TIES THAT BIND

India-UAE relationship is witnessing a sharp upward trajectory, driven by the strong bond between the leaders and the people of the two countries

- AMBASSADOR SUNJAY SUDHIR

The India-UAE relationship is deeply rooted in historical and cultural connect, which has been nurtured over centuries by vibrant people-to-people linkages, trade and cultural exchanges. The relationship received a fillip in 2015, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the UAE, the first Indian prime minister to do so since 1981. Since then, the relationship has seen a sharp upward trajectory, driven by the strong bond between the leaderships and the people of the two countries.

The commitment of the leadership to this special relationship can be understood from the frequent high-level exchanges. Prime Minister Modi has visited the UAE seven times—making it the most visited country by the prime minister. This has been reciprocated by the President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, who has visited India four times since 2016. These exchanges signify the importance both leaders attach to the India-UAE strategic partnership, driven by a deep sense of purpose to prosper together.