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Prime Minister Narendra Modi starts his tour to four nations

by IBNS 09 Feb 2018, 12:50 pm

New Delhi, Feb 9 (IBNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday left the nation to commence four-nation tour.

He will visit  Jordan, Palestine, UAE & Oman between Feb 9-12.

MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted: "Redefining our neighbourhood from a maritime perspective! PM @narendramodi embarks on a 4-day visit to Jordan, Palestine, UAE & Oman from 9-12 February to deepen our multifaceted ties with the Gulf and West Asian region. #ExtendedNeighbourhood."

Modi said this region is a key priority to India's external engagement.

" I am happy to visit the Gulf and West Asian region for the fifth time since 2015. This region is a key priority in our external engagement. We enjoy vibrant multi-dimensional ties with the countries here," Modi said.

Modi will visit the nation from Feb 9 to 12.

" The visit will begin from Palestine, on 10 February after transiting through Jordan. I am grateful to His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan for facilitating the transit. I look forward to meeting him in Amman on 9th February," Modi said.

This will be the first ever Prime Ministerial visit to Palestine from India.  

Modi said he is looking forward to the tour.

"I am looking forward to my discussions with President Mahmoud Abbas and reaffirming our support for the Palestinian people and the development of Palestine," he said.

On his upcoming visit to the UAE, he said: " I will visit UAE on 10-11 February, where I am returning after my visit in August 2015. UAE is a valued strategic partner with whom we have fast-tracked cooperation in all major spheres including economy, energy, high technology and security. I will be discussing our progress in these areas and more in my meetings with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi."

Speaking on Oman, he said: " Oman is a close maritime neighbour with whom we enjoy excellent relations. I will hold talks with His Majesty the Sultan of Oman and other key leaders. I shall also interact with leading businesspersons of Oman on developing stronger economic and business links with India."