The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has formally handed over a comprehensive list containing the names of more than 900 Indian nationals to the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. These individuals are scheduled to be released from correctional institutions under a significant presidential amnesty order issued by the Emirate in November 2023.
Presidential Amnesty Order and Eid Al Etihad Celebration
On November 27, 2023, UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan issued an official order, publicly shared on his website, announcing the release of 2,937 inmates ahead of Eid Al Etihad. This national celebration, observed on December 2, commemorates the historic moment in 1971 when the emirates united under a single flag, marking the formation of the UAE.
The presidential statement elaborated, "President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has ordered the release of 2,937 inmates from correctional institutions in the UAE. His Highness has also pledged to cover the financial penalties incurred by the inmates as part of their sentences."
Broader Objectives of the Amnesty Initiative
The directive, coinciding with the UAE's 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations, is designed to reflect His Highness' commitment to providing the released inmates with a fresh start in life. It aims to alleviate the burden on their families and bring joy to their loved ones. Furthermore, the initiative is part of the President's broader efforts to promote social stability, enhance social cohesion, and create opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Strengthening India-UAE Bilateral Relations
India and the UAE share longstanding and robust diplomatic ties, which have been further strengthened through recent high-level engagements. Earlier on Monday, UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan undertook an official visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit, lasting less than two hours, marked his fifth visit to India in the last decade and his third official visit since assuming the presidency of the UAE.
Key Outcomes of the Presidential Visit
The visit yielded several important diplomatic outcomes, underscoring the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations:
- The signing of a Letter of Intent towards the conclusion of a Strategic Defence Partnership, highlighting enhanced security cooperation.
- An exchange of views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, with both leaders emphasizing their shared commitment to regional peace, security, and stability.
- Recognition of excellent cooperation and mutual support in multilateral and plurilateral forums.
- The UAE side conveyed its full support for the success of India's BRICS Chairmanship in 2026.
- The Indian side expressed its support for the 2026 UN Water Conference, to be co-hosted by the UAE at the end of 2026. This conference will focus on accelerating the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6, ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, as noted by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in its statement.
The amnesty initiative and the recent high-level visit collectively demonstrate the ongoing collaboration and humanitarian cooperation between India and the UAE, reinforcing their multifaceted relationship.
