“Updates on PM Modi’s UAE Visit: Inaugurating the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi draws criticism from the Opposition. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor suggests elections might follow soon.”
PM Modi’s UAE Visit Updates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is heading to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a two-day trip. This marks his third visit in eight months and his seventh since 2015. His agenda includes meetings with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, participation in the World Government Summit 2024, and the inauguration of the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.
Modi’s visit is scheduled for February 13-14, after which he’ll proceed to Doha. This visit follows the release of eight former Indian Navy personnel by Qatari authorities on Monday, who were imprisoned in Qatar on alleged espionage charges.
UAE holds significant diplomatic importance for India. Abdulnasser Alshaali, UAE’s Ambassador to India, highlighted that the Hindu temple inauguration in Abu Dhabi reflects the values of tolerance and acceptance guiding bilateral ties. However, the move has drawn criticism from the Opposition, with Congress MP Shashi Tharoor suggesting that elections might follow soon after.
A file image of Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS, with others at the BAPS Hindu Mandir, in Abu Dhabi. (PTI)
PM Modi’s Agenda in UAE:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is commencing his two-day visit to the UAE, where he is slated to partake in the World Government Summit 2024 and inaugurate the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, he will engage in official meetings during his stay.
Diplomatic Engagements:
During a press briefing on Monday, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra disclosed that PM Modi’s visit to the UAE will span from February 13 to 14, after which he will proceed to Doha, Qatar. This visit follows the recent release of eight Indian Navy officials who were imprisoned in Qatar.
Objective of the Visit:
UAE holds a pivotal position as one of India’s crucial trade and diplomatic partners. Analysts suggest that PM Modi’s visit aims to bolster business, defense, and cultural ties with the Middle Eastern country.
About the BAPS Hindu Temple:
PM Modi graciously accepted the invitation to inaugurate the temple in December 2023. The temple is affiliated with BAPS, which stands for Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha. It is a socio-spiritual Hindu faith rooted in the Vedas and was established in 1907. The temple’s inauguration is significant as it reflects the growing cultural and spiritual connections between India and the UAE.
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