President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday lauded the Indian community in Romania for serving as a vital bridge between the two countries, describing the close bond between their peoples as the strongest pillar of India-Romania relations.
Addressing members of the Indian diaspora and “Friends of India” at a reception hosted by the Ambassador of India to Romania in Bucharest on the concluding day of her three-nation State visit, the President said the achievements and contributions of overseas Indians continue to make the country proud while strengthening bilateral ties.
Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya and Members of Parliament Dr. Dinesh Sharma and Vijay Baghel were also present at the event.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu said that although members of the Indian community live far from their homeland, they remain deeply connected to India through their achievements, culture and enduring sense of belonging.
She noted that Indian companies and professionals are making significant contributions to Romania’s development while creating new opportunities for cooperation between the two nations.
“The strongest pillar of India-Romania relations is the close bond between our peoples,” the President said, adding that the Indian diaspora has kept India’s rich cultural heritage alive in Romania while a new generation of Indian IT professionals, researchers, healthcare workers and students has made the European country their home.
The President praised the Indian community for its contribution to Romania’s economy and society and for promoting Indian culture and values abroad. She also thanked the Romanian government and people for warmly welcoming the Indian community and ensuring its safety.
Referring to India’s long-term development vision, President Murmu said the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 is to build a prosperous, modern, self-reliant and inclusive nation. She urged members of the Indian diaspora to remain active partners in India’s developmental journey, saying their experience, expertise and achievements would continue to contribute to the country’s progress.
The President also acknowledged the presence of Romanian “Friends of India” at the reception, saying their appreciation of Indian art, culture and spirituality has helped build enduring people-to-people ties between the two countries. She thanked them for supporting stronger friendship and cooperation between India and Romania.
During her address, President Murmu highlighted the expanding scope of bilateral cooperation, noting that India and Romania are working together on issues such as sustainable development, climate action, counter-terrorism and the promotion of a rules-based international order.
She also pointed to growing opportunities for economic collaboration in sectors including defence, renewable energy, digital technology, education, research, healthcare, science and technology, artificial intelligence, innovation and advanced manufacturing.
The President observed that the conclusion of the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement earlier this year marked a historic milestone that is expected to significantly boost trade and economic engagement with Romania and other EU member states.
President Murmu concluded her address by reaffirming the Government of India’s commitment to the welfare of the global Indian community and to maintaining close ties with the Indian diaspora worldwide.
Following the successful completion of her three-nation State visit, the President departed for New Delhi.
