Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic for his heartfelt congratulations on becoming India's longest-serving elected head of government. In a post on social media platform X, PM Modi acknowledged the warm wishes and emphasized the enduring ties between the two nations.
PM Modi's Response to Serbian President
"Thank you, President Vucic, for your warm and heartfelt wishes," PM Modi stated. He fondly recalled Vucic's recent visit to India and their productive discussions, adding, "India deeply values its friendship with Serbia and I look forward to working together to further strengthen our partnership in the years ahead."
Serbian President's Tribute
President Vucic had earlier lauded PM Modi's milestone, writing, "Heartfelt congratulations to @narendramodi on becoming the longest-serving elected Prime Minister in the history of India." He noted that such longevity reflects the trust citizens place in a leader dedicated to serving the people and advancing the country. Vucic emphasized that true statesmanship is measured by legacy, results, and vision, not just years in office.
Recalling their recent meeting, Vucic highlighted the mutual understanding and sincere respect shared between the two leaders. He praised PM Modi's wisdom, experience, and foresight, describing him as a global figure whose voice is respected worldwide.
Historic Milestone
PM Modi achieved the historic milestone on June 10, completing 12 years as Prime Minister and surpassing Jawaharlal Nehru's record by serving 4,399 days in office. The achievement has drawn international recognition.
European Visit and Diplomatic Engagements
PM Modi arrived in Nice, France, on Saturday for an official European visit that includes crucial diplomatic engagements in France and Slovakia, followed by participation in the G7 Summit. The visit aims to enhance international trade, foster technological alliances, and reinforce cooperation with European partners and the Global South.
In France, PM Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the full spectrum of India-France ties, which recently advanced to a Special Global Strategic Partnership. The two leaders will jointly launch Bharat Innovates 2026, a conclave connecting startups and venture capital networks from both nations.
PM Modi will then travel to Slovakia for a historic state visit on June 14-15, the first by an Indian Prime Minister since Slovakia's independence in 1993. He will meet Prime Minister Robert Fico and President Peter Pellegrini to discuss expanding investments and trade, focusing on railway infrastructure and automobile manufacturing.
Returning to France on June 16, PM Modi will attend the G7 Summit in Evian, where he is expected to meet US President Donald Trump on June 17 to discuss bilateral trade issues. He will also hold one-on-one sessions with other global leaders.
In his departure statement, PM Modi noted that this is the eighth consecutive G7 Summit invitation for India, reflecting growing global trust in the nation.
The visit concludes on June 18 in Paris, where PM Modi will join President Macron at the VivaTech Summit, Europe's largest digital innovation convention. He will also hold additional state engagements and interact with the Indian diaspora.
