UAE Ambassador Highlights Andhra’s Role in UAE-India Partnership

UAE and Andhra Pradesh Forge Stronger Ties: New Investments and Air Connectivity Planned

VIJAYAWADA: UAE Ambassador to India Abdulnasser Alshaali recently emphasized the pivotal role that Andhra Pradesh plays in the strategic partnership between the UAE and India. Speaking at an economic and investment roundtable held in Vijayawada, he called for an increase in people-to-people interactions and enhanced economic and investment engagements. The UAE Embassy in Delhi, in collaboration with the UAE-India CEPA Council (UICC) and the Government of Andhra Pradesh, organized this significant event.

Strengthening Economic Ties

Ambassador Alshaali highlighted the importance of boosting economic and investment collaboration between the UAE and Andhra Pradesh. He pointed out that the participation of over 10 major UAE companies at this roundtable underscored the state’s significance. This event demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to supporting Andhra Pradesh’s ambitious investment and development goals. Co-chairing the meeting with the Minister for Industries, TG Bharath, Alshaali emphasized the necessity of improving air connectivity. This enhancement is vital for fostering people-to-people connections and facilitating direct investment flows.

Expanding Air Connectivity

The ambassador highlighted the potential for UAE carriers to operate up to 35 direct flights per week to key Andhra Pradesh cities, including Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and Tirupati. Such increased air connectivity could lead to over 500,000 additional passengers traveling through Andhra Pradesh’s airports annually. The introduction of these direct air links is expected to provide consumers with greater choices and open up new economic opportunities. These changes will also reinforce the state’s position as a key regional and international aviation hub.

Fostering a Business-Friendly Environment

Minister TG Bharath highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s favorable business environment and expressed optimism about increased investments from the UAE. He assured the UAE delegation of his administration’s commitment to resolving past issues that might have discouraged investment. Criticizing the previous YSRC government, Bharath blamed it for driving away investors like the Lulu Group. “We will soon introduce a new industrial policy aimed at regaining the trust of investors,” he declared confidently.

Leveraging Economic Opportunities

Aljneibi, the Director of the UAE-India CEPA Council, presented an overview of the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). He identified several opportunities for Andhra Pradesh’s business community to leverage this agreement and other bilateral initiatives. Several UAE companies present at the roundtable outlined their investment plans, not only for Andhra Pradesh but for India as a whole. They emphasized the potential for growth and development in various sectors, including infrastructure, technology, and renewable energy.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Earlier in the day, Ambassador Alshaali met with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. During the meeting, he reaffirmed the UAE Government’s commitment to deepening engagement with Andhra Pradesh across all facets of their bilateral partnership. Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the UAE’s 11th largest trading partner among India’s 28 states and eight union territories. The total trade between the UAE and Andhra Pradesh reached an impressive USD 1.46 billion for the fiscal year 2023-2024. This figure highlights the growing economic ties and mutual benefits arising from the partnership.

The UAE’s focus on Andhra Pradesh is seen as a strategic move to bolster ties with one of India’s most dynamic states. With a robust economic framework and the promise of increased connectivity and investment, the partnership between the UAE and Andhra Pradesh is poised to reach new heights. The economic and investment roundtable in Vijayawada marks a significant step forward in this ongoing collaboration. It promises mutual benefits and shared growth in the years to come, paving the way for a prosperous future for both the UAE and Andhra Pradesh.