PM Modi Presents Traditional Indian Gifts to UAE President During Working Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India with a special selection of traditional gifts. The two leaders met during a two-hour working visit that focused on strengthening bilateral ties.
Symbolic Gifts Highlight Cultural Connections
Among the carefully chosen presents was a beautifully carved wooden swing, known locally as a jhula, from Gujarat. This swing holds deep cultural significance in Gujarati households, where it often serves as a gathering place for families.
The jhula represents togetherness, dialogue, and bonding across different generations. This thoughtful gift aligns perfectly with the UAE's declaration of 2026 as the Year of Family, showing how cultural traditions can bridge international relationships.
Prime Minister Modi also presented the UAE President with a luxurious Pashmina shawl housed in an ornate silver box. The shawl itself comes from Kashmir, where artisans handcraft it from exceptionally fine wool known for its softness, lightness, and warmth.
The decorative silver box that contains the shawl originates from Telangana. Together, these items showcase India's rich legacy of handloom textiles and traditional handicrafts from different regions.
Additional Gifts for UAE First Lady
Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi, the UAE First Lady, received similar thoughtful presents. She was gifted a Pashmina shawl in an ornate silver box, mirroring the gift to the UAE President.
Additionally, she received Kashmiri saffron presented in another decorative silver box. This saffron comes from the Kashmir Valley, where it is cultivated and prized for its deep crimson strands and rich, distinctive aroma.
Strengthening India-UAE Partnership
People familiar with the UAE President's visit indicated that discussions between the two leaders would focus on several key areas. These include trade and investment opportunities, defense industry cooperation, and various energy initiatives.
The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the strong economic relationship between India and the UAE. The two nations serve as leading trade and investment partners for each other, supported by several important agreements.
These include the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), a local currency settlement mechanism, and a bilateral investment treaty. India and the UAE also maintain a robust energy partnership built on long-term supply agreements.
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that this visit provides an important opportunity for both leaders to explore new frontiers in their comprehensive strategic partnership. They will also exchange views on regional and global issues where both countries share significant common ground.
The exchange of traditional gifts during diplomatic visits serves as more than just ceremonial protocol. These carefully selected items represent cultural heritage and shared values, creating personal connections that complement formal discussions about trade, defense, and international cooperation.
