Blitz Bureau
UNION Minister of Steel and Heavy Industries HD Kumaraswamy concluded a successful three-day diplomatic and business visit to the United Arab Emirates recently, engaging in high-level discussions expected to significantly enhance bilateral trade relations and industrial cooperation between India and the UAE.
The delegation included senior officials of the Ministry of Steel and CMDs, Senior representatives of three leading Indian steel companies Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), MECON Limited, and National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC).
During the visit, the Minister inaugurated Representative Offices of these companies in Dubai. The opening of offices in Dubai is reflective of Government’s priority of Indian steel companies expanding their global footprint and leveraging wider opportunities. The minister’s visit featured strategic meetings with key UAE leadership, advancing India’s industrial presence in the Middle Eastern market while exploring new avenues for economic collaboration.
Kumaraswamy held discussions with UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, focusing on strengthening trade and economic relations. The meeting addressed green steel collaboration for sustainable development, opportunities in highgrade steel and aluminum for defence and automotive sectors, and initiatives to boost supply chain resilience. The minister also met with Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, where discussions centred on steel sector collaboration, exploring opportunities in mineral sourcing, green steel initiatives, and industrial projects.
The delegation’s itinerary included strategic site visits across the UAE. Minister Kumaraswamy met with senior officials of RAK Port and conducted site visits to Stevin Rock quarries in Ras Al Khaimah. The team also visited Emirates Global Aluminium and Conares Steel facilities in Jebel Ali, Dubai, engaging with major regional metals industry players.
Kumaraswamy interacted with the Indian community by engaging with Karnataka diaspora members and participated in a roundtable discussion with steel companies organised by the India Business & Professional Council Dubai, providing a platform for direct dialogue with industry leaders. This visit represents part of regular high-level exchanges between India and the UAE that have intensified in recent years.
The mission successfully strengthened the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations while demonstrating India’s commitment to expanding its industrial presence in the Middle Eastern market, laying groundwork for enhanced cooperation in steel, minerals, and advanced manufacturing sectors.
