PM Modi witnesses schoolchildren from Slovakia perform Yoga during his visit, shares pictures

NEW DELHI: Ahead of International Yoga Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Slovak President Peter Pellegrini witnessed a yoga demonstration by Slovak schoolchildren during his visit to Bratislava. PM Modi said he was pleased to see young people embracing yoga and highlighted its role in promoting well-being and bringing people together across cultures. "President Pellegrini and I were delighted to witness a special Yoga demonstration by schoolchildren from Slovakia. As the world counts down to International Yoga Day, it is delightful to see the youth embrace Yoga. Also happy to see Yoga continuing to bring people together in the shared pursuit of well-being," PM Modi posted on X. PM Modi also praised an exhibition on Varanasi held at the Presidential Palace in Bratislava. The exhibition featured works by Slovak artists who had recently visited the ancient Indian city. PM Modi said the showcase reflected the power of art and culture to strengthen ties between people and nations. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, "A Banaras connect in Bratislava! At the Presidential Palace in Bratislava yesterday, President Pellegrini and I viewed a fascinating exhibition centred on Varanasi, including works by Slovak artists who had recently visited the city. Art and culture truly have a unique ability to bring people closer. My compliments to all those whose works featured in this exhibition." During his visit, PM Modi held discussions with President Pellegrini on a range of issues, including manufacturing, transport, innovation, investment, energy, biofuels and digital technology. He said both sides also explored ways to deepen people-to-people connections. The visit saw further progress in India-Slovakia relations, with Prime Minister Modi and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico reaffirming their commitment to multilateralism and reform of global institutions. According to the India-Slovakia Joint Statement, the two leaders stressed the need for comprehensive reforms of the United Nations, particularly the UN Security Council, to make it more representative, inclusive and reflective of present-day geopolitical realities. They also supported the expansion of the Security Council in both permanent and non-permanent categories. India and Slovakia additionally agreed to strengthen cooperation in defence, cybersecurity, critical infrastructure protection and connectivity, identifying these sectors as key pillars of their growing bilateral partnership.