News Brief
IMEEC Push, CEPA Gains, Energy And Critical Ministers: Here's What Was Discussed In India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting
India, UAE sign MoU to facilitate polar and ocean research cooperation, academic collaboration
India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Friday (13 December) deliberated on the implementation of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC0.
The two sides resolved to strengthen cooperation in energy, including long-term supplies and collaborations in upstream and downstream projects.
The 15th India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting (JCM), co-chaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, focused on deepening ties in energy, connectivity, and trade.
The ministers also discussed expanding the strategic partnership between the two nations in defence, emerging technologies, nuclear energy, polar research, critical minerals, and renewable energy during the India-UAE Strategic Dialogue held a day prior.
At the JCM, both sides welcomed the operationalisation of the India-UAE bilateral investment treaty.
"They reaffirmed the strong trade relationship between the UAE and India, further enhanced by the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)," stated the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Formed during the G20 Summit in September 2023 in New Delhi, IMEEC envisions vast road, railroad, and shipping networks linking India, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and Europe to ensure greater integration across Asia, the Middle East, and the West.
The bilateral relationship, elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership following Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the UAE in August 2015, has seen a significant upswing, particularly after the signing of CEPA in 2022.
Both ministers appreciated expanded cooperation in emerging areas such as nuclear energy, critical minerals, and green hydrogen. They also commended the successful functioning of the IIT-Delhi Abu Dhabi campus.
Additionally, the two sides welcomed the launch of work on the Virtual Trade Corridor (VTC) and the MAITRI interface (Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface), further enhancing digital and trade connectivity.
Jaishankar and Al Nahyan also reportedly discussed regional developments, including the situation in Gaza and Syria, emphasizing their commitment to fostering stability and mutual growth in the region.
