Port Moresby: Hours after US President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed their amazement at the popularity enjoyed by Narendra Modi, the premier of another country displayed his respect for the Indian PM on Sunday.
Modi, who flew from Hiroshima to Papua New Guinea this evening, was greeted by Prime Minister James Marape in a remarkable gesture conveying his honour and admiration.
Breaking Papua New Guinea protocol, the PM was present at Jacksons International airport in the island nations’s capital to personally greet Modi.
He didn’t just stop there. As Modi climbed down from the aircraft, Marape embraced him warmly and bent down to touch his feet.
Touched by Marape’s action, Modi hugged him and patted him on the back.
Watch the video tweeted by ANI:
Papua New Guinea PM seeks PM Modi’s blessings, touches his feet on arrival
Read @ANI Story | https://t.co/mgirhb8yGn#PMModi #PapuaNewGuinea pic.twitter.com/JZIDabYAvF
— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) May 21, 2023
Modi will co-host the Summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation with Marape on Monday, when other Pacific island leaders will be present.
It’s the first visit by an Indian premier to the island nation as India seeks to counter growing Chinese regional influence.
“A grand beginning of an important visit! PM @narendramodi arrives in Port Moresby on what is the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Papua New Guinea. Accorded a 19-gun salute, guard of honour & ceremonial welcome. As a special gesture, PM James Marape received PM Modi at the airport,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted.
India is looking to counter growing Chinese influence in the Pacific region.
