President Murmu Invites Slovak Firms to ‘Make in India’, Receives Honorary Doctorate in Slovakia

President Murmu Invites Slovak Firms to ‘Make in India’, Receives Honorary Doctorate in Slovakia

Bratislava– On the second day of her state visit to Slovakia, President Droupadi Murmu addressed the Slovakia-India Business Forum in Bratislava, calling for deeper trade and investment ties between the two countries and inviting Slovak companies to participate in the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Highlighting India’s rapid transformation into a global leader in sectors such as digital technology, renewable energy, biotech, fintech, and space, the President said, “India is expected to become a $5 trillion economy in the coming years. We hope to do it in partnership with friends such as Slovakia.”

She noted that while India remains one of the fastest-growing economies globally, Slovakia—with its strong industrial base and strategic European location—offers great potential for collaboration in defence, automotive, and high-tech industries.

Calling the Business Forum an ideal platform to foster partnerships, President Murmu urged leaders from both nations to seize emerging opportunities and translate dialogue into results.

Later in the day, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra conferred an Honoris Causa Doctorate on President Murmu in recognition of her contributions to governance, education, women’s empowerment, and advocacy for social justice and cultural diversity.

In her acceptance address, she emphasized the deep-rooted connection between education and national development, noting that India—with its youthful demographic—is investing in the knowledge economy of the future.

Drawing parallels between Indian philosophical thought and the legacy of Saint Constantine Cyril, the President said, “Indian classical philosophy, like the work of Saint Cyril, emphasizes introspection, ethical conduct, and diverse perspectives. It is heartening to see the wisdom of the Upanishads resonate in Slovakia.”

President Murmu, accompanied by Slovak President Peter Pellegrini, also visited the Jaguar Land Rover Factory in Bratislava to observe advanced manufacturing facilities, further underlining industrial cooperation between the two nations.

Earlier in the day, the President visited an exhibition of paintings by Slovak children titled “India through the Eyes of Slovak Children”, organized by the Slovak-Indian Friendship Society in collaboration with the Indian Embassy. She also attended a puppet show on the Ramayan, performed by Ms. Lenka Mukova of the Babadlo Puppet Theater, which has been promoting educational puppetry for over 30 years.

On April 9, President Pellegrini hosted a banquet in honour of President Murmu at the historic Bratislava Castle, where Slovak artists presented musical tributes, including renditions of national anthems.

In her address at the banquet, President Murmu thanked the people of Slovakia for their hospitality and said, “From yoga and ayurveda to Indian cuisine, Slovakia’s love for Indian culture is a testament to our strong people-to-people ties.” She reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening its friendship with Slovakia.