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During the numerous trips that I have made to Mongolia, I have been bombarded by a wealth of new and unfamiliar impressions. The natural world, so rich in contrasts, brings many surprises with its distinctive characteristics, all of which make this Central Asian country so unique.

But it was the open-hearted and hospitable character that the people showed towards me as a foreigner, which awakened my greatest affection and fondness. I was deeply moved and affected by being able to participate in their lives, to experience their genuine satisfaction at their modest and frugal existence and to share their happiness and their concerns, both large and small. Over time, passing acquaintances have grown to become firm and lasting friendships and my Mongolian friends were happy for me to join them at family celebrations and to become a part of their personal activities.

I have experienced a country undergoing change. The focus is no longer on being the homeland of the great Mongolian Chinggis Khaan but on the current situation within its society and the fate of the individuals that make up that society. The people are facing a period of rapid development and are having to handle and come to terms with the conflict between the modern and the traditional, with the mix of poverty and wealth and with the situation of shortages and excess. And all of this results in attitudes and behaviour that can be contradictory and inconsistent.

I am delighted to be able to let you share in the encounters and experiences that I have had. This book, “Mongolia – Faces of a Nation”, reflects the events and the feeling of closeness to the people that I was privileged to experience on my trips through this fascinating country.

Frank Riedinger