Farooq Abdullah on two-day visit to Mangolia

Union minister for new and renewable energy and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah visited Pethub Monastery at Ulan Bator in Mongolia and paid his respects.

Union minister for new and renewable energy and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah visited Pethub Monastery at Ulan Bator in Mongolia and paid his respects.

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Abdullah was in Ulan Bator on a two-day visit to represent India at the inaugural ceremony of the President of Mongolia, Tsakhia Elbegdorj, who has been re-elected to a second four-year term. Abdullah also met foreign minister Lu Bold and minister of environment and green development Sanjaasuren Oyun.

He also interacted with the monks and visited a photo exhibition displaying the life and times of 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche. Recalling him as India's ambassador in Mongolia, a senior statesman, an international diplomat and one of the best-known lamas of Ladakh, Abdullah also remembered Rinpoche's contribution to fostering better ties between India and Mongolia and his efforts in furthering Buddhism in Mongolia.

Abdullah also praised his contribution as an MP and his deep engagement with welfare and education issues.

Later in the day, Abdullah attended the Nadaam -- the national festival and the biggest festival in the Mongolian calendar. Nadaam festivities include a colourful parade of athletes, monks, soldiers, musicians, and people dressed as ancient warriors. It is also known for competitions in the country's most popular sports -- the 'manly sports' of horse racing, archery and Mongolian wrestling.