SRINAGAR: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Monday planted a sapling named the ‘India–Mongolia Friendship Tree’ at Lok Niwas in Ladakh, marking a symbolic gesture of cultural and spiritual ties between India and Mongolia.
The sapling, identified as a Mongolian Larch, was presented to the Lieutenant Governor by Indian Ambassador to Mongolia Atul Malhari Gotsurve as a goodwill gesture on behalf of the people of Mongolia, following the conclusion of a 10-day exposition of sacred relics in the East Asian nation. Saxena had recently led an Indian delegation to Mongolia and facilitated the return of relics associated with two great disciples of Lord Buddha from Ulaanbaatar to New Delhi.
According to officials, the initiative is aimed at strengthening civilisational and diplomatic relations between the two countries through shared Buddhist heritage and cultural exchange.
In a post on X, Saxena said it was an honour to plant the sapling at Lok Niwas, describing it as a living symbol of friendship between India and Mongolia. He added that the tree represents shared values of peace, harmony and brotherhood, and expressed hope that it would inspire future generations to deepen bilateral ties.
