PM extends Eid greetings to Egyptian prez, Amir of Qatar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi and Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani and discussed the COVID-19 pandemic with the two leaders. During the conversation with President Al-Sisi, Modi expressed his appreciation for the support extended by the Egyptian authorities for the safety and welfare of Indian nationals in Egypt during the coronavirus crisis. Referring to his earlier planned visit to Egypt this year, which had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Modi conveyed his desire to meet the president as soon as circumstances permit, an official statement said.

Reciprocating the Eid greetings, the president referred to Egypt and India as being among the oldest civilisations in the world and expressed happiness about the fast-expanding bilateral relationship. "Conveyed Eid greetings to President @AlsisiOfficial and to the people of Egypt. Also thanked him for the support extended to Indian citizens in Egypt," Modi later tweeted. India-Egypt relations will continue to grow and prosper, the prime minister said.

Speaking with Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Modi appreciated the personal care taken by the Amir for ensuring the welfare of Indian citizens in Qatar during the pandemic. In turn, the Amir appreciated the contributions of the Indian community in Qatar, especially the role being played by the Indian health workers, said another statement.

The prime minister highlighted the attention being paid by Indian authorities to avoid any disruption in the supply of essential goods from India to Qatar during the present situation. Modi also conveyed his warm greetings for the forthcoming 40th birthday of the Amir, and expressed best wishes for his continued good health and success, the statement said. "Conveyed warm greetings for Eid to His Highness @TamimBinHamad and the people of Qatar. Appreciated His Highness's personal attention to the welfare of Indians in Qatar, including for their return to India under Vande Bharat Mission," the prime minister tweeted.

On Monday, the prime minister had conveyed Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.