PRESIDENT OF INDIA UNVEILS BUST OF MAHATMA GANDHI AT THE MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF SKOPJE, NORTH MACEDONIA

AT A TIME WHEN THE WORLD FACES CONFLICT, INTOLERANCE AND DIVISION, GANDHIJI'S FAITH IN DIALOGUE, COMPASSION AND PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE REMAINS PROFOUNDLY RELEVANT: PRESIDENT DROUPADI MURMU

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, along with President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova of North Macedonia, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Museum of the City of Skopje today (July 22, 2026).

Addressing the gathering, the President said that Mahatma Gandhi belonged to India, but his message belongs to all humanity. She underlined that his life demonstrated that truth and non-violence are not signs of weakness, but powerful instruments for securing justice, dignity and freedom. At a time when the world faces conflict, intolerance and division, Gandhiji's faith in dialogue, compassion and peaceful coexistence remains profoundly relevant. She said that it will inspire people to reject hatred, resolve differences peacefully and serve society with courage and empathy.

The President said that this bust of Mahatma Gandhi will stand as a lasting symbol of the friendship between India and North Macedonia and of our common commitment to peace, tolerance and humanity.

Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were the Mayor of the City of Skopje, Mr. Orce Gjorgjievski, members of the accompanying delegation - Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Smt Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya, and Members of Parliament Dr. Dinesh Sharma and Shri Vijay Baghel.

Earlier, the President along with President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova of North Macedonia visited Memorial of Mother Teresa in Skopje. Mother Teresa was born in Skopje where she lived until 1928. Later, she joined the Sisters of Loretto in Ireland, before moving to India. She was honoured with Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award in 1980 for exceptional humanitarian work and selfless service.