Abu Dhabi/New Delhi: India and the United Arab Emirates have signed a series of important agreements covering energy security, defence cooperation, and infrastructure investment during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Abu Dhabi amid escalating tensions in West Asia and growing concerns over global energy supplies.
Prime Minister Modi held high-level talks with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, focusing on strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. Discussions covered trade, energy cooperation, regional security, investment, and long-term economic collaboration.
A major highlight of the visit was the signing of two key Memorandums of Understanding related to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Strategic Petroleum Reserves. The agreements are expected to strengthen India’s energy security at a time when global crude oil markets remain volatile due to continuing conflict and disruptions in West Asia, particularly around critical shipping routes.
The two nations also agreed on a framework for enhanced defence cooperation and signed an agreement to establish a ship repair cluster in Vadinar, located in Gujarat’s Dwarka district. Officials said the project is expected to strengthen India’s maritime infrastructure and generate new industrial opportunities.
In addition, the UAE announced investment commitments worth nearly $5 billion across Indian infrastructure projects and financial institutions, including investments linked to RBL Bank and Sammaan Capital. The announcements further reinforce the UAE’s position as one of India’s key economic and strategic partners in the Gulf region.
The visit comes at a significant time for India, which recently witnessed its first fuel price increase in nearly four years amid rising global energy costs. Petrol and diesel prices were revised upward from May 15, while compressed natural gas (CNG) prices also increased, reflecting mounting pressure from elevated crude oil prices following regional instability.
During the discussions, Prime Minister Modi also expressed concern over ongoing regional tensions and condemned attacks targeting the UAE amid the wider conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. He reiterated India’s support for peace and diplomatic dialogue in the region.
The UAE remains India’s third-largest trading partner and among the country’s leading sources of foreign investment. More than 4.5 million Indians live and work in the UAE, making the bilateral relationship strategically and socially significant for both nations.
