Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a five-nation diplomatic tour on May 15, 2024, with a state visit to the United Arab Emirates [1].
The visit occurs amid heightened regional geopolitical tensions and an ongoing war involving Iran. By positioning India as a mediator and strengthening defense ties with the UAE, Modi aims to secure Indian interests and promote stability in West Asia.
During his time in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Modi met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Dubai Crown Prince [2]. These meetings resulted in the announcement of new strategic defense agreements intended to bolster bilateral cooperation [2].
Modi addressed the current volatility in the region, specifically condemning attacks on UAE facilities during the Iran war [3]. He said that India is ready to help bring peace to West Asia [3].
The Prime Minister also highlighted the social ties between the two nations. "We thank the UAE for caring for Indians," Modi said [3].
This state visit serves as the first stop of a broader diplomatic mission spanning six days and five nations [1]. The tour is designed to strengthen strategic partnerships across multiple regions while asserting India's role as a global diplomatic player [1].
“India is ready to help bring peace to West Asia.”
India's offer to mediate peace in West Asia signals a shift toward a more proactive foreign policy in a region critical for its energy security and diaspora. By coupling these diplomatic overtures with concrete defense agreements, India is deepening its strategic interdependence with the UAE to hedge against regional instability.
