Historic Moment in Abu Dhabi: Modi to Inaugurate Middle East’s First Hindu Temple
Abu Dhabi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) starting Tuesday, marking his third visit in the last eight months and his seventh since 2015. The highlight of this visit includes meetings with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the inauguration of the Middle East’s first traditional Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.
During his stay, Modi is scheduled to engage in bilateral meetings with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, aiming to deepen and strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations. Discussions will cover regional and international issues of mutual interest. Additionally, Modi will meet Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.
In a notable event on Tuesday evening, Modi will address over 60,000 Indian expatriates during the ‘Ahlan Modi’ event at Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Due to an overwhelming response, registrations for the event have been closed.
On Wednesday, the Indian Prime Minister will participate in the World Government Summit 2024 in Dubai, where he is expected to deliver a keynote address. India, along with Turkey and Qatar, is recognized as a ‘guest of honour’ country at the summit.
The visit will culminate with the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Mureikha on Wednesday evening. This historic event is symbolic of the strong ties and mutual respect between India and the UAE, emphasizing their commitment to cultural and religious diversity.
The relationship between the two countries has flourished, with bilateral trade reaching $85 billion in the past year since the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement came into force. The UAE stands as one of the top four investors in India in terms of foreign direct investments for the year 2022-23. The visit underscores the close bond between the top leaders and the robust economic ties that contribute to the flourishing partnership between India and the UAE.
