President Droupadi Murmu will be strengthening bilateral ties and fostering cultural connections
President Droupadi Murmu has accepted invitations from President of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić and the President of Republic of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi to pay an important state visit to both countries.

During this official trip, which is slated to take place from June 4 to June 9, 2023, President Murmu will engage in diplomatic activities and connect with eminent leaders and communities in both countries.

According to information provided by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday (May. 29, 2023), during her visit to Paramaribo, Suriname, from June 4 to 6, 2023, President Murmu will participate as Chief Guest in commemorative celebrations of the 150th anniversary of the arrival of Indians in Suriname.

Later, President Murmu and President Santokhi will have bilateral discussions while also taking the opportunity to visit important historical and cultural sites. She will also engage with those in the Indian community and diaspora, strengthening ties.

President Droupadi Murmu will continue the tour by traveling to the Republic of Serbia from June 7 to June 9, 2023. This will be a historic event since it will be the first time an Indian Head of State has ever visited Serbia. In order to ensure a successful exchange of ideas, President Murmu and President Vučić will undertake bilateral discussions during this leg of the state visit.

Additionally, she will be meeting with Vladimir Orlic, Speaker of the National Parliament, and Prime Minister Ana Brnabi. Along with attending a key business event, President Murmu will interact with members of the Indian community and allies of India to strengthen interpersonal and cultural ties.

According to the MEA, President Murmu's visit to Suriname holds special significance as her inaugural state visit since assuming office as president last year. This visit, following closely on the heels of President Santokhi's visit to India in January 2023, serves as a catalyst to further strengthen the momentum in bilateral relations between India and Suriname.

The state visit to Serbia holds equal importance, symbolizing India's unwavering commitment to reinforcing bilateral trade, economic ties, and cultural exchanges and fostering strong bonds between the peoples of both nations. It signifies a significant milestone in the history of diplomatic relations between India and Serbia, creating a solid foundation for enhanced cooperation and mutual growth.