By B.Byambadorj
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Ulaanbaatar on the night of September 2 to take part in the 80th anniversary celebration of the Victory of the Battles of Khalkhyn Gol, as well as sign several crucial agreements pertaining to the two country’s diplomatic and business relations.
President Putin previously visited Mongolia on the 75th anniversary of the Victory of the Battles at Khalkhyn Gol, where Mongolian-Soviet troops drove out the 6th Imperial Japanese Army from Mongolian territories in a series of battles around Khalkhyn Gol river in 1939.
The official state ceremony to receive President Putin began yesterday at 1:00 p.m. at the Sukhbaatar Square. During his visit, President Putin took part in a signing ceremony with Mongolian President Kh.Battulga, paid respects to the monuments of Chinggis Khaan and Hero of the Soviet Union Georgy Zhukov, who paid an integral role in the Victory of the Battles of Khalkhyn Gol.
In his speech after the signing ceremony during which 10 documents were signed, president Kh.Battulga said the two state heads had reached a number of “crucial solutions” after a 40-minute private discussion. He went on to say that the two country’s strong relationship has stood the test of time, citing Mongolia-Russian military history.
“We express our appreciation to President V. Putin for his official visit and celebrating the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Victory of the Battles of Khalkhyn Gol. The alliance during the battle strengthened the friendly relations of our countries and confirmed Mongolia’s determination in its independence,” the president stated.
The president explained today’s occasion is part of a larger work intended to remind all of Russian and Mongolian people and their descendants of their friendship, and a tribute to those who gave their lives in the conflict.
With Putin’s visit, Kh.Battulga says Mongolia-Russia diplomatic relation has reached “the next level,” one of strategic partnership, which will allow for broader cooperation freedom in all sectors. The Mongolian president noted an update to the 2004 agreement between the two countries, a document that allows Russian military donations to Mongolia. He also announced his acceptance of President Putin’s invitation to the celebration of the 75th anniversary of WWII victory, or the Great Patriotic War.
The following documents are included among the partnership documents signed during President Putin’s visit: cooperation in mineral resources and oil, cooperation in border checkpoints, strategic partnership between Russian Post Office and its counterpart in Mongolia, an establishment of a cooperative fund by Russian Direct Investment Fund in partnership with DBM Asset Management in Mongolia, and an agreement aimed at improving customs processes on borders of each country.
