President Droupadi Murmu Conducts Historic First State Visit to Moldova

President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Chisinau, Moldova, on July 20, 2026, for the first-ever state visit by an Indian president. Accompanied by a large business delegation, she was received with a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace by President Maia Sandu and Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi. The visit marks the first time an Indian head of state has visited Moldova since diplomatic relations began 34 years ago.

During bilateral talks and a joint press conference, Murmu and Sandu agreed to expand cooperation in agriculture, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, IT, and renewable energy. To support capacity building, India will double ITEC training slots for Moldovan professionals and offer specialized courses in AI and cyber diplomacy. President Sandu invited Indian enterprises to use Moldova as a strategic gateway to Europe, citing the country's pursuit of European Union accession. The leaders also inaugurated the Moldova-India Business Forum to foster direct corporate links.

Murmu's itinerary included paying floral tributes at the Stefan cel Mare si Sfant monument and meeting with Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu and the Moldova-India Parliamentary Friendship Group. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to international law and resolving global disputes through dialogue. This visit is the first leg of a three-nation tour, with Murmu scheduled to visit North Macedonia from July 21 to 22 and Romania from July 23 to 25.