Pope Francis arrives for first-ever Mongolia visit

STORY: Pope Francis arrived in Mongolia Friday (September 1) in the first ever papal visit to the country.

Though there are less than 1,500 Catholics in Mongolia, the Vatican hopes the country can play a strategic role in smoothing out its strained relations with Mongolia's southern neighbor, China.

The visit also follows Francis’ broader policy of drawing attention to people and problems in what he has called the "peripheries" of society and the world.

The pope has still not visited most of the capitals in Western Europe.

Prior to touching down, Francis spoke to reporters:

“Going to Mongolia means going to visit a small population in a large country. Mongolia seems endless and it has few inhabitants, a small population but with great culture.”

Francis also wired customary greetings to the leaders of each country he flew over, including China, assuring Chinese President Xi Jinping of his prayers for the quote “wellbeing of the nation.”

China’s foreign ministry said Francis' greetings to Xi reflected "his blessings and goodwill."

The 86-year-old, who has used a wheelchair since an operation in June, appeared in high spirits when he landed in the capital Ulaanbaatar after a 10-hour flight.

Though Francis is often received as a superstar on his trips abroad, there were few signs the pope had arrived in the predominantly Buddhist country apart from a joyous reception along his motorcade route:

“I am so happy to see the pope! I am very thankful for his visit. We have been waiting for this moment for such a long time. He shook my hand twice! I am so excited, so excited.”

Francis is set to attend an official welcome ceremony and address government leaders and diplomats on Saturday (September 2).

On Sunday (September 3) he plans to preside over a Mass and several other religious events, before his Monday (September 4) departure.