Mongolia – a country the size of Germany and France and Britain combined with only 2.5 million people – is celebrating its 800th anniversary as a state. In the 21st century, the country is undergoing a major transition from nomadism and communism to a free-market economy and democracy, Buddhism is being revived, women are coming to the fore, and major powers are wooing the country for its mineral wealth.
The speakers include President Nambaryn Enkhbayar, opposition parliamentarian S. Oyun, university students, herders and Dutch presidential adviser Tjalling Halbertsma.
Producer: Marijke van der Meer
Broadcast: January 4, 2007