Published 15:10 IST, September 11th 2019
Iceland's kids gaga over Chandrayaan-2 during President Kovind visit
India and Iceland discuss Chandrayaan-2 with kids at the ceremonial reception of President Kovind as he embarks on a three-nation tour to have bilateral talks.
Children holding Indian and Icelandic flags welcomed Indian President Ram Nath Kovind to the country at his ceremonial reception along with Guðni Thorlacius Jóhannesson, the President of Iceland. Both President Kovind and Jóhannesson narrated the story of India's historic mission to the Moon, Chandrayaan-2, to the eager children. Kovind spoke of the bold mission attempted by India which has been an inspiration to many all across the world.
This was a first for an Indian President to visit the Nordic Island nation, since APJ Abdul Kalam in 2005.
India-Iceland discuss Chandrayaan-2
In the video, the President of Iceland can be seen telling the children of India's brave effort to explore the Moon. The children seem to be joyous and in awe of the interaction.
Chandrayaan-2 was supposed to land on the Moon on the wee hours of Saturday. However, the lander Vikram lost communication with ISRO. Although the Chandrayaan-2's orbiter continues to orbit the Moon. In recent developments, ISRO updated media that the lander Vikram has been located by the orbiter of Chandrayaan-2 on the lunar surface after a hard-landing. K Sivan, the Chairman of ISRO has stated that the space agency would try to restore contact for the next 14 days.
India-Iceland ties
President Kovind is on a three-nation tour. His next stop after Iceland is Switzerland, and he will then arrive at Slovenia on September 15.
Kovind met his counterpart in Iceland to discuss multiple issues ranging from bilateral talks and trade along with investment, and technology. According to a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs, both the countries discussed terrorism. Iceland has also extended its support to India and showed solidarity over the February 14 Pulwama Attacks. The office further thanked Jóhannesson for his understanding of the issue in a tweet.
Updated 18:16 IST, September 11th 2019