Read the Prime Minister’s message as he prepares for his diplomatic tour of the UAE and Qatar
I will be embarking on an official visit to the United Arab Emirates from February 13th to 14th, followed by a trip to Qatar from February 14th to 15th. This marks my seventh visit to the UAE and my second visit to Qatar since 2014.
Over the past nine years, our collaboration with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) across various sectors including trade, investment, defense, security, food, energy security, and education has experienced significant growth. Our cultural and interpersonal connections are now stronger than ever before. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to meet with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, in Abu Dhabi to engage in extensive discussions regarding the advancement of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Recently, I had the honor of hosting His Highness in Gujarat, where he served as the Chief Guest at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024.
Upon the gracious invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Defense Minister of the UAE, as well as the Ruler of Dubai, I will be delivering a speech at the World Government Summit in Dubai on February 14, 2024, alongside other world leaders. My interactions with Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid during the Summit will concentrate on fortifying our multifaceted relations with Dubai. Furthermore, I will be inaugurating the inaugural Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, symbolizing the enduring principles of harmony, peace, and tolerance shared by both India and the UAE.
Additionally, I am scheduled to address the Indian community from all Emirates of the UAE at a special event in Abu Dhabi. In Qatar, I eagerly await meetings with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir, whose leadership has propelled Qatar toward remarkable growth and transformation. I also anticipate engaging with other esteemed dignitaries in Qatar.
India and Qatar have a long-standing history of close and amicable relations. In recent times, our multifaceted connections have continued to deepen across various domains, encompassing high-level political exchanges, expanding trade and investment, bolstering energy collaboration, and fostering cultural and educational cooperation. The substantial presence of over 800,000 Indian nationals in Doha underscores the strength of our interpersonal bonds.