India-UAE Ties 'Living Up to Promise' as Trade Crosses $100 Billion
EAM S Jaishankar and UAE Dy PM Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan discuss the growing strategic and economic partnership in Mumbai.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has declared that the relationship between India and the United Arab Emirates is truly fulfilling its potential as a comprehensive strategic partnership. Speaking in Mumbai during high-level talks with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Jaishankar emphasized that the bond between the two nations has reached a new zenith of cooperation.
A Economic Powerhouse: The CEPA Effect
The cornerstone of this flourishing relationship has been the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). According to Minister Jaishankar, the impact of this agreement has been profound, pushing bilateral trade past the staggering milestone of USD 100 billion.
Despite a global landscape marred by economic headwinds and regional uncertainties, the economic ties have not only survived but thrived. Jaishankar noted that two-way investments are continuing to rise, which serves as a clear indicator of the deep confidence businesses from both nations have in each other's economic stability and growth potential.
Beyond Trade: Defence, Energy, and Technology
While the numbers in trade are impressive, the partnership is evolving into something much deeper than mere commerce. The External Affairs Minister highlighted that cooperation in critical sectors is now taking on a "strategic character." These key areas include:
- Defence: Strengthening security ties and collaborative efforts.
- Energy: Ensuring sustainable and secure energy flows.
- Technology: Partnering on innovation and future-ready solutions.
The Human Connection
Beyond the boardrooms and diplomatic halls, the relationship is being fueled by strong people-to-people connections. Jaishankar pointed out that cultural partnerships are gaining significant momentum, enriching the lives of communities in both India and the UAE and creating a social foundation that supports political and economic goals.
High-Level Diplomatic Momentum
The meeting in Mumbai is part of a series of intense leadership-level engagements. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in Mumbai on Monday, where he was received by Maharashtra Minister for Skill Development Mangalprabhat Lodha. This visit follows a recent trip by Minister Jaishankar to the UAE from October 14 to 16.
During his visit to the UAE, Jaishankar engaged with Emirati leaders regarding regional developments in the Gulf and participated in the Raisina Middle East Dialogue in Abu Dhabi. Those discussions focused heavily on geopolitical challenges, regional connectivity, and the urgent need for resilient international partnerships.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that this high-level visit is a reflection of the close and regular engagement between the two countries, aimed at further cementing their comprehensive strategic partnership.