'India stands shoulder-to-shoulder with UAE': PM Modi in Abu Dhabi, condemns attacks, signs strategic defence pact

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday strongly condemned the attacks on the United Arab Emirates during delegation-level talks with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, as the two leaders discussed regional tensions, energy cooperation and strategic ties amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.PM Modi, who is on the first leg of his six-day tour covering the UAE and Europe, said, “We strongly condemn the attacks launched on the UAE. The manner in which UAE has been targetted is not acceptable in any form,” while reiterating India’s support for peace and stability in the region."The impact of the war in the West Asia region is seen across the world today. India has always given importance to dialogue and diplomacy for resolving issues. Keeping the Strait of Hormuz free, open and safe is our top priority. In this regard, it is essential to abide by international laws," PM Modi said."India stands shoulder-to-shoulder with UAE in every situation, and it will continue to do so. For the restoration of peace and stability, India will extend all possible cooperation," he added.PM Modi was received by President Sheikh Mohamed at the Presidential Airport and accorded a ceremonial welcome, with UAE F-16 fighter jets escorting his aircraft as it entered Emirati airspace."I thank my brother HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the special gesture of receiving me at Abu Dhabi airport. As you rightly said, I have arrived at my second home. These words constitute a most cherished asset of my life," PM Modi said.He also expressed gratitude for being received aboard a UAE Air Force aircraft, calling it "a tribute to the people of India."The two sides signed a framework agreement for a strategic defence partnership — a significant step that institutionalises security cooperation between the two countries.Other agreements included:- An MoU on strategic petroleum reserves- An agreement on liquefied petroleum gas supplies- An MoU to establish a ship repair cluster at Vadinar on India's western coastOn the investment front, the UAE announced commitments worth five billion US dollars into Indian infrastructure, RBL Bank and Samman Capital.PM Modi noted that the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and the UAE continues to grow stronger across multiple sectors."Given the current global landscape, the significance of the strategic partnership between India and the UAE has multiplied manifold. In the times ahead, we will continue to move forward together in every sphere," he said.