President Droupadi Murmu Unveils Mahatma Gandhi's Statue in North Macedonia: Cultural Diplomacy Gets a Boost
On July 22, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, marking a significant symbol of cultural diplomacy and bilateral relations between the two nations. The President highlighted the enduring relevance of Gandhiji’s principles—truth, non-violence, peace, and coexistence—for global peace and humanity. This visit further strengthened people-to-people diplomacy and India's soft power. President Murmu also visited the Mother Teresa Memorial House in Skopje, underscoring the historical and cultural ties between the two countries.
On July 22, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the City Museum in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. The President of North Macedonia, Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova, was also present on the occasion. This event stands as a significant symbol of the growing bilateral relations and cultural cooperation between India and North Macedonia.
Significance of Cultural Diplomacy
The installation of Mahatma Gandhi's statues abroad serves as an effective medium for projecting India's soft power and cultural diplomacy. Gandhiji's principles of truth, non-violence, peace, and coexistence showcase India's moral leadership and civilizational values on the global stage.
President's Message
In her address, President Droupadi Murmu stated that Mahatma Gandhi was not merely a leader of India but a source of inspiration for all of humanity. She emphasized that Gandhian principles—such as truth, non-violence, dialogue, tolerance, and human dignity—remain relevant today in addressing global conflicts, intolerance, and violence.
India–North Macedonia Relations
The unveiling of the Gandhi statue is a significant step towards further strengthening friendship, cultural cooperation, mutual respect, and democratic values between the two nations. This initiative also reflects India's policy of bolstering international relations through people-to-people diplomacy and cultural heritage.
Historic Connection with Mother Teresa
President Murmu also visited the Mother Teresa Memorial House in Skopje. Mother Teresa was born in Skopje in 1910 and later performed exemplary humanitarian work in India, for which she was awarded the Bharat Ratna. This visit also highlights the historical and cultural ties between India and North Macedonia.
UPSC Prelims & Mains Facts
Capital of North Macedonia – Skopje.
President – Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova (term until 2026).
The installation of Gandhi statues abroad serves as a key instrument of India's soft power and cultural diplomacy.
Mother Teresa was born in Skopje and was awarded the Bharat Ratna (1980) for her humanitarian service in India.
This news is significant for GS Paper II (International Relations) and GS Paper I (Modern Indian History – Gandhian philosophy and Indian culture).
