Warm Welcome in Abu Dhabi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to the UAE began with a special and warm reception at the airport by the President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This gesture reflects the strong bond between the two nations.
Bilateral Talks and Cooperation:
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi and President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan engaged in one-on-one discussions and delegation-level talks. They reviewed the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and the UAE, focusing on various sectors including trade, investment, digital infrastructure, energy, culture, and people-to-people ties.
Key Agreements and MoUs Exchanged:
Several significant agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged during the visit, including a bilateral investment treaty, cooperation in electrical interconnection and trade, an intergovernmental framework agreement on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, cooperation in digital infrastructure projects, and more. These agreements aim to deepen cooperation and foster growth in various sectors.
Financial Sector Cooperation:
A notable agreement was reached on interlinking instant payment platforms, UPI (India) and AANI (UAE), facilitating seamless cross-border transactions. Additionally, an agreement was made to interlink domestic debit and credit cards, RuPay (India), with JAYWAN (UAE), enhancing financial sector cooperation and the acceptance of RuPay across the UAE.
Strengthening Energy Partnership:
The leaders discussed strengthening the energy partnership between India and the UAE. With the UAE being a significant source of crude and LPG and India entering into long-term contracts for LNG, the energy partnership is poised for further growth and collaboration.
Infrastructure Development:
Ahead of the visit, agreements were signed to enhance port infrastructure and connectivity between India and the UAE. These agreements, involving RITES Limited and Abu Dhabi Ports Company, demonstrate both countries’ commitment to enhancing bilateral ties and infrastructure development.
Gratitude and Friendship:
Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his personal support, including his graciousness in granting land for the construction of the BAPS Temple in Abu Dhabi. The temple symbolises the deep-rooted cultural bonds and friendship between the UAE and India, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to harmony and peaceful coexistence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the UAE marks a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral ties and fostering cooperation across various sectors. The agreements exchanged and discussions held during the visit reflect the shared commitment of India and the UAE to further enhance their strategic partnership for mutual benefit and growth.
BY-ARYAN