President Kovind unveils bust of Mahatma Gandhi in the Philippines

President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday unveiled the bust of Mahatma Gandhi, marking the 150th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation and hoped that future generations would be inspired from his legacy of compassion, truth and ethics.

Kovind took part in the event at the Centre for Peace Education in Miriam college in Manila, the Philippines, during his five-day visit to the Southeast Asian nation.

"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 in its campus," Kovind said on the occasion.

"This bust of Mahatma Gandhi is a gift from the people of India to you. But the Mahatma belongs to all people, all cultures and all societies. May he continue to guide us in our shared journey of peace, harmony and sustainable development for all," he said.

Drawing similarities between Gandhi and Rizal, he said that both the leaders 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," he said.

Terming the relationship between the two countries as special, he said, "Our ties with your country and your people are not just special, but one that we keep very close to our hearts. It is a friendship that we celebrate and cherish always."