Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Emphasising that the India-UAE friendship remains “very strong”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 15 said that both countries would continue to work together to build a better future for the planet.
“The friendship between India and UAE is very strong! Our nations will keep working together with the aim of building a better future for our planet,” PM Modi stated after holding “wide-ranging and productive” talks with the UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi.
An official reception ceremony was held for Prime Minister Modi, featuring performances of the national anthems of both countries and a guard of honour, according to WAM.
As the aircraft carrying PM Modi entered UAE airspace, it was met by a formation of military aircraft. The squadron leader requested permission to escort the aircraft to the airport in a gesture of welcome. In his opening remarks, Prime Minister Modi strongly condemned recent attacks on the UAE, describing them as completely unacceptable.
Addressing UAE President as brother, he praised the resilience shown by the UAE leadership during challenging times, reaffirmed India’s support for the Emirates, and said dialogue and diplomacy remain the only path forward in the current period of global conflict. The two sides signed a framework agreement for a strategic defence partnership – a significant step that institutionalises security cooperation between the two countries.
A memorandum of understanding on strategic petroleum reserves was also concluded, alongside a separate agreement on liquefied petroleum gas supplies – moves that directly address India’s energy security concerns amid ongoing West Asia tensions. The two countries further signed an MoU to establish a ship repair cluster at Vadinar on India’s western coast. On the investment front, the UAE announced commitments worth $5 billion into Indian infrastructure, RBL Bank and Samman Capital.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), they also shared perspectives on the developments in West Asia and other global issues. PM Modi also expressed his gratitude to the country’s Government and the royal family for taking care of the Indian community during the difficult time. He stressed that keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, free and safe remains India’s highest priority and called for adherence to international laws in this matter.
