Strengthening India-UAE Relations: A Pillar of India's "Think West" Policy

In the dynamic landscape of international relationsIn the dynamic landscape of international relations, few partnerships have witnessed as remarkable a transformation as that between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in recent years. Spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's strategic vision and proactive diplomacy, the bilateral ties between these two nations have evolved into a robust and multifaceted alliance, spanning various domains from economic cooperation to defense-security collaboration.

The foundation of this burgeoning relationship can be traced back to India's "Think West" policy, which strategically prioritizes engagement with the countries of West Asia, recognizing their geopolitical significance and economic potential. Within this framework, the UAE has emerged as a cornerstone of India's outreach in the Gulf region, offering a strategic bridge between South Asia and the Middle East.

Prime Minister Modi's personal commitment to advancing India-UAE relations has been evident through his historic visit to the UAE in 2015, marking the first such visit by an Indian prime minister in over three decades. Since then, Modi has made several additional visits to the UAE, reaffirming the importance of the partnership and exploring new avenues for cooperation.

At the heart of the India-UAE relationship lies a convergence of interests across key areas, including migration, business, and defense-security. The significant Indian diaspora in the UAE, numbering over 3 million, plays a crucial role in fostering people-to-people ties and contributing to the economies of both countries. Economic collaboration between India and the UAE has also witnessed remarkable growth, with bilateral trade reaching new heights and investments flowing in diverse sectors.

Moreover, defense and security cooperation have emerged as vital pillars of the bilateral relationship, with both countries actively engaging in joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and counter-terrorism efforts. The UAE's strategic location in the Gulf region and its shared concerns regarding regional stability and security have further cemented defense ties with India.

As Prime Minister Modi begins his new term in office, his government is expected to build upon the momentum achieved in India-UAE relations over the past decade. Despite facing a narrower majority in parliament, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance remains committed to advancing India's foreign policy goals, with a particular focus on strengthening ties with Gulf Arab states, including the UAE.

Looking ahead, the trajectory of India-UAE relations is poised for continued growth and diversification. Both countries recognize the immense potential for collaboration across various sectors, including infrastructure development, renewable energy, technology, and cultural exchange. By harnessing the synergies between their economies and leveraging their respective strengths, India and the UAE are poised to emerge as strategic partners in shaping the future of the region and beyond.

The deepening of India-UAE relations stands as a testament to the transformative power of proactive diplomacy and strategic engagement. Under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, India has reaffirmed its commitment to the Gulf region, with the UAE playing a pivotal role in realizing India's aspirations of becoming a global powerhouse. As both nations embark on a new chapter of cooperation, the bonds of friendship and mutual respect will continue to strengthen, laying the foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future for their peoples.