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{{Use Indian English|date=October 2021}} | {{Use Indian English|date=October 2021}} | ||
{{Infobox administration|image=Ram Nath Kovind official portrait.jpg|name=Presidency of Ram Nath Kovind|term_start={{dts|2017|07|25}}|term_end=''[[ | {{update|date=March 2022}} | ||
{{Infobox administration|image=Ram Nath Kovind official portrait.jpg|name=Presidency of Ram Nath Kovind|term_start={{dts|2017|07|25}}|term_end=''[[Incumbent]]''|president=Ram Nath Kovind|president_link=President of India|party=[[Bharatiya Janata Party|BJP]]|election=[[2017 Indian presidential election]]|seat=[[Rashtrapati Bhawan]]|predecessor=[[Pranab Mukherjee]]|successor=''[[Incumbent]]''|seal=Emblem of India.svg|seal_caption=Emblem of India}} | |||
The '''presidency of Ram Nath Kovind''' began on {{dts|2017|07|25}}, when [[Ram Nath Kovind|he]] took the oath as the fourteenth [[president of India]] administered by Chief Justice [[Jagdish Singh Khehar]]. Kovind was the [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] (BJP)-led [[National Democratic Alliance]] (NDA) nominee and defeated the [[Indian National Congress]] (Congress)-led [[United Progressive Alliance]] (UPA) nominee and former [[Speaker of the Lok Sabha|speaker of Lok Sabha]], [[Meira Kumar]]. Prior to being the presidential nominee, he was the [[List of governors of Bihar|governor of Bihar]] and a [[Member of parliament, Rajya Sabha|member of parliament]] in [[Rajya Sabha]]. Kovind secured approximately two-thirds of the [[Electoral College (India)|electoral college]] vote of the elected members of the federal, state and [[union territory]] legislatures. | The '''presidency of Ram Nath Kovind''' began on {{dts|2017|07|25}}, when [[Ram Nath Kovind|he]] took the oath as the fourteenth [[president of India]] administered by Chief Justice [[Jagdish Singh Khehar]]. Kovind was the [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] (BJP)-led [[National Democratic Alliance]] (NDA) nominee and defeated the [[Indian National Congress]] (Congress)-led [[United Progressive Alliance]] (UPA) nominee and former [[Speaker of the Lok Sabha|speaker of Lok Sabha]], [[Meira Kumar]]. Prior to being the presidential nominee, he was the [[List of governors of Bihar|governor of Bihar]] and a [[Member of parliament, Rajya Sabha|member of parliament]] in [[Rajya Sabha]]. Kovind secured approximately two-thirds of the [[Electoral College (India)|electoral college]] vote of the elected members of the federal, state and [[union territory]] legislatures. | ||
During his presidency, he has undertaken state visits to 28 countries. He has received the highest state honors from six countries, [[Madagascar]], [[Equatorial Guinea]], [[Eswatini]], [[Croatia]], [[Bolivia]] and the [[Guinea|Republic of Guinea]].<ref name="The President of India3">{{Cite web|title=The President of India|url=https://presidentofindia.gov.in/|access-date=2021-03-21|website=presidentofindia.gov.in|language=english|archive-date=April 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414021216/https://presidentofindia.gov.in/|url-status=live}}</ref> Just a few weeks after starting his presidency, [[Venkaiah Naidu]], the BJP candidate for vice president won the [[2017 Indian vice presidential election]]; President Kovind administered the oath of the office.<ref>{{Cite web| | During his presidency, he has undertaken state visits to 28 countries. He has received the highest state honors from six countries, [[Madagascar]], [[Equatorial Guinea]], [[Eswatini]], [[Croatia]], [[Bolivia]] and the [[Guinea|Republic of Guinea]].<ref name="The President of India3">{{Cite web|title=The President of India|url=https://presidentofindia.gov.in/|access-date=2021-03-21|website=presidentofindia.gov.in|language=english|archive-date=April 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414021216/https://presidentofindia.gov.in/|url-status=live}}</ref> Just a few weeks after starting his presidency, [[Venkaiah Naidu]], the BJP candidate for vice president won the [[2017 Indian vice presidential election]]; President Kovind administered the oath of the office.<ref>{{Cite web|author=Vishwa Mohan|date=Aug 5, 2017|title=Venkaiah Naidu: NDA candidate Venkaiah Naidu wins vice presidential election with 516 votes {{!}} India News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/nda-candidate-venkaiah-naidu-wins-vice-presidential-election-with-516-votes/articleshow/59931644.cms|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=November 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112025227/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/nda-candidate-venkaiah-naidu-wins-vice-presidential-election-with-516-votes/articleshow/59931644.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2019, he [[Second swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi|administered the oath of office]] to [[Narendra Modi]] upon his [[2019 Indian general election|re-election]].<ref>{{Cite news|date=2019-05-23|title=India election results 2019: Narendra Modi secures landslide win|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48347081|access-date=2021-03-23|archive-date=March 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210321043849/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-48347081|url-status=live}}</ref> He has held the office during the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] and subsequent [[COVID-19 lockdowns|lockdowns]]. He is the first leader from [[Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh]] to occupy the office of president of India.<ref>{{Cite news|last=IANS|date=2017-07-20|title=Kovind elected President, first leader with RSS background to occupy Rashtrapati Bhavan (Roundup)|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/kovind-elected-president-first-leader-with-rss-background-to-occupy-rashtrapati-bhavan-roundup-117072001301_1.html|access-date=2021-03-23|archive-date=November 13, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201113065043/https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/kovind-elected-president-first-leader-with-rss-background-to-occupy-rashtrapati-bhavan-roundup-117072001301_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
He appointed [[Dipak Misra|Dipak Mishra]], [[Ranjan Gogoi]], [[Sharad Arvind Bobde]] and [[N. V. Ramana]] as [[Chief Justice of India|chief justice]] of the Supreme Court, and other judges of the Supreme Court and the [[High courts of India|High Courts]]. | He appointed [[Dipak Misra|Dipak Mishra]], [[Ranjan Gogoi]], [[Sharad Arvind Bobde]] and [[N. V. Ramana]] as [[Chief Justice of India|chief justice]] of the Supreme Court, and other judges of the Supreme Court and the [[High courts of India|High Courts]]. | ||
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|[[Bombay High Court|Bombay]] | |[[Bombay High Court|Bombay]] | ||
|<ref>{{Cite web| | |<ref>{{Cite web|author=Vaibhav Ganjapure|date=May 10, 2019|title=In Gavai, Supreme Court gets its 1st SC judge in a decade {{!}} Nagpur News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/in-gavai-supreme-court-gets-its-1st-sc-judge-in-a-decade/articleshow/69257649.cms|access-date=2021-03-21|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=April 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210428181728/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/in-gavai-supreme-court-gets-its-1st-sc-judge-in-a-decade/articleshow/69257649.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
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|[[Punjab and Haryana High Court|Punjab and Haryana]] | |[[Punjab and Haryana High Court|Punjab and Haryana]] | ||
|<ref>{{Cite web | |<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-02-10|title=Know Thy Judge {{!}} Justice Surya Kant|url=https://www.scconline.com/blog/post/2021/02/10/know-thy-judge-justice-surya-kant/|access-date=2021-03-21|website=SCC Blog|language=en-US|archive-date=February 10, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210210112738/https://www.scconline.com/blog/post/2021/02/10/know-thy-judge-justice-surya-kant/|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
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President Kovind visited Equatorial Guinea, Swaziland and Zambia during his state visit to Africa from April 7 to 12, 2018. He signed three memoranda of understanding in the fields of [[AYUSH]] (ayurveda, yoga, naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and homoeopathy) and traditional medicine, medicinal plants, and an action plan for Information and Communication Technology. He was bestowed with the medal of the Gran Colar de la Independencia by President [[Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo]], for his contribution to the cause of development, security and world peace.<ref>{{Cite web|title=President Kovind bestowed with Equitorial [sic] Guinea's highest civilian honour|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/apr/09/president-kovind-bestowed-with-equitorial-guineas-highest-civilian-honour-1798844.html|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The New Indian Express|archive-date=October 22, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191022204756/http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/apr/09/president-kovind-bestowed-with-equitorial-guineas-highest-civilian-honour-1798844.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He said that India is ready to partner with Equatorial Guinea, which is diversifying its economy and reducing its dependence on oil and gas exports.<ref>{{Cite news|agency=Press Trust of India|date=2018-04-08|title=President Kovind on visit to Equatorial Guinea|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/president-kovind-on-visit-to-equatorial-guinea-118040800707_1.html|access-date=2021-03-23|archive-date=April 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413130019/http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/president-kovind-on-visit-to-equatorial-guinea-118040800707_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | President Kovind visited Equatorial Guinea, Swaziland and Zambia during his state visit to Africa from April 7 to 12, 2018. He signed three memoranda of understanding in the fields of [[AYUSH]] (ayurveda, yoga, naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa and homoeopathy) and traditional medicine, medicinal plants, and an action plan for Information and Communication Technology. He was bestowed with the medal of the Gran Colar de la Independencia by President [[Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo]], for his contribution to the cause of development, security and world peace.<ref>{{Cite web|title=President Kovind bestowed with Equitorial [sic] Guinea's highest civilian honour|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/apr/09/president-kovind-bestowed-with-equitorial-guineas-highest-civilian-honour-1798844.html|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The New Indian Express|archive-date=October 22, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191022204756/http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/apr/09/president-kovind-bestowed-with-equitorial-guineas-highest-civilian-honour-1798844.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He said that India is ready to partner with Equatorial Guinea, which is diversifying its economy and reducing its dependence on oil and gas exports.<ref>{{Cite news|agency=Press Trust of India|date=2018-04-08|title=President Kovind on visit to Equatorial Guinea|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/president-kovind-on-visit-to-equatorial-guinea-118040800707_1.html|access-date=2021-03-23|archive-date=April 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413130019/http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/president-kovind-on-visit-to-equatorial-guinea-118040800707_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
[[File:The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind meeting with His Majesty Mswati III, the King of Swaziland, at Lozitha Palace, in Swaziland, Shikhuphe on April 09, 2018.jpg|thumb|President Kovind in [[Swaziland]] with King of Swaziland, His Majesty [[Mswati III]]]]In Swaziland, he addressed members of the [[Parliament of Eswatini|Parliament of Swaziland]] on {{dts|2018|04|10}}. He became the first visiting head of state to do so. He met [[Mswati III|King Mswati III]] and was conferred the highest honor of Swaziland, the Order of the Lion.<ref>{{Cite web|title=President Kovind conferred highest civilian honour of Swaziland DD News|url=http://ddnews.gov.in/national/president-kovind-conferred-highest-civilian-honour-swaziland|access-date=2021-03-23|website=ddnews.gov.in|archive-date=February 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200220201908/http://ddnews.gov.in/national/president-kovind-conferred-highest-civilian-honour-swaziland|url-status=live}}</ref> While addressing the Indian community in Malabo, the president said every member of the Indian community is critical to strengthening relations between India and Equatorial Guinea. He also urged the Indian community to help enhance the business and cultural links between the two countries.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-04-11|title=Ram Nath Kovind in Swaziland: Two MoUs signed, India announces help to construct new Parliament; key takeaways|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/ram-nath-kovind-in-swaziland-two-mous-signed-india-announces-help-to-construct-new-parliament-key-takeaways/1129423/|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|archive-date=March 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200319151023/https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/ram-nath-kovind-in-swaziland-two-mous-signed-india-announces-help-to-construct-new-parliament-key-takeaways/1129423/|url-status=live}}</ref> | [[File:The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind meeting with His Majesty Mswati III, the King of Swaziland, at Lozitha Palace, in Swaziland, Shikhuphe on April 09, 2018.jpg|thumb|President Kovind in [[Swaziland]] with King of Swaziland, His Majesty [[Mswati III]]]]In Swaziland, he addressed members of the [[Parliament of Eswatini|Parliament of Swaziland]] on {{dts|2018|04|10}}. He became the first visiting head of state to do so. He met [[Mswati III|King Mswati III]] and was conferred the highest honor of Swaziland, the Order of the Lion.<ref>{{Cite web|title=President Kovind conferred highest civilian honour of Swaziland DD News|url=http://ddnews.gov.in/national/president-kovind-conferred-highest-civilian-honour-swaziland|access-date=2021-03-23|website=ddnews.gov.in|archive-date=February 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200220201908/http://ddnews.gov.in/national/president-kovind-conferred-highest-civilian-honour-swaziland|url-status=live}}</ref> While addressing the Indian community in Malabo, the president said every member of the Indian community is critical to strengthening relations between India and Equatorial Guinea. He also urged the Indian community to help enhance the business and cultural links between the two countries.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-04-11|title=Ram Nath Kovind in Swaziland: Two MoUs signed, India announces help to construct new Parliament; key takeaways|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/ram-nath-kovind-in-swaziland-two-mous-signed-india-announces-help-to-construct-new-parliament-key-takeaways/1129423/|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|archive-date=March 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200319151023/https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/ram-nath-kovind-in-swaziland-two-mous-signed-india-announces-help-to-construct-new-parliament-key-takeaways/1129423/|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
He visited Zambia at the invitation of President [[Edgar Lungu|Edgar Chagwa Lungu]]. This was the final leg of his three-nation tour to Africa. He paid tribute to three former presidents of Zambia, [[Frederick Chiluba|Chiluba]], [[Levy Mwanawasa|Mwanawasa]] and [[Michael Sata|Sata]] at the Embassy Park Presidential Memorial. He signed agreements and memoranda of understanding including visa exemption on diplomatic and official passports, judicial cooperation which would result in long and short-term training in law and justice developments and the establishment of the Entrepreneurship Development Institute in Zambia.<ref>{{Cite web|title=President Kovind's Visit to Zambia: An Appraisal of the Relationship - Indian Council of World Affairs (Government of India)|url=https://www.icwa.in/show_content.php?lang=1&level=3&ls_id=4920&lid=1793#:~:text=President%20Ram%20Nath%20Kovind%20undertook,of%20the%20Republic%20of%20Zambia.&text=Prime%20Minister%20Indira%20Gandhi%20had,,%201970,%201976%20and%201980.|access-date=2021-03-23|website=www.icwa.in|archive-date=April 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210428181727/https://www.icwa.in/show_content.php?lang=1&level=3&ls_id=4920&lid=1793#:~:text=President%20Ram%20Nath%20Kovind%20undertook,of%20the%20Republic%20of%20Zambia.&text=Prime%20Minister%20Indira%20Gandhi%20had,,%201970,%201976%20and%201980.|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=President Kovind in Zambia, Both countries sign four agreements DD News|url=http://ddnews.gov.in/national/president-kovind-zambia-both-countries-sign-four-agreements|access-date=2021-03-23|website=ddnews.gov.in|archive-date=January 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200126185902/http://ddnews.gov.in/national/president-kovind-zambia-both-countries-sign-four-agreements|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web| | He visited Zambia at the invitation of President [[Edgar Lungu|Edgar Chagwa Lungu]]. This was the final leg of his three-nation tour to Africa. He paid tribute to three former presidents of Zambia, [[Frederick Chiluba|Chiluba]], [[Levy Mwanawasa|Mwanawasa]] and [[Michael Sata|Sata]] at the Embassy Park Presidential Memorial. He signed agreements and memoranda of understanding including visa exemption on diplomatic and official passports, judicial cooperation which would result in long and short-term training in law and justice developments and the establishment of the Entrepreneurship Development Institute in Zambia.<ref>{{Cite web|title=President Kovind's Visit to Zambia: An Appraisal of the Relationship - Indian Council of World Affairs (Government of India)|url=https://www.icwa.in/show_content.php?lang=1&level=3&ls_id=4920&lid=1793#:~:text=President%20Ram%20Nath%20Kovind%20undertook,of%20the%20Republic%20of%20Zambia.&text=Prime%20Minister%20Indira%20Gandhi%20had,,%201970,%201976%20and%201980.|access-date=2021-03-23|website=www.icwa.in|archive-date=April 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210428181727/https://www.icwa.in/show_content.php?lang=1&level=3&ls_id=4920&lid=1793#:~:text=President%20Ram%20Nath%20Kovind%20undertook,of%20the%20Republic%20of%20Zambia.&text=Prime%20Minister%20Indira%20Gandhi%20had,,%201970,%201976%20and%201980.|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=President Kovind in Zambia, Both countries sign four agreements DD News|url=http://ddnews.gov.in/national/president-kovind-zambia-both-countries-sign-four-agreements|access-date=2021-03-23|website=ddnews.gov.in|archive-date=January 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200126185902/http://ddnews.gov.in/national/president-kovind-zambia-both-countries-sign-four-agreements|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|agency=PTI|date=Apr 11, 2018|title=Kovind: India, Zambia sign 4 agreements during President Kovind's visit India News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-zambia-sign-4-agreements-during-president-kovinds-visit/articleshow/63719948.cms|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=November 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109025713/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-zambia-sign-4-agreements-during-president-kovinds-visit/articleshow/63719948.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
==== Greece, Suriname and Cuba ==== | ==== Greece, Suriname and Cuba ==== | ||
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==== Cyprus, Bulgaria and Czech Republic ==== | ==== Cyprus, Bulgaria and Czech Republic ==== | ||
President Kovind visited Cyprus from September 2 to 4, 2018, on the first leg of his three-nation visit to Europe to continue India’s high-level engagements with European countries. The president and his wife arrived at the [[Larnaca International Airport]] in Cyprus.<ref>{{Cite web| | President Kovind visited Cyprus from September 2 to 4, 2018, on the first leg of his three-nation visit to Europe to continue India’s high-level engagements with European countries. The president and his wife arrived at the [[Larnaca International Airport]] in Cyprus.<ref>{{Cite web|agency=PTI|date=Sep 2, 2018|title=President Ram Nath Kovind arrives in Cyprus India News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/president-ram-nath-kovind-arrives-in-cyprus/articleshow/65645843.cms|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=November 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109034200/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/president-ram-nath-kovind-arrives-in-cyprus/articleshow/65645843.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> The Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare [[Parshottam Rupala]] and two members of parliament, [[Ram Shakal]] and [[Anil Baluni]], along with several other officials accompanied him. President Kovind addressed an Extraordinary Session of the House of Representatives of Cyprus, delivered a lecture at the [[University of Cyprus]], and addressed members of the Indian diaspora. He aimed to further strengthen trade and business relations and improve people to people contact.<ref>{{Cite web|title=President Ram Nath Kovind meets Indian Community in Cyprus DD News|url=http://ddnews.gov.in/national/president-ram-nath-kovind-meets-indian-community-cyprus|access-date=2021-03-23|website=ddnews.gov.in|archive-date=February 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200203034320/http://ddnews.gov.in/national/president-ram-nath-kovind-meets-indian-community-cyprus|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
During his visit to Bulgaria, he held detailed talks with President [[Rumen Radev]] and invited Bulgaria to become a key partner of India in defense and in the IT sector under the Make In India program.<ref>{{Cite web|title=India & Bulgaria sign 4 MoUs;President Kovind invites Bulgaria to become key partner of India DD News|url=http://ddnews.gov.in/national/india-bulgaria-sign-4-mouspresident-kovind-invites-bulgaria-become-key-partner-india|access-date=2021-03-23|website=ddnews.gov.in|archive-date=February 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224100222/http://ddnews.gov.in/national/india-bulgaria-sign-4-mouspresident-kovind-invites-bulgaria-become-key-partner-india|url-status=live}}</ref> He signed four memoranda of understanding between on investment, tourism, civil nuclear cooperation and the establishment of a Hindi Chair at Sofia University. A Program of Cooperation was also signed to enhance scientific cooperation.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-09-07|title=President Ram Nath Kovind, Bulgarian counterpart Rumen Radev visit Brahmastra set in Sofia - Entertainment News , Firstpost|url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/president-ram-nath-kovind-bulgarian-counterpart-rumen-radev-visit-brahmastra-set-in-sofia-5134221.html|access-date=2021-03-23|website=Firstpost|archive-date=November 14, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181114064158/https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/president-ram-nath-kovind-bulgarian-counterpart-rumen-radev-visit-brahmastra-set-in-sofia-5134221.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | During his visit to Bulgaria, he held detailed talks with President [[Rumen Radev]] and invited Bulgaria to become a key partner of India in defense and in the IT sector under the Make In India program.<ref>{{Cite web|title=India & Bulgaria sign 4 MoUs;President Kovind invites Bulgaria to become key partner of India DD News|url=http://ddnews.gov.in/national/india-bulgaria-sign-4-mouspresident-kovind-invites-bulgaria-become-key-partner-india|access-date=2021-03-23|website=ddnews.gov.in|archive-date=February 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224100222/http://ddnews.gov.in/national/india-bulgaria-sign-4-mouspresident-kovind-invites-bulgaria-become-key-partner-india|url-status=live}}</ref> He signed four memoranda of understanding between on investment, tourism, civil nuclear cooperation and the establishment of a Hindi Chair at Sofia University. A Program of Cooperation was also signed to enhance scientific cooperation.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-09-07|title=President Ram Nath Kovind, Bulgarian counterpart Rumen Radev visit Brahmastra set in Sofia - Entertainment News , Firstpost|url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/president-ram-nath-kovind-bulgarian-counterpart-rumen-radev-visit-brahmastra-set-in-sofia-5134221.html|access-date=2021-03-23|website=Firstpost|archive-date=November 14, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181114064158/https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/president-ram-nath-kovind-bulgarian-counterpart-rumen-radev-visit-brahmastra-set-in-sofia-5134221.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
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==== Vietnam and Australia ==== | ==== Vietnam and Australia ==== | ||
President Kovind visited Vietnam from November 18 to 21, 2018, on the first leg of his visit to Vietnam and Australia. This was his first visit to an [[ASEAN]] country. He visited [[Da Nang]], Me Son, [[Hanoi]] and [[Ho Chi Minh City|Ho Chi Minh]]. He addressed the National Assembly of Vietnam, the second foreign leader to do so after Chinese President [[Xi Jinping]].<ref>{{Cite web| | President Kovind visited Vietnam from November 18 to 21, 2018, on the first leg of his visit to Vietnam and Australia. This was his first visit to an [[ASEAN]] country. He visited [[Da Nang]], Me Son, [[Hanoi]] and [[Ho Chi Minh City|Ho Chi Minh]]. He addressed the National Assembly of Vietnam, the second foreign leader to do so after Chinese President [[Xi Jinping]].<ref>{{Cite web|agency=PTI|date=Nov 19, 2018|title=President Kovind visits Hindu temple complex in Vietnam India News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/president-kovind-visits-hindu-temple-complex-in-vietnam/articleshow/66690207.cms|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=November 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108170531/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/president-kovind-visits-hindu-temple-complex-in-vietnam/articleshow/66690207.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> President Kovind and President [[Nguyễn Phú Trọng|Nguyen Phu Trong]] discussed all aspects of their country's bilateral relations, and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. President Kovind congratulated the Vietnamese president on his election as state president by the National Assembly.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-11-17|title=President Kovind on six-day visit to Vietnam, Australia from November 18|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/president-ram-nath-kovind-to-pay-3-day-visit-to-vietnam-from-sunday-5448593/|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The Indian Express|language=en|archive-date=April 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210418061831/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/president-ram-nath-kovind-to-pay-3-day-visit-to-vietnam-from-sunday-5448593/|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
While in Australia, India and Australia signed five agreements to boost investments and enhance cooperation. They included pacts on delivering services to people with disabilities and fostering scientific collaboration and innovation. Other agreements included cooperation in agricultural research and education, and a joint [[Doctor of Philosophy|PhD]] agreement between the [[Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Delhi|Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology]] in Delhi and the [[University of Queensland|Queensland University]] of Technology in [[Brisbane]].<ref>{{Cite news|agency=Press Trust of India|date=2018-11-22|title=India, Australia sign five agreements as President Kovind meets PM Morrison|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/india-australia-sign-five-agreements-as-president-kovind-meets-pm-morrison-118112200163_1.html|access-date=2021-03-23|archive-date=November 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181122134956/https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/india-australia-sign-five-agreements-as-president-kovind-meets-pm-morrison-118112200163_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Other actions included the expansion of the Australia-India Mining Partnership at the Indian School of Mines, connecting Australian companies to India's mineral-rich northeastern states.<ref>{{Cite web|author=Scroll Staff|title=President Ram Nath Kovind meets Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, five pacts signed|url=https://scroll.in/latest/903066/president-ram-nath-kovind-meets-australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-five-pacts-signed|access-date=2021-03-23|website=Scroll.in|language=en-US|archive-date=December 2, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202181426/https://scroll.in/latest/903066/president-ram-nath-kovind-meets-australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-five-pacts-signed|url-status=live}}</ref> Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, [[Anant Kumar Hegde]], members of parliament and senior officials of the Government of India accompanied Kovind. This was the first-ever visit of a president of India to Australia.<ref>{{Cite web| | While in Australia, India and Australia signed five agreements to boost investments and enhance cooperation. They included pacts on delivering services to people with disabilities and fostering scientific collaboration and innovation. Other agreements included cooperation in agricultural research and education, and a joint [[Doctor of Philosophy|PhD]] agreement between the [[Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Delhi|Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology]] in Delhi and the [[University of Queensland|Queensland University]] of Technology in [[Brisbane]].<ref>{{Cite news|agency=Press Trust of India|date=2018-11-22|title=India, Australia sign five agreements as President Kovind meets PM Morrison|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/india-australia-sign-five-agreements-as-president-kovind-meets-pm-morrison-118112200163_1.html|access-date=2021-03-23|archive-date=November 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181122134956/https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/india-australia-sign-five-agreements-as-president-kovind-meets-pm-morrison-118112200163_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Other actions included the expansion of the Australia-India Mining Partnership at the Indian School of Mines, connecting Australian companies to India's mineral-rich northeastern states.<ref>{{Cite web|author=Scroll Staff|title=President Ram Nath Kovind meets Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, five pacts signed|url=https://scroll.in/latest/903066/president-ram-nath-kovind-meets-australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-five-pacts-signed|access-date=2021-03-23|website=Scroll.in|language=en-US|archive-date=December 2, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202181426/https://scroll.in/latest/903066/president-ram-nath-kovind-meets-australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-five-pacts-signed|url-status=live}}</ref> Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, [[Anant Kumar Hegde]], members of parliament and senior officials of the Government of India accompanied Kovind. This was the first-ever visit of a president of India to Australia.<ref>{{Cite web|agency=PTI|date=Nov 21, 2018|title=President Kovind arrives in Australia on maiden state visit {{!}} India News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/president-kovind-arrives-in-australia-on-maiden-state-visit/articleshow/66731618.cms|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=November 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108104004/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/president-kovind-arrives-in-australia-on-maiden-state-visit/articleshow/66731618.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
==== Myanmar ==== | ==== Myanmar ==== | ||
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==== Croatia, Bolivia and Chile ==== | ==== Croatia, Bolivia and Chile ==== | ||
Kovind paid a State visit to Croatia, Bolivia and Chile from March 25 to April 1, 2019. He was honored with Croatia's highest civilian award, The Grand Order of the King Tomislav.<ref>{{Cite web| | Kovind paid a State visit to Croatia, Bolivia and Chile from March 25 to April 1, 2019. He was honored with Croatia's highest civilian award, The Grand Order of the King Tomislav.<ref>{{Cite web|agency=PTI|date=Mar 26, 2019|title=Croatia honours President Ram Nath Kovind with highest civilian award {{!}} India News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/croatia-honours-president-ram-nath-kovind-with-highest-civilian-award/articleshow/68582898.cms|access-date=2021-03-23|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=December 30, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201230053025/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/croatia-honours-president-ram-nath-kovind-with-highest-civilian-award/articleshow/68582898.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> He talked with the leaders of Croatia to strengthen ties in key sectors such as trade, investment and renewable energy.<ref>{{Cite news|last=ANI|date=2019-03-29|title=President Kovind 'honoured' to undertake first state visit to Bolivia|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/president-kovind-honoured-to-undertake-first-state-visit-to-bolivia-119032900532_1.html#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20statement%20issued,meetings%20with%20President%20Morales%20tomorrow.|access-date=2021-03-23|archive-date=September 15, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190915000135/https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/president-kovind-honoured-to-undertake-first-state-visit-to-bolivia-119032900532_1.html#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20statement%20issued,meetings%20with%20President%20Morales%20tomorrow.|url-status=live}}</ref> He held delegation-level talks with Bolivian president [[Evo Morales]] during the visit. He also participated in an India-Bolivia business meeting, addressed university students, and interacted with Indian community members during his stay.<ref>{{Cite web|title=President Kovind holds talks with Chilean counterpart, says India-Chile ties have promising future|url=https://www.aninews.in/news/world/asia/president-kovind-holds-talks-with-chilean-counterpart-says-india-chile-ties-have-promising-future20210319192736/|access-date=2021-03-23|website=ANI News|language=en|archive-date=March 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210321121949/https://www.aninews.in/news/world/asia/president-kovind-holds-talks-with-chilean-counterpart-says-india-chile-ties-have-promising-future20210319192736/|url-status=live}}</ref> He aimed to strengthen ties in key sectors such as trade, investment and renewable energy in Chile. | ||
==== Benin, Gambia and Guinea ==== | ==== Benin, Gambia and Guinea ==== | ||
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==== Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia ==== | ==== Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia ==== | ||
From September 9 to 17, 2019, President Kovind visited Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia. After discussions between leaders of both countries, India and Iceland signed memoranda of understanding and agreements on fishery, the marine economy, shipping, green growth, energy, construction and the agriculture sector.<ref>{{Cite web|date=September 10, 2019|title=President Ram Nath Kovind holds bilateral talks with Iceland president|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/president-ram-nath-kovind-holds-bilateral-talks-with-iceland-president-1597766-2019-09-10|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190910231935/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/president-ram-nath-kovind-holds-bilateral-talks-with-iceland-president-1597766-2019-09-10|archive-date=September 10, 2019|access-date=28 April 2021|website=India Today}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-09-09|title=President Kovind in Iceland, talks with top leadership|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/international/president-kovind-in-iceland-talks-with-top-leadership-760246.html|access-date=2021-03-24|website=[[Deccan Herald]]|language=en|archive-date=April 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210428181742/https://www.deccanherald.com/international/president-kovind-in-iceland-talks-with-top-leadership-760246.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In Switzerland, President Kovind addressed the Indian community and the [[University of Bern]] on the theme 'India-Switzerland new age partnership connecting Himalayas with Alps'.<ref name=":8" /><ref>{{Cite news|last=ANI|date=2019-09-12|title=Kovind reaches Switzerland after concluding Iceland visit|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/kovind-reaches-switzerland-after-concluding-iceland-visit-119091200172_1.html|access-date=2021-03-24|archive-date=December 8, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191208005730/https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/kovind-reaches-switzerland-after-concluding-iceland-visit-119091200172_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In Slovenia, he held bilateral talks with President [[Borut Pahor]] in the capital, Ljubljana. India and Slovenia signed and exchanged seven memorandum of understanding.<ref name=":9" /><ref>{{Cite web|title=Asia's Premier News Agency - India News, Business & Political, National & International, Bollywood, Sports ANI News|url=https://www.aninews.in/|access-date=2021-03-24|website=www.aninews.in|language=en|archive-date=July 30, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730135357/https://www.aninews.in/|url-status=live}}</ref> | From September 9 to 17, 2019, President Kovind visited Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia. After discussions between leaders of both countries, India and Iceland signed memoranda of understanding and agreements on fishery, the marine economy, shipping, [[green growth]], energy, construction and the agriculture sector.<ref>{{Cite web|date=September 10, 2019|title=President Ram Nath Kovind holds bilateral talks with Iceland president|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/president-ram-nath-kovind-holds-bilateral-talks-with-iceland-president-1597766-2019-09-10|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190910231935/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/president-ram-nath-kovind-holds-bilateral-talks-with-iceland-president-1597766-2019-09-10|archive-date=September 10, 2019|access-date=28 April 2021|website=India Today}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-09-09|title=President Kovind in Iceland, talks with top leadership|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/international/president-kovind-in-iceland-talks-with-top-leadership-760246.html|access-date=2021-03-24|website=[[Deccan Herald]]|language=en|archive-date=April 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210428181742/https://www.deccanherald.com/international/president-kovind-in-iceland-talks-with-top-leadership-760246.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In Switzerland, President Kovind addressed the Indian community and the [[University of Bern]] on the theme 'India-Switzerland new age partnership connecting Himalayas with Alps'.<ref name=":8" /><ref>{{Cite news|last=ANI|date=2019-09-12|title=Kovind reaches Switzerland after concluding Iceland visit|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/kovind-reaches-switzerland-after-concluding-iceland-visit-119091200172_1.html|access-date=2021-03-24|archive-date=December 8, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191208005730/https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/kovind-reaches-switzerland-after-concluding-iceland-visit-119091200172_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In Slovenia, he held bilateral talks with President [[Borut Pahor]] in the capital, Ljubljana. India and Slovenia signed and exchanged seven memorandum of understanding.<ref name=":9" /><ref>{{Cite web|title=Asia's Premier News Agency - India News, Business & Political, National & International, Bollywood, Sports ANI News|url=https://www.aninews.in/|access-date=2021-03-24|website=www.aninews.in|language=en|archive-date=July 30, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730135357/https://www.aninews.in/|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
==== Philippines and Japan ==== | ==== Philippines and Japan ==== | ||