modi abu dhabi visit

Last year, we signed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) historic agreement within three months which would not have been possible without your cooperation and commitment, says PM Modi

India and United Arab Emirates agree to start trade settlement in local currencies: PM Modi.

"The respect you gave me, there is no other proof of affinity than this like a brother meeting his brother," says PM Modi as he meets UAE President in Abu Dhabi.

"Our bilateral trade has risen by 20 per cent. We have achieved $85 billion of trade and soon we will achieve the target of $100 billion," says PM Modi in Abu Dhabi.

India views you as true friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tells UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

PM Narendra Modi meets UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Abu Dhabi.

— timesofindia (@timesofindia)

PM Modi holds bilateral talks with UAE President

PM Modi accorded ceremonial welcome in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

— PTI_News (@PTI_News)

"Had a very productive meeting with Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, the President-designate of COP28 UAE."

"Our discussions focused on ways to further sustainable development. Highlighted India’s contribution in this direction, in particular our emphasis on Mission LiFE," said PM Modi.

PM Modi with Dr Sultan Al Jaber

— narendramodi (@narendramodi)

PM Narendra Modi held a productive meeting with Dr Sultan Al Jaber, President-designate of COP 28 UAE and Group CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company.

Dr Jaber briefed PM on the forthcoming COP-28. PM assured India's full support for UAE’s COP-28 presidency.

Dubai's Burj Khalifa lit up in Indian tricolour, welcomes PM Modi with dazzling light show

PM Modi in UAE, meets President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

"Grateful to Crown Prince HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for welcoming me at the airport today," says PM Modi

PM Narendra Modi in UAE on an official bilateral visit, meets Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khaled bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

PM Modi meets with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed.

PM Modi greeted by dignitaries as he lands in Abu Dhabi.

PM Modi arrives in Abu Dhabi, UAE on an official visit

PM Modi will hold meeting with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on key bilateral issues.

Modi's trip to Abu Dhabi will mark the completion of the triad after a substantive engagement with the leadership of France.

India and France on Friday said they were exploring possibilities for co-development and co-production of key military platforms, including for the benefit of friendly countries, as they unveiled a 25-year roadmap to deepen their strategic partnership.

Day-long visit

Energy, food security, and defence could very well be the focus areas when Modi touches down in Abu Dhabi for the day-long visit during which the two strategic partners will review the progress after they inked a landmark trade agreement.

PM Modi stated that UAE will be hosting the 28th Conference of Parties of the UNFCCC (COP-28) later this year.

He further said, "I also look forward to exchanging views on strengthening global cooperation towards accelerating climate action to facilitate the energy transition and implementation of the Paris Agreement. I am confident that my visit to UAE will usher in a new chapter in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership."

"From Paris, I will be travelling to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, for an Official Visit on July 15. I look forward to meeting my friend, H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi," PM Modi said in a statement before his departure from India.

"Our two countries are engaged across a wide range of sectors such as trade, investments, energy, food security, science & technology, education, fintech, defence, security, and robust people-to-people ties. Last year, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and I agreed on a Roadmap on the future of our partnership, and I look forward to discussing with him how to further deepen our ties," he added.

After concluding his visit to France, PM Modi is now travelling to Abu Dhabi.

He noted that India and UAE are engaged across various sectors, including fintech, defence, security and energy. During his visit, he will meet UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

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Narendra Modi UAE visit highlights: PM says UAE to provide land for hospital for Indian labourers

Narendra Modi UAE visit highlights: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi , the first Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates. PM Modi also offered water in the virtual Ganga and Yamuna rivers in the temple premises and then proceeded to offer prayers inside the temple. ...Read More

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Narendra Modi leaves for Qatar

After inaugurating UAE's first Hindu temple, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left for Qatar where he will hold bilateral meeting with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: UAE to provide land for construction of hospital for Indian labourers

"UAE has announced to provide land for construction of hospital for Indian labourers in the country" said PM Modi.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi highlights multi-religion aspects of BAPS Hindu Mandir

PM Modi said "the temple has also included carvings of Egyptian hieroglyphs and Quran's stories". He said I saw as soon as you enter the temple you see the wall of harmony.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi gives message of 'One Earth One Health'

"India is working on 'One Earth One Health' mission," says PM Modi. He said India's culture inspires us to strive for world's welfare.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: 'This temple is a symbol of humanity's shared heritage,' says PM Modi

"This temple is not just a worship place, it's a symbol of humanity's shared heritage," says PM Modi. This temple is a reflection of the relations between India and UAE, he added.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi says 'This temple has added a cultural chapter to UAE'

While addressing the 'Dedication Ceremony' of BAPS Hindu Mandir on Wednesday , PM Modi says "This temple has added a cultural chapter to UAE". He said he believes thousands of pilgrims would visit this temple.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi says 'UAE President wanted this Mandir to look like a temple'

While addressing the 'Dedication Ceremony' of BAPS Hindu Mandir on Wednesday , PM Modi said that "UAE President wanted this Mandir must look like a temple after its construction'.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi says 'UAE President gave the biggest help in temple's construction'

While addressing the 'Dedication Ceremony' of BAPS Hindu Mandir on Wednesday , PM Modi said "UAE President gave the biggest help in construction of BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi." He said UAE President has won the hearts of 140 crore Indians.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi says ‘I hope this temple will become a symbol of world unity’.

While addressing the 'Dedication Ceremony' of BAPS Hindu Mandir on Wednesday , PM Modi said "I hope this temple will become a symbol of world unity".

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi says "UAE has written a golden chapter in human history"

While addressing the 'Dedication Ceremony' of BAPS Hindu Mandir on Wednesday , PM Modi said "Today UAE has written a golden chapter in human history".

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi starts speaking at the 'Dedication Ceremony' of BAPS Hindu Mandir

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has started speaking at the 'Dedication Ceremony' of BAPS Hindu Mandir. He inaugurated the temple on Wednesday by performing rituals in the presence of priests of the temple.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: UAE's tolerance and coexistence minister addresses 'Dedication Ceremony' of BAPS Hindu Mandir

UAE's tolerance and coexistence minister is addressing the 'Dedication Ceremony' of BAPS Hindu Mandir. He welcomed PM Modi and thanked him for strengthening ties between India and UAE.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Temple priest thanks PM Modi for help in construction of BAPS Hindu Mandir

Temple priest thanked PM Modi for help in construction of BAPS Hindu Mandir. He said, "PM Modi is not just leader of the macro world but also leader of the micro world."

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM meets UAE's tolerance and coexistence minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met UAE's minister of tolerance and coexistence of Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan the at BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, reports ANI.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi meets artisans of the BAPS Hindu temple

After performing rituals at the BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi, PM Modi met the artisans of the temple.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi carves ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ on stone slab

PM Modi carved “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” ( It means The World Is One Family) on a stone slab in the premises of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.

He also met volunteers and guests at the temple.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi performs rituals at the temple

On Wednesday, PM Modi performed rituals at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi takes a tour of the temple premises

After inaugurating the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, PM Modi is taking a tour of the temple premises and offering prayers to various deities and idols installed there.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Visuals of PM Modi offering prayers at the BAPS Hindu Mandir

Check out this video of PM Modi offering prayers at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. The first Hindu temple in UAE has been inaugurated by him.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi offers flowers at the feet of the deity

PM Modi has offered flowers at the feet of the deity installed at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi enters main entrance of the BAPS Hindu Mandir

Check out this video of PM Modi entering the main entrance of the BAPS Hindu Mandir. He is now participating in the rituals to mark the inauguration of the temple.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi offers flower petals at the feet of Lord Swaminarayan

On Wednesday, PM Modi sought blessings by offering flower petals at the feet of Lord Swaminarayan in the premises of BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi watches audio-visual immersive video about the creation of BAPS Hindu Mandir

Having reached the premises of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, PM Modi is watching an audio-visual immersive video about the temple's creation.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: First visuals of PM Modi from BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi

Check out this video of PM Modi from BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Dedication Assembly being held at BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi

Dedication Assembly is being held at BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. It is the first Hindu temple in UAE and set to be inaugurated on Wednesday.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Which Indian celebrities are attending the Hindu temple inauguration event?

Indian singers Sonu Nigam and Shankar Mahadevan, actor Akshay Kumar have reached the premises of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. The temple will be inaugurated on Wednesday.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Check out this visual of the BAPS Hindu temple

Here is a glimpse into the amazing architecture of the BAPS Hindu temple to be inaugurated by PM Modi on Wednesday.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: 'Day of gratitude for everyone,' says BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir saint

Ahead of the inauguration of the first Hindu temple in UAE on Wednesday, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir saint Swami Brahmaviharidas told news agency ANI, "The temple has been built for everyone, this is because of God's grace and everyone's cooperation and with the generosity of the Ruler of Abu Dhabi, the recognition of our Prime Minister, and the blessings of great saints and everyone's cooperation. It is a moment of celebration and a day of gratitude for everyone..."

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Akshay Kumar arrives at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi

Indian actor Akshay Kumar has reached the premises of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. The first Hindu temple in UAE will be inaugurated by PM Modi on Wednesday.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Indian singer Shankar Mahadevan calls Hindu temple inauguration "an extremely happy moment for India"

"This is an extremely happy moment for India and all Indians all over the world. This is a historic moment in our lives where we are going to witness a Mandir which is so magnificent and spiritual coming on a land like Abu Dhabi. Only our PM Narendra Modi can execute this...," Singer-composer Shankar Mahadevan was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: People from several Indian states set to witness inauguration of Hindu temple

People from several Indian states are set to witness inauguration of BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. The first Hindu temple in UAE will be inaugurated by PM Modi. Several high profile dignitaries will also be present during the auspicious event.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Crowd gathers at BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi

People are arriving in huge numbers at the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir in Abu Dhabi, reports ANI. The temple, which will be inaugurated by PM Modi today, is the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates 'Bharat Mart' in Dubai

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 'Bharat Mart', a warehousing facility, in Dubai.

Later in the day, PM Modi will inaugurate UAE's first Hindu temple.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: 'Dubai is emerging as an epicentre of global economy, commerce and technology,' says PM Modi

While addressing the World Government Summit in Dubai, PM Modi said, "The way Dubai is emerging as an epicentre of global economy, commerce and technology, it represents a splendid example before the globe."

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: ‘Minimum government, maximum governance' is my biggest principle, says PM

“...I believe that it is the job of the government to ensure that government interference in people's lives is minimal...My biggest principle has been ‘Minimum government, maximum governance’,” the prime minister said while addressing the World Government Summit in Dubai.

“I have always emphasised creating an environment in which sense of enterprise and energy in the citizens grows...,” he added

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: ‘World today needs governments which are inclusive,’ says PM Modi

“World today needs governments which are inclusive, take everyone along, are clean and free from corruption,” Modi said while addressing the World Government Summit in Dubai.

Narendra Modi UAE Visit LIVE: PM Modi holds bilateral meeting with President of Madagascar in Abu Dhabi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a bilateral meeting with President of Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina in Abu Dhabi.

Narendra Modi UAE Visit LIVE: India, UAE sign investment treaty to promote further capital flows between two partners

An investment treaty was signed between India and UAE following a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan held on Tuesday.

India has signed both a Bilateral Investment Treaty and a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with UAE, which are going to be a key enabler for further promoting investments in both countries.

Explaining the bilateral investment treaty, India's foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra said it aims to promote further capital flows between the two economies.

Narendra Modi UAE Visit LIVE: First Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi built using ancient architectural methods, scientific techniques

Narendra Modi BAPS Mandir LIVE: The inaugural ceremony of the first Hindu stone temple in Abu Dhabi, scheduled for Wednesday and to be officiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, showcases a blend of ancient architectural techniques and modern scientific methods.

Constructed by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha on a 27-acre plot in Abu Mreikhah, near Al Rahba off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway, the BAPS Hindu Mandir embodies traditional construction methods outlined in Hindu scriptures such as the Shilpa and Sthapathya Shastras. Notably, the temple has integrated over 300 advanced sensors to monitor seismic activity and temperature fluctuations, ANI reported.

Remarkably, the temple's construction eschews the use of metal, employing instead fly ash to fortify its foundation. The project, estimated to cost approximately ₹ 700 crore, signifies a harmonious fusion of ancient wisdom and contemporary engineering.

Modi UAE visit LIVE: Discussions between India, UAE involved Israel-Palestine conflict

On the 'Ahlan Modi' event held yesterday, Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra said, "In the evening, The Prime Minister addressed the Indian community at the 'Ahlan Modi' event hosted at the Zayed Sports Stadium. More than 40,000 people attended this event, and in his address, the Prime Minister thanked the UAE President for his commitment to bilateral ties, for his support to the Indian community, and for the granting of land for building the BAPS Temple, whose inauguration we will be witnessing later this afternoon."

He added, “The developments in this region, have been a very important element of discussions between the two leaders (PM Modi and President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan), not just yesterday, but even in their previous meetings. This is a region which is an important source of wider energy security all across the world, including for India. There are important stakes involved whenever any disturbance takes place. So, yes, the discussions did feature the Israel-Palestine and the situation in the Red Sea did focus on the discussions between the two leaders.”

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: 10 MOU agreements signed between India, UAE

Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra speaking on PM Modi's visit to UAE, said, "The Prime Minister arrived in Abu Dhabi yesterday in the afternoon on what is his 7th visit to this country. He was received by the President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and also accorded a ceremonial welcome at the airport. The leaders held detailed delegation level and one-to-one talks which covered the entire gamut of bilateral engagement between India and the UAE as well as the significant developments, regionally and globally. They also witnessed a transaction made using the Jeevan card and the Prime Minister congratulated the President with regard to the launch of UAE's domestic Jeevan card, which is another significant step in financial sector cooperation between India and the UAE...There were 10 MoU agreements that were signed."

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra speaks on India-Middle East Economic Corridor

Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra said in Abu Dhabi, "...The India-Middle East Economic Corridor (IMEC) was launched during the G 20 summit meeting in New Delhi. This agreement builds collaboration and also looks at specific things that the parties would do to promote cooperation in this space. The main areas under this particular agreement covered are - One, relating to cooperation on logistics platforms, which is a crucial element of furthering the objectives of this particular corridor. Two, provision of supply chain services. Supply chain services are not just limited to one or two things, but cover all types of general cargo, bulk containers and liquid bulk. One of the aims of this is to see how quickly the IMEC, which was launched, gets operated and benefits the core objective of stronger, deeper, more extensive regional connectivity between the parties involved."

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE | Watch: Consecration ceremony of BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi underway

The consecration ceremony of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is currently underway, preceding its inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi later today.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM Modi's UAE visit schedule for today

PM Modi's UAE visit schedule for today (in local time):

11:00am: Bilateral Meeting with UAE President

11:40am: Bilateral Meeting with UAE Vice-President

12:10pm: Virtual launch of Bharat Mart

12:20pm: PM Modi’s address at World Governments Summit 2024

16:30pm: Visit to BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: India, UAE sign pact on trans-continental trade corridor

On Tuesday, India and the United Arab Emirates finalized an agreement concerning a trade corridor intended to link Europe with India via regions in the Middle East using both sea and rail routes.

This initiative, supported by the U.S. and the European Union, was announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Gulf state. While the Indian foreign ministry released a statement regarding the framework agreement, specific details of the agreement were not disclosed to the public.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: What PM Modi said in Abu Dhabi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked on Tuesday that India is gaining recognition for its large-scale infrastructure projects and the success of Digital India, positioning the country as a global friend ('Vishwa Bandhu'). Speaking at the 'Ahlan Modi' Indian diaspora event at Zayed Sports Stadium in Abu Dhabi, he also mentioned the upcoming inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in the city.

"In 2015, when I presented to him (Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed) the proposal to build a temple in Abu Dhabi on behalf of all of you, he immediately said yes to it...now the time has come to inaugurate this grand (BAPS) temple," he said.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Burj Khalifa lights up to welcome PM Modi as Guest of Honor at World Government Summit in Dubai

Before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech at the World Government Summit, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai illuminated with the message 'Guest of Honor - Republic of India.'

Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum warmly welcomed PM Modi, highlighting the robust relations between India and the UAE as an exemplary model for global collaboration. Invited by UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, PM Modi will partake in the 2024 World Government Summit in Dubai as a Guest of Honour, delivering a keynote address at the event, ANI reported.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: When was land allocated for construction of Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi?

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: During PM Modi’s two-day visit to the Gulf nation in 2015, the UAE allocated land to construct a temple in Abu Dhabi, according to a Live Mint report. This visit was diplomatically significant, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister had visited the strategically vital Gulf nation in 34 years since Indira Gandhi's tenure.

Modi expressed gratitude on behalf of 125 crore Indians to the UAE leadership for their decision, considering it a "landmark" development, the Live Mint report further said.

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: PM to inaugurate UAE's first Hindu temple

Narendra Modi UAE visit LIVE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate Abu Dhabi's historic BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir on Wednesday, a milestone for the city's Hindu community. Public access to the temple will commence on March 1.

The inauguration of the BAPS temple holds significant importance in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

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Highlights: "The Way He Takes Care...": PM's Big Praise For UAE President In 'Ahlan Modi' Event

Pm modi in uae highlights: prime minister narendra modi will inaugurate the iconic baps hindu mandir, which is the first-ever hindu temple in the united arab emirates (uae)..

PM Modi will also address the Indian community at an event in Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today embarked his two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with a focus on boosting cooperation in various sectors, including energy, ports, fintech, digital infrastructure, railways, and investment flows. 

PM Modi addressed the Indian community at the grand 'Ahlan Modi' event held in Abu Dhabi. He praised UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed and thanked the people present at the event for the rousing welcome. 

Earlier in the day, PM Modi held discussions with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on taking forward Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will go to Doha in Qatar after his visit to the UAE ends.

Ahead of his departure, the prime minister took to social media platform X and said he is looking forward to meeting with his "brother" the President of UAE with whom he shares a good rapport.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the iconic BAPS Hindu Mandir, which is the first-ever Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Apart from inaugurating the temple, PM Modi will also address the Indian community at an event in Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi.

Here are the highlights on PM Modi's UAE visit:

Watch | PM Modi speaks a few sentences in Arabic to highlight how many words spoken in India have links to the language pic.twitter.com/qwzD1NAJxr - NDTV (@ndtv) February 13, 2024

🔴Watch LIVE | PM Modi's Grand Event In UAE, Thousands Of Indians Present https://t.co/GPFv7bTHLW - NDTV (@ndtv) February 13, 2024

Incredibly honoured by the warm welcome from the Indian Community in Abu Dhabi today. The vibrancy of our diaspora never ceases to amaze me. pic.twitter.com/yqQRRoEAEu - Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2024

#WATCH | 'Ahlan Modi' event in Abu Dhabi: "I have come here from Dubai to meet PM Modi. We are very happy. We have brought Ramcharitmanas, if we get a chance we will gift it to PM Modi...The construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya would not have been possible without PM Modi, so we... pic.twitter.com/H0NTARlkgC - ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024

#WATCH | UAE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets members of the Indian Diaspora gathered at a hotel in Abu Dhabi. pic.twitter.com/erHELwN6SJ - ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024

#WATCH | UAE: Members of the Indian diaspora raise slogans of 'Modi-Modi, Modi Hai to Mumkin Hai and Bharat Mata ki Jai' as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at a hotel in Abu Dhabi, UAE pic.twitter.com/IOEf59HKrr - ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024

#WATCH | Final preparations underway for cultural performances at 'Ahlan Modi' Indian diaspora event in Abu Dhabi, UAE pic.twitter.com/8jGJQ0Lkhb - ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024

#WATCH | Abu Dhabi: During his meeting with UAE President, PM Narendra Modi says, "I thank you for accepting my invitation and coming to my home state Gujarat for the Vibrant Gujarat Summit. You have taken this event to new heights and its reputation has increased in the... pic.twitter.com/A3DG78zn49 - ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024

#WATCH | Abu Dhabi: During his meeting with UAE President, PM Narendra Modi says, "Brother, it is also a matter of happiness that today we are (signing) the bilateral investment treaty... I believe that this will be big news for the G20 countries that India and UAE are moving... pic.twitter.com/WuoegvjPyg - ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024

#WATCH | Abu Dhabi: Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) being exchanged between India and UAE in the presence of UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/RAOO2PxC4i - ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024

أنا ممتن للغاية لأخي صاحب السمو @MohamedBinZayed ، على الوقت الذي أمضيه في استقبالي في مطار أبو ظبي. وإنني أتطلع إلى زيارة مثمرة من شأنها تعزيز الصداقة بين الهند والإمارات العربية المتحدة. pic.twitter.com/VltQVXgdxG - Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2024

Watch | PM Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hold bilateral talks in Abu Dhabi pic.twitter.com/vRABQwxUOA - NDTV (@ndtv) February 13, 2024

🔴Watch LIVE | PM Modi arrives in Abu Dhabi, will hold discussions with UAE President, address community event https://t.co/YpFX80KMZf - NDTV (@ndtv) February 13, 2024

Watch | PM Modi to reach Abu Dhabi shortly, here is what the volunteers of the event have to say @maryashakil reports pic.twitter.com/WF158fXWQ8 - NDTV (@ndtv) February 13, 2024

#WATCH | Women dressed in traditional Maharashtrian sarees sing 'Vande Mataram', they will perform the 'Lezim' folk dance at 'Ahlan Modi' program in Abu Dhabi, today pic.twitter.com/w1NVXIo3IV - ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024

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Modi UAE Visit News Highlights: 'UAE has written a golden chapter,' says PM Modi after historic inauguration of Abu Dhabi's first Hindu Mandir

Wrap up: All you need to know

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Abu Dhabi's inaugural Hindu stone temple, accompanied by spiritual leaders of the Swaminarayan sect.
• Adorned in a light pink silk dhoti and kurta complemented by a sleeveless jacket and stole, the Prime Minister actively participated in the temple dedication ceremony, engaging in sacred rituals.
• During the inauguration, Modi also took part in the "Global Aarti," a simultaneous ritual performed at over 1,200 Swaminarayan sect temples worldwide, constructed by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS).
• Before inaugurating the temple situated on a 27-acre site in Abu Mreikhah near Al Rahba, Modi met with individuals from diverse faiths who contributed to the temple's construction.
• The temple, built at a cost of approximately Rs 700 crore, incorporates ancient architectural methods as detailed in Hindu scriptures, blending tradition with modern scientific techniques.
• Remarkably, the temple features over 300 high-tech sensors at various levels, measuring temperature, pressure, and seismic activity, providing live data for research purposes.
• Striving for sustainability, the construction excludes metal, and fly ash is utilised to fill the foundation, reducing the carbon footprint.
• Constructed with 18 lakh bricks and seven lakh man-hours, the temple boasts Nagara-style architecture, similar to the recently inaugurated Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
• Using 20,000 tonnes of sandstone pieces carved in Rajasthan, the temple's construction involved a significant labour force from Gujarat and Rajasthan.
• Initiated in 2019, the temple project received land donations from the UAE government, standing as a symbol of Indo-UAE friendship.
• The BAPS temple, spanning a vast area with stone architecture, is now the largest Hindu temple in the Gulf region.

Modi UAE Visit News Live Updates: UAE has another gift for India

Modi uae visit news live updates: temple adds "cultural chapter" to uae, says pm, modi uae visit news live updates: pm modi calls himself "maa bharti ka pujari" in abu dhabi, modi uae visit news live updates: pm modi requests everyone to give a standing ovation to the president of uae mohammed bin zayed al nahyan.

— ANI (@ANI)

Modi UAE Visit News Live Updates: "UAE has won hearts of Indians," PM Modi lauds Emirati leadership

• A wave of appreciation washed over the inauguration ceremony of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, with Prime Minister Modi praising the UAE and highlighting the temple's potential to foster deeper connections.
• "UAE has won the hearts of Indians," PM Modi lauds Emirati leadership at BAPS Mandir inauguration, urging a standing ovation for the UAE President.
• PM Modi sees BAPS Mandir as a bridge between cultures.

Modi UAE Visit News Live Updates: PM Modi speaks after historic inauguration of Abu Dhabi Mandir

Modi uae visit news live updates: here’s what uae’s minister of tolerance sheikh nahyan bin mubarak al nahyan said at the inaugural session of the hindu mandir, modi uae visit news live updates: pm with uae minister of tolerance and coexistence, modi uae visit news live updates: temple events.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in various significant activities during his visit to the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.
• He inscribed the message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' on a stone, emphasising the concept of the world being one family.
• Engaging with the artisans involved in the temple's creation, PM Modi recognized their efforts and dedication. He also interacted with children who crafted miniature art pieces, showcasing their creativity.
• Meeting volunteers and key contributors from inception to completion, the Prime Minister acknowledged their role in making the temple a reality.
• Additionally, PM Modi met with Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence of the United Arab Emirates, fostering diplomatic relations at the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.

Modi UAE Visit News Live Updates: From mosque to temple, how Modi boosted India's ties with the UAE

Modi uae visit news live updates: visuals from the abu dhabi temple, modi uae visit news live updates: "historic moment," says shankar mahadevan on baps temple inauguration in abu dhabi, modi uae visit news live updates: inside mega mandir in abu dhabi, modi uae visit news live updates: pm modi inaugurates uae's largest mandir, modi uae visit news live updates: mega middle east mandir rises.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Abu Dhabi's first Hindu temple.
• The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) temple is scheduled to open its doors to the public from March 1.
• The temple complex boasts various facilities, including a visitors' centre, prayer halls, exhibitions, learning areas, sports facilities for children and youth, thematic gardens, water features, a food court, and a book and gift shop.
• BAPS emphasises that the temple, as a symbol of harmony, is open to individuals of all faiths, inviting them to explore and appreciate Hindu culture and spirituality.

Modi UAE Visit News Live Updates: Scripting Arabian tales of Bhakti

Modi uae visit news live updates: rituals inside temple.

• Prime Minister Modi presents sacred water at the Hindu Mandir in the UAE
• PM offers flower petals to Lord Swaminarayan
• PM visits a replica of the BAPS Hindu Mandir inside temple premises

Modi UAE Visit News Live Updates: Modi in Mandir

Modi uae visit news live updates: dedication assembly, modi uae visit news live updates: pm modi at baps temple in abu dhabi, modi uae visit news live updates: pm modi arrives at abu dhabi's first hindu mandir, modi uae visit news live updates: actor akshay kumar arrives at abu dhabi baps temple, pm modi uae visit live updates: bollywood star akshay kumar in abu dhabi baps temple, pm modi uae visit live updates: tarak mehta ka ulta chashma actor dilip joshi on baps hindu mandir, pm modi uae visit live updates: prime minister with dubai ruler sheikh mohamed bin rashid al maktoum.

PM Modi UAE Visit Live Updates: UAE, India ink 10 pacts for collaboration during PM Modi's visit, says Vinay Kwatra

• The first one that was signed was an MOU on cooperation in the field of electricity connection and trade.
• This would focus naturally on green hydrogen, and also on energy storage.
• The Ministry of Investment of the UAE and India's Ministry of Electronics and Technology (MEITY) have signed an MoU for cooperation on digital infrastructure projects.
• Bilateral investment treaty between India and the UAE
• There is agreement on the cooperation protocol at the National Archives of India.
• An agreement on interlinking of the instant payment platforms - UPI (India) and AANI (UAE)
• An agreement on inter-linking domestic debit/credit cards - RuPay (India) with JAYWAN (UAE) have also been inked.
• MOU on the development of the national maritime heritage complex.
• The IMEC is being seen as an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

PM Modi UAE Visit Live Updates: Visuals from UAE's Hindu Mandir today

Pm modi uae visit live updates: inauguration of uae hindu mandir draws massive crowds.

• The inauguration of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is witnessing an overwhelming influx of people, resonating with spirited "Modi-Modi" chants, as they eagerly await this historic ceremony by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• As the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, the BAPS Mandir has become a focal point of cultural and spiritual significance, attracting devotees from various corners.
• The atmosphere is charged with excitement as the faithful gather in large numbers to witness the culmination of years of dedication and hard work invested in the construction of this magnificent temple.

PM Modi UAE Visit Live Updates: BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir Saint expresses the temple's inclusivity

Pm modi uae visit live updates: former indian ambassador to uae, navdeep suri talks about india-uae relations.

• This is the prime minister's 7th visit to UAE, that's an example of this being one of our most dynamic, one of our most consequential relationships anywhere.
• I really think that the kind of personal relationship, the kind of trust that has been established, the kind of warmth that has been established between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed has been driving this relationship and really opening up new avenues that we could never have imagined earlier.

PM Modi UAE Visit Live Updates: Former Indian Ambassador to UAE, Navdeep Suri, shares insights on the Hindu temple in UAE

• I think it's a very symbolic day for the Indian community, for the large Indian diaspora that we have in UAE.
• For many years, it's been a spiritual need, a religious need for them. And I know that in 2015, when the Prime Minister came here for the first time, he put in a request to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, then crown prince of Abu Dhabi, that it would be nice if some land could be granted. And soon thereafter, I came here as an ambassador and started following up on actually getting the land. So we got 13 and a half acres initially, then we got another 13 and a half acres for the parking. We saw step by step how this mandir has come about.
• But I think as we celebrate the wonderful Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, we celebrate the work, the energy, and the organisation of the Baps Swaminarayan sect in building it. UAE is actually trying to demonstrate through actions its commitment to building interfaith harmony between the many different communities that inhabit this country.

PM Modi UAE Visit Live Updates: PM Modi with Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina

Strengthening India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership!

— MEAIndia (@MEAIndia)

PM Modi calls for global governance reform at World Governments Summit

Pm modi inaugurates 'bharat mart', a warehousing facility, in dubai, terrorism in various forms is posing new challenges before humanity: pm modi at world government summit 2024 in uae, challenges related to climate are mounting; on one hand there are domestic concerns, on the other international system is in disarray: pm, 'minimum government, maximum governance' has always been our aim: pm modi, people of india trust our govt: pm modi at the world government summit 2024, ease of doing business is a priority: pm modi, world needs more corruption-free, green governments: pm modi, challenges regarding climate change growing: pm modi, this world government summit is a medium to bring top world leaders together: pm modi, dubai an epicentre of global economy, commerce and tech: pm modi at the world government summit 2024, pm modi hold talk with with uae vp mohammed bin rashid al maktoum ahead of world governments summit., bolstering ties with a key sagar partner: mea, pm modi holds a bilateral meeting with president of madagascar, andry rajoelina in abu dhabi, prime minister narendra modi meets madagascar president andry rajoelina, 'india-uae partnership one of most comprehensive partnerships india has with any of countries': foreign secretary kwatra, 10 mou signed during pm modi's visit to uae, visuals from the baps mandir, the first hindu temple in abu dhabi, ahead of pm modi's inauguration, text of pm’s address at the ahlan modi event in abu dhabi, uae.

— PIB_India (@PIB_India)

Disturbance in Gaza, Red Sea matter of concern, but equally important that economic cooperation stays on course: Kwatra.

India, uae signed 10 mous ranging from supply chain services to linking of digital payment platforms during pm modi's visit: fs vinay kwatra, whenever indians have faced problems, the pm, his leadership and personal initiatives have ensured their safety: fs kwatra, as part of his programme, the honourable pm also met the first batch of students of the iit-delhi abu dhabi campus. the campus and the institute have started the first academic programme this january and this is a landmark collaboration in the field of education..

- Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra during a special briefing about PM Modi's ongoing visit to the UAE.

India-UAE is perhaps the most comprehensive partnership India has with any of countries: FS Vinay Kawtra

India-middle east economic corridor (imec) launched at g20 summit, focuses on logistics and supply chain cooperation: vinay mohan kwatra, foreign secretary kwatra highlights pm modi's arrival and talks on day 1 of uae visit.

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Bilaterals, Hindu temple opening and more: Why Modi's visit to UAE is crucial

PM Narendra Modi is visiting the UAE today for two days and will hold bilaterals with President Al Nahyan, inaugurate the grand BAPS mandir in Abu Dhabi, and meet the diaspora. The visit will also focus on boosting cooperation in energy, fintech, digital domain, railways and investment flows

The next two days are going to be busy for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He is heading to the United Arab Emirates today for two days and will hold bilaterals, boosting cooperation in energy, ports, digital infrastructure and investment flows.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), it is the prime minister’s seventh visit to the UAE since 2015 and the third in the last eight months.

Let’s take a look at the agenda of the PM’s visit and why this visit is significant.

What to expect from PM Modi’s UAE visit

In the UAE, the Prime Minister is expected to hold bilaterals with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the vice president, prime minister and defence minister of the UAE, inaugurate the grand BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, and meet the diaspora.

The announcement of the Prime Minister’s visit comes soon after UAE president Al Nahyan visited India in September for the G20 Leaders Summit and attended as the Chief Guest at the 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in January.

PM Modi has worked towards building stronger ties with the UAE ever since his landmark visit to the West Asian country in August 2015. The two countries are also among each other’s top trading partners with a bilateral trade of about $85 billion in 2022–23, according to official data.

During the visit, PM Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with the UAE president, discussing ways to further deepen, expand, and strengthen the strategic partnership between the countries and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, according to the MEA.

Following the talks, the two sides are likely to ink a number of agreements to shore up cooperation in several key areas. Modi and Al Nahyan are also likely to exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The prime minister will also meet with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the vice president, prime minister, and defence minister of the UAE.

At his invitation, the Indian premier will also participate in the World Government Summit 2024 on Wednesday in Dubai as the guest of honour and deliver a special keynote address at the summit.

PM Modi will inaugurate the BAPS Mandir , the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.

Modi is also set to give a speech to over 40,000 people today at a stadium event in Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Sports City at an event called “ Alhan Modi ” (Welcome Modi in Arabic). For those who have watched India-UAE ties for the past ten years, this should come as no surprise.

Why the visit is significant

With the latest visit, PM Modi aims to focus on boosting cooperation in areas of energy, ports, fintech, digital infrastructure, railways and investment flows.

Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, addressing a press conference, said both sides are looking at firming up understandings in areas of ports, logistics, energy security, energy trade and digital domain, among others. He added the two sides are also examining possible cooperation in the areas of maritime heritage as well as fintech products and railways.

“We are also looking to see if we can arrive at an understanding on investments in the field of digital infrastructure, arrangements for the protection and promotion of capital flows,” he said, adding that there may be some understanding for cooperation in the domains of ports and maritime sphere.

“Since digital cooperation between our two economies is an important element of the partnership, we are also looking to see if we can arrive at an understanding on investments in the field of digital infrastructure,” he said.

Kwatra said the two sides are also examining possible cooperation in the areas of maritime heritage as well as on fintech products and railways.

“Currently, the two sides are busy discussing various agreements that could be finalised during the visit,” Kwatra said, adding he was not in a position to share more details.

How India-UAE relations have grown stronger

India-UAE bilateral relationship have strong ties, dating all the way back to 3,000 BC.

According to Moneycontrol , the two countries were a part of the trade trio of Meluha, which many scholars identified as the Indus Valley Civilisation, present-day Indian subcontinent, Magan (Oman and parts of the UAE), and Dilmun (Bahrain and parts of Saudi Arabia). Although evidence of this ancient trade can be found in the discovery of valuable goods and spices in Roman settlements along Egypt’s Red Sea coast, the relationship between the UAE and India has grown since HH Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan became ruler of Abu Dhabi in 1966 and the UAE Federation was founded in 1971.

However, things changed when the IC 184 hijacking happened in December 1999. According to Shishir Gupta’s article in Hindustan Times , when the incident took place, “the Indian ambassador wasn’t even allowed to go into the air base where the hijacked flight was landed before it took off for Kandhar.”

Consequently, the article claims that as soon as PM Modi assumed office in India, he made it a point to establish relations with the Gulf nations.

“The initial forays were made at the level of intelligence officials, at the levels of the national security advisor, at the level of then foreign secretary, S Jaishankar. When we reached out to the UAE, its leaders said very clearly that ‘you have been viewing us from the prism of Pakistan, we look at you bilaterally’. And that is where it all started. Then we started to engaged bilaterally,” the piece noted.

Modi’s visit to the UAE in 2015 was the first by an Indian PM in 34 years, paving the way for subsequent visits and expanded cooperation in various spheres. Leading up to this visit, both leaders engaged in multiple high-level visits.

In 2017, President Al Nahyan was even invited on Republic Day as a chief guest.

By 2022, bilateral relations had been elevated, with both of them signing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). According to ANI , the trade between India and the UAE has grown by 16 per cent to reach $85 million in 2022-23.

Last year, numerous agreements and MOUs were signed during Modi’s visit to Abu Dhabi, covering areas such as local currency settlement, payment and messaging systems, renewable energy, and innovative healthcare.

One of the UAE’s significant investments includes the opening of an office by the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority in GIFT City.

The two countries also enjoy strong multilateral relations, with Modi given the special status of being the only Head of State/Head of Government last year to address the ceremonial opening of the COP28 Plenary for that national statements.

With India’s support, the UAE became a permanent member of BRICS on 1 January this year, and joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) as a Dialogue Partner in May last year.

With inputs from agencies

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PM visit for Abu Dhabi temple opening aligns with tolerance values: UAE envoy

Prime minister modi’s february 13-14 visit to the uae will be his third in the last eight months and the seventh since 2015..

Describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates for the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi as a “special occasion”, Abdulnasser Alshaali, UAE’s Ambassador to India, has said it “aligns with the values of tolerance and acceptance that guide our bilateral ties”.

Prime Minister Modi’s February 13-14 visit to the UAE will be his third in the last eight months and the seventh since 2015. He will hold bilateral meetings with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and, according to the Ministry of External Affairs, the two leaders will discuss ways to further deepen, expand and strengthen the strategic partnership between the countries and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Modi will also meet Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum who is the Vice President, Prime Minister and Defence Minister of the UAE. At his invitation, the Prime Minister will participate in the World Government Summit 2024 in Dubai as Guest of Honour and deliver a special keynote address at the Summit.

Ambassador Alshaali, in an email interview with The Indian Express , said, “The UAE views Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to inaugurate the BAPS Hindu temple as a special occasion that aligns with the values of tolerance and acceptance that guide our bilateral ties.”

“The visit holds symbolic importance, showcasing the friendship between the two nations,” he says, adding that the UAE values the cultural diversity represented by the Indian diaspora, the largest group in the UAE with a population of 3.5 million.

Beyond the opening of the BAPS Hindu temple, the UAE, he said, has a strong expectation that the meeting between the two leaders “will be positive and constructive”.

“It is likely we will witness the announcement of further cooperation in key areas of our bilateral partnership.”

The two countries, according to the MEA, are among each other’s top trading partners with a bilateral trade of about US$ 85 billion in 2022-23. UAE is also among the top 4 investors in India in terms of foreign direct investments in 2022-23.

On the increasing economic collaboration between the two countries, Alshaali said, “The UAE prioritises its bilateral and diplomatic ties with India based upon the two countries’ common political, economic, and diplomatic interests, desire to promote peace and prosperity in the international arena, and deep shared history.”

The Indian Cabinet recently approved the Bilateral Investment Treaty between the two countries. “This treaty reflects the joint efforts to transform the relationship from a traditional import-export dynamic to a strategic partnership. The emphasis on defence, energy, space, and IT sectors highlights the forward-looking nature of our relationship,” the Ambassador said.

“It is difficult to emphasise just how important trade relations are in driving the UAE-India bilateral partnership forward. In recent years, we have witnessed not only quantitative, but also qualitative growth across all aspects of our economic relationship,” he said.

“The proof of this is borne out by the fact that the UAE is India’s fourth-largest investor, third-largest trading partner, and the second-largest export destination.”

“Of course, for the bilateral relationship to reach its true potential, increasing aviation links will play a vital role in enhancing investment and trade opportunities,” he said.

On the contribution of the diaspora and geopolitical considerations to the strengthening of ties, Alshaali said all these aspects play a critical yet unique role in driving what is a robust bilateral relationship.

“The UAE government and its people acknowledge the immense role Indian citizens have played in our national development since even before the very formation of the UAE in 1971,” he said, adding “there is a personal level of familiarity and understanding between our two societies that serves as the foundation stone for our close government-to-government ties”.

The two countries, he said, also share an interest in supporting peace and stability at both the regional and international levels.

“Both countries are impacted by the growing turbulence we are witnessing across a number of different contexts. Our commitment to working closely together is unflinching, and will only grow stronger in the years ahead,” he said.

On how the UAE views India’s political stability, especially when general elections are approaching, Alshaali said India plays a significant role in global politics, and is a critical partner to the UAE, as demonstrated by the UAE President’s visit to the Vibrant Gujarat last month.

“The UAE values India’s political stability, which has been essential to the fostering of strong partnerships and collaboration between our two countries,” he said.

Bilateral relations between the two countries have been elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Both countries signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in February 2022 and a Local Currency Settlement (LCS) System in July 2023 to promote the use of Indian rupee and AED for cross-border transactions.

Divya A reports on travel, tourism, culture and social issues - not necessarily in that order - for The Indian Express. She's been a journalist for over a decade now, working with Khaleej Times and The Times of India, before settling down at Express. Besides writing/ editing news reports, she indulges her pen to write short stories. As Sanskriti Prabha Dutt Fellow for Excellence in Journalism, she is researching on the lives of the children of sex workers in India. ... Read More

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'Dubai faced Allah's wrath because it built BAPS Mandir': Pakistani's shocking take on historic floods (WATCH)

I n a controversial statement, a Pakistani man has linked the recent historic floods in Dubai to the construction of the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, a Hindu temple, in the neighbouring emirate of Abu Dhabi. This shocking claim comes months after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the temple on February 14th, marking a significant moment in the region's religious landscape.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), known for its arid climate, recently experienced unprecedented rainfall, with the National Center of Meteorology reporting the highest rainfall in 75 years. Scenes of flooding in Dubai, one of the UAE's prominent emirates and the host of COP28 last year, shocked the world as the city grappled with the aftermath of the deluge.

Also read: Dubai floods: Indian Embassy in UAE issues travel advisory for passengers; shares emergency helpline numbers

The Pakistani individual, whose statement gained attention on social media, claimed that Dubai's inundation was a manifestation of divine retribution, attributing it to the construction of the BAPS Mandir, which he referred to as a temple for "idol worshippers" in the "land of idol breakers."

"Dubai faced Allah's wrath in form of rainstorms because they recently built temple for idol worshippers in the land of idol breakers," he shockingly said in a direct reference to the BAPS Mandir in a video that has now gone viral on X, formerly Twitter.

It's worth noting that during his inaugural visit to the UAE in 2015, PM Modi initiated discussions regarding the establishment of a Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. Subsequently, the UAE government allocated land for the construction of the BAPS temple. Following the temple's inauguration on February 14, PM Modi hailed this development as a "landmark" step and conveyed gratitude to the UAE leadership on behalf of India's 1.3 billion citizens.

"The Government of UAE President has fulfilled a bis wish of crores of India with a large heart. Not just here, they have won the hearts of 140 crore Indians," he had said during his address at the event.

"This temple will become a symbol of communal harmony and global unity for the entire world. UAE's Minister of Tolerance Sheikh Nahyan Al Mubarak is present here, and the views he expressed were actually words describing the strengthening of our dreams," PM Modi had added.

However, the Pakistani individual's interpretation of the recent Dubai floods as a divine punishment has sparked a massive outburst on social media platforms.

Meanwhile, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) told Khaleej Times that there's a chance of light to moderate rain on Monday evening in UAE. It added that the weather situation is anticipated to improve by Wednesday with a drop by five to seven degrees in temperature.

"There's no need for concern; the current situation doesn't involve heavy rainfall whatsoever. It's not comparable to last week's event. It's not going to be intense; they're rather moderate, with clouds shifting from the western coast towards the UAE," Dr Ahmed Habib, a climate expert from NCM, told the outlet.

"There's a chance of light rain or drizzle. These clouds are headed to Abu Dhabi, resulting in light rainfall, then progressing eastward towards the mountains, where cloud formation could lead to a little over moderate rainfall only in mountainous areas. On Wednesday morning all the cloud cover will move outside the UAE towards Oman," Dr Habib added.

Also read: 'Cloud seeding, climate change or...': Real reason behind Dubai's historic floods REVEALED

Following last week's deluge, scientists attributed the increasingly frequent extreme weather events, including the rains in UAE and Oman, to human-induced global warming.

In the UAE, where rains are rare due to its hot desert climate and temperatures that can exceed 50 degrees Celsius in the summer, the recent downpour came as a stark anomaly.

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LeBron James heads star-studded USA team to play in Abu Dhabi ahead of Paris Olympics

Likes of stephen curry and kevin durant will also be part of 12-man squad set to play two exhibition games in uae capital as part of preparation for paris 2024, lebron james and star-studded usa basketball team to play in abu dhabi ahead of olympics.

LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, Joel Embiid … those are just a handful of the stars that have been named on this summer’s USA Basketball Men’s National Team announced on Wednesday and all of them will be coming to Abu Dhabi to compete in two friendly games ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics.

A 12-man box-office roster that also includes Tyrese Haliburton, Anthony Edwards, Kawhi Leonard, Anthony Davis, Devin Booker, Bam Adebayo, and Jrue Holiday, will take on Australia on July 15 and Serbia on July 17 at Yas Island’s Etihad Arena in what will be a crucial part of Team USA’s preparation for their Olympic title defence.

It will be the Americans’ second visit to the UAE capital having held a training camp and contested exhibition games in Abu Dhabi ahead of their 2023 FIBA World Cup campaign last summer , albeit with a different group of players, except for Haliburton and Edwards, who have retained their spots on the national squad.

Grant Hill, the managing director of the US National Team, said they were all “blown away” by their experience in the Emirates last year and jumped at the chance to come back this summer.

“We had such a blast there last year. We had such a good time,” Hill told The National during a Zoom call with members of the press on Wednesday following the squad announcement.

“They were so hospitable. The venue, the accommodations, but just the energy and the spirit there was so much fun. Even when it was really hot, we still managed to have a great time.

“Some great sights, we got a chance to see and experience culture, go out to the desert, go to Dubai, visit the mosque.”

“So yeah, the opportunity presented itself and I know all of us from a leadership standpoint, the coaching staff, we were like, ‘Wow, if we could go back there, that would be awesome’. And so it's worked out that way.”

View this post on Instagram A post shared by USA Basketball (@usabasketball)

Hill, who played for USA when they won Olympic gold in 1996, has put together a stacked roster for Paris that is reminiscent of the famous 1992 Dream Team that featured Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

USA finished fourth at the World Cup last year after losing to Germany in the semi-finals and Canada in the bronze-medal game.

The Olympics will surely be a different story with the likes of James and Curry at the helm and a well-thought-out exhibition schedule that features games against Canada in Las Vegas (July 10), a pair of clashes in London against South Sudan (July 20) and Germany (July 22) along with the two exhibition matches in Abu Dhabi.

“We’re grateful we get to go back [to the UAE] and we have two incredible opponents that we’ll play while we're there, Serbia and Australia, both great teams and great players on those teams,” added Hill.

“The exhibition schedule is important and I think we were blown away by our experience there last year and look forward to bringing some of the new players who haven't experienced it before this summer.”

Abu Dhabi is fast becoming a hot spot for world-class basketball, thanks to a multi-year deal signed between the NBA and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, which tipped off in 2022 with the staging of two NBA pre-season games between the Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks.

Last year, the USA, Greece, Germany, Egypt, Mexico and Lebanon held training camps and contested friendlies in August before the NBA returned for two more pre-season games between the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves in the fall .

The third edition of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games will see Nikola Jokic’s Denver Nuggets take on Tatum’s Boston Celtics on October 4 and 6, 2024.

Both Jokic and Tatum will come to the UAE capital before then though, the former with Serbia and the latter with USA, for some pre-Olympics exhibitions.

Jaden Hardy of Dallas takes on Jordan McLaughlin of Minnesota during the game between the Timberwolves and Dallas Mavericks in a pre-season NBA game as part of the Abu Dhabi Games 2023. Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi. Chris Whiteoak / The National

LeBron James returns to the US Olympic roster for the first time since 2012 and the two-time gold medallist will be contesting his fourth Games in Paris this summer.

Durant is a three-time Olympic gold medallist while Curry will be competing in his first Olympic Games.

Adebayo (2020), Booker (2020), Davis (2012), Holiday (2020) and Tatum (2020) have won Olympic gold medals and are part of a group that has gone 34-4 in Olympic competition since James’ debut in 2004.

Team USA will be led in Paris by head coach Steve Kerr (Golden State Warriors), who is assisted by Mark Few (Gonzaga University), Tyronn Lue (L.A. Clippers) and Erik Spoelstra (Miami Heat).

In a warm gesture that was documented and shared on USA Basketball’s social media, Hill and his staff visited every player on the 12-man squad to personally present them with their own national team jerseys ahead of the official announcement on Wednesday.

Hill admits there were some tough decisions that had to be made to finalise the roster and understands why some of the snubs, like that of New York Knicks’ Jalen Brunson, have raised some eyebrows. Brunson was part of the US squad that played at the World Cup last year and is currently enjoying a standout season with the Knicks, who have secured the No 2 seed in the Eastern Conference play-offs.

“First of all, I acknowledge the season he's having is just magical. It's impressive and it's like he almost played himself into that sort of MVP conversation, if you will,” said Hill when asked of Brunson.

“And he's been a great member of our programme, not just last year on the men's national team, but also with the grassroots and the U17s and so on and so forth. So I wanted to acknowledge that.

“I think it's important for me to really honour and celebrate the 12 that are on the team. And not get caught up by this person or that person.

“There were some really difficult decisions that were to be made. You have players who are incredible, players who have helped us in years past, helped us win gold medals. We've had players who are having current seasons that are just off the charts.

“The job was putting together a team and a team that we felt and ultimately what I felt the pieces fit. And this is not an indictment on anyone else. There are some great, great players and we're so grateful that they were interested and they were willing to be a part of this.

“But with that said, we're really, really excited about our group and excited about the pieces, the style, the skill set, the personalities, and we look forward to the challenge ahead.”

USA have landed in Group C at the Olympics alongside Serbia, South Sudan and the winning nation that will emerge through the qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico early July.