Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Friday as the first stop of his five-nation tour. His aircraft was welcomed into Emirati airspace with a ceremonial escort by UAE F-16 fighter jets. Upon arrival in Abu Dhabi, Modi received a guard of honour before engaging in high-level discussions with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The discussions are anticipated to focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation in sectors including energy, trade, investment, and regional developments. The Ministry of External Affairs noted that the talks would also address issues of mutual international interest. This visit to the UAE is part of a broader tour, which will conclude on May 20 and also includes stops in the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. The aim is to fortify India’s partnerships in trade, technology, clean energy, innovation, and sustainable growth.
The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) characterized the tour as occurring at a vital moment for India’s strategic and economic relations with Europe and the Gulf region. FIEO President S. C. Ralhan stated, “The Prime Minister’s high-level engagements with the leadership of the UAE and major European nations underline India’s growing stature as a trusted economic partner and a key driver of global growth.” He further indicated that the visit is expected to create substantial opportunities for Indian exporters in various sectors, including engineering, clean energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, food processing, textiles, logistics, and digital trade.
The FIEO also highlighted the significance of the UAE as one of India’s most important trade and investment partners, serving as a gateway for Indian exports to West Asia and Africa. UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem Al Hashimy, referred to Modi as a “true treasure” for the leadership and people of the Emirates. She remarked that the India-UAE relationship is poised to reach “new mountaintops” in trade and technology, emphasizing that Modi’s visit would continue the momentum from recent high-level exchanges between the two nations.
Following his engagements in the UAE, Modi will head to the Netherlands from May 15 to 17. During this segment of the tour, he is scheduled to meet Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten and engage with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima. Discussions in the Netherlands are expected to concentrate on semiconductors, green hydrogen, innovation, defense, and water management.
