In land of meat & seafood, France & UAE cut slack, offer veggies for Modi’s palette

PM Modi was also accorded a special vegetarian menu during his visits to France and UAE

| Updated: 15 July, 2023 6:27 pm IST

NEW DELHI: In a thoughtful and unprecedented gesture, both France and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) demonstrated their respect for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s food habits and religious beliefs during his visits to their countries. Known for meat and seafood cuisine, these nations went the extra mile to offer vegetarian options, showcasing their sensitivity and hospitality.

France, renowned for its culinary prowess, hosted a grand banquet at the prestigious Louvre museum on their national day to honor Prime Minister Modi. The significance of this gesture was not lost on observers, as the last time a banquet was held at the Louvre was in 1953, for Queen Elizabeth. The museum, usually teeming with visitors on this day, was closed off exclusively for this special occasion. Further highlighting the respect shown towards the Indian leader, the menu thread displayed the Indian tricolor, deviating from their usual protocol of featuring only French colors.

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During his visit to the UAE, one of the largest Middle Eastern nations with an Islamic parliamentary monarchy, Prime Minister Modi was also accorded a special vegetarian menu. The banquet hosted by the UAE President showcased a carefully curated vegetarian spread, reflecting a deep understanding of the Prime Minister’s dietary preferences.

The menu for the banquet in the UAE featured a delightful array of dishes:

**Salad:** Harees (Wheat) and Dates Salad with Local Organic Vegetables

**Starter:** Grilled Vegetables with Masala Sauce

**Main Course:** Black Lentil and Local Harees (Wheat) served with Cauliflower and Carrot Tandoori

**Dessert:** Selection of Seasonal Local Fruits

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Notably, all the meals served at the banquet were vegetarian, prepared with vegetable oils, and intentionally devoid of dairy or egg products, ensuring compliance with Prime Minister Modi’s dietary choices.

These significant gestures by France and the UAE exemplify their respect for Prime Minister Modi’s food habits and religious beliefs. The accommodations made during these state visits go beyond mere diplomacy, showcasing an understanding of cultural nuances and a genuine desire to make their honored guest feel at ease.

Prime Minister Modi’s visits to France and the UAE will be remembered not only for the substantive discussions and agreements signed but also for the extraordinary gestures of hospitality, demonstrating that diplomatic ties can be nurtured and strengthened through acknowledging and respecting each other’s customs and beliefs.

 

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