Ahmedabad Times

NEW DELHI: From the stirring notes of Vande Mataram sung by a Slovak folks ensemble to the standard providing of bread and salt, Prime Minister Narendra Modi obtained a heat cultural welcome in Bratislava as he started the second leg of his European tour.As India’s first Prime Minister to go to Slovakia, PM Modi was greeted with a vibrant show of Slovak traditions, folks music and dance performances that showcased the nation’s wealthy cultural heritage.Sharing a video of the welcome ceremony on X, PM Modi highlighted a efficiency by the Lucnica Ensemble, which sang Vande Mataram through the occasion.“This comes at a time after we are marking 150 years of Vande Mataram and recalling its wonderful contribution to India’s historical past and freedom battle,” he wrote on X.One of many highlights of the welcome was the standard Slovak customized of providing bread and salt, a centuries-old image of hospitality, respect and goodwill.“The welcome in Bratislava included the standard providing of bread and salt, a fantastic reflection of Slovakia’s wealthy cultural heritage and the values of goodwill and friendship they cherish,” PM Modi stated in a publish on X.In Slovak tradition, honoured friends are historically welcomed with bread and salt, a gesture that signifies heat, friendship and respect. In response to ANI, bread represents prosperity, sustenance and abundance, whereas salt symbolises worth, safety and enduring friendship.Rooted in Slavic traditions, the customized displays the significance Slovaks place on welcoming guests and sharing the blessings of residence, neighborhood and goodwill.The Prime Minister additionally shared glimpses of a folks efficiency by Kopaniciarik from Slovakia’s Myjava area.“Witnessed a fascinating efficiency by Kopaniciarik from the Myjava area of Slovakia. People traditions corresponding to these assist protect one’s tradition and historical past,” he stated.The Prime Minister additionally thanked the Indian neighborhood in Slovakia for the nice and cozy reception he obtained upon arrival.“Yesterday night’s welcome in Bratislava was actually particular. I’m grateful to the Indian neighborhood for his or her heat and affection. Such gestures mirror the enduring bonds that join our folks and strengthen the India-Slovakia friendship,” he stated.PM Modi arrived within the Slovak capital on Sunday night on the invitation of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. He was obtained by Slovak International Minister Juraj Blanar and welcomed with a collection of cultural performances by native artists.Through the go to, he’s additionally scheduled to carry talks with Prime Minister Fico and meet Slovak President Peter Pellegrini. The discussions are anticipated to give attention to strengthening cooperation in commerce, funding, innovation, vehicle manufacturing, railway growth and different strategic sectors.