President Droupadi Murmu recently hosted a grand banquet for esteemed leaders from neighboring nations who graced the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhavan. In an official statement, President Murmu extended her heartfelt wishes for Modi's success as he embarks on his significant duties serving the nation.
Modi, marking his third term as Prime Minister, led a 72-member Union Council of Ministers, emphasizing the blend of continuity, youth, and experience, while also acknowledging the contributions of partners within the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance government.
Among the distinguished guests were President Ranil Wickremesinghe of Sri Lanka, President Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives, Vice President Ahmed Afif of Seychelles, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh, Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth and his spouse Kobita Jugnauth of Mauritius, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda of Nepal, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay of Bhutan, as stated in the official release.
Expressing gratitude to the leaders for accepting the invitation to the government's swearing-in ceremony and joining in the celebration of democracy, President Murmu highlighted their presence as a testament to India's 'Neighborhood First' policy and the SAGAR Vision for the Indian Ocean region.
"As stakeholders in each other’s progress and well-being, we count on our closest friends and neighbors to work with us to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond," remarked President Murmu, emphasizing the collaborative effort needed for regional development and harmony.
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