SPEECH BY PRESIDENT KHALTMAAGIIN BATTULGA AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF NAADAM FESTIVAL
“My fellow countrymen,
Mongols living in every part of the world,
Distinguished guests and tourists visiting Mongolia,
I would like to extend my warmest greetings of the Naadam – Great Festivity of the Mongolian people.
This year we celebrate the 2228 years of the Mongolian statehood, the 813 years of the founding of the Great Mongol Empire, the 108 years of the Restoration of National freedom and independence, the 98 years of the People’s Revolution and the 30 years of the Democratic Revolution.
It is worth reminding that the celebration of these historic dates is not only a symbol of our proud history and the revival of the foundations of the Mongolian state, but to learn the lessons from the past. As much as one studies history and culture, their patriotism, enthusiasm, responsibility for future generations and perception about one’s own homeland are deepened. Particularly, the history of Mongolia itself is the greatest pride and heritage from our ancestors who contributed to world history and spreading of peace.
Naadam is a collective cultural rite symbolizing the highest respect towards our ancestors and homeland as well as calling upon their wisdom and virtue. It is also a glorious ceremony that awakens our great heritage and sincerity and joy in every person.
During the Naadam, the greatest festivity of the statehood, the historical and cultural heritages should be invigorated widely where wrestlers test their strength and agility, horse trainers cheer on their steeds and archers compete with their aim.
Deriving from the name of “the three games of men”, it is an ancient tradition of determining the intelligence, power and values of Mongolian men through wrestling, horse-racing and archery. The Mongols, based on these three skills of men, wrote their history, fostered their cultural heritage and founded their nation.
Therefore, Naadam was enlisted in the UNESCO Cultural Heritage and determined as “world cultural heritage”.
The State festivity – the Naadam is an occasion that makes each and every one of us understand the essence of being a true Mongol as well as being united. Moreover, it is an event which illustrates the unique culture and diverse people called Mongols. Through this festival we ignite our pride for our ancient history and elevate our traditional culture.
I would like to extend my special gratitude to our distinguished guests, tourists and friends who have traveled here from every corner of the world. Welcome to Mongolia and enjoy Mongolian Naadam.
Dear Naadam participants,
I wish each and every Mongols living in Mongolia and around the world to have a joyful, glorious and blissful celebration. Have a Happy Naadam.
After the Naadam, we will face a crucial historic time to advance our achievements stated in our democratic Constitution of 1992 and mend the shortcomings. Hence, I would like to call upon my fellow countrymen to emphasize the importance of each and every one’s active and responsible participation towards our future in the ongoing process to amend our Constitution, which is the essence of our independence, sovereignty and existence.
The Mongol Naadam reminds us of our historic responsibility to treasure the independence and heritage as if they were our own hearts and lives. The great festivity-Naadam will continue along with the independent and sovereign Mongolia.
Chinggis Khaan, the great lord and our beloved forefather! Your horses are agile, the strapping wrestlers are adept, and the archers are well-aimed. May our homeland and fellow countrymen receive your blessing for generations to come.
With the blessing from the Eternal Blue Sky, the Mongol Naadam is commencing.”
