Mongolia apologizes for attack on Chinese tourists by neo-Nazi group

ULAN BATOR - Mongolian President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj said here Friday that extreme nationalism is harmful, and Mongolia should be a responsible, friendly and open country.

He said this in response to a recent incident in which an extremist group in Mongolia attacked and insulted several Chinese tourists.

On March 28, several Chinese citizens were attacked by a Mongolian neo-Nazi group known as Khukh Mongol (Blue Mongolia) while traveling on the Burkhan Khaldun mountain in Khentii province, eastern Mongolia.

The extremists forced one of the Chinese tourists to kneel down.

The Chinese tourists, all of whom have already returned to China, neither contacted the Chinese Embassy nor went to the local police after the incident.

However, relevant pictures and video clips were uploaded to the Internet, drawing wide attention of the Mongolian society and media.

Ulan Bator's Mayor Erdene Bat-Uul on Thursday offered an official apology for what had happened to the Chinese tourists, pledging to hold the perpetrators accountable.

"I officially apologize to the Chinese citizens for the immoral behavior" of the extremists, Bat-Uul said.

The mayor said he felt ashamed for what had happened, which was in violation of Mongolia's Constitution and criminal law.

In a public speech Friday, President Elbegdorj appeared to approve with the mayor's apology.

The Chinese Embassy in Mongolia Thursday lodged solemn representations with Mongolia, condemning the incident which violated the personal dignity and safety of the Chinese citizens and demanding those responsible be brought to justice.

The embassy also demanded that Mongolia make more efforts to protect the Chinese citizens in the country, and ensure a safe work and living environment for them.

In recent years, a number of neo-Nazi groups have appeared in Mongolia, espousing ultranationalism and harboring hatred for foreigners.