NEW DELHI — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally received Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, at the airport in New Delhi on Monday, in a rare gesture underscoring the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.

Modi said he went to the airport to welcome Sheikh Mohamed, describing him as “my brother,” and said the visit highlighted the importance the UAE leader attaches to strong ties with India.

“His visit illustrates the importance he attaches to a strong India-UAE friendship. Looking forward to our discussions,” Modi said in a post on social media.

The warm reception, which departed from standard protocol, reflects the deepening political, economic and strategic relationship between India and the UAE, close partners in trade, energy, investment and regional security.