Mumbai, Oct. 27 -- External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed India's deep concern over the situation in the Gulf during talks with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Mumbai on Tuesday. He said India would support all efforts to promote dialogue and diplomacy amid continuing regional tensions.
Jaishankar also reiterated India's support for the free, safe and unimpeded movement of trade, energy and fertiliser. He thanked the UAE leadership for ensuring the well-being of the Indian community in the country, underlining the importance of the bilateral relationship during a period of heightened insecurity in West Asia.
Tensions between the US and Iran have persisted for months, affecting regional security and raising concerns around the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global energy supplies. The talks took place as developments involving Yemen and Saudi Arabia added to uncertainty across the region.
Saudi forces said on Tuesday that they had intercepted a Houthi ballistic missile directed towards Riyadh, according to an AFP report. Saudi civil defence said a warning had been issued through the National Early Warning Platform in Riyadh to alert residents to a potential danger. The incident was reported against the backdrop of the conflict between the Iran-aligned Houthis and forces supporting Yemen's internationally recognised government.
Sheikh Abdullah arrived in Mumbai on Monday for an official visit aimed at strengthening the partnership between India and the UAE. The Ministry of External Affairs said the visit reflected close and regular engagement between the two countries and would further reinforce their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Jaishankar had visited the UAE from October 14 to 16. His latest meeting with Sheikh Abdullah followed the UAE minister's arrival and focused on bilateral cooperation as well as regional developments. The discussions also highlighted India's interest in maintaining secure supply chains and protecting the interests of its citizens in the Gulf.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.