In a diplomatic feat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in crucial bilateral discussions with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, marking their fifth meeting in the last seven months. The leaders presided over the exchange of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), solidifying a strategic partnership between India and the UAE.
Expressing gratitude for the warm welcome, PM Modi acknowledged the rare frequency of their meetings and highlighted the substantial progress achieved in various fields, emphasizing the joint commitment to collaboration.
The high-profile meeting saw the participation of key Indian officials, including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra. Their presence underscored the significance of the discussions aimed at enhancing diplomatic ties and mutual cooperation.
Upon his arrival at the airport, Prime Minister Modi was warmly received by UAE President Al Nahyan, with the two leaders sharing a handshake and an embrace. Expressing gratitude on social media, PM Modi anticipated a productive visit strengthening the enduring friendship between India and the UAE.
In a symbolic gesture, PM Modi was accorded a guard of honor, signifying the importance of the diplomatic mission. The visit, a testament to the close rapport shared between the two nations, reflects the deepening ties between India and the UAE.
The Prime Minister, ahead of his departure, announced his anticipation of meeting his “brother” and the UAE President, with whom he shares a strong rapport. In a statement on social media platform X, he expressed eagerness to attend various programs in the UAE and Qatar, aimed at deepening India’s bilateral relations with both nations.
Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, also on platform X, emphasized that PM Modi’s first leg of the visit in the UAE would include engagements with UAE leadership and community members, as well as the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi.
As part of the diplomatic tour, PM Modi is set to embark on a two-country visit to the UAE and Qatar, showcasing India’s commitment to strengthening global ties. The visit is particularly significant, being the third by the Prime Minister to the Gulf country in the past eight months.
In addition to the bilateral talks, PM Modi is scheduled to attend the World Government Summit 2024 in Dubai, where he will deliver a special keynote address. Discussions with Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid will focus on enhancing multifaceted ties with Dubai, contributing to the overall strategic partnership.
The inauguration of the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, the BAPS temple, is poised to be a historic event, symbolizing shared values of harmony, peace, and tolerance between India and the UAE.
PM Modi will address the Indian diaspora in Abu Dhabi at the ‘Ahlan Modi’ event, organized by the Indian community. The overwhelming response, with over 65,000 registrations, underlines the deep connection and enthusiasm of the Indian expatriate community.
The Prime Minister’s visit to the UAE is scheduled from February 13-14, after which he will proceed to Doha, Qatar, in a diplomatic journey aimed at fostering stronger global partnerships.
