UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed recently visited India for talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit marked Sheikh Mohamed’s fifth visit to the Gulf country in the past eight years, highlighting the strong and growing relationship between the UAE and India.
The leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress made in UAE-India relations on all fronts. Trade between the two countries has seen significant growth, with India-UAE trade reaching $85 billion in 2022. The UAE is now India’s third-largest trading partner and second-largest export destination. Similarly, India is the UAE’s second-largest trading partner. The signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in 2021 further strengthened bilateral trade, leading to a 15 percent increase in trade since then.
Both countries have played significant global roles this year, with India presiding over the G20 and the UAE presiding over the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28). These leadership positions highlight the influence and importance of both nations on the international stage.
During their talks, Sheikh Mohamed and Modi witnessed the signing of three agreements. One agreement focused on promoting the use of local currencies for cross-border transactions, while another aimed to establish the Indian Institute of Technology in Abu Dhabi. These agreements demonstrate the commitment to enhance economic engagement and mutual confidence between the UAE and India.
The leaders also emphasized their resolve to strengthen investment ties and enhance bilateral partnership in the energy field. Cooperation in green hydrogen, solar energy, and grid connectivity was discussed, along with increasing investment in India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve program. Food security was another important topic, with both leaders expressing their commitment to promoting reliable and resilient food supply chains and expanding food and agriculture trade.
Health cooperation was highlighted as an area with great potential for collaboration. Both countries have the capacity to become reliable alternatives in global health supply chains for vaccines and medicines. Opportunities for collaboration in the growing health infrastructure in the UAE and India were also discussed.
The UAE expressed appreciation for the large Indian diaspora, which plays a significant role in the society and economy of the UAE. This diaspora further reinforces bilateral relations between the two countries.
Maritime security and connectivity were also key areas of focus. The leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral collaboration in these areas to promote prosperity in India and the UAE. Defense exchanges, sharing of experiences, training, and capacity building were also discussed.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fighting extremism and terrorism, including cross-border terrorism. They emphasized the importance of promoting peace, moderation, coexistence, and tolerance among peoples and renouncing all forms of extremism, hate speech, discrimination, and incitement.
Modi commended the UAE’s achievements during its term as an elected member of the UN Security Council, while the UAE endorsed India’s bid for permanent membership of the reformed UNSC. These mutual endorsements further strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
Overall, Sheikh Mohamed’s visit to India and his talks with Prime Minister Modi highlight the strong and growing partnership between the UAE and India. The leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress made in various areas, including trade, investment, energy, health, and defense. Both countries are committed to further strengthening their relationship and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and beyond.