The inauguration of the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi next month will be a monumental day to “celebrate tolerance and acceptance”, the Ambassador of the UAE to India Abdulnasser Alshaali said on Thursday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the temple on February 14.
“We are looking forward to the inauguration on February 14… it’s going to be a phenomenal monumental day, a special occasion to celebrate tolerance, acceptance, and to further strengthen this relationship,” Ambassador Alshaali told PTI.
Last month, Swami Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas extended the invitation on behalf of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir, and it has been accepted by PM Modi.
The ambassador has also confirmed the grand diaspora gathering scheduled at the Sheikh Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi on February 13.
The event is titled ‘Ahlan Modi,’ which translates to ‘Hello Modi’.
According to the UN’s International Migration 2020 report, the UAE boasts the largest Indian diaspora population at 3.5 million, surpassing the United States of America (2.7 million) and Saudi Arabia (2.5 million).
On Tuesday, India and the UAE solidified their collaboration by signing four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements were finalised during talks between PM Modi and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.