West Asia Crisis a 'Deep Concern': Jaishankar Meets UAE Foreign Minister
EAM S Jaishankar meets UAE's Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Mumbai to discuss West Asia stability and booming bilateral trade.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has expressed profound worry over the escalating instability in West Asia, emphasizing that India remains committed to any initiative that fosters peace through diplomacy and dialogue. These remarks came during high-level discussions in Mumbai with the Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Focus on Regional Stability
The meeting took place during Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan's two-day official visit to India, arriving at a time of heightened tension following a series of attacks on Saudi Arabia, which have been attributed to Houthi rebels. Addressing the volatility in the Gulf, Jaishankar stated that the current situation is a matter of "deep concern" and reiterated India's stance on maintaining regional security.
A key priority for New Delhi remains the protection of global supply chains. Jaishankar underscored India's unwavering support for the "free, safe and unimpeded flow of trade, energy and fertiliser," highlighting the critical nature of these resources for global stability.
Economic Milestones and the CEPA Impact
Beyond the geopolitical crisis, the two leaders celebrated the robust economic trajectory of India-UAE relations. Jaishankar pointed to the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) as a primary driver of growth, noting that it has fundamentally transformed bilateral trade and financial connections.
The results of this partnership have been substantial:
- Trade Volume: Bilateral trade has officially surpassed the USD 100 billion mark since the CEPA was signed.
- Investment Growth: Two-way investments continue to rise, signaling strong mutual confidence between the business communities of both nations.
- Resilience: The commercial partnership has continued to set "new benchmarks" despite global macroeconomic turbulence and geopolitical headwinds.
Strategic Cooperation and People-to-People Ties
The discussions also touched upon the evolving nature of the relationship, which is moving beyond simple trade. Jaishankar noted that cooperation in defence, energy, and technology is now acquiring a "strategic character."
The Minister also expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for their role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the vast Indian community residing in the Emirates. He highlighted that cultural partnerships and people-to-people ties continue to gain momentum, further enriching the bond between the two countries.
A Foundation of Growth
The relationship between New Delhi and Abu Dhabi has seen a significant surge since the signing of the CEPA in 2022. This growth is further bolstered by a domestic currency settlement framework and a bilateral investment treaty, positioning both nations as leading trade and investment partners for one another.