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. This meeting was part of a working visit to India that started on October 19. The officials examined the enduring relationship between their nations, focusing on expanding the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
During the talks, the ministers explored opportunities for enhanced collaboration across sectors such as the economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. They also considered other areas that support sustainable development and prosperity for both populations. Sheikh Abdullah characterized the historic ties between the UAE and India as a model of advanced international cooperation, emphasizing that their relationship is founded on mutual trust, shared vision, and common interests.
Sheikh Abdullah underscored the UAE’s commitment to deepening its relations with India, highlighting the importance of building on achievements under the two countries’ strategic and economic partnerships. He pointed out that this alliance benefits from a long history of close cooperation and constructive engagement. The minister further noted that the partnership is gaining momentum and opening extensive opportunities in sectors that promote sustainable growth and economic competitiveness.
Jaishankar highlights trade surpassing $100 billion between India and the UAE
Jaishankar stated that bilateral trade has exceeded $100 billion since the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in 2022, which marked the UAE’s first such agreement. He mentioned that two-way investments are increasing and that the partnership continues to set new standards. He also pointed out that cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is taking on a strategic dimension. The relationship is further supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
Community ties remain a fundamental aspect of the relationship, with around four million Indian nationals residing in the UAE, making them the largest expatriate group in the country. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for safeguarding the Indian community and highlighted the growth of cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Sheikh Abdullah affirmed that the partnership enhances both nations’ roles as active contributors to global economic progress.
Discussions include peace and regional security issues
The talks also addressed regional and international developments, focusing on efforts to maintain peace and security. Jaishankar conveyed that India is deeply concerned about the situation in West Asia and supports all initiatives aimed at promoting peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He emphasized India’s backing for the unimpeded and safe flow of trade, energy, and fertilisers through the region.
Upon arrival in Mumbai, Sheikh Abdullah was received by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, 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 discuss ways to strengthen bilateral relations. The visit continues the ongoing pattern of high-level exchanges between the two nations.