Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is set to visit India on September 9, 2024, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This two-day visit marks Sheikh Khaled’s first trip to India as crown prince, with the agenda focused on deepening the already strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled will hold discussions with PM Modi, covering a broad range of topics related to bilateral cooperation. The visit also includes meetings with President Droupadi Murmu and a stop at Rajghat, where Prince Sheikh Khaled will pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. The crown prince’s delegation will consist of key UAE ministers and a business group, highlighting the economic focus of the visit.
UAE-India Business Forum in Mumbai
A business forum in Mumbai on September 10 will be a significant feature of the visit, with business leaders from both India and the UAE participating. The event is expected to explore new avenues for trade and investment, following the momentum set by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in February 2022, which has enhanced market access and reduced tariffs between the two countries.
Growing UAE-India Partnership
The relationship between India and the UAE has seen significant growth in recent years, particularly since PM Modi’s landmark visit to the UAE in 2015, which elevated bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The UAE is also one of India’s top investors, with substantial foreign direct investments in 2022-23, underscoring the growing economic ties.
Earlier this year, Sheikh Khaled’s father, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, met PM Modi during the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, further cementing the close relationship between the two nations. With this upcoming visit, both countries aim to expand their partnership across various sectors.