Abu Dhabi, UAE – June 24, 2024 – External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan held extensive discussions in Abu Dhabi, reinforcing the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and the UAE. This meeting highlighted the robust and evolving relationship between the two nations, built on a shared vision for future cooperation.
During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar was congratulated by Sheikh Abdullah on his reappointment as External Affairs Minister of India. This congratulatory note was extended during a working dinner in Abu Dhabi, where they reviewed the progress made in various areas of bilateral cooperation within the framework of the comprehensive strategic and economic partnership.
Key topics of the dialogue included economic collaboration, trade, investment, education, culture, health, food security, renewable energy, and climate change. Both ministers lauded the progress achieved since the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in February 2022, which has notably enhanced trade and investment links.
During his visit, EAM Jaishankar visited the iconic BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, referring to it as a "visible symbol of India-UAE friendship." The temple, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year, symbolizes the deep cultural and spiritual connections between the two countries. Jaishankar also participated in the 10th International Yoga Day celebrations organized by the Indian Embassy, further emphasizing the cultural ties strengthening the bilateral relationship.
Sheikh Abdullah highlighted that the UAE-India relationship, elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2017, had significantly deepened and strengthened, based on mutual understanding, trust, respect, and shared interests. This collaboration aimed at achieving comprehensive development and ensuring sustainable economic prosperity for both nations and their citizens.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted that this visit allowed for a comprehensive review of the India-UAE strategic partnership and provided a platform to discuss regional and global developments. Discussions included pressing issues such as the situation in Gaza, where the UAE has played a mediating role, and India's involvement in the Middle East.
They also explored areas for collaboration within international organizations, exchanging views on current regional and international developments.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar expressed his gratitude for the "productive and deep" conversations with Al Nahyan, reaffirming both nations' commitment to their strategic partnership.
This visit follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's landmark 2015 visit to the UAE, which paved the way for numerous collaborative efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.
The India-UAE relationship has experienced significant growth in recent years, marked by mutual respect and cooperation. As both countries explore new avenues for collaboration, their strategic partnership is set to play a pivotal role in shaping regional and global economic and geopolitical landscapes.