Abu Dhabi witnessed the convergence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the President of Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina, in a bilateral discourse of paramount significance. This rendezvous unfolded amidst PM Modi’s official sojourn to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the auspicious inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi marked a pivotal event on Wednesday. A precursor to this, the ‘Ahlan Modi’ affair resonated within the Sheikh Zayed Sports Stadium in Abu Dhabi, where PM Modi ardently addressed the Indian diaspora.

The colloquial translation of ‘Ahlan Modi’ to ‘Hello Modi’ only scratches the surface of its profundity. Later in the day, PM Modi’s oratory prowess will be unveiled at the World Government Summit, preceding the ceremonious dedication of the BAPS Hindu Temple. At the behest of the UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, PM Modi stands as a distinguished Guest of Honour at the World Government Summit 2024, set to unfold in Dubai. His presence is not mere formality; he is slated to deliver a bespoke keynote address, a testament to the gravity of the occasion.

During his two-day diplomatic sojourn in the UAE, PM Modi is slated to encounter UAE Vice President Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, fortifying bilateral ties. Additionally, the inauguration of Bharat Mart, a warehousing facility tailored for Indian MSMEs venturing into Dubai’s trade realm, is earmarked for today. This avant-garde establishment serves as a unified platform, enabling Indian exporters to showcase an eclectic array of products.

Preceding this, PM Narendra Modi engaged in substantive discussions with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Tuesday, culminating in the exchange of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). Notably, Madagascar stands as a steadfast SAGAR partner of India. Launched in 2020, Mission SAGAR stands as a global initiative, akin to the Sagar doctrine, and was conceived as a response to the exigencies wrought by the Covid-19 pandemic. The mission’s purview extends to the Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros, and Seychelles.

Historically, India’s maritime entwinement with Madagascar spans several centuries, with documented visits and settlements by Indian merchants dating back to the late eighteenth century.