In a significant development for Indo-UAE relations, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi have signed a series of pivotal agreements, marking a new chapter in bilateral ties between the two nations. This visit is notable as it represents the first official engagement between India and the next generation of UAE royalty, underscoring India’s strategic emphasis on strengthening its relationship with the UAE Crown Prince.
It was a delight to welcome HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. We had fruitful talks on a wide range of issues. His passion towards strong India-UAE friendship is clearly visible. pic.twitter.com/yoLENhjGWd
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 9, 2024
Key Agreements Highlighting Bilateral Cooperation
During the visit, several critical pacts were finalized, reflecting the broad scope of collaboration between the two countries. The agreements cover various sectors, including nuclear energy, oil and gas, and food security, showcasing the diverse nature of the partnership.
Nuclear Energy Collaboration
One of the most significant outcomes of this visit is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed for civil nuclear cooperation between India’s Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and the UAE’s Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC). This deal, which is centered on the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, is a significant step forward for the peaceful application of nuclear energy. It builds on previous discussions about nuclear cooperation initiated during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the UAE Crown Prince in August 2015.
This MoU not only marks the first formal agreement in this domain between the two countries but also aligns with the (Crown Prince)UAE’s broader policy of expanding its investments in nuclear energy. The agreement is expected to enhance cooperation in areas such as safety, health, agriculture, and scientific research.
Long-Term LNG Supply Agreements
In addition to nuclear energy, the two nations have also secured long-term agreements in the oil and gas sector. For a long-term supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG), an agreement was inked by Indian Oil Corporation Limited and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). This deal aims to bolster energy security and meet the growing energy needs of both countries.
ADNOC and India Strategic Petroleum Reserve Limited (ISPRL) have strengthened their strategic energy collaboration with the signing of another agreement.Additionally, a product concession agreement for Abu Dhabi Onshore Block 1 was signed between Urja Bharat and ADNOC, marking a significant development in the upstream oil sector.
Food Parks Development
The collaboration extends to the agricultural sector, with a new MoU between the Government of Gujarat and Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company PJSC (ADQ). This agreement focuses on the development of food parks in India, specifically in Gujarat. This initiative is part of the broader I2U2 grouping, which includes Israel and the United States, aimed at enhancing food security and agricultural development in the region.
Diplomatic Engagement and Future Prospects
Following the signing of these agreements, Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, highlighting the deep respect for India’s historical and cultural legacy. The visit also includes a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu and a participation in a Business Forum in Mumbai, where top business leaders from both countries are expected to discuss further opportunities for collaboration.
Since Prime Minister Modi’s landmark visit to the UAE in August 2015, which was the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over three decades, the bilateral relationship has evolved into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. India has become the UAE’s second-largest trading partner, while the UAE stands as India’s largest trading partner in the Arab world. Total trade between the two nations is projected to reach USD 100 billion by the end of the decade, up from about USD 85 billion in the 2022-23 period.
Furthermore, the UAE ranks among the top four foreign direct investors in India, reflecting the robust economic ties and mutual investment interests.
India-UAE ties taking greater strides!
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 9, 2024
PM @narendramodi met with HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi today.
The two leaders discussed the multifaceted 🇮🇳-🇦🇪 relations and avenues to broaden the comprehensive strategic partnership to… pic.twitter.com/0xGlmN4Vdm
Trilateral Cooperation and Regional Influence
The agreements signed during this visit also align with broader regional cooperation frameworks. The MoU on nuclear energy is part of a trilateral initiative involving France, India, and the UAE, aimed at promoting projects in solar and nuclear energy. This trilateral cooperation was first launched in September 2022 during the UN General Assembly and has since been strengthened through continued dialogue among the three nations.
The agreements signed between India and the UAE during the recent visit of Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan (UAE Crown Prince) signify a deepening of bilateral ties across multiple sectors. From nuclear energy and oil and gas to food security, these pacts underscore the dynamic and multi-faceted nature of the Indo-UAE relationship. As both nations look towards future collaboration, these agreements pave the way for enhanced strategic, economic, and cultural engagement in the years to come.
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