UAE President's Swift Delhi Visit Fuels Speculation, but Joint Statement Reveals Strategic Outcomes

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The visit of United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to New Delhi on Monday has sparked intense speculation online, with some reports suggesting it lasted as little as 1 hour 45 minutes. However, a joint statement issued by India and the UAE reveals a more nuanced story, highlighting the significance of the meeting and its strategic outcomes. The UAE President's visit, which took place at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was a brief but highly significant one. The two leaders reiterated their condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism, and emphasized the importance of strategic autonomy and bilateral defence cooperation. The joint statement listed 12 key outcomes of the meeting, including the signing of a Strategic Defence Partnership and the promotion of bilateral civil nuclear cooperation. The agreement also includes the signing of a sales and purchase agreement between Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Abu Dhabi National Company Gas (ADNOC Gas). The visit comes amidst a deepening row between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, a fellow Gulf country. The two oil-rich nations have been at odds over several issues, including oil production, economic visions, and regional policies. The UAE's visit to India may be seen as a strategic move to strengthen its ties with New Delhi and counterbalance its rival's influence in the region. While the brevity of the visit may have sparked speculation, the joint statement reveals a more complex and significant story. The UAE President's visit to India is a testament to the deepening ties between the two countries and their commitment to strengthening their bilateral cooperation in key areas such as defence, security, and economic growth.