Strengthening UAE-India Ties: Sheikh Khaled and Kerala CM Meet

Post by : Mara Rahim

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, engaged in a significant meeting with Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala. This official assembly sought to bolster the connection between the UAE and the Indian state of Kerala, reflecting the enduring friendship and respect fostered by both parties.

During their discussion, the leaders explored avenues to amplify cooperation in essential sectors coinciding with their nations’ strategic visions for growth and sustainable progress. They delved into enhancing economic, investment, trade, and developmental relationships, building upon years of collaborative efforts between the UAE and India.

Sheikh Khaled acknowledged the vital contributions made by the Indian community in the UAE and reiterated the country’s dedication to nurturing robust and inclusive relations with India, particularly with Kerala, which hosts a significant portion of the Indian expatriate community.

The dialogue unearthed opportunities to expand joint ventures across infrastructure, energy, healthcare, innovation, and tourism. The significance of sustainable development and technological innovation as key driving forces for future collaborations was emphasized by both sides.

They also discussed fresh frameworks for business cooperation targeting small and medium-sized enterprises, alongside promoting investment facilitation and knowledge sharing between Abu Dhabi and Kerala.

The leaders reaffirmed their collective aim of fostering inclusive economic growth through lasting partnerships that would benefit both communities. Sheikh Khaled noted that Abu Dhabi’s commitment to diversification and sustainability aligns well with Kerala’s aspirations for digital advancement, renewable energy solutions, and infrastructure improvements.

Chief Minister Vijayan expressed gratitude towards Abu Dhabi for fostering strong ties with Kerala, lauding the UAE as a benchmark for progress and tolerance. He extended his thanks to the UAE leadership for creating a supportive environment for millions of Keralites in the nation.

The meeting saw the attendance of notable officials from Abu Dhabi, including:

• Ahmed Jasem Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development;

• Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of the Office of the Crown Prince; and

• Maryam Eid AlMheiri, Chairperson of Abu Dhabi Media Office and Advisor of Strategic Relations at the Crown Prince Court.

Their presence underscored the UAE’s dedication to fostering collaboration at institutional and strategic levels, reinforcing ongoing projects and joint efforts with India.

This meeting builds on a long-standing partnership between the UAE and India, which has consistently broadened in trading, energy, and cultural exchanges. India remains one of the UAE's largest trading partners, while the UAE serves as a pivotal hub for Indian investment and innovation across the Middle East.

This relationship is further strengthened by substantial people-to-people connections, with over 3.5 million Indians residing in the UAE—many with roots in Kerala. This enduring social and economic bond fortifies mutual understanding and collaboration.

Both sides shared optimism that their discussions would yield new pathways for economic cooperation, digital advancement, and sustainable growth. Sheikh Khaled reaffirmed Abu Dhabi’s openness to explore additional areas of partnership with Kerala, supporting shared ambitions in development and innovation.

Chief Minister Vijayan observed that this meeting would pave the way for investment opportunities, job creation, and technology exchanges, propelling Kerala’s growth and elevating the welfare of its citizens abroad.

In conclusion, the meeting exemplified a mutual commitment to sustain dialogue and collaboration across various sectors. It marks a pivotal stride in enhancing UAE's diplomatic and economic relations with India’s states, echoing the wider vision of the UAE leadership to fortify global partnerships rooted in mutual respect and shared growth.