MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan met 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 two ministers examined the long-standing relationship between their countries. They explored ways to enhance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
Discussions included potential cooperation in the economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy sectors. They also considered other areas that promote sustainable growth and prosperity for their peoples. Sheikh Abdullah highlighted the historic ties between the UAE and India, describing them as a model of international partnership. He emphasized that the relationship is based on mutual trust, shared vision, and common interests.
Sheikh Abdullah stressed that the UAE values its relationship with India deeply. He pointed out the importance of building on the achievements under the two countries’ strategic and economic partnerships. He noted that this partnership is rooted in a long history of close cooperation. The minister added that the relationship is gaining momentum and creating new opportunities in sectors that support sustainable development and economic competitiveness.
Jaishankar highlights trade exceeding $100 billion
Jaishankar stated that trade between India and the UAE has surpassed $100 billion since they signed their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in 2022. This was the UAE’s first agreement of its kind. He added that bilateral investment is increasing and the partnership continues to set new standards. He pointed out that cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is becoming more strategic. These ties are also supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
Strong community connections remain a key part of this relationship. About four million Indian nationals live in the UAE, the largest expatriate group in the country. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for protecting the Indian community. He also highlighted growing cultural exchanges and people-to-people interactions. Sheikh Abdullah said that this partnership enhances both nations’ roles as active contributors to global economic growth.
Discussions include regional peace and security issues
Regional and international developments were also part of the talks. Both sides discussed efforts to maintain peace and security. Jaishankar mentioned that the situation in West Asia is a serious concern for India. He said India supports all efforts to promote peace through dialogue and diplomacy. India also advocates for the free, safe, and unobstructed movement of trade, energy, and fertilisers in the region.
Sheikh Abdullah was welcomed in Mumbai by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, along with other officials. The meeting followed earlier discussions on security and energy between the two foreign ministers. Additionally, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke by phone on September 18 to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. The visit continues the tradition of high-level exchanges between the two nations.