Modi in Mongolia: Visits ancient monastery, gifts Bodhi sapling

Ulan Bator, May 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday visited the Gandan Monastery in the Mongolian capital and met the chief abbot, Hamba Lama.

Modi, the first Indian prime minister to visit Mongolia, also lighted incense and offered prayers at the monastery.

He gifted a sapling of the revered Mahabodhi tree to the lama.

He also visited the Janraisag Monastery which houses a 26 metre tall statue of Janraisag Buddha, tweeted the external affairs ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup.

Modi was later accorded a ceremonial welcome at the State Palace.

Modi later sat down for delegation-level talks with Mongolian Prime Minister Chimed Saikhanbileg. A number of agreements are set to be inked.

He will also address the Mongolian parliament.

IANS