Former Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori proposed Sunday in a meeting with Mongolian Prime Minister Miyeegombyn Enkhbold that Mongolia's temporary visa-waiver for Japanese tourists be made permanent, officials traveling with Mori said.
Mori was quoted as telling Enkhbold, "The two countries have relations of friendship and affection, and a framework for a permanent visa-waiver should be considered."
Enkhbold responded positively, saying, "We hope to do so, and that will further deepen exchanges."
Mongolia has waived visas for Japanese short-term visitors starting April 1 until through Dec. 31 to mark the 800th anniversary of the birth of the Mongol empire this year.
Mori and Enkhbold also agreed to further strengthen overall bilateral relations.