New Delhi, Jan 19: Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally received UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Delhi airport on Monday, presenting the visiting dignitary with high-end traditional gifts that showcase India’s heritage. The reception, which transitioned from the airport to the Prime Minister’s residence at Lok Kalyan Marg, focused on cultural diplomacy and family ties.
Central to the gift exchange was a royal carved wooden jhula, a traditional swing from Gujarat known for its hand-carved floral designs.
Officials noted that the gift was specifically chosen because it symbolizes togetherness and conversation across generations, mirroring the UAE’s declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Family.”
The Prime Minister also presented the President with a hand-spun Pashmina shawl from Kashmir, housed in a decorative silver box manufactured in Telangana. This combination was meant to represent a fusion of India’s northern and southern handicraft traditions.
“The jhula is a central feature in many Gujarati family homes and symbolizes bonding,” a government representative mentioned during the briefing.
Additional gifts were presented to Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi, including another Pashmina shawl and premium Kashmiri saffron.
The saffron, recognized for its crimson strands and intense fragrance, was also presented in a silver ornate box.
The meeting at the Prime Minister’s residence allowed both leaders to discuss the growing partnership between the two nations in a more personal setting.
Modi noted that the visit underscores the high level of trust and the strong personal rapport shared between the leadership of India and the United Arab Emirates.
