Abu Dhabi — UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Al Hashimy said energy supplies have effectively been “weaponised” as the Strait of Hormuz is treated like a hostage, and stressed that the UAE remains a responsible global player in the energy sector.
In an interview ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the UAE, Al Hashimy said one reason the UAE recently left OPEC was to ensure it could produce closer to its full capacity, especially at a time when global supply is strained by the conflict in West Asia.
“Energy is compromised around the world because the Strait of Hormuz has effectively been taken hostage,” she said, noting that disruptions ripple into households and markets worldwide, including in India. That dynamic, she added, will figure in talks during Modi’s visit.
Al Hashimy reiterated that the UAE wants to fulfil a responsible partnership role by increasing output where possible. She said the country’s decision to exit OPEC reflects its intention to use its production capacity to help stabilise markets amid supply challenges.
The West Asia conflict that began on February 28 — involving the US and Israel on one side and Iran on the other — has contributed to global energy disruptions. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical artery for maritime oil flows, handling roughly 20 percent of the world’s traded fuel, and any closure or standoff there has wide-reaching consequences.
On bilateral ties, Al Hashimy described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “key figure of friendship” and praised the long-standing partnership between India and the UAE. She said UAE leaders and Indian counterparts have maintained regular high-level exchanges: President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed visited India in January, and the Crown Prince attended the AI Summit in February.
Modi is scheduled to begin a five-nation tour with the UAE on May 15, 2026, followed by visits to the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy. The UAE said it looks forward to furthering cooperation during his visit.
