How PM Modi sidelined the protocol to rush airport

New Delhi: In a break from protocol, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reached the Palam Air Force station here to receive Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan who arrived here on his second visit to India, during which he will be chief guest at the Republic Day function.

The Prime Minister’s gesture in receiving the UAE Crown Prince in person is being seen as reflective of the importance he is giving to India’s growing economic, defence and security ties with the Gulf Emirate. Prince Nahyan, who is accompanied by a high-level business delegation, will hold one-to-one meeting with Mr Modi at his Lok Kalyan Marg residence, which will be followed by delegation-level talks between the two leaders at the Hyderabad House.

Talks are expected to be followed by several important agreements in investments, defence manufacturing and other areas. The Crown Prince will also meet President Pranab Mukkerjee in the evening, and also Vice-President Hamid Anasari before that. The leaders of the business and industry accompanying the Crown Prince will also visit Vishakhapatnam on January 27 and 28. (UNI)