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The External Affairs Minister visited UAE to boost India-UAE ties.

Why is the UAE important to India?

The UAE is a crucial partner for India due to its strategic, economic, and geopolitical significance. It hosts the 2nd largest Indian diaspora, which contributes greatly to India’s remittances.

Both countries share strong trade ties, with the UAE being India’s third-largest trading partner. The recent visit by the External Affairs Minister aimed to strengthen bilateral relations, especially in the context of regional stability and economic cooperation, especially as the Gaza ceasefire holds tenuously.

How is the UAE positioned in the current Gaza crisis, and what role does it aim to play?

The UAE has agreed ‘in principle’ to assist in Gaza’s administration, contingent on Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza and cooperation in establishing a Palestinian state. The UAE has consistently advocated for a reformed Palestinian Authority and a united Gaza and West Bank under a legitimate, independent leadership.

It has also maintained diplomatic ties with Israel, utilizing its relationship to influence Israeli actions, and criticised Israel’s policies at multilateral forums.

What are the UAE’s regional priorities, and how do they align with India’s interests?

The UAE’s regional priorities focus on economic diversification, stability, and reducing dependency on oil.

UAE aims to avoid conflicts in the Middle East, this aligns with India’s vision of a stable and prosperous Middle East, which is crucial for initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).

Both countries also share a common approach to resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict through a negotiated solution.

How have India-UAE ties evolved in recent years?

The two countries signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and have expanded cooperation in areas like trade, investment, and civil nuclear energy.

The UAE has also refrained from supporting Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir and has invested in developmental projects in Jammu and Kashmir.

Both nations have collaborated on regional initiatives like IMEEC, reflecting their shared geopolitical objectives.

What steps can India and the UAE take to ensure the success of their bilateral and regional initiatives amidst ongoing conflicts?

They must continue to insulate their bilateral relationship from regional tensions.

They should work together to advocate for a stable and peaceful Middle East, which is crucial for projects like IMEEC.

Both countries can leverage their diplomatic influence to push for a negotiated resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

They should deepen economic and strategic cooperation to create a robust foundation that withstands regional uncertainties.

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Source: 

INDIAN EXPRESS