President Droupadi Murmu and North Macedonia President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova on Wednesday unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Skopje Museum, marking a symbolic moment in the growing friendship between the two countries. The Indian President’s Secretariat said the bust would represent the shared values of peace, tolerance and humanity that connect India and North Macedonia.

During the ceremony, President Murmu expressed confidence that the installation would serve as a lasting symbol of bilateral friendship and the commitment of both nations towards peaceful coexistence. The unveiling was part of President Murmu’s state visit to North Macedonia, aimed at strengthening diplomatic, cultural and economic ties between the two countries.

The two leaders also visited the Mother Teresa memorial in Skopje, the birthplace of the Nobel Peace Prize laureate who lived in the city until 1928. The visit highlighted the historical and cultural connections between India and North Macedonia, with both countries recognising the contributions of global figures associated with peace and humanitarian service.

Also Read: President Murmu Honours Goce Delchev During North Macedonia Visit

Earlier during the visit, President Murmu received a ceremonial welcome and guard of honour from President Siljanovska-Davkova at Villa Vodno in Skopje. The two leaders held discussions on bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest, reaffirming their commitment to friendly relations based on democratic values and mutual respect.

President Murmu also addressed the Assembly of North Macedonia and participated in discussions at the India-North Macedonia Business Forum to encourage greater economic engagement. She laid a wreath at the Grave of Goce Delchev at the Church of Saint Spas in Skopje, while North Macedonia Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski hosted a luncheon in her honour.

North Macedonia is the second destination of President Murmu’s three-nation European visit. Following her engagements in Skopje, she is scheduled to travel to Romania from July 23 to 25 at the invitation of Romanian President Nicusor Dan. The visit will mark the first trip by an Indian President to Romania in more than three decades, further expanding India’s diplomatic outreach in Europe.

Also Read: Fresh Political Turmoil For Mamata Banerjee As Trinamool Leader Steps Down