President Sheikh Mohamed and India's Modi discuss efforts to boost ties in call

President Sheikh Mohamed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a phone conversation on Friday to discuss ways of enhancing the strong relationship between their nations. Both countries have a historic bond, with ties dating back over five decades, encapsulated in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

During the call, Sheikh Mohamed extended birthday wishes to Modi, expressing hope for his continued health and prosperity. In response, Mr. Modi thanked Sheikh Mohamed for his kind sentiments, outlining his commitment to ongoing collaboration for mutual benefit.

The leaders also delved into concerns of shared concern, with a primary focus on strengthening regional security and stability. The close friendship between India and the UAE, which has flourished for decades, is underscored by a growing Indian population in the UAE - approximately four million Indians currently reside there, making it the largest expatriate community.

A major achievement in bilateral relations is the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement signed in 2022, which marked India as the UAE's largest trading partner and made the UAE India's third-largest trading partner. Both leaders have a history of frequent communication, with several face-to-face meetings held in India and the UAE in recent years to deepen their relationship.

The two countries met in May when Modi made an official visit to the UAE, engaging in high-level talks on various sectors such as technology, artificial intelligence, economy and food security. In addition, Sheikh Mohamed paid a working visit to India in January, where they pledged to deepen cooperation in multiple areas.

Earlier this year, Modi made a two-day visit to the UAE, where he addressed a large gathering of Indians at Zayed Sports City Stadium and spoke at the World Governments Summit in Dubai. He also inaugurated the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.