(Photo: Xinhua)

Ulan Bator (People’s Daily) - China’s pledge to continue opening-up and pursue deeper economic integration is key for Ulan Bator's social and economic development, Mongolian Prime Minister Ukhnaa Khurelsukh said during his visit to China for the 2018 Boao Forum on Sunday.

"It is a foreign-policy priority for Mongolia to strengthen the friendly relations and cooperation with China,” Khurelsukh said, noting the nation’s great enthusiasm on the Belt and Road initiatives.

With Chinese soft loans, Mongolia is implementing major projects in infrastructure, trade, energy, the environment and education.

China has been Mongolia's largest trade partner for over ten consecutive years. Bilateral trade grew 36 percent to reach $ 6.7 billion in 2017, accounting for 63 percent of Mongolia's total trade.

During Khurelsukh’s five-day visit from April 8, the two sides are expected to sign cooperation agreements in fields such as investment and industry.

Khurelsukh said China’s blueprint on building a community of shared future for mankind will contribute to global peace and prosperity, and bring opportunities to neighboring countries like Mongolia as well.

(Compiled by Shan Xin)