(October 17, 2011) Pope Benedict XVI on Monday received in the Vatican the president
of Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj with both sides expressing appreciation for the
Church’s work in the vast central-east Asian nation. Elbegdorj later met Vatican
Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone along with Vatican Secretary for Relations
with States, Archbishop Dominique Mamberti. A communiqué by the Vatican press office
said that “in the course of cordial exchanges, the good relations existing between
Mongolia and the Holy See were recalled, as well as the understanding and cooperation
between Church and State in the educational and social sectors.” “Furthermore, the
political situation in Asia was examined, with particular attention to the importance
of intercultural and interreligious dialogue for the promotion of peace and justice.”
Diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Holy See was been established 1992.