New Delhi, Sept. 18 -- UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Friday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed the evolving situation in West Asia and measures to further deepen the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to continued cooperation and coordination to promote peace, security and stability in the region, according to the Prime Minister's Office.
The call also had a personal note, with Sheikh Mohamed conveying warm birthday wishes to Modi, who turned 76 on Thursday. Thanking the UAE president, Modi described him as his "brother" in a post on X.
During the conversation, the two leaders discussed new measures to expand bilateral cooperation in energy, defence, technology, investment and health. The discussions come as India and the UAE continue to broaden their partnership beyond traditional economic and trade ties.
The West Asia situation figured prominently in the talks, with both sides exchanging views on developments in the region and reiterating their commitment to working together for regional peace, security and stability. The official statements did not announce any specific new initiative on the situation.
Sheikh Mohamed also congratulated Modi on India's successful BRICS Presidency. Modi, in turn, appreciated the participation of UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in the BRICS Summit in New Delhi and the UAE's cooperation and partnership in achieving substantive outcomes under India's presidency.
The conversation came days after the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi and amid continuing tensions in West Asia. The region remains important to India because of its links with energy supplies, trade and maritime routes, besides the presence of a large Indian community.
India and the UAE have steadily expanded cooperation across strategic and economic areas, with energy, defence, technology, investment and healthcare now forming part of the broader Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.