Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked today on a two-nation visit to the Middle East. The first leg of his journey encompasses a two-day stopover in the UAE from February 13 to 14. During his time in the UAE, the Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in a range of programs aimed at bolstering the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two long-standing allies.
From there, Prime Minister Modi will undertake a surprise visit to Qatar. While initially unannounced, the Prime Minister’s visit to Qatar was first disclosed by Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra yesterday. However, the Foreign Secretary declined to link PM Modi’s visit to Qatar with the recent release of eight navy veterans. Seven of the eight individuals, previously sentenced to death on espionage charges, have returned to India following diplomatic intervention. Their release from prison is regarded as a significant diplomatic achievement for India.
During his two-nation visit to the Middle East, aside from diplomatic meetings, one of the prominent topics expected to be addressed during Prime Minister Modi’s discussions with the leadership of both nations is the situation in Gaza, exacerbated by the Israel-Hamas conflict. India has consistently advocated for a two-state solution to alleviate suffering in the region.
PM Modi’s visit to the UAE and Qatar
In his departure statement ahead of the visit to the UAE and Qatar, PM Modi expressed anticipation for discussions with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of UAE, in Abu Dhabi. He also mentioned his participation in the World Government Summit in Dubai and his discussions with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Defence Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on strengthening ties with Dubai.
Additionally, PM Modi will engage with the community during his visit, inaugurating the first Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi and hosting the mega ‘Ahlan Modi’ event, meaning ‘Welcome Modi’ in Arabic, at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
Earlier, taking to his social media handle X, PM Modi lauded Indian Community. He said, “We are very proud of our diaspora and their efforts to deepen India’s engagement with the world. This evening, I look forward to being among UAE’s Indian diaspora at the #AhlanModi programme! Do join this memorable occasion.”
After Abu Dhabi, PM Modi will proceed to Qatar for his second visit since assuming office in 2014. Addressing India-Qatar ties, PM Modi highlighted the historically close relations and the significant Indian community in Doha.
“India and Qatar enjoy historically close and friendly relations. In recent years, our multifaceted ties have continued to deepen in all spheres including high level political exchanges, growing trade and investment between two countries, strengthening of our energy partnership, and cooperation in culture and education. The presence of over 800,000 strong Indian community in Doha is a testament to our strong people-to-people ties,” PM Modi said.
During his visit, PM Modi will hold bilateral meetings with the Emir of Qatar, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and other high dignitaries to further deepen the multifaceted partnership and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual importance.
