Lord Buddha at Gandan Monastery via video conference.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday hosted his Mongolian counterpart Khaltmaagiin Battulga over a banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan and expressed confidence that the latter's visit will be a milestone in India-Mongolia bilateral ties.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday hosted his Mongolian counterpart Khaltmaagiin Battulga over a banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan and expressed confidence that the latter's visit will be a milestone in India-Mongolia bilateral ties. Welcoming Battulga to India, the President said this is the first visit of a Mongolian president in the last 10 years. Kovind said India greatly values its close and friendly relations with Mongolia. "We are not just 'strategic partners' but also 'spiritual neighbours' connected by our shared Buddhist heritage," the President said in a statement released by his office. He was also happy to note that bilateral relations between the two countries are now expanding into economic cooperation in several areas such as infrastructure, space and digital connectivity. Both sides further reviewed cooperation in the fields of cybersecurity, information technology, disaster management, mining and animal husbandry, the statement said. The two countries signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) in areas regarding disaster management and risk reduction, and cooperation and usage of outer space for peaceful and civilian purposes. They also secured a comprehensive work plan for cooperation in the field of animal health and dairy. Kovind appreciated Mongolia for its consistent support to India's candidature for permanent membership of the UN Security Council. He also appreciated Mongolia's decision to join the International Solar Alliance and said this will strengthen the partnership in the renewable energy sector and help the two countries combat climate change. Subsequently, in his banquet speech, Kovind said the "centuries-old people-to-people exchanges have been the bedrock of our ties". "Buddhist monks and traders from India travelled to Mongolia with the message of peace, harmony and friendship. Similarly, over the ages, Mongolian scholars and pilgrims came to India in pursuit of Buddhist studies and spiritual blessings. This ageless tradition continues. India, today, is privileged to host around 800 Mongolian students engaged in Buddhist studies," Kovind said. Battulga received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier today. He arrived in India on a five-day visit with an aim to intensifying bilateral ties between the two countries. He also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the two jointly unveiled the statue of Lord Buddha at Gandan Monastery via video conference.

Kovind hosts Mongolian president, says both countries are 'spiritual neighbours'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, who met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, discussed how India can help mitigate the impact of smog in the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar.

The foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "President of Mongolia spoke of the success India is having in mitigating the pollution due to stubble burning of wheat in the winter months."

According to Indian Council of Agricultural Research, there have been 41% decline in burning of crop stubble in 2018 as compared to 2016 in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCR region due to central government measures.

Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga will be visiting India later this month. During his tour, Battulga will visit Delhi, Bodh Gaya and Bengaluru. India is helping the landlocked country build an oil refinery through a line of credit announced during PM Modi's visit to the country.&nbsp;

In 2015, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the country.

Mongolia, which is landlocked between Russia and China considers India as its "third neighbour" with which it has a spiritual connection.&nbsp;

Last few years have seen a number of high-level visits from India to Mongolia, including the visit of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in April 2018, former home minister Rajnath Singh in June 2018 and former minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju in July 2018

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, who met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, discussed how India can help mitigate the impact of smog in the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, who met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, discussed how India can help mitigate the impact of smog in the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar. The foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "President of Mongolia spoke of the success India is having in mitigating the pollution due to stubble burning of wheat in the winter months." According to Indian Council of Agricultural Research, there have been 41% decline in burning of crop stubble in 2018 as compared to 2016 in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCR region due to central government measures. Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga will be visiting India later this month. During his tour, Battulga will visit Delhi, Bodh Gaya and Bengaluru. India is helping the landlocked country build an oil refinery through a line of credit announced during PM Modi's visit to the country. In 2015, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the country. Mongolia, which is landlocked between Russia and China considers India as its "third neighbour" with which it has a spiritual connection. Last few years have seen a number of high-level visits from India to Mongolia, including the visit of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in April 2018, former home minister Rajnath Singh in June 2018 and former minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju in July 2018

On sidelines of EEF, PM Modi meets Mongolian President; offers help on mitigating smog

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday revealed the name he chose for a horse that was somewhat symbolically given to his 13-year-old son, Barron, by visiting Mongolian President Battulga Khaltmaa: Victory.

Battulga, the first president from the remote Asian nation to visit the White House since 2011, pulled up on the South Lawn driveway in a black SUV, without the horse.

A senior official had told reporters ahead of the visit that Battulga wanted Trump to name the Mongolian steed - a traditional symbolic gift for visiting dignitaries, who typically leave them behind to be cared for on the northern steppes. The ancient breed of tough, tiny horses was ridden by Genghis Khan and other warlords.

Asked by a reporter during a brief Rose Garden photo op if he had thought of a name for the horse, Trump said, "I did: `Victory.`"

Turning to Battulga, Trump said, "Thank you very much for the horse," before asking reporters if they had seen a photo. (They had not.) "Beautiful," he said.

Later, White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham tweeted a photo of a dun foal scampering beside a mare, and said the horse would remain in Mongolia. "The First Family is very grateful to Mongolia for this time-honoured traditional gift," Grisham said.

The country, home to only about 3 million people, is a vast expanse of mineral-rich land strategically sandwiched between China and Russia.

Battulga is eager for investment from the United States and other countries it considers "third neighbours" to help it reduce its economic dependence on China, through which most of its exports of cashmere and other goods move.

"The United States and Mongolia have agreed that their relationship has reached the level of a `strategic partnership,`" the White House said in a statement, noting that the two countries are building closer security ties.

Mongolia, a former Communist country, has volunteered to play a part in Trump`s diplomatic overtures to Pyongyang, offering to host Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for a summit. The country is accessible by rail from North Korea.

Like Trump, Battulga was a businessman before he entered public service. Battulga also was a former judo wrestling champion, and brought with him to the White House his aide, Dolgorsuren Dagvadorj, a well-known former sumo champion.

"Mongolia - they`re great fighters. You know, they`re great fighters, great wrestlers, great champions," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday revealed the name he chose for a horse that was somewhat symbolically given to his 13-year-old son, Barron, by visiting Mongolian President Battulga Khaltmaa: Victory.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday revealed the name he chose for a horse that was somewhat symbolically given to his 13-year-old son, Barron, by visiting Mongolian President Battulga Khaltmaa: Victory. Battulga, the first president from the remote Asian nation to visit the White House since 2011, pulled up on the South Lawn driveway in a black SUV, without the horse. A senior official had told reporters ahead of the visit that Battulga wanted Trump to name the Mongolian steed - a traditional symbolic gift for visiting dignitaries, who typically leave them behind to be cared for on the northern steppes. The ancient breed of tough, tiny horses was ridden by Genghis Khan and other warlords. Asked by a reporter during a brief Rose Garden photo op if he had thought of a name for the horse, Trump said, "I did: `Victory.`" Turning to Battulga, Trump said, "Thank you very much for the horse," before asking reporters if they had seen a photo. (They had not.) "Beautiful," he said. Later, White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham tweeted a photo of a dun foal scampering beside a mare, and said the horse would remain in Mongolia. "The First Family is very grateful to Mongolia for this time-honoured traditional gift," Grisham said. The country, home to only about 3 million people, is a vast expanse of mineral-rich land strategically sandwiched between China and Russia. Battulga is eager for investment from the United States and other countries it considers "third neighbours" to help it reduce its economic dependence on China, through which most of its exports of cashmere and other goods move. "The United States and Mongolia have agreed that their relationship has reached the level of a `strategic partnership,`" the White House said in a statement, noting that the two countries are building closer security ties. Mongolia, a former Communist country, has volunteered to play a part in Trump`s diplomatic overtures to Pyongyang, offering to host Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for a summit. The country is accessible by rail from North Korea. Like Trump, Battulga was a businessman before he entered public service. Battulga also was a former judo wrestling champion, and brought with him to the White House his aide, Dolgorsuren Dagvadorj, a well-known former sumo champion. "Mongolia - they`re great fighters. You know, they`re great fighters, great wrestlers, great champions," Trump said.

'Victory': Trump reveals name for Mongolian gift horse

Indian companies are increasingly eyeing Mongolia's oil and gas sector with first every exhibition on the energy sector with the participation of several companies and an agreement on an India built a Mongolian oil refinery.&nbsp;

Engineers India Ltd (EIL) and Mongolia's Mongol Refinery have signed an agreement on the Project Management Consultancy (PMC) for setting up of the first oil refinery in the eastern province of DornoGobi. The agreement was signed in the presence of Mongolian Minister of Mining Dolgorsürengiin Sumyaabazar and the Ambassador of India to Mongolia MP Singh.

India will help build Mongolia's second oil refinery and has extended a $1 billion Line of Credit to the country for it. The refinery will be built in the city of Sainshand in Dornogobi province and will have a capacity of 1.5 MMTPA which will be implemented with Exim Bank funding.

During the visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 2015 visit to the country, which was the first ever visit of an Indian PM to the landlocked country, $1 billion credit line was announced which is being used to build the first ever oil refinery for the country. Last year Mongolian PM Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh and Home Minister Rajnath Singh took part in the groundbreaking ceremony for that Oil Refinery. It is expected to be completed by mid-2023.&nbsp;

In a bid to increase engagement between oil and gas companies to both countries, EIL along with Mongol Refinery and Ministry of Mining of Mongolia earlier this week organised an exhibition in Mongolia and saw the participation of Mongolian Foreign Minister Oyun-Erdene, along with Mongolian Minister of Mining Dolgorsürengiin Sumyaabazar and head of Cabinet Secretariat.

G Ganbold, Mongolia's ambassador to India told WION, " Around 35 Indian companies participated in the exhibition. Mongolia government and business community showed interest in working with Indian companies. There will be second expo in August in which Indian pharma companies will participate."

Mongolia currently exports crude oil to China and imports petroleum products from Russia. India led refineries will help Ulaanbaatar reduce its dependency on Moscow and Beijing. According to the Petroleum Authority of Mongolia, the country has reserves of 2.3 billion barrels of oil.

There has been a number of high-level visits from India to Mongolia including a visit by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Home minister Rajnath Singh to the country.&nbsp;

While Mongolia sees India as its third neighbour and a spiritual neighbour and New Delhi wants to realise the huge potential of bilateral relations with the country. India was the first country to establish diplomatic relations with Mongolia after it came out of Communist Bloc.

Indian companies are increasingly eyeing Mongolia's oil and gas sector with first every exhibition on the energy sector with the participation of several companies and an agreement on an India built a Mongolian oil refinery.

Indian companies are increasingly eyeing Mongolia's oil and gas sector with first every exhibition on the energy sector with the participation of several companies and an agreement on an India built a Mongolian oil refinery. Engineers India Ltd (EIL) and Mongolia's Mongol Refinery have signed an agreement on the Project Management Consultancy (PMC) for setting up of the first oil refinery in the eastern province of DornoGobi. The agreement was signed in the presence of Mongolian Minister of Mining Dolgorsürengiin Sumyaabazar and the Ambassador of India to Mongolia MP Singh. India will help build Mongolia's second oil refinery and has extended a $1 billion Line of Credit to the country for it. The refinery will be built in the city of Sainshand in Dornogobi province and will have a capacity of 1.5 MMTPA which will be implemented with Exim Bank funding. During the visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 2015 visit to the country, which was the first ever visit of an Indian PM to the landlocked country, $1 billion credit line was announced which is being used to build the first ever oil refinery for the country. Last year Mongolian PM Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh and Home Minister Rajnath Singh took part in the groundbreaking ceremony for that Oil Refinery. It is expected to be completed by mid-2023. In a bid to increase engagement between oil and gas companies to both countries, EIL along with Mongol Refinery and Ministry of Mining of Mongolia earlier this week organised an exhibition in Mongolia and saw the participation of Mongolian Foreign Minister Oyun-Erdene, along with Mongolian Minister of Mining Dolgorsürengiin Sumyaabazar and head of Cabinet Secretariat. G Ganbold, Mongolia's ambassador to India told WION, " Around 35 Indian companies participated in the exhibition. Mongolia government and business community showed interest in working with Indian companies. There will be second expo in August in which Indian pharma companies will participate." Mongolia currently exports crude oil to China and imports petroleum products from Russia. India led refineries will help Ulaanbaatar reduce its dependency on Moscow and Beijing. According to the Petroleum Authority of Mongolia, the country has reserves of 2.3 billion barrels of oil. There has been a number of high-level visits from India to Mongolia including a visit by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Home minister Rajnath Singh to the country. While Mongolia sees India as its third neighbour and a spiritual neighbour and New Delhi wants to realise the huge potential of bilateral relations with the country. India was the first country to establish diplomatic relations with Mongolia after it came out of Communist Bloc.

Indian companies eyes Mongolia's oil and gas sector

A person wielding a gun killed five people in northern China before being arrested by police, local authorities said Monday.

Police seized bullets from the suspect, who was wounded in the incident, said officials in Tongliao -- a city in China's Inner Mongolia region -- citing a police statement.

The shooting took place around 3.30pm (0730 GMT) and the case is under investigation, according to a statement on the local government's official Twitter-like Weibo account.

District police did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment.

Gun violence is rare in China, where the government tightly restricts ownership of firearms.&nbsp;

There are no official statistics on gun-related deaths.

In November 2017, three people were shot dead and six others wounded in southern Guangdong province.

In January that same year, a high-ranking city official in the southwestern province of Sichuan burst into a government meeting and shot and wounded the mayor and city party secretary before killing himself.

A person wielding a gun killed five people in northern China before being arrested by police, local authorities said Monday. Police seized bullets from the suspect, who was wounded in the incident, said officials in Tongliao -- a city in China's Inner Mongolia region -- citing a police statement.

A person wielding a gun killed five people in northern China before being arrested by police, local authorities said Monday. Police seized bullets from the suspect, who was wounded in the incident, said officials in Tongliao -- a city in China's Inner Mongolia region -- citing a police statement. The shooting took place around 3.30pm (0730 GMT) and the case is under investigation, according to a statement on the local government's official Twitter-like Weibo account. District police did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment. Gun violence is rare in China, where the government tightly restricts ownership of firearms. There are no official statistics on gun-related deaths. In November 2017, three people were shot dead and six others wounded in southern Guangdong province. In January that same year, a high-ranking city official in the southwestern province of Sichuan burst into a government meeting and shot and wounded the mayor and city party secretary before killing himself.

Shooter kills five in China's Inner Mongolia

In pictures: The pollution in this country is worse than in Delhi

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