Prime Minister Modi Strengthens Bilateral Ties During Official Visit to UAE

GG News Bureau
Abu Dhabi, 14th Feb. Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on an official visit to the United Arab Emirates, where he was accorded a special and warm welcome by the President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, upon his arrival at the airport.

The ceremonial welcome underscored the significance of the visit in enhancing the strategic partnership between the two nations.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi engaged in one-on-one and delegation-level talks with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, focusing on reviewing and furthering the bilateral partnership.

Both leaders explored avenues for cooperation across various sectors, emphasizing the deepening of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UAE.

Several agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged to bolster collaboration in key areas:

• Bilateral Investment Treaty: A crucial agreement facilitating increased investments in both countries.
• Cooperation in Electrical Interconnection and Trade: Opening new avenues in energy cooperation.
• Intergovernmental Framework Agreement on India-Middle East Economic Corridor: Enhancing regional connectivity and economic cooperation.
• Cooperation in Digital Infrastructure Projects: Promoting investment and knowledge-sharing in the digital sector.
• Protocol between National Archives: Facilitating bilateral cooperation in archival material preservation.
• Cooperation in Heritage and Museums: Supporting the Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal, Gujarat.
• Interlinking of Payment Platforms: Facilitating seamless cross-border transactions.
• Inter-linking Domestic Debit/Credit Cards: Enhancing financial sector cooperation.

Prime Minister Modi congratulated President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the launch of UAE’s domestic card JAYWAN, which is based on India’s digital RuPay credit and debit card stack. The leaders witnessed a transaction using the JAYWAN card, symbolizing the deepening financial ties between the two nations.

The strengthening of the energy partnership was also discussed, highlighting India’s increasing reliance on the UAE as a significant source of crude, LPG, and LNG.

In a significant development, RITES Limited signed agreements with Abu Dhabi Ports Company and Gujarat Maritime Board, aiming to enhance port infrastructure and connectivity between the two countries.

Expressing gratitude, Prime Minister Modi thanked President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his support and graciousness in granting land for the construction of the BAPS Temple in Abu Dhabi.