Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Friday, marking the first stop of his five-nation tour. As his aircraft entered Emirati airspace, it received a ceremonial escort from UAE F-16 fighter jets. Upon landing in Abu Dhabi, Modi was accorded a guard of honour before commencing high-level discussions with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Key areas of discussion
The two leaders are expected to engage in talks covering bilateral cooperation in sectors such as energy, trade, investment, and regional developments. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the discussions will also address issues of mutual international interest. Modi's visit to the UAE is part of a broader tour from May 15 to May 20, which includes the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. The overarching aim is to strengthen India's partnerships in trade, technology, clean energy, innovation, and green growth.
Trade and economic significance
Ahead of the visit, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) highlighted that the tour occurs at a 'crucial juncture' for India's strategic and economic ties with Europe and the Gulf region. FIEO President S. C. Ralhan stated, 'The Prime Minister's high-level engagements with the leadership of the UAE and major European nations underline India's growing stature as a trusted economic partner and a key driver of global growth. The visit is expected to create substantial opportunities for Indian exporters across sectors, including engineering, clean energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, food processing, textiles, logistics, and digital trade.' The exporters' body also noted that the UAE remains one of India's most significant trade and investment partners, serving as a gateway for Indian exports to West Asia and Africa.
UAE minister's remarks
Ahead of Modi's arrival, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Al Hashimy described the Prime Minister as a 'true treasure' for the leadership and people of the Emirates. Speaking to ANI, Al Hashimy said the India-UAE relationship is set to scale 'new mountaintops' in trade and technology, adding that Modi's visit would continue the momentum generated by recent high-level exchanges between the two countries.
Next leg: Netherlands
After concluding his engagements in the UAE, Modi will travel to the Netherlands from May 15 to 17. There, he is scheduled to meet Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and interact with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima. Discussions in the Netherlands are expected to focus on semiconductors, green hydrogen, innovation, defence, and water management.
