President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Chisinau on Monday, launching her three-nation diplomatic tour of Europe with a landmark State visit to Moldova. The visit is historic, as it marks the first time an Indian President has traveled to the Eastern European nation, reflecting the growing importance of ties between the two countries.
Upon landing at Chisinau International Airport, President Murmu received a warm welcome from Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mihai Popșoi. The President’s Secretariat highlighted the significance of the occasion, describing it as a milestone in the relationship between India and Moldova.
The visit comes at the invitation of Moldovan President Maia Sandu. During her stay, President Murmu is scheduled to hold official discussions with President Sandu to explore ways to deepen bilateral cooperation. She will also meet Igor Grosu, the Speaker of Moldova’s Parliament, and interact with members of the Moldova-India Parliamentary Friendship Group.
In addition to political engagements, the President’s itinerary includes participation in a business forum designed to encourage stronger commercial ties between the two countries. She is also expected to meet members of the Indian community living in Moldova, reinforcing India’s commitment to maintaining close connections with its diaspora abroad.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the visit represents an important opportunity to elevate the partnership between India and Moldova beyond traditional diplomatic relations. Both nations see significant potential for collaboration in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, information technology, education, renewable energy, innovation, and digital technologies.
Ahead of the visit, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Sibi George, emphasized that the discussions would cover the full range of bilateral relations while identifying new avenues for cooperation. He noted that the visit is expected to strengthen business-to-business partnerships, encourage greater trade and investment, and create momentum for broader collaboration across multiple sectors.
President Murmu’s visit to Moldova marks the opening chapter of her three-country European tour. Following the conclusion of her engagements in Moldova, she will continue her diplomatic mission with State visits to North Macedonia and Romania, where she is expected to participate in additional high-level meetings aimed at expanding India’s partnerships across the region.
