Jaishankar Heads to UAE for Strategic Talks with Counterpart
New Delhi, June 23 (PTI): External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Sunday to engage in wide-ranging talks with his counterpart, Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This visit underscores the importance of the bilateral relationship between India and the UAE, which has seen significant growth and strengthening over the past few years.
Jaishankar’s visit comes at a critical time, with various regional and global issues on the table. The discussions with Al Nahyan are expected to cover a broad spectrum of topics, including the overall situation in Gaza. This reflects the broader strategic interests and shared concerns of both nations in promoting regional stability and addressing global challenges.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized the significance of this visit, stating that it will provide an opportunity to review the entire spectrum of the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and the UAE. This includes assessing the progress made since the landmark visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the UAE in August 2015, which elevated the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
“External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will pay an official visit to the UAE today,” the MEA said in a brief statement. “During the visit, the external affairs minister will have a meeting with his UAE counterpart on wide-ranging issues of the partnership,” it added.
The relationship between India and the UAE has witnessed significant milestones in recent years. One of the most notable developments was the signing of the comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) in February 2022. This agreement aimed at boosting economic engagement between the two countries provides numerous benefits, including the elimination and reduction of tariffs, fostering an open trade environment, and enhancing market access for service providers across various sectors.
The CEPA has been a game-changer, creating new opportunities for businesses and investors in both countries. It has also facilitated closer economic integration and cooperation, further cementing the strategic partnership. The trade pact has led to increased bilateral trade and investment flows, contributing to the economic growth and development of both nations.
The UAE is also one of the top four investors in India in terms of foreign direct investments (FDI) for the financial year 2022-23. This highlights the strong economic ties and mutual confidence between the two countries. The investment landscape has seen significant projects and collaborations across various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, real estate, and technology.
In addition to economic ties, the socio-cultural bond between India and the UAE is also noteworthy. The UAE is home to a vibrant Indian community of approximately 3.5 million people, making it the largest expatriate group in the country. This community plays a vital role in the UAE’s socio-economic fabric and serves as a bridge between the two nations. The Indian diaspora in the UAE contributes significantly to the local economy and cultural diversity, while also fostering people-to-people connections and understanding.
Jaishankar’s visit aims to further strengthen this comprehensive strategic partnership. The discussions with Al Nahyan will explore new avenues of cooperation and collaboration, focusing on various sectors such as trade, investment, technology, education, and cultural exchanges. The goal is to build on the existing foundation and take the relationship to new heights, reflecting the shared vision and aspirations of both nations.
The visit also comes at a time when both India and the UAE are navigating complex regional dynamics. The situation in Gaza is expected to be a significant topic of discussion, as both countries have vested interests in promoting peace and stability in the region. The talks will likely cover the broader geopolitical landscape, including security cooperation and collaborative efforts to address regional challenges.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to the UAE signifies a continued commitment to deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and the UAE. The wide-ranging talks with his counterpart Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan will encompass bilateral, regional, and global issues, reflecting the depth and breadth of the relationship. This visit is poised to further enhance the cooperation and collaborat