Last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the SCO summit held in China. During this summit, a unique way of journeying alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin in a car gained popularity among world leaders, now known as the 'car diplomacy' trend. This informal yet impactful diplomatic style has made international relations more personal and friendly.
On Monday, while UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was on a brief visit to Delhi, Prime Minister Modi personally welcomed him at the airport and accompanied him in a car. This act symbolizes the inauguration of a new chapter in the growing closeness between India and the UAE.
From UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to Germany's new Chancellor Friedrich Merz, PM Modi's 'carpool diplomacy' has attracted significant attention several times. During the Global Fintech Fest 2025 in Mumbai, a shared car moment with Starmer went viral on social media, with Modi expressing that the India-UK friendship is progressing with immense enthusiasm and speed.
With UAE President PM Modi
On Monday, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in the national capital, Delhi, for a nearly three-hour visit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke protocol to personally welcome him at the airport, indicating the growth in personal and diplomatic ties between both nations.
Modi and Sheikh Mohamed embraced warmly. Over the past few years, the growing friendship and extensive cooperation between the two countries have elevated the relationship to new heights. Their meeting further strengthens this robust partnership.
Source: aajtak
Both leaders traveled together from Delhi Airport, further showcasing their close relationship. Subsequently, Prime Minister Modi shared photos from the journey on his official X handle, captioning them with 'Welcome, my brother,' expressing the emotional connection and mutual respect between them.
With UK Prime Minister PM Modi
The relationship between India and the United Kingdom is witnessing new energy and strength. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a picture with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during the Global Fintech Fest 2025 in Mumbai, stating that the India-UK friendship is 'dynamic and filled with great energy.'
Keir Starmer's visit to India in July 2024 was his first official visit after taking office. He led the UK's trade mission in Mumbai, engaging with over 100 businesses, aiming to further bolster economic and trade links between the two countries.
Source: aajtak
Alongside the photo shared on Twitter, Prime Minister Modi commented, 'A snapshot from today when my friend Prime Minister Starmer and I embarked on our journey to the Global Fintech Fest.' This clearly highlights the strong spirit of cooperation between the leaders, committed to working jointly on economic development and technological innovation.
Ethiopia and Jordan
PM Modi received a grand welcome in Jordan. Jordan's Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II personally escorted Modi to the Jordan Museum in Amman, reflecting the friendship and respect between the two leaders. Sharing this moment on social media, Prime Minister Modi said, 'Towards the Jordan Museum with His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II.' This signifies that the India-Jordan relationship extends beyond official diplomacy, deeply rooted at a personal level.
Source: aajtak
On the same day, Ethiopian Nobel Peace Prize winner Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed personally greeted PM Modi at Addis Ababa airport. Celebrating the longstanding historical relationship between India and Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed escorted Modi to his hotel, spontaneously stopping at the Science Museum and Friendship Park along the way. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the welcome as 'warm and colorful,' highlighting the depth of friendship between the two countries.
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Meeting with the Russian President
This all began in Russia. Last December, during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Delhi, he shared a car with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This encounter served as a new symbol of friendship, showcasing the excellent relations between the two countries.
Putin and Modi first traveled together during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, journeying to the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Tianjin, China. They rode in a Russian-made Aurus Sedan, symbolizing their collaboration and trust. This journey highlighted the deep, personal connection between the two leaders.
Source: aajtak
During that time, Putin told India Today, 'Traveling with PM Modi by car was my idea. It was a symbol of our friendship.' This statement not only reflects their personal relationship but also reaffirms the historical and strategic partnership between India and Russia. The leaders together demonstrated how diplomatic relations could thrive through collaboration, easing bilateral dialogues and understanding.
The Evolving India-Germany Ties
In recent weeks, the visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to India has added a new dimension to the relationship between the two countries. During this visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a photo with Merz on Twitter, noting, 'Friendship between India and Germany is steadily growing through shared values, extensive collaboration, and mutual understanding.'
Source: aajtak
Germany stands as Europe's strongest and most economically developed nation, leading in technology, industry, and innovation. For India, Germany is a vital partner, especially in technological cooperation, industrial development, and education. Over the years, both countries have fortified their economic and strategic relations.
