Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's landmark visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on February 13th and 14th, 2024, heralded a new era of collaboration and camaraderie between the two nations. Amidst a backdrop of strategic meetings, cultural symbolism, and economic discourse, the visit underscored the burgeoning partnership and shared values between India and the UAE.
Inauguration of BAPS Hindu Temple
A focal point of Prime Minister Modi's visit was the inauguration of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir in Abu Dhabi. Situated on a 27-acre plot near Al Rahba off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway, exemplifies intricate architecture. Crafted from marble and pink sandstone, much of which originated from northern Rajasthan, the temple showcases impressive marble carvings comprising over 25,000 stone pieces set against a backdrop of sandstone.
With two domes, seven Shikhars symbolizing the seven emirates of the UAE, 12 Samrans resembling dome-like structures, and 402 pillars, the temple stands as a testament to its grandeur. Each Shikhar is adorned with carvings that narrate stories from Hindu epics.
Bilateral Meetings and Strategic Discourse
Prime Minister Modi's deliberations with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum served as a cornerstone for fostering deeper ties between India and the UAE. Conversations centered on forging strategic partnerships across diverse sectors, including defense, energy, space, and IT.
Both leaders expressed a mutual commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation, laying the groundwork for future collaborations and mutual growth.
Economic Collaboration and Agreements
The visit witnessed the signing of pivotal agreements aimed at bolstering economic ties between India and the UAE. Noteworthy among these were the Bilateral Investment Treaty and Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), designed to facilitate a conducive environment for trade and investment. Additionally, the implementation of a Local Currency Settlement System exemplified both nations' resolve to streamline cross-border transactions, fostering greater economic integration and prosperity.
Participation in World Government Summit
Prime Minister Modi's participation as a Guest of Honour at the World Government Summit 2024 in Dubai underscored India's global leadership in governance and cooperation. In his keynote address, he articulated India's vision for fostering peace and prosperity on the global stage, reaffirming India's commitment to multilateralism and collaborative governance. His presence symbolized India's pivotal role in shaping the discourse on global governance and cooperation.
Ambassador's Perspective
Ambassador Abdulnasser Alshaali, UAE's envoy to India, hailed Prime Minister Modi's visit as a testament to the enduring friendship and cultural affinity between India and the UAE. He underscored the alignment of the visit with the values of tolerance and acceptance, lauding the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora in fostering cultural exchange and economic cooperation. The visit, he noted, reinforced the deep-rooted historical ties and shared aspirations that underpin the bilateral relationship.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi's historic visit to the UAE has not only deepened bilateral ties but also set the stage for a transformative partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared prosperity. The inauguration of the BAPS Hindu temple, coupled with strategic meetings and economic agreements, underscores the resilience and dynamism of the India-UAE relationship. As both nations navigate the complexities of the contemporary world, their shared commitment to fostering peace, prosperity, and cultural exchange will continue to propel their partnership to new heights, shaping a brighter and more interconnected future for generations to come.
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