Punjab Newsline | Bratislava
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a grand traditional welcome upon arriving in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, during the second leg of his European tour. With this visit, Narendra Modi has become the first Prime Minister of India to visit Slovakia, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations.
The welcome ceremony showcased Slovakia’s rich cultural heritage through vibrant folk music and dance performances. The most memorable moment came when artists from the renowned Slovak folk group Lucnica Ensemble performed India's national song 'Vande Mataram',
creating an emotional and symbolic connection between the two nations. Prime Minister Modi later shared a video of the performance on social media platform X.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Slovakia on Sunday evening at the invitation of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. He was received at the airport by Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár.
Sharing the video, PM Modi noted that the performance comes at a time when India is celebrating 150 years of 'Vande Mataram', remembering its historic contribution to the country’s freedom movement and national identity.
In keeping with Slovakia’s centuries-old tradition, the Indian Prime Minister was also welcomed with bread and salt, a symbolic gesture representing hospitality, respect, and friendship. PM Modi also praised the folk dance performance by the Kopaniciarik group from Slovakia’s Myjava region.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the Indian community in Slovakia, who gathered in large numbers to welcome him. He said the affection shown by the Indian diaspora further strengthens the friendship and ties between India and Slovakia.
