Papua New Guinea PM Reverently bows, touches PM Modi’s feet in symbolic welcome

Prime Minister of India – Narendra Modi is currently on official tour to Papua New Guinea, where he received a very warm and special welcome on Sunday, May 21, 2023.

22nd of May 2023

Papua New Guinea PM Reverently bows, touches PM Modi's feet in symbolic welcome || Picture Courtesy: PM Narendra Modi (Twitter)

New Delhi, India: Prime Minister of India – Narendra Modi is currently on official tour to Papua New Guinea, where he received a very warm and special welcome on Sunday, May 21, 2023.

He was wholeheartedly welcomed by the Prime Minister of the Pacific island country – James Marape, who as a gesture of respect touched feet of Indian Prime Minister. Prime Minister Modi has arrived to Papua New Guinea to host the third summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC).

It is worth noting that this was the first time that Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea received a guest leader after sunset. PM Modi was the first Indian Prime Minister who received ceremonial welcome after arriving after 10 pm local time.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took it to twitter and shared tweet highlighting that he will look forward to boost the diplomatic ties between India and the host country (Papua New Guinea). The tweet by PM read, “Reached Papua New Guinea. I am thankful to PM James Marape for coming to the airport and welcoming me. This is a very special gesture which I will always remember. I look forward to boosting India’s ties with this great nation during my visit.”

PM Marape touched PM Modi’s feet after both the leaders embraced each other. Following this, both the leaders shared a hug and walked along with the other dignitaries who were present to welcome the Prime Minister of India.

Prime Minister Modi received accorded a 19-gun salute, guard of honour and ceremonial welcome, as per the information shared by Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi.

It is reported that on Monday, PM Narendra Modi and PM James Marape will be hosting third summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC). Following that, Prime Minister Modi will engage into bilateral talks with his counterpart and will also meet the Governor General Bob Dadae.

It is expected that the talks will be focused on climate change and development.