Premier Li Keqiang arrived in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, on July 13 for an official visit and the 11th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM).

Mongolia’s foreign minister and other officials welcomed Premier Li at the Chinggis Khaan International Airport. The Premier was also welcomed by Mongolian women dressed in traditional clothing, who offered him hada, a long piece of silk regarded as a traditional gift of greeting in Mongolia, and dried milk curds, a traditional Mongolian dairy product.

As good neighbors, friends and partners, China and Mongolia enjoy close exchanges and have a solid foundation of cooperation, Premier Li noted.

“I hope to use this visit as an opportunity to discuss friendship, cooperation and development with Mongolian leaders,” he said.

China wants to continue to strengthen cooperation with Mongolia and promote coordination in both sides’ development strategies, expand cooperation and exchanges in all sectors, and open a new chapter of joint development and prosperity, according to the Premier.

He also said China attaches great importance to Asia-Europe cooperation and supports Mongolia as host of the 11th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM). China is willing to work with all parties to promote the success of the meeting and peaceful cooperation and joint development between Asia and Europe.

During the visit, Premier Li will hold talks with Mongolia’s new Prime Minister Jargaltulga Erdenebat, meet with Mongolian President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj and Chairman Miyegombo Enkhbold of the State Great Hural, Mongolia’s parliament, and witness the signing of cooperation deals.

He is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with leaders of some ASEM members, with the goal of boosting bilateral ties.