Watch: Jaishankar accorded a Maori welcome

Wellington, Oct 06: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was accorded traditional 'Maori' welcome on his first visit to New Zealand on Thursday. Ahead of his official engagement, Jaishankar was welcomed with a traditional 'maori' ceremony called 'Powhiri'.

Taking to Twitter, Jaishankar wrote, ''Was honoured to start my official engagements earlier today in New Zealand with a traditional Maori welcome. Deeply appreciate the symbolism of the convening of two energies together. The respect for customs and traditions is such an important aspect of our friendship.''

The Maori welcoming ceremony involves whaikorero (formal speech), waiata (singing) and kai (food).

"This was followed by a famous Bollywood song 'Hai Preet Jahan Ki Reet' from the movie Purab Aur Paschim sung by few members of the Indian community here, signifying the celebration of the distinct cultures of both the countries," according to PTI report.

The ceremony concluded with the traditional Maori greeting called the hongi, which includes visitors pressing noses and foreheads with their Maori hosts.

Jaishankar also participated at the Kiwi Indian Hall Of Fame Awards 2022 along with New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to recognise the achievements of individual contributions towards the development of the community.

''Delighted to participate at the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame Awards 2022 and the New Zealand launch of Modi@20: Dreams Meet Delivery. Value the presence of PM @jacindaardern, her cabinet colleagues and MPs at the event,'' tweeted Jaishakar.

The union minister will be visiting Wellington next where he will inaugurate the newly constructed building of the High Commission of India.