Why in news?

• India and Mongolia have recently elevated their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, marked notably on the 10th anniversary of this status during the Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa's visit to India in October 2025. 
• The partnership underscores India's role as Mongolia's “Third Neighbor,” supporting Mongolia’s development independent of its immediate neighbors China and Russia, and aligns with India's Act East and Indo-Pacific policy goals.

Key aspects of the India-Mongolia strategic partnership in 2025

• India is funding Mongolia's first oil refinery project with a $1.7 billion line of credit, marking India's largest overseas development project.
• MoU between Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council and Mongolia’s Arkhangai Province.
• Defence cooperation is extensive, with India training Mongolian armed and border security forces.
• Cultural and spiritual cooperation features prominently, including sending Sanskrit teachers to Mongolia's Gandan Monastery and digitizing ancient Buddhist manuscripts.
• Economic and technological collaboration aims to explore joint ventures in critical minerals, rare earths, clean energy, and digital technology, supporting resilient supply chains.
• Free e-visas for Mongolian citizens, humanitarian aid, immigration cooperation, and restoration of Mongolian heritage sites.

Significance of Mongolia for India

• Mongolia is strategically located between Russia and China, and India views it as a key "Third Neighbor," .
• Strengthening ties with Mongolia supports India's Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific strategy, promoting regional stability and a rules-based order.​

• India trains Mongolian armed forces and maintains a Defence Attaché, fostering military ties that complement India's broader security and defense partnerships in Asia.​

• Mongolia's vast mineral and rare earth resources are critical for India’s resource diversification and supply chain resilience.

• Historic spiritual and cultural connections, particularly through Buddhism, cement a unique and longstanding relationship, fostering people-to-people ties.

In essence, Mongolia is a vital partner for India, fostering a comprehensive relationship that advances India’s geopolitical interests, security objectives, economic diversification, and cultural diplomacy.

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