In what could be called a rare diplomatic gesture, the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea (PNG) James Marape, bowed down in front of Prime Minister Modi to touch his feet, seeking his blessings. Responding to which PM Modi stopped him midway and tapped on his back, followed by an iconic Modi hug.
The PNG Prime Minister James Marape was at the Port Moresby airport to welcome the Indian Prime Minister, where a ceremonial welcome was accorded to him, with the Indian national anthem playing in the background. He was also given a guard of honor by the PNG Defence Forces. Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to set foot on the soil of Papua New Guinea as he was welcomed by the cheerful Indian diaspora attempting to click selfies.
Papua New Guinea typically does not extend a ceremonial greeting to any leader arriving after dusk. The country, however, made an exception for PM Modi, who was greeted with a full-fledged ceremonial welcome. To welcome PM Modi to PNG, a traditional folk dance performance was also organized outside the airport.
PM Modi is scheduled to co-chair the 3rd Summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC III Summit) on Monday during his visit to Papua New Guinea. PM Modi’s colleague from Papua New Guinea, James Marape, will also be present.
PM Modi to attend FIPIC Summit along with James Marape and other PIC leaders
The Presidents of 14 nations will attend the FIPIC Summit which is remarkable since these leaders rarely come together due to connectivity and various other issues. FIPIC was established in 2014 when PM Modi was visiting Fiji.
Other than FIPIC events, PM Modi will meet with Papua New Guinea Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae, Prime Minister James Marape, and some of the other PIC Leaders taking part in the Summit.
PM Modi will go to Sydney after his stay in Papua New Guinea, at the request of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. PM Modi concluded his highly effective visit to Japan on Sunday and flew to Papua New Guinea.
From May 19 to 24, the Prime Minister is traveling to three countries: Japan, Papua New Guinea, and Australia.
This journey includes the G7 and Quad summits in Hiroshima, as well as a bilateral meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and hosting the third Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) summit in Papua New Guinea.
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