PM Modi Strengthens India-UAE Ties During Key Visit Amid Regional Tensions
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
During a brief yet significant visit to the United Arab Emirates, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need to enhance the strategic partnership between the two nations. In discussions with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, he highlighted that the current global landscape has increased the importance of cooperation between India and the UAE. Modi referenced the UAE President's visit to India in January, noting that both countries had decided to elevate their relations to new heights, achieving remarkable progress in a short time.
Concerns Over Regional Tensions
Expressing concern over ongoing tensions and conflicts in West Asia, Modi stated that these issues have global repercussions. He asserted that dialogue and diplomacy are the best solutions to any dispute. He stressed the necessity of keeping the Strait of Hormuz 'free, open, and secure' while advocating for respect for international laws. Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with the UAE in every circumstance, offering full support to restore peace and stability in the region.
Condemnation of Attacks on the UAE
During the talks, Modi condemned recent attacks on the UAE, declaring that targeting the nation in any form is unacceptable. He praised the UAE leadership for their efforts in maintaining national unity, security, and regional integrity. Additionally, he expressed gratitude to the Emirati government and royal family for their support to the Indian community during challenging times, noting that Indians in the UAE are treated with respect and security akin to family members.
Key Agreements and Investments
Significant agreements related to defense, energy, and investment were established during Modi's visit. Both nations agreed on a framework for strategic defense partnership and signed agreements concerning strategic petroleum reserves, liquefied petroleum gas supply, and the establishment of a ship repair center in Vadinar. Furthermore, announcements were made regarding nearly five billion USD in investments in Indian infrastructure projects, RBL Bank, and Honor Capital.
Energy Security Focus
Energy security was a central theme of this visit. Officials noted that the UAE plays a crucial role in meeting India's energy needs, supplying approximately eleven percent of India's crude oil imports last year. The UAE is also the largest supplier of liquefied petroleum gas to India, fulfilling about forty percent of its requirements. There has been prior collaboration on strategic petroleum storage, with over five million barrels of crude oil stored at the Mangalore facility under an agreement between Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserve Limited and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company in 2018.
Significance Amidst Regional Instability
Given the ongoing war and instability in West Asia, Modi's visit holds particular significance. The escalating tensions between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, along with crises in the Strait of Hormuz, have impacted global energy supplies. In this context, the UAE has emerged as India's most reliable energy partner. Reports suggest that both countries are exploring options to reduce dependence on the Strait of Hormuz, including oil supply routes through the Fujairah port.
Details of the Visit
Prime Minister Modi departed from Delhi on Friday morning and received a formal guard of honor upon his arrival in Abu Dhabi. His aircraft was escorted by F-16 fighter jets while entering UAE airspace. This visit marks the first phase of Modi's tour across five countries, with subsequent stops planned in the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. The trip to Norway is particularly noteworthy as it will be the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country. In Oslo, Modi will also participate in the third India-Nordic Summit, which will include leaders from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden.