Abu Dhabi, August 16
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today began his two-day trip to the United Arab Emirates with a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand mosque, third largest in the world. The Prime Minister is set to discuss terror and investments with the leadership of the strategic Gulf nation.
Within hours of his arrival in the UAE’s capital, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 34 years, Modi went around the mosque’s 180,000 sq ft courtyard.
The Prime Minister, wearing a cream-colour kurta with a white and orange stole, went around the mosque built at an estimated cost of $545 million, evincing interest at the imposing 82 domes in seven sizes located inside the worshipping place.
“I am delighted to visit this magnificent place of worship, strikes with its size and beauty. It brings together requisite skills and creation from around the world and serves as a fine example of human achievement and unity. I am confident that it will be a symbol of peace, piety, harmony and inclusiveness that are inherent to the faith of Islam," Modi wrote on the visitor's book.
Modi was earlier received by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, along with his five brothers at the airport, in a departure from protocol. Modi said in an interview to Khaleej Times that he wanted to see the UAE as India's foremost partner in trade and in countering terrorism, noting that both countries have a range of common security and strategic concerns in the region, including extremism.
The PM later discussed investment opportunities during a dinner hosted by the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA). — Agencies
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