Tomorrow, Tuesday 29 August 2023, at 12.15 p.m., at the Holy See Press Office, Sala San Pio X, Via dell’Ospedale 1, Director Matteo Bruni, will explain the programme of Pope Francis’ Apostolic Journey to Mongolia, which will take place from 31 August to 4 September 2023.

Pope Francis is the first Pope to visit Mongolia. The trip is considered a historic milestone, as Mongolia is a country that has a majority Buddhist population and his desire to promote friendship and interreligious dialogue during his visit.

The trip will begin in Ulaanbaatar, the country’s capital. There, the Pope will meet Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh and other government officials. He will also visit the Buddhist monastery of Gandantegchinlen, the largest in Mongolia, as well as the city of Erdenet in central Mongolia. There, he will meet with workers at a copper plant and members of a Catholic community. He will also visit the Buddhist monastery of Erdenet.

He will conclude his visit to Mongolia in Ulaanbaatar, where he will address the nation. In the speech, he will speak about the importance of dialogue and friendship between religions. He will also urge Mongolians to work for peace and justice.

This trip to Mongolia is considered a very significant event, as the main motive is to promote mutual understanding and respect between Christians and Buddhists.