MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan engaged in talks with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Mumbai. This meeting was part of a working visit to India that commenced on October 19. The officials examined the enduring relationship between their nations and explored avenues to enhance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
Discussions encompassed potential collaboration in sectors such as economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. Both ministers also considered additional areas that promote sustainable growth and prosperity for their populations. Sheikh Abdullah highlighted the historic connections between the UAE and India, describing them as a leading example of international cooperation. He emphasized that their relationship is founded on mutual trust, shared goals, and mutual interests.
Sheikh Abdullah underscored the UAE’s commitment to deepening ties with India, stressing the importance of building on accomplishments under their strategic and economic partnerships. He pointed out that this alliance is rooted in a rich history of close relations and constructive collaboration. The minister added that the partnership is gaining momentum, creating significant opportunities in areas that support sustainable development and economic competitiveness.
Jaishankar highlights trade exceeding $100 billion
Jaishankar stated that bilateral trade between India and the UAE has surpassed $100 billion since the signing of their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in 2022, which was the UAE’s inaugural agreement of this kind. He noted that two-way investments are increasing and the partnership continues to reach new milestones. Strategic cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is strengthening, supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
The relationship is also bolstered by strong community links, with approximately four million Indian nationals residing in the UAE, making them the largest expatriate group. Jaishankar appreciated the UAE leadership’s efforts to safeguard the Indian community and highlighted expanding cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Sheikh Abdullah affirmed that the partnership enhances both nations’ roles as active contributors to global economic growth.
Discussions include regional peace and security issues
The talks also covered regional and international developments, with a focus on maintaining peace and stability. Jaishankar expressed India’s concern over the situation in West Asia, reaffirming support for efforts aimed at fostering peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He also emphasized India’s backing for the unhindered and secure movement of trade, energy, and fertiliser through the region.
Upon arriving in Mumbai, Sheikh Abdullah was received by Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, along with other officials. These 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 via phone on September 18 to reinforce bilateral relations. The visit continues the ongoing pattern of high-level exchanges between the two nations.