President Murmu’s Landmark Visit Boosts India–North Macedonia Ties

New Delhi, July 21, 2026 President Droupadi Murmu’s historic State visit to North Macedonia has marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to expanding cooperation across strategic sectors. During the first-ever visit by an Indian President to the European nation, India and North Macedonia focused on strengthening economic engagement, enhancing institutional partnerships, and broadening people-to-people exchanges, reflecting a shared vision for deeper and more comprehensive ties. President Murmu held bilateral talks with North Macedonian President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova after receiving a ceremonial welcome at Villa Vodno in Skopje. The two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Addressing the media after the talks, President Murmu described economic cooperation as an **“extremely important pillar”** of India-North Macedonia relations. She said both countries had agreed to promote greater trade and investment, encourage stronger business-to-business engagement, and work towards doubling bilateral trade. The discussions also covered collaboration in information technology, agriculture, food processing, pharmaceuticals, textiles, biotechnology, tourism, hospitality and filmmaking, while both sides agreed to renew their Memorandum of Understanding on healthcare cooperation and strengthen collaboration in traditional systems of medicine. Highlighting the importance of cultural diplomacy, President Murmu said cultural and people-to-people exchanges remain among the strongest pillars of the bilateral relationship. She also welcomed North Macedonia’s intention to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and the Global Biofuels Alliance. In another key announcement, she said India would double the number of Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) training slots for North Macedonia, including specialised courses in Artificial Intelligence. During the visit, the two Presidents are also scheduled to jointly unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Museum of Skopje, symbolising the shared values and friendship between the two nations. Expressing confidence in the future of the partnership, President Murmu said her historic visit would open a new chapter in India–North Macedonia relations and further strengthen cooperation in the years ahead. The visit reflects the growing momentum in bilateral engagement and underscores the commitment of both countries to building a stronger, multifaceted relationship based on mutual trust and shared aspirations.