Paper: GS – II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: India’s Relations with Other Nation, Issue: India-UAE Relations.
Context:
India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to elevate defence ties during the visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to New Delhi. The move comes amid rising geopolitical churn in West Asia, particularly the Gaza conflict, Yemen instability, and increasing Saudi-Pakistan defence cooperation.
Key Takeaways:
Key Highlights of the India-UAE Agreement:
- Bilateral Strategic Defence Partnership: India and the UAE signed a “Letter of Intent for a Bilateral Strategic Defence Partnership” during the visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
- Trade Target: The two sides set a goal of doubling bilateral trade to $200 billion by 2032.
- Regional Issues: Discussions included the situation in Gaza, the protests in Iran, and the conflict in Yemen.
- Defence Cooperation Evolution: The Letter of Intent aims to create a framework agreement for a Strategic Defence Partnership, building upon existing defence cooperation.
- Energy Deal: Hindustan Petroleum Company Ltd (HPCL) and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company Gas (ADNOC) signed an energy deal for the purchase of 0.5 million Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MMPTA) of LNG by HPCL from ADNOC over 10 years, starting from 2028.
Defence Partnership:
- Context of Regional Tensions: The agreement comes amid growing military tensions in the Gulf region, particularly in Yemen.
- Saudi-Pakistan Defence Cooperation: There has been increased involvement of the Pakistani military in safeguarding Saudi defence and security interests, especially in Yemen, since the signing of a mutual defence agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan on September 17, 2025.
- Pressure on the UAE: The Saudi-Pakistan military alliance has been active in the Yemen theatre, increasing pressure on the UAE.
- Space Industry Collaboration: A Letter of Intent was signed between the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre and the Space Agency of the UAE for the development of the space industry in the UAE.
What are the Implications and Significance of the India-UAE Strategic Partnership Agreement?
The India-UAE LoI reflects a maturing strategic partnership driven by mutual trust, converging security interests, and economic complementarity. If institutionalised effectively, it can enhance India’s energy security, defence preparedness, and influence in West Asia – without compromising strategic autonomy.
Source: (The Indian Express, The Hindu)
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