Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two nations. Scheduled to commence on Tuesday, this visit holds promise for further deepening the already strong and multi-faceted ties between India and the UAE.
This will mark Prime Minister Modi’s seventh visit to the UAE, underlining the importance both countries place on nurturing their strategic partnership. His itinerary includes crucial bilateral talks with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, aimed at expanding collaboration across various sectors. The agenda encompasses discussions on regional and international issues of mutual interest, underscoring the shared commitment to global stability and prosperity.
Additionally, Prime Minister Modi is set to meet with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Defence Minister of the UAE. As a distinguished guest of honor, he will grace the World Government Summit 2024 in Dubai, where his keynote address is anticipated to resonate with global leaders and stakeholders.
A highlight of this visit is the inauguration of the BAPS Mandir, the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, scheduled for Wednesday. This symbolic gesture not only underscores the UAE’s commitment to promoting religious tolerance and cultural diversity but also strengthens the bonds between the Indian and Emirati communities.
Economically, the UAE stands as one of the top foreign direct investors in India, with bilateral trade reaching an impressive $85 billion during the fiscal year 2022-23. Agreements such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the Local Currency Settlement (LCS) System have further facilitated this robust economic collaboration, paving the way for increased investments and trade opportunities.
The Indian diaspora, comprising approximately 3.5 million individuals in the UAE, forms an integral part of the social and economic fabric of the nation. Their contributions have not only bolstered the UAE’s development but have also served as a bridge between the two countries, fostering strong people-to-people ties.
As Prime Minister Modi embarks on this diplomatic mission, the visit holds immense potential for elevating the India-UAE partnership to new heights, anchored in shared values, mutual respect, and a vision for a prosperous future.
