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Polar Diplomacy between the UAE and India

The recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Emirates Polar Program, the UAE, and the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), India on the sidelines of the 15th Session of the UAE-India Joint Committee meeting on 13th December 2024 has taken the strategic partnership between the two nations beyond the traditional framework of cooperation and opened a new chapter for developing a robust system for global climate governance. The diversification of this partnership towards climate change and sustainability not only strengthens the diplomatic ties between the two nations but also positions themselves as emerging global leaders contributing meaningfully to stabilizing emissions and fulfilling the shared commitment to the scientific approach to design policies for climate action.

The signing ceremony was officiated by H.E. Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister for Energy and Sustainable Affairs and Deputy Chair of the UAE Polar Mission Steering Committee, and Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary in the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) of India. Reflecting on the significance of partnership in the Polar region, H.E. Abdulla Balalaa said, “The partnership reflects the UAE’s commitment to scientific excellence through global partnerships. By harnessing India’s vast experience in polar research, we are not only enhancing our national capabilities but also paving the way for future generations to make groundbreaking discoveries in this critical field.”

Polar diplomacy is crucial for both nations. India has a well-known background in conducting research in Polar Regions. In 1981, India sent her first expedition to Antarctica for scientific research on understanding the changing pattern of global climate change, particularly the impact of melting glaciers on the monsoon variability of India, and to study the Himalayan Cryosphere, including the glaciers, snow, and permafrost, as the similar geophysical conditions research from the polar areas can be replicated to better understand the Himalayan region. In 2007, India launched its first scientific expedition in the Arctic region to begin research in the fields of microbiology, atmospheric sciences, and geology. The prolonged presence of India in Polar Regions has given the UAE enough confidence to bypass the need to build its infrastructure and to rely on data and logistics collected from the Indian organization for strategic entry into the region with the objective of studying unpredictable weather patterns amid the heavy rainfall in April 2024. The research conducted by NCPOR showcases the linkage between torrential rain and the melting of ice caps. The MoU will assist the Emirates Polar Program in studying the exact reference to develop comprehensive adaptive and resilience policies.

Moreover, the MoU facilitates the prospective of launching joint international missions to Antarctica and the Arctic, supporting global climate action, and contributing to an understanding of the polar environment. Through these initiatives, the UAE and India demonstrates its commitment to global scientific cooperation and environmental stewardship in Polar Regions. Moreover, the expansion into polar research builds on the existing strong cooperation between the UAE and India in vital sectors such as defense, energy, trade, and emerging technologies, underscoring both nations’ collective commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, addressing global climate challenges, and promoting environmental stewardship.  The MoU sets a precedent for deeper scientific diplomacy, encouraging other nations to invest in building sustainable technology for a sustainable future.