Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to deliver a momentous address to a massive gathering of the Indian community in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on February 13, under the banner of 'Ahlan Modi'. This event, which translates as "welcome" in Arabic, anticipates an attendance of over 50,000 individuals, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing narrative of Indo-UAE relations and cultural exchange.
Inauguration of BAPS Hindu Temple: A Landmark Occasion
The cornerstone of Prime Minister Modi's visit to Abu Dhabi is the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu temple, the largest of its kind in the UAE. Imbued with symbolism and architectural grandeur, the temple's design, resembling a blossoming lotus flower, stands as a testament to the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and the UAE.
Representatives from the BAPS organization, led by Swami Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas, extended the invitation to Prime Minister Modi, who graciously accepted, underscoring the profound significance of cultural exchange and collaboration between the two nations. This comes in the backdrop of the Ram Mandir inauguration by the Prime Minister where he contributed significantly.
Preparations and Venue: A Confluence of Cultures
The Sheikh Zayed Sports Stadium has been meticulously prepared to host this historic occasion, with organizers leaving no stone unturned to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for all attendees. Committees comprising dedicated volunteers have been working tirelessly, reflecting the enthusiasm and unity among the Indian diaspora in the UAE.
An energetic pre-event briefing at the India Club, Dubai, witnessed over 350 Indian community leaders expressing their fervor and anticipation, further igniting the spirit of camaraderie and celebration among attendees.
India-UAE Relations
Prime Minister Modi's forthcoming visit to the UAE marks his seventh since his groundbreaking trip in 2015, rendering him the first Indian PM to undertake such visits in 34 years. Across these visits, a robust framework of Indo-UAE relations has been meticulously nurtured, fostering mutual understanding and strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. Since assuming office in 2014, Prime Minister Modi has made six visits to the UAE, including a significant presence at the Dubai Climate Change Summit in December. These diplomatic engagements have been instrumental in propelling the bilateral relationship to new heights. Currently valued at approximately US$ 73 billion, the trade volume between India and the UAE has witnessed exponential growth from a modest US$ 180 million per annum in the 1970s.
India’s exports to the UAE have surged notably, positioning the country as the second-largest export destination after the United States. In the fiscal year 2021-22 alone, transactions surpassed US$ 28 billion. The signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2022 further cemented the economic collaboration between the two nations, fostering a conducive environment for trade and investment.
Moreover, the UAE has emerged as a significant investor in India, contributing an estimated US$ 20-21 billion, with a substantial portion allocated to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). This positions the UAE as the seventh-largest investor in India in terms of FDI, reflecting a deep-seated confidence in India’s economic potential and growth trajectory.
Strengthening Indo-UAE Relations
Prime Minister Modi's forthcoming visit marks his seventh to the UAE since his groundbreaking trip in 2015 and the recent COP 28 meeting, underscoring the depth and resilience of bilateral relations. Each visit has played a pivotal role in fostering mutual understanding, enhancing economic cooperation, and elevating the friendship between India and the UAE to unprecedented heights.
India-UAE relations have flourished under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, with trade reaching unprecedented levels. The signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2022 further solidified the economic collaboration between the two nations, opening new vistas of opportunity and prosperity.
BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham
The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Abu Dhabi stands as a towering symbol of India's rich cultural heritage and architectural prowess. Spanning over 183 acres, the temple is meticulously designed according to ancient Hindu scriptures, incorporating intricate motifs and sustainable practices that echo the timeless traditions of India. From its majestic architecture to its eco-friendly initiatives, the temple serves as a beacon of inspiration and reverence, embodying the ethos and values that bind the Indian diaspora together across continents.
Conclusion
As Prime Minister Modi embarks on this historic visit to the UAE, the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu temple emerges as a defining moment in the narrative of Indo-UAE relations. It reaffirms the shared commitment to cultural exchange, economic partnership, and mutual prosperity, heralding a new era of collaboration and camaraderie between India and the UAE. As the bonds between the two nations deepen and diversify, the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu temple stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of friendship and cooperation that defines the Indo-UAE relationship in the 21st century and beyond.
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