Indian President Droupadi Murmu Makes Historic Visit to North Macedonia

President Droupadi Murmu today addressed the Assembly of North Macedonia in Skopje during her historic state visit, the first ever by an Indian President to the country. Addressing the House, the President conveyed the goodwill of 1.4 billion Indians and described North Macedonia as an important partner in building a stable, multipolar and prosperous global future.Highlighting the centuries-old civilisational links between the two countries, President Murmu said historical connections continue to flourish through shared cultural values, yoga, cinema and academic exchanges. She noted that Mother Teresa, born in Skopje, and Mahatma Gandhi symbolize the enduring bonds between the two nations. The President said she would pay tribute to Mother Teresa and present a bust of Mahatma Gandhi to the people of North Macedonia.Emphasising the shared democratic values of India and North Macedonia, President Murmu said Parliaments are the guardians of people’s freedoms and called for greater parliamentary exchanges, including interactions between young legislators of both countries. She also highlighted India’s democratic journey, describing its general elections as the world’s largest democratic exercise, and spoke about the increasing participation of women in governance through Panchayati Raj institutions and the landmark legislation providing one-third reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies.The President said India sees Southeast Europe as a region of growing strategic importance and described North Macedonia as a gateway connecting the Mediterranean with Central Europe. She reaffirmed India’s commitment to expanding cooperation in trade, investment and other emerging sectors.Calling for greater global cooperation, President Murmu invoked the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam-the world is one family-and urged nations to build bridges instead of walls. She expressed confidence that India and North Macedonia would transform their historic friendship into a stronger partnership for peace, prosperity and shared progress.