AHMEDABAD: Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe arrived here today on a two-day visit with a packed agenda that includes the laying of foundation stone for India’s first bullet train project between Ahmedabad and Mumbai.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Abe, who is accompanied by his wife Akie, with his characteristic hug at the airport this afternoon.
Immediately after the welcome ceremony, Abe, his wife, and Modi set-off on an 8-km roadshow in an open-roof jeep for the Sabarmati Ashram where apostle of peace Mahatma Gandhi spent considerable time of his life.
Abe, who was in a formal suit when he arrived at the Ahmedabad airport, wore kurta-pyjama and a blue Nehru jacket, while his wife donned red salwar-kameez and a white stole to Sabarmati Ashram.
The two leaders repeatedly waved to the crowds that lined up the streets as performers presented traditional dance enroute.
At the Sabarmati Ashram set up by Mahatma Gandhi, Abe and his wife paid homage to the Father of the Nation.
Modi was seen explaining to the visiting dignitaries the significance of the spinning wheel, which became emblematic of India’s quest for self-reliance during its non- violent struggle for freedom from imperial rule.
It was for the first time that Modi held a joint road show with a visiting head of Government of a foreign country, reflecting the close bonding he shares with Abe. (AGENCIES)
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