Papua New Guinea PM James touched PM Modi feet a gesture of respect

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape touched Prime Minister Narendra Modi's feet while welcoming him to the Pacific Island nation, as a gesture of respect.

PM Modi received a special welcome at Papua New Guinea on Sunday when he arrived to host the third summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC).

While Papua New Guinea doesn't usually give a ceremonial welcome for any leader visiting the country after sunset, an exception was made for Prime Minister Modi, the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the Pacific Island nation, who arrived after 10 pm local time.

"Reached Papua New Guinea. I am thankful to PM James Marape for coming to the airport and welcoming me. This is a very special gesture which I will always remember. I look forward to boosting India's ties with this great nation during my visit," PM Modi tweeted.