| Introduction: Give a brief context to the question Body: Highlight the importance of the relationship between the two nations Conclusion: Way forward |
Prime Minister is scheduled to pay an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that will include inaugurating a temple built by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha in Abu Dhabi transforming India’s relationship with UAE into becoming one of the most prominent bilateral relationships for New Delhi.
Strategic Importance
- Regional security: Both India and the UAE face threats from extremism and terrorism. Their collaboration in intelligence sharing, training, and capacity building helps combat these dangers, contributing to regional stability. The Indian Ocean is crucial for trade and energy supplies. Cooperation in patrolling, information sharing, and joint exercises ensures safer maritime routes, benefiting both countries and their partners.
- Energy Cooperation: The UAE is a key supplier of oil and gas to India, meeting a significant portion of its energy needs. This stable and reliable partnership mitigates energy security concerns for India. The UAE invests heavily in India’s infrastructure and renewable energy projects, supporting diversification and energy security. India also contributes to the UAE’s ambitious clean energy goals.
- Regional Connectivity: Both nations are part of several important groupings such as the I2U2 or the West Asian Quad comprising India, Israel, the United States, and the UAE. The UAE is also part of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) infrastructure project that aims to connect India to Europe across the Arabian peninsula and is a potential rival to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
Enhancement of India’s Interests
- Economic Benefits: Strong trade ties and investments generate economic growth and job opportunities for both nations. Increased trade volume and infrastructure development enhance regional connectivity. Bilateral trade grew to $85 billion in 2022-23, making the UAE India’s third-largest trading partner and India’s second-largest export destination.
- Strategic Influence: This partnership allows India to play a more active role in shaping the future of the Gulf region, contributing to regional stability and promoting its strategic interests.
- Energy security: The UAE is also India’s trusted partner in energy security, being the only nation from the region that has strategic oil reserves stored in India.
Conclusion
The India-UAE partnership is a cornerstone of regional security and energy cooperation in the Gulf. It serves mutual interests, enhances India’s strategic influence, and contributes to a more stable and prosperous region. While challenges exist, continued dialogue, alignment of interests, and addressing concerns will ensure this partnership remains a vital force in shaping the future of the Gulf.
