The friendship between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has entered a new era of strength and cooperation, as both nations embark on a remarkable journey of enhanced bilateral relations. This sentiment was accentuated during the vibrant Indian Independence Day celebrations in Abu Dhabi, where Sunjay Sudhir, the Ambassador of India to the UAE, highlighted the profound friendship between the two countries. Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Ambassador Sudhir underscored the pivotal role played by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in guiding this transformative phase of their relationship. Mutual trust and respect, he emphasized, have acted as the cornerstone for the burgeoning of ties between these two nations.
Against the backdrop of India’s ascending economic prowess, Ambassador Sudhir proudly acknowledged India’s current status as the world’s fifth-largest economy and its leadership position in presiding over the G20. He announced that India is poised to host the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Delhi next month, expressing optimism for the participation of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed in the event. The ambassador emphasized that the close-knit and cooperative nature of India-UAE relations sets them apart in the global arena. He shed light on the transformative agreements that were inked during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Abu Dhabi, which encompass the promotion of rupee-dirham transactions, interlinking payment and messaging systems, and the establishment of an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) campus in Abu Dhabi. These agreements, Ambassador Sudhir asserted, have led to far-reaching outcomes, exemplified by the successful settlement of a significant crude oil transaction involving 1 million barrels in Indian rupees and UAE dirhams. The interlinking of payment systems was also lauded for making financial transactions more efficient and cost-effective for the Indian expatriate community in the UAE.
Furthermore, Ambassador Sudhir expressed the Indian government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of the Indian community in the UAE. He emphasized that the establishment of the new IIT campus presents an invaluable opportunity for young minds to pursue their educational aspirations and contribute to the growth of both nations. As the world observed India’s Independence Day, Ambassador Sudhir called upon everyone to reflect upon the sacrifices and determination that paved the path to India’s liberation from colonial rule.
Highlighting the substantial contributions of the 3.5 million-strong Indian expatriate community in the UAE, Ambassador Sudhir underscored their pivotal role in strengthening bilateral ties and propelling the UAE’s economy and development. He offered assurance that the Indian Embassy and Consulate in the UAE are diligently working to provide improved consular and community services. Notably, plans are in motion to expand the number of Indian Consular Application Centres across various cities in the UAE, with the aim of rendering consular services more accessible and efficient for all Indians residing in the country. The Independence Day celebrations in Abu Dhabi served as a poignant reminder of the enduring friendship between India and the UAE, as both nations forge ahead on a trajectory of mutual prosperity and collaboration.
