New Delhi: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is set to embark on an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from February 13 to 14, 2024. This visit marks Prime Minister Modi’s seventh to the UAE since 2015 and the third in the last eight months, underlining the significance of the relationship between the two nations.
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi will engage in bilateral meetings with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE. The discussions are expected to focus on deepening and expanding the strategic partnership between India and the UAE, covering a range of areas. The leaders will also exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, strengthening the longstanding ties between the two countries.
Additionally, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to meet with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Defence Minister of the UAE. As a Guest of Honour, the Prime Minister will participate in the World Government Summit 2024 in Dubai, delivering a special keynote address at the Summit.
A significant highlight of the visit is the inauguration of the BAPS Mandir, the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of the UAE. Prime Minister Modi will also address the Indian community in the UAE at an event in Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi.
India and the UAE share warm, close, and multi-faceted relations, encompassing strong political, cultural, and economic linkages. Since Prime Minister Modi’s landmark visit to the UAE in August 2015, bilateral relations have evolved into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Key milestones include the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in February 2022 and the implementation of a Local Currency Settlement (LCS) System in July 2023, promoting the use of Indian Rupee and AED for cross-border transactions.
Trade between the two countries has flourished, reaching about US$ 85 billion in 2022-23, making them each other’s top trading partners. The UAE stands among the top four investors in India, reflecting a robust economic partnership.
The vibrant Indian community, numbering around 3.5 million in the UAE, plays a crucial role in the development of the host country. Their positive contributions have been a cornerstone of the excellent bilateral engagement between India and the UAE, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. Prime Minister Modi’s visit is expected to further strengthen these ties and explore new avenues for collaboration between the two nations.
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