Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on February 13-14 underscores the robust foundation of bilateral relations, economic collaboration, and people-to-people connections between the two nations. The visit is highlighted by the special rapport between Prime Minister Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
During this visit, PM Modi is set to inaugurate the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, BAPS Mandir, and address the Indian diaspora at the ‘Ahlan Modi’ event. A crucial bilateral meeting between the two leaders is scheduled, alongside PM Modi’s participation in the World Government Summit 2024.
This visit builds upon the momentum generated since PM Modi’s historic visit to the UAE in 2015, marking the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 34 years. Subsequent engagements have led to expanded cooperation across various domains.
High-level exchanges between the leaders have been frequent, with PM Modi visiting the UAE in July 2023 and again in November-December of the same year for the COP28 Summit in Dubai. These visits were reciprocated by UAE President Al Nahyan’s presence at the G20 Leaders Summit in New Delhi and as the Chief Guest at the 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit.
The strategic partnership between the two nations has also seen significant developments in economic ties, with the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) completing its first year in April 2023. Trade between India and the UAE has seen notable growth, reaching USD 85 million in the fiscal year 2022-23. Additionally, the UAE stands as the fourth-largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), contributing USD 3.5 billion.
Multiple agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) have been signed, covering areas such as renewable energy, healthcare, and local currency settlement systems. The UAE’s investments in India, including the establishment of an office by the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority in GIFT City, further signify the depth of economic cooperation.
In the energy sector, significant collaborations have been established, including long-term LNG contracts and agreements for promoting cooperation in Green Hydrogen.
Cooperation in defense has also seen milestones, with bilateral army exercises and joint ventures in missile systems and unmanned aerial vehicles.
On the multilateral front, India and the UAE have collaborated closely, launching initiatives such as the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and the Global Biofuel Alliance.
The strong ties are further strengthened by the vibrant Indian community in the UAE, which forms the largest expatriate group. Their positive contributions to the development of the host country have been instrumental in fostering excellent bilateral engagement.
In summary, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the UAE reinforces the enduring partnership between the two nations, spanning various sectors and underlining shared values and aspirations.
