Chisinau [Moldova], July 20 (ANI): President Droupadi Murmu landed in Moldova on Monday to commence her three-nation European visit, marking a historic milestone as the inaugural visit by an Indian head of state to the Eastern European nation.

The high-level diplomatic itinerary is designed to fortify bilateral cooperation with Moldova, North Macedonia, and Romania across key sectors, including commerce, digital technology, and tourism.

During her official engagements in Moldova, President Murmu is slated to conduct bilateral discussions with President Maia Sandu and hold talks with Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu.

Furthermore, the President will engage in discussions with the Moldova-India Parliamentary Friendship Group, deliver a keynote address at a Business Forum, and convene an interaction with the local Indian diaspora.

'On her arrival at Chisinau International Airport, she was warmly received by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova, Mr. Mihai Popsoi,' Rashtrapati Bhavan said in a post on X.

https://x.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/2079102989030379610?s=20

Geographically positioned between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova is a landlocked Eastern European state encompassing an area of 33,846 sq km.

The country serves as a significant hub for Indian expatriates, hosting approximately 2,000 Indian citizens, including around 1,800 medical students, rendering the Indian demographic one of the most prominent international student contingents nationwide.

Following the conclusion of her single-day visit to Moldova, President Murmu will proceed to North Macedonia for a two-day stay spanning July 21 to 22, registering another diplomatic first for an Indian President.

For the concluding phase of her deployment, she will transit to Romania from July 23 to 25 following an official request by Romanian President Nicuor Dan.

The upcoming segment represents the initial visit by an Indian head of state to Bucharest in over thirty years.

The multi-nation presidential visits underscore New Delhi's strategic imperative to enhance mutual relations and broaden its geopolitical footprint across the expansive Eastern European landscape. (ANI)