France’s ambassador to Mongolia, Yves Delune, presented his credentials to President Ts.Elbegdorj on Friday.

After this ceremony, the president received the new ambassador. Ts.Elbegdorj emphasized that France is one of Mongolia’s vital partners in the European Union. He stated that a letter from French President Nicolas Sarkozy states that Mongolia is a special partner for France in Asia. Ts.Elbegdorj said it was an expression of high-level bilateral relations and cooperation.

Ts.Elbegdorj said he is pleased that the new French ambassador speaks Mongolian and has deep knowledge about Mongolian culture and traditions, and that his credentials were written in old Mongolian script. The president also added that the Mongolian parliament has passed a draft law on joining the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which would formally abolish capital punishment in Mongolia.

Ts.Elbegdorj emphasized the importance of implementing judicial reforms, and he said Mongolia wants to cooperate with France in training staff to implement these reforms, especially by training Mongolians at law schools in France. He also noted that it is important to boost investments from France in the scope of economic relations and cooperation.

Ts.Elbegdorj noted that Mongolia could cooperate with the French company Areva, not just in the mineral resources sector, but also in the renewable energy sphere. He also said he hoped that the two countries will enhance their ties in the cultural, arts, and archeological sectors.

Ambassador Delune said he is in Mongolia for the second time, having visited 30 years ago. He pointed out that France has a willingness to cooperate with Mongolia in many fields, and that he is confident that the two countries will establish a comprehensive partnership.