Reporting in a government statement, On September 18, 2026, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi received a telephone call from His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates. The statement does not mention the specific time of the call, but confirms it took place on that date. This communication, as outlined in the Ministry of External Affairs’ press release, underscores the continued prioritization of the India-UAE relationship within the framework of their “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.” The matter is significant due to the UAE’s longstanding role as a key trading partner and security interlocutor for India, particularly as geopolitical tensions in West Asia escalate. The statement does not address the duration of the call or the specific agenda items discussed beyond the broad categories of cooperation.
Context
The announcement reflects a sustained diplomatic effort to solidify the India-UAE partnership, a relationship increasingly viewed as strategically important by New Delhi. The inclusion of “energy, defence, technology, investment and health” as areas for discussion signals a deliberate push to broaden the scope of collaboration beyond traditional trade flows. The reference to “new measures” indicates a commitment to ongoing dialogue and potentially the negotiation of new agreements, though the press release offers no specifics. The UAE’s participation in India’s BRICS Presidency, as highlighted by the Prime Minister’s appreciation, is a notable element. This suggests a desire to integrate the UAE into India’s efforts to shape the global South, and the statement does not address the UAE’s broader ambitions within the BRICS framework. The focus on West Asia developments, while vague, indicates a shared interest in regional stability and security, a concern given the ongoing conflicts and shifting alliances in the region. The statement does not mention any particular security concerns or threats.
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