In a first for India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a historic visit to Papua New Guinea on Sunday to chair the third summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC). The exceptional reception accorded to him upon arrival underscored the significance of his visit. Contrary to custom, Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, James Marape, welcomed PM Modi with a touching gesture of reverence by bowing to touch his feet — a deviation from the norm, especially considering the late hour of Modi's arrival, well past the customary deadline for such ceremonies. In a heartfelt Twitter post, Modi acknowledged the warm reception and expressed his gratitude to PM Marape, stating, "I am thankful to PM James Marape for welcoming me at the airport. This special gesture will always hold a cherished place in my memories. I eagerly anticipate bolstering India's ties with this remarkable nation during my stay."
