China and Mongolia upgrade ties - first visit to Mongolia by a Chinese head of state in 11 years

Chinese President Xi Jinping (right) is escorted by Mongolian President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj (2nd left) at the welcoming ceremony in Ulan Bator during Xi's visit to Mongolia. - AFP

China and Mongolia have stepped up bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership as Chinese President Xi Jinping Thursday embarked on a historic visit to Mongolia.

It was the first visit to Mongolia by a Chinese head of state in 11 years and only the second time that Xi has made a solo presidential trip to a foreign country since he took office in March 2013, a rare gesture that signals Mongolia's geopolitical importance to China.