Kiran Sharma

In a notable move to reinforce and expand India-Spain relations, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visited Mumbai, expressing his vision for a stronger, more dynamic partnership. During his discussions, he highlighted the long-standing, solid ties between India and Spain, emphasizing that there is significant potential to enhance cooperation across various sectors, especially in the areas of trade, investment, innovation, and climate resilience.  A Solid Foundation for Growth India and Spain have shared diplomatic relations for over seven decades, establishing a firm foundation based on mutual respect and shared global values. Both countries are committed to the ideals of democracy, rule of law, and sustainable development, setting the stage for enhanced collaborations in the 21st century. PM Sanchez acknowledged these strengths during his address, stating that the two nations’ strong diplomatic ties can further blossom into economic and cultural collaborations that benefit both...

In the wake of ongoing challenges, Lebanon continues to navigate through a complex humanitarian landscape. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a beacon of support, playing a pivotal role in rebuilding efforts and improving the living conditions for the Lebanese people. Through consistent humanitarian assistance, the UAE has demonstrated its commitment to the welfare of Lebanon, especially in times of need. The UAE’s Role in the Paris Conference The UAE's recent participation in the Paris Conference further solidified its commitment to Lebanon. This international gathering aimed to address the pressing issues facing the nation and mobilize support for its reconstruction. The UAE's involvement is crucial, not just in terms of financial contributions, but also in terms of fostering international collaboration and highlighting the need for sustainable development. Humanitarian Initiatives:  A Focus on Immediate Needs  The UAE's humanitarian support for Lebanon encompa...

In the face of adversity, the spirit of unity and compassion shines brightly in the UAE. The recent launch of the "UAE Stands with Lebanon" national relief campaign exemplifies this commitment, showcasing the country’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian efforts. During the second week of the campaign, a remarkable collection drive was organized at the Exhibition Centre in Dubai Expo City, bringing together around 2,000 volunteers who gathered an impressive 250 tonnes of vital relief materials, including food, medicine, and shelter equipment. A Collective Effort The ongoing campaign has, so far, amassed nearly 1,000 tonnes of relief supplies, reflecting the collective efforts of various UAE charities and agencies. This initiative is a direct response to the pressing needs of Lebanon, where the crisis has intensified, leading to significant hardships and a mass exodus of families seeking safety and stability. The campaign was initiated under the directives of President His H...

India has long held ambitions to become the "food basket" for West Asia and beyond. With a thriving agricultural sector and a robust export portfolio, India is already making strides toward this goal. In 2022-23 alone, India’s agricultural exports reached $53.1 billion, with a large portion of the trade being directed toward West Asia, especially the United Arab Emirates (UAE). From cereals and sugar to fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood, India’s exports to the UAE have formed a vital link in the region’s food security chain. The recent proposal to create a dedicated  India-UAE food corridor  promises to significantly elevate this relationship, with the potential to revolutionize how food trade operates between the two nations. This ambitious corridor is designed to directly connect Indian farms to UAE ports, optimizing the value chain for agri-products. Not only will this reduce the time and costs involved in exporting agricultural goods, but it will also ensure a more ef...

In a significant diplomatic breakthrough , India and China have reached an agreement to resolve the long-standing border crisis that has strained relations between the two Asian giants. This agreement, which comes after years of tensions, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), marks a turning point in regional stability and bilateral relations. The resolution offers hope for a more cooperative future and underscores the importance of diplomacy in addressing complex geopolitical challenges. Background of the Border Crisis India and China share a long, contested border, stretching across the Himalayas, where disputes have erupted sporadically over the past several decades. The 2020 Galwan Valley clash brought the border issue to the forefront, with both sides engaging in military stand-offs, leading to casualties and heightened military presence. Diplomatic efforts since then aimed to de-escalate tensions but were often stalled by differences over the terms of disengagement...

In an extraordinary demonstration of its growing role in global diplomacy, the UAE has successfully mediated the exchange of 190 prisoners of war between Russia and Ukraine, further cementing its reputation as a trusted international mediator. This latest exchange, announced by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday, is the ninth such effort by the UAE in 2024, bringing the total number of prisoners exchanged under its mediation to 2,184. It reflects not only the UAE’s commitment to peace but also its trusted relationships with both warring nations. UAE’s Role in Conflict Mediation The UAE’s involvement in mediating these exchanges underscores its increasing influence on the global diplomatic stage. Amid an ongoing conflict where diplomatic solutions seem elusive, the UAE has emerged as a key player in humanitarian diplomacy, successfully bringing Russia and Ukraine to the negotiating table despite the deep-seated tensions between them. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed ...

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) played a significant role in the first EU-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit, held on October 16, 2024. As one of the GCC's leading member states, the UAE's participation in this historic dialogue between Europe and the Gulf underscored its pivotal position in fostering regional stability, economic growth, and international cooperation. The summit, co-chaired by the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, and the Emir of Qatar, H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, marked a new chapter in EU-GCC relations, with the UAE emerging as a key player in this evolving partnership. UAE’s Strategic Importance in the GCC and Beyond The UAE has long been a bridge between the East and the West, leveraging its strategic location to position itself as a central hub for trade, finance, and diplomacy. Its role in the summit highlighted its commitment to strengthening relations not only within the Gulf but also with European nations, as both regions ...

In a significant move aimed at enhancing travel convenience, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced major changes to its visa exemption rules for Indian nationals. This update, introduced by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, is set to make it easier for Indians residing outside the UAE to visit this vibrant country, particularly Dubai. The Previous Visa Framework Under the earlier regulations, Indian nationals who held a valid US visit visa, a US green card, or resident permits from the UK or EU could benefit from a visa-upon-arrival for a duration of 14 days. However, these permits had to be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in the UAE. While this provision facilitated travel for many, it left out a significant number of Indian nationals who might not possess these specific visas or permits. Expanded Exemption for Indian Nationals With the recent announcement, the UAE has broadened the criteria for visa exemption...

The second meeting of the Joint Committee (JC) under the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) marked significant progress in enhancing the economic ties between the two nations. Both sides acknowledged the steady growth in bilateral trade during the first two years of CEPA’s implementation and expressed optimism about reaching the ambitious target of USD 100 billion in non-oil trade ahead of the 2030 timeline. Key Discussions and Achievements Held in the UAE, the meeting was co-chaired by Ajay Bhadoo, Additional Secretary of the Department of Commerce, Government of India, and His Excellency Juma Al Kait, Assistant Undersecretary for International Trade Affairs, Ministry of Economy, UAE. Wide-ranging discussions took place, focusing on enhancing trade relations, resolving key trade-related issues, and capitalizing on the growing economic partnership.  Progress Since CEPA Implementation Both countries reviewed the progress since the first Sub-Committee Meeti...

The UAE and Kuwait enjoy long-standing relations, based on shared cultural heritage, mutual respect and strategic cooperation. To further strengthen these ties, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum**, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, recently paid an official visit to Kuwait. Leading a high-level delegation, the visit reflects the UAE’s commitment to deepening its bilateral relations with Kuwait and exploring new avenues of cooperation in various fields. Warm welcome in Kuwait Upon his arrival in Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan** was warmly welcomed by His Highness Sheikh Fahad Youssef Saud Al Sabah**, First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Minister of the Interior of the State of Kuwait. This warm welcome reflects the deep respect and cordiality that exists between the leadership of the two countries. Such visits are not merely ceremonial but play a key role in fostering strong ties, encouraging ...

Mumbai, 7 October 2024** — A new chapter has been written in the story of India-UAE economic relations, beginning with the implementation of the India-UAE Bilateral Investment Treaty and the 12th meeting of the India-UAE High-Level Joint Task Force on Investment (HLJTFI). These developments underline the deepening of economic ties between the two countries, aimed at protecting investments, promoting trade and exploring new avenues for mutual growth. Renewed Bilateral Investment Treaty: A milestone for investment protection The India-UAE Bilateral Investment Treaty, signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the UAE in February 2024, came into force on 31 August 2024. The treaty serves as an important framework for protecting investments and creating a secure environment for investors from both countries. It aims to enhance economic cooperation and provide a solid foundation for bilateral investment flows, ensuring the protection of the interests of businesses. 12th Meeting o...

In response to escalating hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, the UAE  has swiftly mobilized to provide critical humanitarian assistance to Lebanon. On Friday, the UAE launched a national relief campaign titled "The UAE is with you, Lebanon," marking the beginning of a comprehensive effort to support the Lebanese population during this challenging period. The initiative, led by President Mohammed bin Zayed, highlights the UAE's commitment to aiding its regional neighbors in times of need, underscoring the deep bonds of friendship between the two nations. As part of the campaign's launch, a UAE medical aid plane landed at Beirut's airport, delivering 40 tons of urgent medical supplies, coordinated through the World Health Organization (WHO). This significant first step comes in the wake of the UAE's approval of a $100 million emergency humanitarian aid package aimed at addressing the immediate needs of the Lebanese people. Minister of State for Internatio...