Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, 15 May declared that the India-UAE friendship remains “very strong” following “wide-ranging and productive” talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, with both nations pledging to work together toward “a better future for our planet.” The visit yielded a landmark USD 5 billion UAE investment commitment in India and the signing of key agreements spanning energy, defence, and advanced technology.

Key Developments from the Summit

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the two leaders held discussions on further deepening the bilateral partnership under the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework. Areas covered included energy, trade and investment, blue economy, fintech, defence, and people-to-people ties. Both sides also exchanged perspectives on developments in West Asia and broader global issues.

The UAE’s announced investment of USD 5 billion in India was flagged by the MEA as a “significant step” that will “further strengthen our markets and infrastructure” and deliver “a major boost to India’s energy security.”

What the Government Said

Modi strongly condemned what the MEA described as “recent attacks on the UAE” and attempts to violate its sovereignty and territorial integrity. In direct remarks to the UAE President, Modi said: “The way the UAE was targeted is unacceptable in any form. In these difficult circumstances, the restraint and courage you demonstrated are highly commendable.”

He also expressed gratitude for the UAE’s care of the Indian community during the crisis, stating: “The way you cared for the Indian community and looked after them like members of your own family, I express my heartfelt appreciation to the UAE government and the royal family for that.”

India’s Position on the Strait of Hormuz

Modi underlined that keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, free, and safe is India’s “highest priority,” calling for strict adherence to international law. “The impact of the war-like situation in the West Asia conflict is being felt across the world. India has always given priority to dialogue and diplomacy for resolving issues,” he said.

The remarks carry significant economic weight: the Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for India’s crude oil imports, with the country sourcing a substantial share of its energy needs from the Gulf region. Any disruption to navigation would directly affect India’s energy security calculus.

India’s Solidarity with the UAE

Modi offered unequivocal support, stating: “India stands shoulder to shoulder with the UAE in every situation and will continue to do so in the future as well. India is ready to provide every possible support for the restoration of peace and stability at the earliest.” The two leaders also reaffirmed their “shared commitment to peace, stability and prosperity,” according to the MEA.

What Comes Next

The agreements signed during the visit are expected to impart fresh momentum to bilateral cooperation, particularly in the energy and defence sectors. The USD 5 billion UAE investment is anticipated to flow into infrastructure and market development, though specific project timelines have not yet been disclosed. Observers will watch whether the Hormuz situation and broader West Asia tensions affect the pace of implementation.