MUMBAI, India / RankWire.AI / – UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan held a meeting with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, in Mumbai. The discussions occurred during his working visit to India that commenced on October 19. Both officials examined the enduring friendly relationship between the UAE and India, and explored avenues to deepen cooperation under the Framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
The talks focused on opportunities to bolster collaboration across multiple sectors, including economy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and energy. They also touched on other fields essential for sustainable economic progress and the well-being of their nations and populations. Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that the historic bonds between the UAE and India exemplify a sophisticated model of global partnership, built on mutual trust, shared visions, and common interests.
He highlighted that the UAE values the importance of strengthening its relationship with India, citing achievements under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the trade agreement. Sheikh Abdullah added that this partnership is rooted in a long-standing history of close cooperation and constructive engagement, and continues to gain momentum, opening broad opportunities for expanding collaborations in sectors supporting sustainable development.
Trade Surpasses $100 Billion Under CEPA
Signed in 2022, the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement marked the first of its kind for the UAE. Jaishankar stated that bilateral trade has exceeded $100 billion since the agreement’s signing, with two-way investments on the rise. He noted that the economic partnership keeps setting new standards, with cooperation in defence, energy, and technology becoming increasingly strategic. The relationship is further supported by a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
People-to-people connections serve as another foundation of the partnership, with approximately four million Indian nationals residing in the UAE, making them the largest expatriate community. Jaishankar expressed appreciation to the UAE leadership for safeguarding the Indian community. He also pointed out the expanding cultural links between both countries. Sheikh Abdullah remarked that this alliance strengthens the roles of both nations as proactive contributors to global economic growth.
Regional Security and International Developments Discussed
The two officials reviewed recent regional and global events, considering ways to enhance efforts to maintain peace and security at both regional and international levels. Jaishankar voiced concern over the situation in West Asia, reaffirming India’s support for all peaceful initiatives through dialogue and diplomacy. He also emphasized backing for the unimpeded, secure, and free flow of trade, energy, and fertiliser.
Sheikh Abdullah arrived in Mumbai on October 19 for his official visit, where he was received by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra’s Minister of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, along with other officials. The visit reinforces ongoing high-level exchanges between the two nations, including previous dialogues on security and energy involving their foreign ministers. Additionally, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed bilateral relations during a phone call on September 18.