MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – In Mumbai, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, held a meeting with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The discussions occurred during his official visit to India that started on October 19. The two officials examined the enduring friendly relations 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.
The dialogue focused on potential avenues to boost collaboration in various fields, including the economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. Both parties also considered other sectors that could promote sustainable economic growth and prosperity for their nations and populations. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that the longstanding historical bonds between the UAE and India exemplify a progressive model of international collaboration. He pointed out that their relationship is built on mutual trust, shared vision, and common interests.
Sheikh Abdullah expressed the UAE’s strong commitment to enhancing its relations with India. He highlighted achievements under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the trade agreement. The minister noted that this partnership is rooted in a rich history of close ties and constructive cooperation, which continues to accelerate, creating new opportunities for collaboration in sectors vital for sustainable development.
Trade Surpasses $100 Billion Following CEPA
The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, signed in 2022, marked the first such accord for the UAE. Jaishankar announced that bilateral trade has exceeded $100 billion since the agreement’s inception. He also mentioned that two-way investments are steadily increasing and that the economic partnership is setting new standards. Additionally, strategic cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is growing stronger. The relationship is further supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
Another key pillar of their partnership is people-to-people connections. Approximately four million Indian nationals reside in the UAE, making them the largest expatriate community in the country. Jaishankar appreciated the UAE leadership’s efforts in safeguarding the Indian community. He also highlighted expanding cultural exchanges between the two nations. Sheikh Abdullah underscored that this alliance reinforces both countries’ roles as active contributors to global economic progress.
Discussion on Regional Security and International Developments
During their meeting, the ministers addressed recent regional and global issues, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts to maintain peace and security at both regional and international levels. Jaishankar expressed concern over the situation in West Asia, affirming India’s support for all initiatives aimed at fostering peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He also reiterated backing for the free, safe, and unimpeded movement of trade, energy, and fertilisers.
Arriving in Mumbai on October 19, Sheikh Abdullah was greeted by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, along with various officials. His visit adds to the ongoing high-level exchanges between the two countries, including previous security and energy discussions between their foreign ministers. Additionally, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a phone call on September 18 to review bilateral relations.