'Welcoming my brother': PM Modi breaks protocol to welcome UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed at Delhi airport
PTC Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an unscheduled gesture on Wednesday by personally receiving UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the airport in New Delhi, underscoring the warmth and depth of ties between India and the United Arab Emirates.
The UAE leader arrived in the national capital for a brief visit lasting around two hours. Despite the short duration, the visit has drawn attention for its diplomatic significance, especially as cooperation between the two countries continues to grow across strategic sectors such as defence, trade, energy, and regional security.
Images from the airport showed the two leaders greeting each other with a warm embrace, reflecting the strong personal bond that has emerged between them over the years and has played a key role in strengthening bilateral relations.
Soon after the arrival, Prime Minister Modi took to social media platform X to share a message highlighting the importance of the visit. Referring to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed as his “brother”, PM Modi said the UAE President’s presence in India was a clear reflection of his commitment to deepening the partnership between the two nations.
“Went to the airport to welcome my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. His visit illustrates the importance he attaches to a strong India-UAE friendship. Looking forward to our discussions,” the Prime Minister wrote.
Officials said the leaders were expected to hold discussions on key regional and global issues during the visit, reinforcing the growing strategic alignment between New Delhi and Abu Dhabi.
- With inputs from agencies
