Former Prime Minister of Mongolia Gombojavyn Zandanshatar, who is visiting Nepal, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Singha Durbar on Monday.

During the meeting, the two discussed bilateral relations, geopolitical similarities, and areas of potential cooperation in development, trade, partnership and shared Buddhist values.

Highlighting the similarities between the two landlocked countries, Foreign Minister Khanal said Nepal could learn from Mongolia’s experiences. He expressed Nepal’s interest in expanding cooperation in development, trade, mutual partnership and areas linked to shared Buddhist heritage.

Khanal said Nepal and Mongolia could jointly advocate for the rights and interests of landlocked developing countries at international forums. He also praised Mongolia for establishing its global identity through balanced relations and strategic partnerships with its neighbours.

The meeting also explored ways to further strengthen diplomatic ties between the two countries. Khanal said Nepal’s new government was committed to deepening relations with Mongolia as a spiritual partner and expanding collaboration across various sectors.

Zandanshatar highlighted the geographical similarities between Nepal and Mongolia, saying small countries must stand together amid changing global dynamics.

Describing the two countries as “spiritual neighbours” connected by shared Buddhist values and culture, he expressed Mongolia’s interest in cooperation in promoting Buddhist principles, culture and the development of chess in Nepal.