What Special Gifts Did PM Modi Present to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan?
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Modi's heartfelt gesture of presenting traditional Indian gifts to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlights the enduring friendship between India and the UAE. This visit underscores the cultural ties and mutual respect that enrich the partnership between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- Prime Minister Modi presented traditional gifts to the UAE President.
- The gifts included a carved wooden jhula and a Pashmina shawl.
- The jhula symbolizes cultural values of togetherness.
- The gifts reflect the strong India-UAE friendship.
- This visit is significant for enhancing bilateral ties.
New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday presented traditional Indian gifts to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as he welcomed the UAE leader and his family at his residence at Lok Kalyan Marg.
PM Modi gifted the President of UAE a royal carved wooden jhula (swing), a beautifully crafted wooden swing from Gujarat that is a staple in many Gujarati homes. It features intricate floral and traditional designs, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. In Gujarati culture, the jhula embodies togetherness, dialogue, and bonding across generations. This gift also aligns perfectly with the UAE’s declaration of 2026 as the 'Year of Family'.
Additionally, PM Modi presented the visiting leader with a Pashmina shawl elegantly placed in a silver box. This shawl, handwoven in Kashmir from fine wool, is known for its softness, lightness, and warmth. The decorative silver box originates from Telangana, symbolizing India’s rich heritage in handloom and handicrafts.
Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi also received a Pashmina shawl in a lavish silver box, along with Kashmiri Saffron in another ornate silver box. The saffron, grown in the Kashmir Valley, is celebrated for its vibrant crimson strands and powerful aroma.
In a notable gesture, Prime Minister Modi traveled to the Delhi airport to personally greet UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as he commenced his third official visit to India since taking office.
The two leaders shared a car ride from the airport, highlighting their enduring friendship and the multifaceted partnership between their nations. This marks the UAE President's fifth visit to India in a decade.
“I went to the airport to welcome my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. His visit underscores the significance he places on a robust India-UAE friendship. I look forward to our discussions,” PM Modi shared on X.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's trip to India builds on the strong momentum from recent high-level interactions, such as the visit from Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi in September 2024, and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, in April 2025.
“India and the UAE maintain warm, close, and multifaceted relations, supported by robust political, cultural, and economic ties. Both nations are among each other’s top trading and investment partners, reinforced by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), the Local Currency Settlement (LCS) system, and the Bilateral Investment Treaty. Furthermore, India and the UAE enjoy a strong energy partnership, which includes long-term energy supply agreements,” stated the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) prior to the UAE President's visit.
“This visit will allow both leaders to explore new avenues for the India–UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. It will also facilitate discussions on regional and global topics of mutual interest, where both nations share a high level of agreement,” the statement added.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the importance of cultural exchanges like this. The gifts presented by PM Modi to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed not only symbolize friendship but also reflect India's commitment to fostering strong international relationships. Such gestures pave the way for deeper understanding and collaboration in various sectors.
NationPress
21/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What gifts did PM Modi present to the UAE President?
PM Modi presented a carved wooden jhula and a Pashmina shawl to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, showcasing India's rich cultural heritage.
Why is the jhula significant?
The jhula symbolizes togetherness and bonding across generations in Gujarati culture, aligning with the UAE's 'Year of Family' initiative.
What is special about the Pashmina shawl?
The Pashmina shawl is handwoven in Kashmir, known for its softness and warmth, and represents India's exquisite handloom tradition.
How does this visit impact India-UAE relations?
This visit enhances the already strong political, economic, and cultural ties between India and the UAE, fostering deeper cooperation.
What was the significance of the UAE President's visit?
The visit underscores the importance of bilateral relations and mutual respect, further solidifying the strategic partnership between the two nations.
