Modi’s UAE visit delivers major defence, energy deals amid Middle East tensions

Sharing details of the visit, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, wrote on X that the visit witnessed the exchange of “important agreements in areas of energy, defence, infrastructure including shipping, and advanced technology,” further strengthening the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

During Modi’s meeting with Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, the two leaders discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation across key sectors including energy, trade and investment, blue economy, technology, fintech, defence and people-to-people ties.

Jaiswal said the leaders also exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia and other pressing global issues.

Prime Minister Modi condemned the recent Iranian strikes on the UAE following coordinated attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran on February 28, which sharply escalated tensions across the region.

As part of the visit, the UAE announced fresh investments worth USD 5 billion in India, aimed at boosting infrastructure development and strengthening Indian financial markets.

Earlier, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan personally welcomed Modi upon his arrival in the UAE as part of his ongoing five-nation diplomatic tour.

Reflecting on the visit, Modi wrote on X: “The friendship between India and UAE is very strong. Our nations will continue working together with the shared goal of building a better future for our planet.”

In a special gesture, a formation of F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets of the UAE Air Force escorted Modi’s aircraft as it entered Emirati airspace, underscoring the warmth of ties between the two nations, media reports said.