PM Modi accorded ceremonial welcome in Dar-es-Salaam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Sunday accorded a ceremonial welcome at the State House in Dar-es-Salaam as he kicked-off his first engagement in Tanzania.

"Starting the programmes in Tanzania with the ceremonial welcome," Prime Minister's Office (PMO) tweeted.

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Vikas Swarup also tweeted, "A ceremonial welcome, the East African way. PM's Tanzania engagements begin at the State House in Dar es Salaam."

Prime Minister Modi was greeted with the traditional Tanzanian way at the State House by the people, including Indian community, here waiting to get a glimpse of him.

The people, including children, were seen waving Indian and Tanzania flags as they welcomed Prime Minister Modi.

Prime Minister Modi and Tanzanian President John Pombe Joseph Magufuli showcased their drumming skills as they played the drums in synchronization.

"New beats to the #IndiaAfrica rhythm! PM Narendra Modi and President Magufuli JP play the drum," Swarup tweeted.

Prime Minister Modi landed at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar-es-Salaam earlier today, as part of his four-nation Africa tour aimed at enhancing ties with the continent, particularly in the economic sphere.

In Tanzania, he will hold restricted talks with President John Pombe Joseph Magufuli on a range of issues to bolster bilateral ties between two nations.

The meeting will be followed by a delegation-level talk at the Cabinet Room, signing and exchange of agreements at the State Room of the State House and a joint press statement.

Prime Minister Modi will also be meeting 'Solar Mamas', a group of rural women solar engineers from Africa who have been trained under the Government of India-supported programmes followed by interaction with the Indian community.

Thereafter, Prime Minister Modi will take off for Kenyan capital city Nairobi from Julius Nyerere International Airport.