MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, held discussions with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, in Mumbai. The meetings occurred during a working visit to India that commenced on October 19. The two officials examined the enduring friendly relations between the UAE and India, while also exploring avenues to deepen cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
Opportunities to bolster collaboration across diverse fields were a key focus of the discussions. These sectors included the economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. Both parties also addressed additional areas that promote sustainable economic development and prosperity for their nations and citizens. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that the historical bonds between the UAE and India serve as a model of advanced international partnership, built on mutual trust, shared vision, and common interests.
The UAE’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with India was reiterated by Sheikh Abdullah. He highlighted achievements under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the trade agreement between both countries. The minister pointed out that this partnership is supported by a long history of close cooperation and continues to gain momentum, creating broad opportunities for expanding collaboration in sectors that foster sustainable development.
Trade Surpasses $100 Billion Under CEPA
Signed in 2022, the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement marked the UAE’s first deal of its kind. Jaishankar mentioned that bilateral trade has exceeded $100 billion since the agreement’s implementation. He also noted that two-way investments are on the rise and that the economic partnership is setting new standards. Strategic cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is also increasing, he added. Additionally, a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty underpin the strengthening relationship.
People-to-people connections remain a vital component of the partnership. Approximately four million Indian nationals reside in the UAE, making them the largest expatriate community in the country. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for safeguarding the Indian community. He further highlighted the expanding cultural ties between the two nations. Sheikh Abdullah remarked that this alliance affirms both countries’ roles as active partners in promoting global economic growth.
Regional Security and International Developments Discussed
The latest regional and international issues were examined by both parties. Efforts to enhance peace and security at regional and global levels were also reviewed. Jaishankar described the situation in West Asia as a matter of deep concern, reaffirming India’s support for all initiatives aimed at fostering peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He also emphasized the importance of ensuring the free, safe, and unimpeded movement of trade, energy, and fertiliser.
Sheikh Abdullah arrived in Mumbai on October 19 for the official visit. He was welcomed by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, along with several officials. The visit continues the pattern of high-level exchanges between the two nations, including previous dialogues on security and energy between their foreign ministers. Discussions on bilateral relations also took place during a phone call between UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 18.