New Delhi: Abu Dhabi Crown Prince, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has arrived in India for a high-profile visit aimed at deepening strategic, economic, and defense ties between the two nations. Upon his arrival at New Delhi airport, Sheikh Khaled was received by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
The prince is accompanied by several ministers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government and a business delegation, is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hold bilateral talks. The visit underscores the growing importance of the India-UAE partnership in the context of regional stability, energy cooperation, and technological advancements.
Marking a new chapter in our strategic partnership 🇮🇳🇦🇪
Honoured to welcome Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India on behalf of PM @NarendraModi ji. pic.twitter.com/M1kiEswtNE
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) September 8, 2024
Expanding Economic Partnership
During PM Modi’s last visit to the UAE in February, the two countries signed the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT). This made the UAE the only nation with which India has both a trade and an investment pact. India and the UAE have been strengthening their economic relations, with bilateral trade exceeding $85 billion.
Prince’s visit is expected to focus on further enhancing trade, investment, and infrastructure collaboration. Both nations are exploring opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, fintech, and digital innovation, aligning with India’s goal to become a $5 trillion economy.
Additionally, discussions on expanding the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed in 2022, will be a key part of the agenda. CEPA has already reduced trade barriers and boosted exports between the two countries, and the visit could lead to new agreements that enhance these benefits.
Boosting Energy Cooperation
Energy cooperation remains a cornerstone of India-UAE relations. The UAE, a major supplier of crude oil to India, is keen to collaborate further on clean energy projects, particularly solar and hydrogen. India’s renewable energy transition is expected to feature prominently in the talks, with both countries aiming for joint ventures and investments in sustainable energy sources.
Strengthening Defense and Security Ties
The Crown Prince’s visit will also be highlighting growing cooperation in defense and security. Both nations have been working closely on counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, and maritime security. The visit is likely to solidify these efforts, with potential discussions on defense technology transfers and joint military exercises to further strengthen security ties in the Gulf region.
Cultural and People-to-People Relations
India and the UAE share deep cultural and historical links, with over 3.5 million Indian expatriates living in the UAE. The visit is expected to enhance cooperation in cultural exchanges and boost tourism between the two countries, building on their shared heritage and strong diaspora connections.
A Stronger Strategic Alliance
The Crown Prince’s visit comes at a time when both nations are looking to diversify their partnerships beyond traditional sectors. By expanding collaboration in emerging technologies, renewable energy, and defense, the visit is poised to elevate India-UAE relations to new heights. With a shared vision for regional peace and economic growth, the two countries are cementing their role as key players in the global arena.