MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – In Mumbai, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, held discussions with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The encounter occurred amid his official visit to India that commenced on October 19. The officials examined the enduring friendly relationship between the UAE and India, considering ways to deepen collaboration within the framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
The dialogue highlighted potential avenues for expanding cooperation in diverse fields such as economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. Both leaders also addressed additional sectors that can foster sustainable economic development and prosperity for their nations and populations. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that the historically strong ties between the UAE and India exemplify a progressive model of international collaboration, built on mutual trust, shared vision, and common interests.
He reaffirmed that the UAE prioritizes strengthening its relationship with India, citing achievements under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the trade agreement. Sheikh Abdullah pointed out that this partnership is rooted in a long-standing history of close cooperation and constructive engagement, which continues to accelerate, creating new opportunities for collaboration in sectors vital to sustainable progress.
Trade Surpasses $100 Billion Following CEPA Implementation
The UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, signed in 2022, marked a milestone as the first deal of its kind for the UAE. Jaishankar announced that bilateral trade has exceeded $100 billion since the agreement’s inception. He also noted that bilateral investments are on the rise, with the economic partnership setting increasingly ambitious benchmarks. Strategic cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is also becoming more prominent, he added. The relationship is further supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
People-to-people connections remain a key pillar of the relationship, with approximately four million Indian nationals residing in the UAE, representing the largest expatriate community there. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for safeguarding the Indian community and highlighted the expanding cultural ties between the two countries. Sheikh Abdullah stated that this partnership strengthens both nations’ roles as active contributors to global economic growth.
Regional Security and International Developments Discussed
Discussions also covered recent regional and international issues, focusing on strategies to promote peace and security at both regional and global levels. Jaishankar voiced concern over the situation in West Asia, affirming India’s support for all efforts aimed at fostering peace through dialogue and diplomacy. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the free, safe, and unobstructed movement of trade, energy, and fertilisers.
Sheikh Abdullah arrived in Mumbai on October 19 for this official visit, greeted 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 prior security and energy discussions involving their foreign ministers. Additionally, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed bilateral relations during a phone call on September 18.