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. This meeting took place during a working visit to India that started on October 19. The two officials examined the longstanding friendly relationship between the UAE and India and explored ways to deepen cooperation within the framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
During their talks, they identified numerous sectors for potential collaboration, including the economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. The discussion also covered additional fields that could promote sustainable economic development and prosperity for both nations and their populations. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that the deep-rooted historical connections between the UAE and India serve as an exemplary model of international cooperation, based on mutual trust, shared visions, and common interests.
He further highlighted the UAE’s commitment to enhancing relations with India, referencing accomplishments under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the trade agreement. The minister pointed out that this partnership is built on a long-standing history of close ties and constructive collaboration, which continues to accelerate, creating extensive opportunities for expanding cooperation in sectors aligned with sustainable development goals.
Trade volume exceeds $100 billion following CEPA
The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, signed in 2022, marked the first such accord for the UAE. Jaishankar stated that bilateral trade has surpassed $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. Additionally, cooperation in defence, energy, and technology sectors is becoming increasingly strategic, supported by initiatives like a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
People-to-people connections form a vital aspect of this relationship. Nearly four million Indian nationals reside in the UAE, constituting the largest expatriate community there. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for safeguarding the Indian community and highlighted the strengthening cultural ties between the two countries. Sheikh Abdullah reaffirmed that this partnership enhances both nations’ roles as active participants in fostering global economic growth.
Discussion covers regional security issues
The two leaders also examined recent regional and international developments, considering measures to reinforce peace and security at both regional and global levels. Jaishankar voiced concern over the situation in West Asia, emphasizing India’s support for peace initiatives through dialogue and diplomacy. He further underlined the importance of ensuring the free, safe, and unimpeded movement of trade, energy, and fertiliser supplies.
Sheikh Abdullah arrived in Mumbai on October 19 for this working visit. He was greeted by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, along with several officials. This visit complements ongoing high-level exchanges between the two countries, which include previous dialogues on security and energy involving their foreign ministers. Additionally, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed bilateral relations during a phone call on September 18.