Our Bureau
Mumbai
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in West Asia and reaffirmed India’s support for resolving regional tensions through dialogue and diplomacy during talks with United Arab Emirates (UAE) Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Mumbai.
Jaishankar also stressed the importance of ensuring the free, safe and uninterrupted movement of trade, energy and fertilisers, highlighting the region’s significance for India’s economic and strategic interests. He thanked the UAE leadership for safeguarding the well-being of the Indian community in the country.
Al Nahyan arrived in Mumbai on Monday night for a two-day visit amid a fresh wave of attacks on Saudi Arabia reportedly carried out by Houthi militants, adding to concerns over regional stability.
During his televised opening remarks, Jaishankar said India would continue working with the UAE to support efforts aimed at promoting peace through diplomatic engagement. The discussions also focused on strengthening the two countries’ economic partnership amid global uncertainties and regional challenges.
Jaishankar noted that bilateral trade between India and the UAE had crossed $100 billion since the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Signed in 2022, the agreement has contributed to increased trade and investment between the two countries.
He further highlighted growing cooperation in defence, energy and technology, describing these areas as increasingly strategic to bilateral ties. People-to-people exchanges and cultural cooperation have also continued to strengthen relations between the two nations.
India and the UAE remain important trading and investment partners, supported by the CEPA, a local currency settlement system and a bilateral investment treaty.
The latest discussions come as tensions across West Asia raise concerns about regional security, energy supplies and international trade routes. For India, maintaining stability in the Gulf is particularly important given its economic links with the region and the large Indian diaspora living and working there.