Punjab Newsline | Abu Dhabi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial Guard of Honour upon arriving in Abu Dhabi during the first leg of his five-nation tour. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan personally welcomed the Indian Prime Minister at the airport.
As PM Modi’s aircraft entered UAE airspace, it was escorted by United Arab Emirates F-16 fighter jets, highlighting the strong strategic and diplomatic ties between the two countries. The Prime Minister is on an official overseas visit from May 15 to May 20.
During delegation-level talks with President Al Nahyan, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm reception and described the UAE as his “second home.” He said the fighter jet escort was a matter of pride and honour for the people of India.
Energy security is expected to remain a major focus of the visit. India and the UAE are likely to sign two key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) related to LPG cooperation and strategic petroleum reserves.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the United Arab Emirates is India’s third-largest trading partner. More than 4.5 million Indians live in the UAE, and discussions are also expected on the welfare and convenience of the Indian community residing there.
