MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – In Mumbai, during a working visit that commenced on October 19, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The discussions focused on the enduring friendly relations between the UAE and India, as well as exploring avenues to strengthen their partnership under the framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
Both officials examined opportunities to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors including the economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. They also considered other areas conducive to sustainable economic growth and prosperity for their nations and peoples. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that the deep-rooted historical ties between the UAE and India exemplify an advanced model of international collaboration, based on mutual trust, shared visions, and aligned interests.
Sheikh Abdullah conveyed that the UAE places significant importance on bolstering relations with India. He highlighted progress achieved through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the trade agreement between both countries. The minister underscored that this partnership is built on a longstanding history of close ties and cooperative efforts, which continue to accelerate, creating new opportunities for collaboration in sectors vital to sustainable development.
Trade Surpasses $100 Billion Under CEPA
The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, signed in 2022, marked the UAE’s first such accord. Jaishankar stated that bilateral trade has exceeded $100 billion since the agreement was finalized. He also noted that two-way investments are expanding, with the economic partnership setting new standards. Additionally, cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is evolving into a strategic alliance. The relationship is further supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
Another fundamental pillar of their relationship is people-to-people connections. Approximately four million Indian nationals reside in the UAE, representing the largest expatriate community in the country. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for safeguarding the Indian community within the nation and highlighted the strengthening of cultural ties between the two countries. Sheikh Abdullah reaffirmed that this partnership underpins both nations’ roles as active contributors to global economic progress.
Discussion on Regional Security and International Developments
During their meeting, the two officials reviewed recent regional and international developments. They also discussed ways to enhance efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security on regional and global scales. Jaishankar expressed concern over the situation in West Asia, affirming India’s support for all initiatives promoting peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He also emphasized backing for the unimpeded and safe flow of trade, energy, and fertiliser.
Sheikh Abdullah arrived in Mumbai on October 19 for this working visit, where he was welcomed by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, along with several officials. This visit continues the pattern of high-level exchanges between the two nations, including previous dialogue on security and energy between their foreign ministers. Moreover, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed bilateral relations during a phone call on September 18.