Mongolia-Japan’s relations are rich in both history and myth. The two countries’ relations can be dated back to the 13th century. The Mongolian empire, under the rule of Kublai Khan, sought to invade Japan in 1274 and 1281, only to be deterred by storms (known as the “divine wind” in Japan) coupled with malfunctioning boats made by the Song Dynasty war prisoners. According to the history books, Kublai Khan’s message to the Japanese shogun was something along the lines of: “You are the ruler of a small country; pay us a tribute… or else.”
Of course, the modern-day relationship does not involve attempted invasions, divine typhoons, or malfunctioning boats, but rather political and diplomatic dialogue, economic relations, and people-to-people affairs.
The 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and Japan falls on February 24, 2022. The relations and cooperation between the two countries have developed into a strategic partnership and the countries are cooperating in all areas.
There are plans to designate 2022 as the Mongolian-Japanese Youth Friendship and Exchange Year and organize celebratory events throughout the year in connection with Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga’s proposal to declare the diplomatic anniversary year as such. The celebration is planned to include high-level visits, an exchange of 50 young leaders in politics, business, and art, an academic conference, a photography exhibition, documentary production, the publication of a book about the history of relations between the two countries, and business forums designed to connect companies.
Source: UB info