It's a matter of 'deep concern': Jaishankar on W Asia

Mumbai/New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stressed on Tuesday that the situation in West Asia continues to be a matter of deep concern, vowing India's support for all endeavors aimed at fostering peace through dialogue and diplomacy. The UAE's External Affairs Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, visited Mumbai for a two-day visit, landing on Monday night. The trip follows a series of attacks attributed to Houthi militants on Saudi Arabia.

During his opening remarks, Jaishankar highlighted the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the UAE, which has significantly boosted bilateral trade and economic ties. He reiterated India's commitment to facilitating free, safe, and unimpeded trade, energy, and fertiliser supplies in the region. Jaishankar also expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for ensuring the welfare of the Indian community in the UAE.

Despite global headwinds and regional challenges, the economic partnership between India and the UAE continues to set new benchmarks. Bilateral trade has surpassed the USD 100 billion mark since the CEPA's signing, and two-way investments are steadily growing. Cooperation in defense, energy, and technology is evolving into a strategic dimension, while people-to-people ties are strengthening the bonds between the two nations. The cultural partnership is also gaining considerable momentum.

Since the CEPA was inked in 2022, the bilateral trade and people-to-people ties between India and the UAE have witnessed a significant upswing. The two countries are among each other's top trading and investment partners, further strengthened by the CEPA, a local currency settlement system, and the bilateral investment treaty.