How are India and UAE Expanding Defence Cooperation?
Synopsis
India and UAE are intensifying their defence ties, as pivotal discussions took place at the 16th Joint Commission Meeting. With key figures like Amitabh Prasad and Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed leading the talks, the nations are set on a path to strengthen their strategic partnership.
Key Takeaways
Amitabh Prasad met with UAE’s Ali Al Ahmed to discuss defence ties.
The meeting was part of the 16th Joint Commission Meeting .
Discussions aimed at deepening bilateral defence cooperation .
EAM S Jaishankar played a key role in the discussions.
India and UAE are committed to enhancing their strategic partnership.
Abu Dhabi, Dec 15 (NationPress) - Amitabh Prasad, the Joint Secretary for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Defence, engaged in discussions with Ali Al Ahmed, the UAE's Assistant Under Secretary of Defence Affairs, during the 16th India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting held on Monday. The primary focus of their talks was on enhancing bilateral defence cooperation.
The Directorate of Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence released a statement on X, indicating, "Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) Shri Amitabh Prasad met with Assistant Under Secretary of Defence Affairs, UAE MoD, Mr Ali Al Ahmed, on the sidelines of the 16th India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting. The discussions centered on further deepening and expanding bilateral defence cooperation."
The External Affairs Minister (EAM), S Jaishankar, will co-chair the 16th Joint Commission and the 5th Strategic Dialogue in Abu Dhabi on Monday alongside Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. This follows his participation in the Sir Bani Yas Forum in the UAE, as previously confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
On the previous day, EAM Jaishankar met with Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot during the Sir Bani Yas Forum 2025 in the UAE.
Following their interaction, EAM Jaishankar expressed on X, "It was a pleasure to meet DPM and FM Maxime Prevot of Belgium at the Sir Bani Yas Forum 2025."
Additionally, the EAM met several European ministers and shared insights about these engagements on X.
"Wonderful discussions with European colleagues, including DPM and FM Xavier Bettel of Luxembourg, DPM and FM Radoslaw Sikorski of Poland, and FM Baiba Braze of Latvia," EAM Jaishankar tweeted.
He also conversed with his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty at the Sir Bani Yas Forum. On Saturday, he met UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy in the context of the forum.
This marks EAM Jaishankar's second trip to the UAE in 2025. During his earlier visit in January, he had a meeting with President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed to discuss the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations and other regional and international topics of mutual concern.
He also had discussions with Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed, recalling the significant visit of the Crown Prince to India in September 2024, and explored avenues for future collaboration between India and the UAE. Furthermore, he held talks with Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
During his visit, EAM Jaishankar and Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed engaged in a bilateral meeting to discuss their countries' relations and exchanged perspectives on various regional and global issues. He also served as the Chief Guest at the inaugural Raisina Middle East Conference hosted by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) in Abu Dhabi, delivering the keynote speech at the event on January 28.
Point of View
The meetings between India and UAE officials underscore the growing importance of strategic collaborations in defence. As both nations navigate regional challenges, their commitment to enhancing bilateral ties reflects a shared vision for stability and security in the region. This engagement is beneficial not only for both countries but also for broader geopolitical stability.
NationPress
5 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main focus of the India-UAE meeting?
The primary focus was to enhance and deepen bilateral defence cooperation.
Who co-chaired the 16th Joint Commission Meeting?
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar co-chaired the meeting with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
When did EAM Jaishankar last visit the UAE?
EAM Jaishankar's last visit to the UAE was in January 2025.
What is the significance of the Raisina Middle East Conference?
The Raisina Middle East Conference is a platform for discussing key regional issues, where EAM Jaishankar delivered the keynote address.
What role does the UAE play in India's strategic partnerships?
The UAE is a crucial partner for India, especially in defence and security cooperation, reflecting a shared interest in regional stability.
