India backs UAE security and sovereignty as Jaishankar meets Sheikh Mohamed, with both sides deepening ties and addressing rising Middle East tensions and regional instability concerns, reports Asian Lite Newsdesk
India has reaffirmed its strong support for the United Arab Emirates’ security and sovereignty amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, as External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar held high-level talks with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Monday.
During the meeting, Jaishankar conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and extended wishes for the UAE’s continued stability and prosperity. Sheikh Mohamed reciprocated the gesture, sending his regards to Modi and expressing hope for India’s sustained growth and development.
The discussions centred on strengthening bilateral cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), both of which have significantly deepened economic and political ties between the two countries in recent years. The two sides explored ways to further expand collaboration in line with shared development priorities and mutual interests.
The meeting also took place against the backdrop of heightened regional instability, with both leaders reviewing developments in the Middle East and their broader implications for global security. Particular emphasis was placed on the impact of ongoing tensions on maritime security, energy flows and the global economy, reflecting growing concern over disruptions in key trade and supply routes.
A key focus of the talks was the recent escalation involving Iran, with the UAE raising concerns over attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure in the region. The actions were described as violations of sovereignty and international norms, underscoring the seriousness of the security challenges facing Gulf nations.
Jaishankar reiterated India’s solidarity with the UAE, backing its right to take necessary measures to defend its territory and protect its people. The assurance highlights India’s strategic balancing act in West Asia, where it maintains close ties with multiple regional powers while navigating a complex and evolving geopolitical landscape.
The meeting was attended by several senior Emirati leaders, including Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who serves as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Also present were Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, along with other ministers and officials.
