MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – During his ongoing visit to India that commenced on October 19, 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, in Mumbai. The discussions centered on the enduring friendly relations between the UAE and India, as well as potential avenues to strengthen their bond through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
The conversation examined prospects for bolstering cooperation across multiple sectors, including the economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. Both officials also considered other domains that could foster sustainable economic growth and prosperity for their nations and peoples. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that the UAE and India share deep-rooted historical ties that exemplify a progressive model of international partnership, built on mutual trust, shared visions, and common interests.
He further highlighted the significance the UAE places on enhancing its relationship with India, referencing the achievements under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the trade agreement between the two countries. Sheikh Abdullah noted that this partnership is supported by a long-standing history of close relations and constructive cooperation, which continues to accelerate, opening new opportunities for collaboration in sectors that promote sustainable development.
Trade Surpasses $100 Billion with CEPA
Since the UAE and India signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in 2022—the first of its kind for the UAE—bilateral trade has exceeded $100 billion, according to Jaishankar. He added that two-way investments are also expanding, with the economic partnership setting new standards. Additionally, cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is taking on a strategic dimension. The relationship is further supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
Another critical pillar of the relationship is people-to-people connections. Approximately four million Indian nationals reside in the UAE, making them the largest expatriate community in the country. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for safeguarding the Indian community and also highlighted the growing cultural ties between the two nations. Sheikh Abdullah stated that this partnership strengthens both countries’ positions as active contributors to global economic progress.
Discussion on Regional Security and International Developments
The ministers examined recent regional and international issues, focusing on ways to reinforce efforts to maintain peace and security at both regional and global levels. Jaishankar expressed concern over the situation in West Asia, reaffirming India’s support for all initiatives aimed at fostering peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He also emphasized the importance of ensuring the free, safe, and uninterrupted flow of trade, energy, and fertiliser.
Sheikh Abdullah arrived in Mumbai on October 19 for his working visit, where he was welcomed 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 nations, including earlier dialogue on security and energy between the foreign ministers. Additionally, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed bilateral relations during a phone call on September 18.