How Are India and UAE Strengthening Their Military Engagement?

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How Are India and UAE Strengthening Their Military Engagement?

Synopsis

In a significant meeting, the Chief of Army Staff of India, General Upendra Dwivedi, engaged with UAE's military leaders in Abu Dhabi to boost military collaboration and defence ties. Discover how these discussions could shape the future of defence cooperation between India and UAE.

Key Takeaways

  • Enhanced military collaboration between India and UAE.
  • Focus on bilateral defence cooperation.
  • Insight into the UAE's military heritage.
  • Meetings with senior military leadership.
  • Commitment to regional security and stability.

Abu Dhabi, Jan 5 (NationPress) General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of India, met with Major General Staff Yousef Maayouf Saeed Al Hallami, the Commander of the UAE's Land Forces, on Monday. Their discussions aimed to enhance military collaboration, align training efforts, and advance bilateral defence cooperation between the two countries.

According to a statement from the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI), "During his visit to the UAE, General Upendra Dwivedi engaged with Major General Staff Yousef Maayouf Saeed Al Hallami. The discussions centered on fostering positive military engagement, aligning training protocols, and enhancing bilateral defence cooperation between India and the UAE."

Furthermore, the COAS toured the Land Forces Museum, where he learned about the rich heritage and military traditions of the UAE Land Forces.

Earlier that day, General Dwivedi met with India’s Ambassador to the UAE, Deepak Mittal, to discuss ways to further bolster India-UAE relations.

The ADGPI noted, "The discussions with Ambassador Deepak Mittal were geared towards strengthening bilateral ties, with a focus on military diplomacy, defence engagement, and enhancing strategic relationships between India and the UAE."

General Dwivedi's visit underscores India's commitment to strengthening defence cooperation and military-to-military ties with allied nations. He plans to meet with senior UAE Armed Forces leaders and receive briefings on the UAE Army's structure and capabilities.

He will also visit key military sites and engage with officers and troops, highlighting the growing defence partnership. Additionally, General Dwivedi will address officers at the UAE National Defence College.

The Ministry of Defence stated, "These engagements aim to further enhance bilateral defence cooperation, professional military exchanges, and strategic understanding between the two armed forces."

After his UAE engagements, General Upendra Dwivedi will travel to Sri Lanka from January 7-8, where he will receive a Guard of Honour from the Sri Lanka Army and meet with senior military and civil leaders.

His agenda includes discussions on mutual interests, including training cooperation and regional security. He will also address officers at the Defence Services Command and Staff College and pay tribute at the IPKF War Memorial.

The Ministry of Defence remarked, "The visit of the Chief of the Army Staff to the UAE and Sri Lanka reaffirms India’s dedication to strengthening defence cooperation, fostering mutual trust, and enhancing interoperability with friendly nations in the Indian Ocean Region and West Asia."

Point of View

It is essential to recognize the strategic importance of India's military engagement with the UAE. This collaboration not only strengthens bilateral ties but also enhances regional stability and security. The commitment shown by both nations reflects a shared vision for peace and cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
NationPress
07/01/2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the main focus of the discussions between India and UAE military leaders?
The primary focus was on enhancing military engagement, training convergence, and advancing bilateral defence cooperation.
Who is General Upendra Dwivedi?
General Upendra Dwivedi is the Chief of Army Staff of India.
What role does Major General Staff Yousef Maayouf Saeed Al Hallami hold?
He is the Commander of the UAE Land Forces.
What will General Dwivedi do during his visit to the UAE?
He will meet senior UAE Armed Forces leadership, visit military establishments, and address officers at the UAE National Defence College.
What is the significance of these military discussions?
These discussions are crucial for strengthening defence ties and ensuring mutual trust and security between India and the UAE.
Nation Press