In a special gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today received at the airport Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who will be the Chief Guest at this year's Republic Day parade.

'Special gesture for special guest! PM receives H H Mohammed Bin Zayed The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi,' Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted.

Al Nahyan, also the Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE armed forces, arrived in New Delhi on a three-day visit and will hold comprehensive talks with Modi tomorrow after which the two sides are expected to sign nearly 16 pacts including Strategic Cooperation Agreement.

The two leaders will first meet for one-on-one talks with Modi at his official residence before holding delegation-level meeting at Hyderabad House.

Apart from providing boost to trade and investments ties, enhancement of cooperation in strategic areas of energy, defence and security will dominate the talks tomorrow.