Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s arrival in New Delhi marked his inaugural official visit to India, as stated by the ministry of external affairs.Upon his arrival, the Crown Prince was greeted by union minister of commerce and industry, Piyush Goyal, and received a ceremonial welcome.
After the talks, the crown prince paid to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat and laid down a wreath.
“A new milestone in a historic relationship. His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in Delhi on his first official visit to India. Warmly received by @CimGOI @piyushgoyal and accorded a ceremonial welcome,” MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal said in a post on X.
During his two-day visit on September 9-10, he will discuss bilateral cooperation with PM Modi, meet President Droupadi Murmu, and participate in a business forum in Mumbai.
MEA also highlighted the historically close and amicable relations between India and the UAE in a press release. “India and UAE share historically close and friendly ties. In recent years, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and UAE has deepened in a wide range of areas including political, trade, investment, connectivity, energy, technology, education, and culture. The Crown Prince’s visit will further reinforce strong India-UAE bilateral relations and open avenues for partnership in new and emerging areas,’ read the ministry’s statement.
Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri (Petroleum and Natural Gas), Piyush Goyal (Commerce and Industry), along with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and other officials, also attended the meeting.
Earlier this year, in February, PM Modi visited the UAE and held discussions with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the India-UAE bilateral relationship. They witnessed the exchange of eight agreements and welcomed the MoU for the creation of an intergovernmental framework between India and the UAE on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), reflecting the lead taken by both countries in promoting regional connectivity.
During his visit, PM Modi also inaugurated the BAPS Mandir, the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, and addressed the Indian diaspora at an event titled ‘Ahlan Modi’.