PM Modis UAE Visit: A Boost to India-UAE Strategic Partnership

Abu Dhabi, February 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two nations. During his visit, Prime Minister Modi held fruitful discussions with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reviewing the strategic partnership, exploring new areas of cooperation, and witnessing the signing of several key agreements.

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A Warm Welcome and Productive Discussions

Prime Minister Modi received a warm welcome upon his arrival in Abu Dhabi, with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed personally receiving him at the airport. The two leaders shared a heartfelt embrace, reflecting the strong bond between India and the UAE. They subsequently engaged in one-on-one and delegation-level talks, reviewing the bilateral partnership and identifying new avenues for collaboration.

Expanding Cooperation Across Diverse Sectors

The discussions between Prime Minister Modi and President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed covered a wide range of sectors, including trade and investment, digital infrastructure, fintech, energy, infrastructure, culture, and people-to-people ties. Both leaders welcomed the deepening of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, recognizing its potential to bring substantial benefits to both nations.

Bilateral Investment Treaty and Other Agreements

A key outcome of the visit was the exchange of eight agreements, including a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT). This treaty is expected to boost investor confidence, particularly among large investors, leading to increased foreign investments and overseas direct investment opportunities. The BIT is seen as a significant step towards realizing India's goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat by promoting domestic manufacturing, reducing import dependence, and enhancing exports.

Other agreements signed during the visit included an MoU on cooperation in digital infrastructure projects, a cooperation protocol between the National Archives of India and the UAE, an MoU for cooperation in the field of heritage and museums, and agreements on interlinking instant payment platforms and domestic debit/credit cards.

Strengthening Energy Partnership

Prime Minister Modi and President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed also discussed the strengthening of their partnership in the energy sector. They acknowledged the UAE's position as one of the largest sources of crude oil and LPG for India, and welcomed the country's entry into long-term contracts for LNG.

Inauguration of BAPS Mandir and Cultural Ties

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir in Abu Dhabi, the first Hindu stone temple in the city. The temple is seen as a symbol of the UAE's affinity for India and its commitment to harmony, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.

Support for India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor

Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for the UAE's support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative. The IMEEC aims to connect India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe, fostering economic development and regional connectivity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the UAE was a resounding success, characterized by warm hospitality, productive discussions, and the signing of several key agreements. The visit further strengthened the strategic partnership between India and the UAE, setting the stage for enhanced cooperation across diverse sectors and contributing to the mutual prosperity of both nations.