Abu Dhabi, May 14 — UAE Minister Reem Al Hashimy emphasized the close personal and economic links between the United Arab Emirates and India in an interview ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit on May 15, 2026. She said it is common for Emiratis to have some connection to India, citing family members who turn to Indian traditional medicine and the shared respect for herbal knowledge in both countries.
Al Hashimy noted that trade remains a vital element of the relationship — from clothing and spices to broader human exchanges — and argued that a strong future requires both a strong India and a strong UAE. She pointed to the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) as a landmark that has already helped bilateral trade surpass the initial $100 billion target and said both sides are now aiming for $200 billion in trade.
The minister highlighted the contribution of India’s large diaspora in the UAE, noting nearly 4.5 million Indians live and work there and that their presence strengthens mutual understanding and cooperation. She described bilateral ties as dynamic, with each milestone revealing further opportunities for collaboration.
Technology and science are central to the next phase of cooperation, Al Hashimy said. She identified artificial intelligence, supercomputing, quantum research and infrastructure projects — including work under the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) — as priority areas. She added that embedding technology at the core of economic and governmental operations is essential for growth, efficiency and the ability to leapfrog development.
Al Hashimy called Modi a ‘‘key figure of friendship’’ whose visit is part of regular high-level exchanges; UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and other senior UAE officials have met Indian leaders several times this year. She expressed optimism that ongoing close coordination between “Team India and Team UAE” will continue to uncover new avenues of partnership.
Prime Minister Modi’s five-nation tour begins in the UAE and will continue to the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy. (Source: ANI)
