On June 4th, 2019, French President Emmanuel Macron concluded his three-day state visit to Mongolia. The visit is said to have provided a “historic opportunity” to strengthen strategic ties between the two countries.
At a press conference on the trip, Macron stated that the two nations had signed nine cooperation agreements in areas such as intergovernmental exchanges and investment. He added that France intends to strengthen the economic, environmental, digital and cultural ties between the two countries.
During his visit, Macron became the first French President to address the Mongolian Parliament. He emphasized the importance of continuing dialogue between the two countries, and France’s intention to deepen its relationship with Mongolia.
The visit was marred by a controversy surrounding Macron’s invitation of the Dalai Lama to a meeting, which Chinese officials had condemned as interference in their country’s internal affairs. Despite the criticism, Macron refused to retract his decision, emphasizing his nation’s respect for the freedom of expression.
