On the second day of her state visit to Slovakia, President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu delivered a heartfelt address at the Slovakia-India Business Forum in Bratislava, reflecting the deepening ties between the two nations. With warmth and optimism, she emphasized the long-standing friendship shared by India and Slovakia, and encouraged the business community to explore new opportunities for trade and cooperation. Her message was clear—India, with its dynamic growth and vast potential, is ready to partner with Slovakia in shaping a shared economic future.
Highlighting India’s transformation into a global hub of innovation and sustainability, the President spoke proudly of the nation’s achievements across various sectors including renewable energy, digital technology, biotechnology, and fintech. She envisioned India as a $5 trillion economy in the near future, and extended a warm invitation to Slovak businesses to become active partners in India’s growth through the ‘Make in India’ initiative. In her address, she acknowledged Slovakia’s industrial strength and strategic location in Europe, expressing confidence that both nations could benefit from a stronger trade and investment relationship.
Later in the day, the President was honoured by the Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra with an Honoris Causa Doctorate. The moment was rich with emotion and pride as the university recognized her lifelong dedication to public service, social justice, education, and cultural preservation. In her acceptance speech, the President humbly accepted the honour on behalf of India and its ancient civilization—a beacon of peace, learning, and introspection. She reflected on the power of education as a tool for national development and spoke about India’s focus on empowering its youth through knowledge and innovation.
President Murmu drew a profound parallel between Indian philosophical traditions and the work of Saint Constantine Cyril, after whom the university is named. She emphasized how both cultures have championed the pursuit of knowledge, introspection, and ethical living. The resonance of Indian wisdom, including teachings from the Upanishads, in Slovak lands was a particularly moving sentiment she shared with deep appreciation.
Continuing her visit, the President toured the Jaguar Land Rover factory in Bratislava alongside Slovak President Peter Pellegrini, witnessing the sophisticated manufacturing capabilities of the plant. Earlier in the day, she visited a touching exhibition of paintings created by Slovak children as part of a long-running cultural initiative titled Beauty Hidden in Fairy Tales – India through the Eyes of Slovak Children. She also enjoyed a charming puppet show on the Ramayan by Ms. Lenka Mukova of the Babadlo Puppet Theater, which has been engaging young audiences for decades through storytelling and tradition.
The previous evening, President Murmu attended a banquet hosted in her honour at the historic Bratislava Castle. The event was marked by a rich cultural exchange, with Slovak artists performing soulful renditions of the national anthems of both countries. In her speech, the President expressed heartfelt gratitude for the hospitality extended by the Slovak government and people. She spoke fondly of the deep cultural connections between the two nations, noting Slovakia’s affection for Indian traditions—from yoga and Ayurveda to cuisine—as a testament to their enduring people-to-people ties.
President Murmu’s visit not only strengthened diplomatic and economic relationships but also celebrated the shared values and cultural kinship that unite India and Slovakia. Her engagements reflected a sincere commitment to fostering lasting partnerships built on mutual respect, shared prosperity, and human connection.
