Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday hailed the 'substantive' and 'vibrant' nature of India-UAE relations as the two nations inked seven landmark pacts to further strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership. The agreements, signed during the visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to New Delhi, span key sectors including energy, trade, defence, and technology.
Key Agreements Signed
The seven pacts cover a wide range of cooperation areas. A bilateral investment treaty was signed to boost capital flows, alongside a memorandum of understanding on digital infrastructure and cybersecurity. Energy cooperation was enhanced with a pact on crude oil storage and renewable energy projects. Additionally, agreements on defence manufacturing, space collaboration, and cultural exchanges were finalized.
Strategic Partnership Deepened
PM Modi emphasized that the agreements reflect the shared vision of both countries for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. He noted that the UAE is among India's most important strategic partners in the Gulf, with bilateral trade exceeding $85 billion. The leaders also discussed regional and global issues, including the situation in Afghanistan and the importance of maritime security in the Indian Ocean.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to strengthening ties with India, calling the relationship a 'model for bilateral cooperation'. The two sides also agreed to expedite negotiations on a free trade agreement and enhance people-to-people contacts through easier visa norms.
Economic and Energy Cooperation
In the energy sector, the pacts aim to ensure long-term energy security for India, with the UAE agreeing to supply crude oil and natural gas on preferential terms. A joint task force will be set up to explore investment opportunities in renewable energy, including solar and hydrogen projects. The agreements also include a roadmap for enhanced cooperation in fintech, artificial intelligence, and startups.
Defence and Security Ties
Defence cooperation was a key focus, with a pact on joint military exercises and technology sharing. The two countries will collaborate on manufacturing defence equipment in India under the 'Make in India' initiative. Cybersecurity and counter-terrorism cooperation were also strengthened through intelligence sharing and capacity-building programs.
The leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress in bilateral relations and agreed to hold the next round of strategic dialogue in Abu Dhabi later this year. The visit marks a significant milestone in the India-UAE comprehensive strategic partnership, which was elevated during PM Modi's visit to the UAE in 2018.
