President Kovind: Delighted to visit the Philippines, thank you Miriam

President Ram Nath Kovind expressed his "delight" visiting the Philippines and highlighted the friendship between the two countries in his remarks on the occasion of the unveiling of the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Miriam College in Quezon City. The President unveiled the bust at the Centre of Peace Education at Miriam College on Sunday. He is on an official state visit to the Philippines and will later fly to Japan.

"Today, I feel honoured to unveil his bust in the Philippines – the land of the brave Jose Rizal. I thank Miriam College for giving a place of respect to Mahatma Gandhi on its campus. Both Mahatma Gandhi and Jose Rizal believed in the power of peace and non-violence. The avenue in New Delhi named after your national hero continues to inspire and motivate us," President Kovind said.

READ | President Kovind Unveils Statue Of Mahatma Gandhi In The Philippines

President hails venue that is closer to students

He further said that the venue could not have been more appropriate than among students who will pass through the gates of the college with the message of peace through education and advocacy. "Generations of students who pass through your gates will continue to be inspired by his legacy, of being just and ethical in conduct; compassionate and humble in treating fellow human beings; and standing up and championing truth and truth alone, even in most trying times," added the President.

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Happy listening rendition of Bapu's hymn

He also expressed his happiness to hear the rendition of Mahatma Gandhi’s favorite hymn – Vaishnava Jana To Tene Kahiye – by the famous Filipino singer, Grace NoNo. This hymn he said is a fitting tribute to a man who embraced entire humanity as one indivisible family. The Mahatma's hymn describes a good human-being as one who reaches out to those in pain and suffering. "Indeed, the world would be a much better place if only we had such empathy for each other," stated President Kovind.

Thank you Miriam College

At the end of his remarks, he once again thanked the administration of the Miriam College for organizing this special event. President Kovind also said that he "will always treasure your (the Philippines's) warmth and friendship" before he departs to his next destination on Monday.

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