Ahmedabad, Jan 12 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz attended the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati Riverfront in Gujarat's Ahmedabad on Monday, experiencing the vibrant colors, energy, and cultural richness of this annual celebration.

The International Kite Festival takes place each January in Gujarat to celebrate Uttarayan, a notable time in the Hindu calendar symbolizing the sun's northward movement and the onset of the summer season. This festival draws participants and visitors from various parts of India and beyond.

Upon arriving at the venue, PM Modi and Chancellor Merz received a heartfelt welcome, adorned with traditional Gujarati scarves.

The atmosphere was lively, with artists and performers from diverse regions showcasing traditional dances and folk music to honor the visiting German leader and celebrate the joyous occasion.

Both leaders engaged in the festivities by flying kites, fully embracing the celebratory spirit.

The Prime Minister was spotted flying a specially crafted kite emblazoned with the message 'Bharat -- Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', encapsulating India's belief in global unity as one family. Other kites showcased the tricolor, Hindu deities, and motifs of both leaders.

Enthusiastic crowds gathered along the riverfront to catch a glimpse of the two leaders, many waving Indian and German flags, reinforcing the enduring friendship and strengthening ties between the nations.

International participants who traveled to Gujarat for the festival were also present, and PM Modi and Chancellor Merz interacted with some of them during the event.

The Prime Minister elaborated to the German Chancellor about the significance of the decorations, customs, and traditions linked to the vibrant Uttarayan celebrations, emphasizing the festival's cultural importance in Gujarat.

Chancellor Merz arrived in India earlier on Monday to further enhance bilateral relations between India and Germany.

Earlier that day, PM Modi and Chancellor Merz visited the Sabarmati Ashram to pay their respects to Mahatma Gandhi, where they observed an exhibition highlighting Gandhi's life and legacy. The German Chancellor also left his remarks in the visitors' book.

Later, the two leaders are set to engage in bilateral discussions at the Mahatma Mandir Convention Centre in Gandhinagar, focusing on boosting collaboration across various sectors. This year marks 25 years of the India-Germany strategic partnership.

The Prime Minister's Office mentioned, "The two leaders will review the advancements made in the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, which has recently reached its 25-year milestone. Their discussions will also aim to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, technology, education, skill development, mobility, and enhance collaboration in critical areas such as defense and security, science, innovation, research, and sustainable development, along with fostering people-to-people connections."

They will also share perspectives on regional and global matters and engage with business and industry leaders from both nations.