UAE President Visits India to Strengthen Trade, Defence, and Technology Ties

The President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) paid an official visit to India, marking a significant step in deepening bilateral relations between the two nations. The visit focused on enhancing strategic, trade, energy, and technology cooperation, with both sides announcing several key initiatives and agreements.

Trade and Economic Cooperation
Both countries committed to doubling bilateral trade to over US$ 200 billion by 2032. Initiatives such as Bharat Mart, Virtual Trade Corridor, and Bharat-Africa Setu were highlighted as platforms to expand market access and strengthen trade links, particularly in emerging markets.

Civil Nuclear and Energy Collaboration
In the civil nuclear sector, India and the UAE agreed to explore partnerships in advanced nuclear technologies, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and nuclear safety initiatives, following the enactment of India’s SHANTI Act 2025.

Energy cooperation also saw a major step forward, with the signing of a Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA) for the supply of 0.5 MTPA LNG from ADNOC Gas to HPCL over the next ten years, ensuring reliable energy flows and strengthening long-term commercial ties.

Digital, AI, and Technology Initiatives
The two nations agreed to collaborate on the development of Digital/Data Embassies, which will serve as offshore centres for storing critical digital data, safeguarding digital continuity, and protecting sovereignty against cyber threats, natural disasters, or geopolitical disruptions.

Further, India and the UAE will cooperate on establishing a supercomputing cluster as part of the AI India Mission, boosting capabilities in artificial intelligence, research, and technology development.

Strategic Defence Cooperation
A framework for strategic defence partnership was also agreed upon, aimed at deepening collaboration in technology, training, and cyber domains. This initiative is expected to enhance joint preparedness and bolster regional security collaboration.

The visit reflects the growing strategic and economic partnership between India and the UAE, positioning both nations to leverage trade, energy, and technological innovation for mutual growth over the coming decade.