On 9 and 10 April 2025 we had the honour of photographically documenting the historic visit of the President of the Republic of India, Droupadi Murmu, to Slovakia. It was the first visit of the Indian head of state to Slovakia in 29 years and the first bilateral visit at the highest level in more than 20 years.
Programme of President Murmu's visit
The visit of the President of India was packed with important meetings and events, which we had the opportunity to capture photographically.
Day one – Bratislava (9 April 2025)
Welcome ceremony in front of the Presidential Palace The day began with a ceremonial welcome, where the President of the Slovak Republic Peter Pellegrini welcomed the Indian head of state in front of the Presidential Palace. The atmosphere was full of protocol dignity, with an inspection of the guard of honour.
Meetings at the highest level President Murmu attended a series of important meetings:
- Bilateral talks with President Pellegrini at the Presidential Palace
- Meeting with the Speaker of the National Council of the Slovak Republic Richard Raši
- Talks with Prime Minister Robert Fico
During these meetings two important memoranda of understanding were signed – one on cooperation in training and exchange of diplomats and the other on cooperation of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Commemoration at Devín In the afternoon President Murmu laid a wreath at the Gate of Freedom memorial at Devín in Bratislava, a moving and symbolic gesture of respect for the history of Slovakia.
Day two – Bratislava and Nitra (10 April 2025)
Slovak-Indian Business Forum The presidents jointly opened the Slovak-Indian Business Forum in Bratislava, which aimed to move economic cooperation between the two countries to a new level. It was attended by a 35-member Indian business delegation from the fields of the automotive industry, IT, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, electromobility and medical technology. The Slovak side was represented by more than 40 companies.
Visit to Nitra The second day continued in Nitra, where several important events took place:
- Honorary title at UKF: At Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, President Murmu received the title of doctor honoris causa for her outstanding contribution to the development of inclusive education, support for marginalised communities and the protection of human rights.
- Visit to Jaguar Land Rover: The President visited the Jaguar Land Rover plant in Nitra, which is part of the Indian company Tata Motors. The visit had special symbolic significance, as many Indian employees work at the plant.
- Planting a tree of friendship: At the end of the visit the presidents jointly planted a narrow-leaved ash in the Nitra city park as a symbol of good relations between India and the Slovak Republic.
Challenges of photographing state visits
Photographing state visits is among the most demanding types of event photography. It requires:
- Strict security protocols: Working close to presidents means going through thorough security checks and following strict rules.
- Precise timing: At protocol events there is no room for improvisation. Every moment must be captured correctly and on time.
- Discretion and professionalism: The photographer must be invisible, yet in the right place at the right time.
- Technical perfection: Photographs from official visits are used in the media around the world, so they must meet the highest quality standards.
The visit of the President of India to Slovakia was an exceptional opportunity to capture history live.
