Abu dhabi: India and the UAE have signed several pacts aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in defense and energy sectors, as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his multi-nation tour with a visit to Abu Dhabi.
According to Anadolu Agency, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hosted Modi for discussions, during which they reviewed ongoing cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between the two nations. The discussions highlighted advancements in various sectors, including economy, investment, energy, space, food security, technology, and artificial intelligence.
The leaders also exchanged views on regional developments, focusing on the Middle East's current situation and its impacts on regional and international peace, maritime navigation, energy supplies, and the global economy. Modi reiterated India's condemnation of what he described as Iranian 'terrorist attacks' on civilians and infrastructure in the UAE.
Modi's visit occurs amid ongoing regional tensions related to the protracted US-Israeli conflict with Iran, which began with military strikes on Tehran, resulting in significant casualties and displacement. In retaliation, Tehran targeted US bases in the Gulf.
After their discussions, Modi announced key agreements in energy and defense, enhancing the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The UAE committed to investing $5 billion in India, as Modi shared via the US social media platform X.
India's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Randhir Jaiswal, noted that the leaders discussed strengthening bilateral partnerships and shared perspectives on Middle Eastern and global issues. Among the signed agreements were a strategic defense partnership framework and a memorandum of understanding between Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company. They also agreed to explore opportunities in the liquefied petroleum gas market.
Following the UAE visit, Modi is scheduled to travel to the Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway from May 15 to 19. The third India-Nordic summit will be held in Oslo on May 19. Modi's tour will conclude with a visit to Italy on May 19-20 for talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.