'Welcome to Modi'; Burj Khalifa lit up with Indian flag

DUBAI: The iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai was lit in the Indian tri-colour ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's keynote address at the 2024 World Governments Summit. The iconic building was lit up with the words 'Guest of Honour- Republic of India'.

Narendra Modi, who arrived in UAE for a two-day visit, was received at the airport by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Later, both signed bilateral agreements.

We extend a warm welcome to the Republic of India, the guest of honour at this year’s World Governments Summit, and to His Excellency Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. The strong ties between our nations serve as a model for international cooperation.
The… pic.twitter.com/enMaunw4oT

— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) February 13, 2024

Extending a "warm welcome" to Modi, Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared on X two images of the Burj Khalifa, lit up with colours of the Indian flag and logo of the World Governments Summit.

He said that the strong ties between the two nations serve as a model for international cooperation and that it is a "pleasure to have India as a distinguished guest" at the event.

"The @WorldGovSummit has evolved into one of the world’s leading platforms for sharing governance best practices, success stories and initiatives, and envisioning the future of government," he wrote in a post on X.

Addressing the World Governments Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that clean and transparent governance is the main challenge faced by all governments worldwide. Modi also acknowledged the dynamic leadership of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He described Nahyan as a leader with vision and resolve.

‘The world now needs a transparent government without corruption. On the one hand the world embraces modernity and on the other hand there are still many challenges. It is the responsibility of all governments to ensure food, health, water, energy, education etc. to the people,' said Modi.