MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan held discussions with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Mumbai, as part of a working visit to India that started on October 19. The officials examined the longstanding ties between their countries and explored opportunities to enhance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership along with the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
Their dialogue focused on expanding collaboration across sectors such as the economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy, while also considering other areas that promote sustainable growth and prosperity for both nations. Sheikh Abdullah characterized the historic connection between the UAE and India as a model of advanced international cooperation, emphasizing that their relationship is rooted in mutual trust, a shared vision, and common interests.
Sheikh Abdullah underscored the UAE’s commitment to deepening its relationship with India, highlighting the importance of building on achievements under the two countries’ strategic and economic partnerships. He observed that this partnership draws from a rich history of close ties and constructive collaboration, and added that it is gaining momentum, creating broad opportunities in sectors that support sustainable development and enhance economic competitiveness.
Jaishankar highlights trade surpassing $100 billion
Jaishankar noted that bilateral trade between India and the UAE has exceeded $100 billion since the signing of their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in 2022, marking the UAE’s first such agreement. He pointed out that two-way investments are increasing and that their partnership continues to set new standards, with cooperation in defence, energy, and technology taking on a strategic significance. These efforts are supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
The relationship remains strongly supported by community ties, with approximately four million Indian nationals residing in the UAE, making them the largest expatriate group there. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for safeguarding the Indian community and highlighted the expansion of cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Sheikh Abdullah stated that this partnership enhances both nations’ roles as active contributors to global economic growth.
Discussions include regional peace and security
The talks also addressed regional and international developments, with a focus on efforts to maintain peace and security. Jaishankar expressed India’s deep concern regarding the situation in West Asia and reaffirmed India’s support for all initiatives promoting peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He emphasized India’s backing for the free, safe, and unimpeded movement of trade, energy, and fertilisers through the region.
Upon arrival in Mumbai, Sheikh Abdullah was welcomed by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, along with other officials. The discussions follow earlier security and energy talks between the two foreign ministers. Additionally, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke by phone on September 18 to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral relations, continuing the high-level exchanges between the two nations.