New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reached a mutual agreement to enhance their defence and security cooperation, a fundamental aspect of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, while emphasizing their common commitment to regional peace, security, and stability.

During an official visit to India by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, both leaders discussed the extensive scope of their bilateral cooperation, recognizing that the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has grown stronger over the last decade.

This visit marked Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's fifth trip to India in ten years and his third official visit since becoming President of the UAE.

In their discussions, the leaders acknowledged the significance of recent visits by Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to India over the past two years, noting that these visits signify a generational continuity in their bilateral ties.

The leaders expressed deep respect for each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing the need for strategic autonomy. They recognized the robust and steady bilateral defence and security cooperation as a critical pillar of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The recent exchanges of visits by their respective Service Chiefs and successful bilateral military exercises were highlighted, along with the signing of a Letter of Intent aimed at establishing a Strategic Defence Partnership, as stated in a joint statement following their talks.

The two leaders firmly condemned terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism, asserting that no nation should shelter those who finance, plan, support, or execute terrorist acts. They committed to enhancing their cooperation within the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) framework to combat terror financing and bolster anti-money laundering initiatives.

Additionally, they exchanged perspectives on various regional and global issues of mutual concern and reaffirmed their shared interest in fostering regional peace, security, and stability.

They noted the excellent collaboration and mutual support at multilateral and plurilateral platforms. The UAE expressed its full support for India's upcoming BRICS Chairmanship in 2026, while India reciprocated by supporting the 2026 UN Water Conference, to be co-hosted by the UAE, which aims to expedite the implementation of SDG 6, focusing on the sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

Recognizing the rich cultural and historical ties between the two nations, Prime Minister Modi welcomed the UAE’s commitment to provide artefacts for the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal.

The leaders agreed to establish a 'House of India' in Abu Dhabi, symbolizing the enduring friendship between India and the UAE. They also committed to fostering vibrant people-to-people connections through youth exchanges to enhance cultural understanding.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him.

Earlier, PM Modi presented traditional Indian gifts to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, including a royal carved wooden jhula (swing) from Gujarat, symbolizing familial togetherness, and a Pashmina shawl elegantly packaged in a silver box, representing India’s rich handloom tradition. Notably, a similar Pashmina shawl and Kashmiri saffron were also gifted to Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi.

In a special gesture, Prime Minister Modi met President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Delhi airport, marking the commencement of his third official visit to India.

Both leaders traveled together from the airport, showcasing their longstanding friendship and the multifaceted partnership that exists between their nations. This visit is Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's fifth to India in the last decade.

“I went to the airport to welcome my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. His visit signifies the importance he places on a robust India-UAE friendship. I eagerly anticipate our discussions,” PM Modi shared on X.