New Delhi, Oct 14 (NationPress) Emphasizing that the relationship between India and Mongolia transcends mere diplomacy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Tuesday that India will dispatch the sacred relics of two of Lord Buddha's esteemed disciples to Mongolia next year.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa after their discussions at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, PM Modi stated, "The bond between India and Mongolia is founded on warmth and spirituality. Our people-to-people connections illustrate the profound nature of our relationship. For centuries, Buddhism has intertwined our nations, earning us the title of spiritual siblings. Today, we are making significant strides to fortify this tradition and rejuvenate our historical ties."

"I am thrilled to announce that next year, the sacred relics of two prominent disciples of Lord Buddha – Sariputra and Maudgalyayana – will be sent from India to Mongolia. Additionally, we will send a Sanskrit instructor to Gandan Monastery to delve into Buddhist texts and uphold the age-old tradition of knowledge," he added.

PM Modi highlighted the pivotal role Nalanda University has played in nurturing Buddhism in Mongolia and disclosed that both nations have agreed to connect Nalanda and Gandan Monastery. He noted that Khurelsukh Ukhnaa planted a sapling earlier as part of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative.

He remarked, "Our discussions commenced with a tree planting ceremony under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative. The banyan tree sapling planted by President Khurelsukh in honor of his late mother will symbolize our enduring friendship and our shared dedication to the environment for generations to come."

Welcoming President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa warmly, PM Modi expressed, "It is a pleasure to welcome President Khurelsukh and his delegation to India. This visit, occurring six years after his last, is significant as both nations celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations and 10 years of Strategic Partnership. To commemorate this, we have issued a joint postal stamp representing our shared heritage."

PM Modi announced that India would offer free e-visas to Mongolian citizens. He stated, "We have opted to provide complimentary e-visas to Mongolian citizens. India will also sponsor the annual visit of young cultural ambassadors from Mongolia to India."

Reflecting on his visit to Mongolia in 2015, PM Modi said, "A decade ago, during my trip to Mongolia, we elevated our collaboration to a Strategic Partnership. Over the last ten years, this partnership has deepened and expanded across various domains. Our defense and security cooperation is progressively enhancing."