EAM Jaishankar Embarks on Three-Day Visit to UAE to Bolster Bilateral Relations

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar commenced a significant three-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday, aimed at bolstering India’s comprehensive strategic partnership with the Gulf nation. The visit underlines the growing importance of the India-UAE relationship in economic, political, and strategic domains.

Focus on Strengthening India-UAE Ties

During his visit, Jaishankar is set to meet the UAE’s leadership to review and reinforce the close partnership between the two nations. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the discussions will explore opportunities to further enhance bilateral relations and inject fresh momentum into the partnership. This meeting aligns with the broader goal of advancing ties under the comprehensive strategic partnership framework established between the countries.

A Key Opportunity to Deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

The visit is expected to provide a platform for both nations to address various aspects of their strategic alliance. India and the UAE have seen robust growth in their relationship in recent years, spanning multiple sectors such as trade, technology, and energy. As part of this engagement, the two sides will explore avenues to strengthen ties further, building on shared goals and mutual interests.

Discussing Regional Developments: The Gaza Ceasefire

In addition to bilateral discussions, Jaishankar’s visit will also touch upon critical regional developments, including the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Both nations are expected to share perspectives on the evolving situation and collaborate on initiatives promoting peace and stability in the region.

Historical Growth in India-UAE Relations

India-UAE relations have witnessed significant progress since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s landmark visit to the UAE in August 2015. That visit elevated the bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, marking a turning point in the ties between the two nations.

The relationship was further strengthened with the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2022, leading to a significant boost in bilateral trade and investment. The current visit aims to build on this foundation, creating new opportunities for collaboration across sectors.

Keynote Address at Raisina Middle East

One of the key highlights of Jaishankar’s trip is his participation in the inaugural session of the Raisina Middle East, scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi. The minister will deliver the keynote address, shedding light on India’s role in the region and its vision for closer cooperation with the UAE and other Middle Eastern nations.

The Raisina Middle East event is expected to serve as a crucial platform for discussing regional and global challenges, fostering dialogue on shared opportunities, and strengthening partnerships for sustainable development.

Conclusion: Advancing a Dynamic Partnership

Jaishankar’s visit to the UAE is poised to reinforce the already strong ties between India and the Gulf nation. With discussions covering strategic cooperation, economic growth, and regional stability, the visit is set to deepen the relationship, opening new avenues for collaboration in the future.