President of India Droupadi Murmu, along with North Macedonian President Gordana Siljanovska‑Davkova, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Museum of the City of Skopje today, marking a symbolic moment of friendship between the two nations.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu said that while Mahatma Gandhi belonged to India, his message belongs to all humanity. She emphasised that Gandhi’s life demonstrated how 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, adding that his ideals inspire people to reject hatred and resolve differences peacefully.
The President noted that the newly unveiled bust will stand as a lasting symbol of India‑North Macedonia friendship and their shared commitment to peace, tolerance, and humanity.
Among those present were Mayor Orce Gjorgjievski, Minister of State Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya, and Members of Parliament Dr. Dinesh Sharma and Shri Vijay Baghel.
Earlier, President Murmu and President Siljanovska‑Davkova visited the Memorial of Mother Teresa in Skopje, honouring her humanitarian legacy. Mother Teresa, born in Skopje, was awarded India’s Bharat Ratna in 1980 for her selfless service.
President Murmu will depart for Bucharest, Romania, tomorrow (July 23) for the final leg of her three‑nation European visit.
