India and Mongolia Strengthen Strategic Partnership: Uranium, Refinery, and Defence in Focus

In a landmark meeting, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa reinforced the growing strategic partnership between their countries. During discussions, key topics included uranium sourcing, the development of Mongolia’s first oil refinery, and enhanced defence cooperation. Modiji assured that India would remain a “strong and reliable partner” in Mongolia’s development journey.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets with Mongolia's President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi. (Press Information Bureau) | Hindustan Times

A Historic Presidential Visit

President Khurelsukh arrived in New Delhi on Monday, marking the first Mongolian presidential visit to India in six years. The visit focused on deepening bilateral ties across multiple sectors, reflecting the steady growth of India-Mongolia relations since the countries upgraded to a strategic partnership a decade ago. During the meetings, ten agreements were signed to strengthen cooperation in areas such as digital solutions, mineral exploration, quick impact projects, and cultural exchange.

Highlighting India’s commitment, Modiji stated, “Even though we do not share a border, India has always considered Mongolia a close neighbour. We stand as close partners supporting a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.” He further emphasized the shared vision of amplifying the voice of the Global South.

Focus on Uranium and Mineral Resources

A central topic during the discussions was Mongolia’s rich mineral reserves. Officials reported that Mongolia holds up to 90,000 tonnes of uranium, along with significant copper, gold, and zinc reserves. India expressed interest in partnering with Mongolia for uranium extraction, while Mongolia has already signed an agreement with France to produce 2,500 tonnes annually. The dialogue between India and Mongolia on uranium collaboration is set to continue in the coming months, potentially opening avenues for enhanced energy security and industrial development for both nations.

The Mongol Refinery: A Symbol of Cooperation

Another major highlight was the Mongol Refinery, Mongolia’s first oil refinery, developed with a $1.7-billion Indian line of credit. Scheduled to begin operations in 2028, the refinery will process 1.5 million tonnes of crude oil annually, equivalent to 30,000 barrels per day. Modiji described the project as “India’s largest development partnership globally,” noting the participation of over 2,500 Indian professionals working alongside Mongolian counterparts.

The refinery is expected to significantly bolster Mongolia’s energy security and reduce dependency on imported oil. President Khurelsukh called the project a “flagship symbol of cooperation,” underlining its strategic and economic importance.

Defence and Security Cooperation

The discussions also focused on strengthening defence ties. Plans include the appointment of a resident Indian defence attaché in Ulaanbaatar, expanded joint training programs, and increased frequency of bilateral exercises. India continues to provide training for Mongolian military officers and support in cybersecurity, while Mongolia has expressed interest in expanding cooperation in advanced defence technologies, including drone systems. These initiatives reflect the broader strategic goal of fostering stability in the region and supporting Mongolia’s security and capacity-building objectives.

Economic and Logistic Connectivity

Both leaders emphasized the need to explore new transport and logistics corridors to enhance trade and economic cooperation. Free e-visas for Mongolian citizens and proposed charter flights between Mongolia and India were announced to strengthen people-to-people connections. Additionally, cultural cooperation initiatives, such as heritage restoration projects and collaborative exchange programs, were highlighted as integral to deepening bilateral relations.

The MGMM Outlook

The recent meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa marks a significant step in strengthening India-Mongolia strategic ties. This high-level engagement highlighted India’s role as a dependable partner in Mongolia’s development, focusing on critical sectors such as uranium sourcing, mineral exploration, and the establishment of Mongolia’s first oil refinery. With India extending a $1.7-billion line of credit and sending over 2,500 professionals to support the refinery project, the partnership demonstrates India’s commitment to energy collaboration and industrial development. Beyond economics, the discussions also emphasized cultural exchange, digital cooperation, and infrastructure connectivity, reflecting a multidimensional approach to bilateral relations that goes beyond conventional diplomacy.

Defence and security cooperation emerged as a key pillar, with plans for a resident Indian defence attaché in Ulaanbaatar, expanded joint exercises, and shared expertise in cybersecurity and advanced military technologies. Both nations are also exploring new logistics corridors, e-visa facilities, and chartered flights to strengthen trade and people-to-people ties. The dialogue underscores a shared vision for regional stability, energy security, and economic growth, positioning India and Mongolia as strategic partners not only in Asia but also as influential voices in the broader Global South.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, Business Standard, Reuters)