India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the United Arab Emirates’ Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, in Mumbai on October 19 to discuss strengthening bilateral relations.
According to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two ministers reviewed cooperation under the countries’ Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Their discussions covered economic relations, trade, investment, finance, culture and energy. They also exchanged views on regional and international developments.
The meeting formed part of Sheikh Abdullah’s working visit to India. The two governments have sought to expand cooperation across commercial and strategic sectors, building on longstanding political and economic ties.
The UAE is one of India’s major trading partners, with businesses from both countries active across sectors including energy, infrastructure, finance and services. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which entered into force in May 2022, was designed to reduce trade barriers and improve market access.
Both sides have continued to explore opportunities for greater investment and stronger commercial links. Energy cooperation remains significant, while cultural exchanges and financial services also feature in their broader partnership.
Sheikh Abdullah described the relationship as one built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to development. He said the UAE was keen to build on existing achievements and expand cooperation in areas that support economic growth.
On October 20, Jaishankar and Sheikh Abdullah held an expanded bilateral meeting in Mumbai. Sheikh Abdullah also joined Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for a trilateral meeting that day.
The latest talks reaffirmed both governments’ intention to deepen bilateral ties, although the October 19 meeting did not announce a new agreement or specific financial commitment.
