Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has lauded the strong and evolving relationship between India and the UAE, calling it a benchmark for successful global partnerships.

Wrapping up his two-day official visit to India, Sheikh Hamdan expressed “heartfelt gratitude” to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian people for their warm hospitality.

“The UAE and India share civilizational ties that span centuries. Today, we move forward in a spirit of partnership, working toward a brighter future that reflects our shared values and serves the mutual interests of our peoples,” the Crown Prince posted on X.

He emphasized that both nations are “building lasting bridges of friendship and cooperation,” backed by a shared vision that transcends borders and bolsters global collaboration.

During his visit, PM Modi hosted Sheikh Hamdan for a working lunch at his Lok Kalyan Marg residence, where the Crown Prince presented him with a replica of his grandfather Sheikh Rashid’s bisht, symbolizing the historical and political ties between the nations.

The leaders discussed ways to deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UAE, including enhancing cultural, economic, and people-to-people connections. PM Modi shared his regards for UAE President Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Ruler of Dubai Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and also conveyed good wishes for the Crown Prince’s newborn daughter.

The Crown Prince met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to explore opportunities in defence cooperation, co-development, and regional peace initiatives. Singh reaffirmed India’s prioritization of the strategic relationship with the UAE.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal also held meetings with the Crown Prince. Goyal highlighted the success of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and welcomed new MoUs aimed at enhancing bilateral trade.

The visit also included a symbolic gesture as the Crown Prince presented an original newspaper article documenting his father’s heroic act in rescuing Indian Airlines passengers in 1984.

The leaders praised progress on the Virtual Trade Corridor (VTC), which is expected to significantly facilitate trade and contribute to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).

This visit reaffirms the strong and dynamic ties between India and the UAE, further paving the way for strengthened collaboration across sectors.