MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – In Mumbai, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, engaged in discussions with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The meeting was part of a working visit to India that began on October 19. The officials examined the longstanding connections between their nations and explored avenues to enhance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as well as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
Topics addressed included prospects for expanded collaboration in the fields of economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. The ministers also considered other sectors that promote sustainable development and prosperity for both peoples. Sheikh Abdullah highlighted the historic bond between the UAE and India, describing it as an advanced model of international cooperation rooted in mutual trust, shared vision, and common interests.
Sheikh Abdullah emphasized the UAE’s focus on deepening its relationship with India. He underscored the importance of building on the achievements under the two countries’ strategic and economic partnerships. He pointed out that this alliance benefits from a long history of close cooperation and constructive engagement. The minister also noted that the partnership is gaining momentum, opening broad opportunities in sectors that support sustainable growth and economic competitiveness.
Jaishankar highlights trade surpassing $100 billion
According to Jaishankar, bilateral trade between India and the UAE has exceeded $100 billion since the signing of their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in 2022. This agreement marked the UAE’s first of its kind. He added that two-way investments are increasing and that the partnership continues to set new standards. He also noted that cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is taking on a strategic dimension, supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
The relationship remains rooted in strong community ties, with approximately four million Indian nationals residing in the UAE, making them the largest expatriate group. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for safeguarding the Indian community and highlighted expanding cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Sheikh Abdullah stated that this partnership enhances the roles of both nations as active contributors to global economic progress.
Regional peace and security discussed during talks
Regional and international issues, along with efforts to uphold peace and security, featured prominently in the discussions. Jaishankar voiced India’s concern over the situation in West Asia and reaffirmed India’s support for all initiatives that promote peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He also emphasized India’s backing for the free, safe, and unimpeded movement of trade, energy, and fertilisers through the region.
Upon arriving in Mumbai, Sheikh Abdullah was greeted by Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, and other officials. These discussions follow earlier security and energy talks between the two foreign ministers. Additionally, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi communicated via phone on September 18 to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral ties. This visit continues the regular high-level diplomatic exchanges between the two nations.