President of India, Droupadi Murmu, hosted a banquet on June 9, 2024 at Rashtrapati Bhavan in honor of the leaders from neighboring countries who attended the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The banquet was attended by distinguished leaders including the President of Sri Lanka, H.E. Ranil Wickremesinghe; the President of the Maldives, H.E. Mohamed Muizzu; the Vice President of Seychelles, H.E. Ahmed Afif; the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, H.E. Sheikh Hasina; the Prime Minister of Mauritius, H.E. Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, along with Mrs. Kobita Jugnauth; the Prime Minister of Nepal, H.E. Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda; and the Prime Minister of Bhutan, H.E. Tshering Tobgay.

In her welcome address, President Murmu expressed gratitude to the leaders for accepting the invitation to the swearing-in ceremony and for joining in the celebration of democracy. She highlighted that their presence underscores the importance of India’s 'Neighborhood First' policy and the SAGAR Vision for the Indian Ocean region.

President Murmu emphasized the significance of mutual progress and well-being among neighboring countries, stating that India values its close relationships and looks forward to working together to promote peace and prosperity in the region and beyond.

She also extended her best wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he embarks on his new term, serving the people of India.