PM Modi’s UAE Visit: India Extends Strong Support for Peace in West Asia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India’s steadfast commitment to peace and stability in West Asia during his high-level meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The discussions, held shortly after Modiji’s arrival in Abu Dhabi, underscored the deep strategic partnership between the two nations amid ongoing regional tensions.

This visit marks the first leg of Modiji’s five-nation tour from May 15 to 20, which also includes the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. The brief yet productive stopover in the UAE focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation while addressing pressing regional and global challenges.

The prime minister was received at the airport by the UAE President (Photo: PTI) | Business Standard

Commitment to Regional Peace and Stability

In his opening remarks during the delegation-level talks, Prime Minister Modi strongly condemned the recent attacks on the UAE and described them as unacceptable. He praised the UAE leadership for demonstrating remarkable restraint and maintaining national unity in the face of challenges. Highlighting the global impact of the West Asian conflict, Modiji emphasised the importance of dialogue and diplomacy as the most effective path forward.

“India stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the UAE in every situation,” he stated. “For the restoration of peace and stability, India will extend all possible cooperation.” He further stressed the need to keep the Strait of Hormuz free and open, in line with international laws, to ensure uninterrupted global energy flows.

The timing of the visit holds particular significance as escalating tensions in the region have raised concerns over energy security and supply chain disruptions. Both leaders discussed ways to promote stability and safeguard shared economic interests.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties Through Key Agreements

The meeting witnessed the signing of several strategic agreements that will further deepen the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. These pacts span critical areas including energy security, defence, infrastructure, and advanced technology.

In the energy sector, a major MoU was concluded between India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) for strategic collaboration on petroleum reserves and potential cooperation in LNG and LPG storage. Additional agreements focused on long-term LPG supplies, which will support India’s cooking fuel needs and overall economic stability.

Defence cooperation received a significant boost through a framework for a Strategic Defence Partnership aimed at enhancing industrial collaboration, technology sharing, and innovation. Other agreements included the establishment of a ship repair cluster in Vadinar, Gujarat, along with skill development initiatives in the maritime sector and the setting up of a supercomputer cluster to advance India’s ambitions in artificial intelligence.

The UAE also announced investments worth $5 billion in Indian infrastructure, including stakes in financial institutions such as RBL Bank and Sammaan Capital. These commitments are expected to create jobs and support broader economic growth.

Bilateral trade between India and the UAE has already crossed the $100 billion mark, driven by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Both sides are now targeting $200 billion in trade by 2032, with discussions covering the blue economy, fintech, emerging technologies, and stronger people-to-people connections.

Warm Welcome and Enduring Friendship

Prime Minister Modi received a grand ceremonial welcome upon arrival. His aircraft was escorted by UAE Air Force F-16 jets in a special gesture, and he was personally received by President Al Nahyan at the airport, followed by a guard of honour. Modiji referred to the UAE President as his “brother” and expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to the Indian community.

The visit, though short at around two-and-a-half hours, was described as highly productive. In a social media post, Modiji noted that the outcomes would further strengthen the friendship between the two nations and contribute to mutual growth and prosperity.

The MGMM Outlook 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s UAE visit reflects India’s increasingly proactive diplomatic role in West Asia, where strategic partnerships are being shaped not only by economic interests but also by shared commitments to regional peace and stability. India’s clear support for the UAE during a period of heightened tensions sends a strong message about the maturity of this relationship, positioning New Delhi as a dependable partner willing to contribute meaningfully to regional security and diplomatic balance. The emphasis on keeping critical global energy routes secure also highlights India’s pragmatic approach to protecting both national and global economic interests.

At the same time, the agreements signed during the visit demonstrate how India-UAE ties have evolved into a multidimensional partnership spanning energy, defence, infrastructure, technology, and investment. From petroleum reserves and long-term fuel security to AI development and major infrastructure commitments, the outcomes underline a shared long-term vision for growth and resilience. With bilateral trade already crossing significant milestones and ambitions rising further, this engagement strengthens India’s standing as a trusted global partner while deepening one of its most important strategic relationships in the Gulf.

(Sources: Business Standard, Times of India, Indian Express)