New Delhi, 05 October (H.S.): Swiss President Guy Parmelin, who arrived in India on a three-day state visit, was warmly received by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday morning. He was accorded a ceremonial tri-services Guard of Honour.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, President Guy Parmelin arrived in New Delhi with a high-level delegation at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was received at the airport by Union Minister of State Ajay Tamta. A formal static Guard of Honour was also accorded to him at the airport.

Following the ceremonial welcome, President Parmelin said that his visit was an important step towards strengthening relations between the two countries and achieving “further progress.” The visit is taking place on the first anniversary of the historic Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). During the talks, the two countries’ top leaders will review progress in bilateral trade, investment, science, innovation and key global issues.

On the second day of his visit, Tuesday, the Swiss President will visit Noida International Airport in Jewar. Swiss companies and technology have played an important role in the development of the airport. The visit is expected to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries in infrastructure and advanced technology.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the ceremonial welcome reflects the warmth and longstanding friendship between India and Switzerland.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar