President Murmu’s key highlights from Portugal, Slovakia visit

New Delhi

President Droupadi Murmu completed a four-day State Visit to Portugal and Slovakia with the goal of strengthening bilateral relations. In Portugal, she met with President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa in Lisbon, marking the first visit by an Indian president to Portugal in 27 years. During her trip, she visited landmarks like the Church of Santa Maria and the Monastery of Jeronimos. She was presented with the 'City Key of Honour' by Lisbon’s Mayor and took part in launching postage stamps celebrating 50 years of diplomatic ties.

President Murmu discussed further cooperation in trade, technology, and renewable energy with Portugal’s leadership. She also met with members of the Indian community and highlighted progress in sectors like science, defense, and education. One significant part of the visit was her tour of the Champalimaud Foundation, where she observed research in neuroscience and oncology.

On April 9, President Murmu continued her visit in Slovakia, where she met President Peter Pellegrini. They discussed expanding cooperation in media, entertainment, and joint film production. She also invited Slovakia to participate in the upcoming WAVE Summit in Mumbai. During a business forum in Bratislava, she encouraged Slovak companies to engage with India's 'Make in India' initiative.

President Murmu was awarded an honorary doctorate by Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra for her work in social justice, education, and women’s empowerment. Her visit emphasized the importance of strengthening India-Slovakia relations based on shared democratic values.