Jaishankar meets Ras Al Khaimah ruler to discuss India-UAE ties and Gulf

Jaishankar meets Ras Al Khaimah ruler to discuss India-UAE ties and Gulf Indian foreign minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar arrived in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah on Tuesday to meet His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saeed Al Qasimi, a meeting that underscored the deepening ties between India and the United Arab Emirates. The visit took place at a time when both countries are looking to expand cooperation across a range of sectors, including energy, trade and security, and to coordinate on broader regional issues in the Gulf..

The discussions began with a cordial greeting and a brief tour of the ruler’s palace, during which the two leaders exchanged views on the significance of a stable Gulf region for India’s economic and strategic interests. Sheikh Saud highlighted Ras Al Khaimah’s role as a growing commercial hub, while Dr. Jaishankar underscored India’s need for reliable energy supplies and secure maritime routes..

A key element of the meeting was the emphasis on energy cooperation. Sheikh Saud confirmed that Ras Al Khaimah is looking to attract investment in its petrochemical and renewable energy sectors, and he expressed willingness to work with Indian companies. Jaishankar, in turn, stressed India’s interest in long‑term LNG contracts and joint exploration projects in the Gulf..

The two sides agreed to explore opportunities for collaboration on hydrogen production, a sector that both countries see as pivotal for future energy security. Trade and investment were also on the agenda, with Dr. Jaishankar noting that Indian exports to the UAE have grown steadily, yet he identified sectors where further expansion is possible..

He urged the Emirati government to streamline customs procedures and enhance the business environment for Indian firms. Sheikh Saud welcomed these suggestions, pointing out that Ras Al Khaimah is actively working to improve its infrastructure and to provide incentives for foreign investment. Security cooperation was another focal point of the talks..

Both leaders acknowledged the growing challenges posed by regional instability, including the situation in Yemen and the threat of piracy off the Arabian Gulf coast. They discussed the possibility of increased intelligence sharing and joint naval exercises. Jaishankar affirmed India’s commitment to the UAE’s security architecture, while Sheikh Saud highlighted the importance of a coordinated response to regional threats..

The two leaders also discussed the situation in Pakistan, a perennial issue in India‑UAE relations. Jaishankar reiterated India’s concerns over the security situation in the border region, and he asked the Emirati ruler to continue playing a constructive role in mediating the dispute. Sheikh Saud expressed confidence that the UAE would remain a neutral interlocutor and would support diplomatic solutions that promote stability in the region..

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to enhance people‑to‑people ties, including cultural exchanges and educational cooperation. Jaishankar announced that India will support a new scholarship programme for Emirati students in Indian universities, while Sheikh Saud pledged to facilitate Indian cultural festivals in Ras Al Khaimah. Both leaders agreed that strengthening these ties would foster greater understanding between the peoples of the two countries..

In the aftermath of the meeting, the Indian foreign ministry issued a statement praising the constructive dialogue and stressing that the bilateral relationship was on a steady upward trajectory. The statement highlighted the strategic importance of the Gulf for India’s energy security and affirmed the mutual benefits of the cooperation outlined during the talks. The visit is seen as part of a broader strategy by India to diversify its diplomatic engagement across the Gulf..

By deepening ties with the UAE, India aims to secure a more diversified supply of oil and gas, to strengthen maritime security in the Arabian Sea, and to create a platform for engagement with other Gulf states. The engagement also reflects India’s ambition to play a greater role in regional governance. Looking ahead, both leaders expressed optimism about future collaborations..

They agreed to establish a joint task force to explore further investment opportunities and to streamline visa procedures for business travellers. The task force will also look into the development of new maritime infrastructure projects that could benefit both countries. The meeting has been welcomed by business communities in both nations, who see the potential for new trade deals and investment flows..

Analysts note that the discussions could lead to a significant uptick in Indian participation in the UAE’s burgeoning green‑energy projects, and that the partnership may set a precedent for India’s engagement with other Gulf Cooperation Council members..