Day 2 of Sheikh Mohammed’s landmark visit to India
Sheikh Mohammed and Narendra Modi make it clear that bolstering and adding to present agreements are the way forward
NEW DELHI // Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed yesterday held official talks with Narendra Modi, the prime minister of India.
The leaders discussed boosting ties between the two countries as well as several regional and international issues, including terrorism and violence. Sheikh Mohammed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme commander of the Armed Forces, met Mr Modi at Hyderabad House in the capital.
Mr Modi welcomed the UAE delegation, praising the special relationship between the countries, and expressed the eagerness of both to increase cooperation. Sheikh Mohammed thanked his hosts for their hospitality and congratulated the Indian people and government on the occasion of the 68th Republic Day.
He also conveyed the best wishes of the President, Sheikh Khalifa, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.
Sheikh Mohammed said existing strong ties between the nations build on a rich heritage of friendship and cooperation.
He said he had sensed a shared desire among the leadership of both states to strengthen bilateral relations and develop them into one of the most important in the region and world.
The two leaders also stressed that the UAE and India shared a common interest in working for peace and stability in the region and the rest of world by helping to resolve disputes and conflicts by peaceful means.
The leaders penned agreements on further cooperation in defence, shipping, road and maritime transpor, prevention of human trafficking, small and medium enterprises, innovation, agriculture, entry visas, media, trade, oil storage, energy and technology development.
Rajeev Sharma, a foreign policy expert based in New Delhi, said the agreements spelt out the commitment both countries had in broadening relations.
“Traditionally the countries partnership was based on two things – oil and the Indian diaspora in the Emirates,” said Mr Sharma. “New areas have come up and you can see relations flowering in every sector. The agreements in areas such as defence, cyber security, space, and infrastructure show that India and the UAE are reaching for much more.”
With UAE being India’s third largest trade partner after China and the US, Mr Modi’s efforts in developing closer ties with Sheikh Mohammed was commendable, Mr Sharma said.
“The diplomatic symbolism is significant. Mr Modi deserves a pat on the back for breaking protocol in inviting someone who is not head of state to Republic Day and greeting him at the airport.”