REMARKS BY THE HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA SMT. DROUPADI MURMU ON THE OCCASION OF UNVEILING OF THE BUST OF MAHATMA GANDHI AT THE MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF SKOPJE

I am delighted to unveil this bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Museum of the City of Skopje. I thank the Government of North Macedonia, and the Museum of the city of Skopje for making arrangements for this occasion.

Mahatma Gandhi belonged to India, but his message belongs to all humanity. 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.

I hope that visitors to this Museum, particularly young people, will pause before this bust and reflect on Gandhiji’s message. May it inspire them to reject hatred, resolve differences peacefully and serve society with courage and empathy.

This bust will stand as a lasting symbol of the friendship between India and North Macedonia and of our common commitment to peace, tolerance and humanity. I am confident that our cultural and people-to-people ties will continue to deepen in the years ahead. On behalf of the people of India, I again express my sincere appreciation to all whose efforts have made this tribute possible. May this moment strengthen the bonds of understanding and cooperation among our peoples and keep alive the ideals that Mahatma Gandhi cherished.

Thank you.