MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – During a working visit to India that began on October 19, 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 two officials examined the enduring friendly relationship between the UAE and India and explored ways to deepen cooperation under both the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
The meeting focused on expanding collaboration across various sectors, including the economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. They also considered additional areas that promote sustainable economic development and prosperity for both nations and their populations. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that the historic bonds between the UAE and India exemplify a progressive model of international partnership. He further stated that their relationship is built on mutual trust, shared vision, and common interests.
Sheikh Abdullah highlighted the UAE’s commitment to strengthening ties with India, referencing achievements under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the trade agreement. He described the partnership as grounded in a longstanding legacy of close relations and cooperative efforts. The UAE official noted that this relationship continues to grow, creating new opportunities for collaboration in sectors supporting sustainable development.
Trade Volume Surpasses $100 Billion Following CEPA
The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement was signed in 2022, marking the first such accord for the UAE. Jaishankar announced that bilateral trade has exceeded $100 billion since the agreement’s signing. He also mentioned that two-way investments are increasing and that the economic partnership is setting new standards. Strategic cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is also expanding, he added. The relationship is further supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
People-to-people connections remain a vital aspect of the partnership, with approximately four million Indian nationals residing in the UAE, making them the largest expatriate community there. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for safeguarding the Indian community and highlighted the growing cultural links between the two countries. Sheikh Abdullah stated that the partnership enhances both nations’ roles as active contributors to global economic growth.
Regional Security and International Developments Discussed
Both parties examined recent regional and global developments and considered strategies to reinforce efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security at regional and international levels. Jaishankar expressed concern over the situation in West Asia, affirming India’s support for all initiatives promoting peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He also emphasized backing for the free, safe, and unobstructed movement of trade, energy, and fertilisers.
Sheikh Abdullah arrived in Mumbai on October 19 for his official visit, where he was received by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, along with several officials. This visit continues the pattern of high-level exchanges between the two countries, including previous dialogue on security and energy between their foreign ministers. Additionally, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed bilateral ties during a phone call on September 18.