India has affirmed its commitment to assisting in the restoration of peace and stability in West Asia, as stated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent discussions with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed in Abu Dhabi. Modi conveyed India’s condemnation of attacks on the UAE and commended the country’s leadership for its measured response amidst regional tensions.
During the meeting, Modi reassured Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed of India’s unwavering support for the UAE in all circumstances. He emphasized that India prioritizes dialogue and diplomacy as means of resolving international issues, considering the widespread impact of the unstable situation in West Asia. Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that India is prepared to offer comprehensive support to facilitate the early attainment of peace and stability in the region. The Prime Minister also articulated India’s firm stance on ensuring safe passage and unimpeded navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for regional peace, energy security, and food supplies.
Modi stressed the paramount importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, free, and secure, asserting that adherence to international laws is essential for maintaining stability. These discussions occurred against a backdrop of heightened tensions, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran following reported US-Israeli military actions in February. The UAE, which hosts a US military base, has reportedly been subjected to Iranian strikes amidst the ongoing conflict.
The Prime Minister reiterated India’s strong condemnation of the attacks on the UAE and expressed solidarity with the country’s leadership and its people. (Modi said, “We strongly condemn the attack that took place in the UAE. The way the UAE was targeted is unacceptable in any form.”) The statement followed an incident last week where three Indian nationals were injured in a fire at the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone (FOIZ) after a drone strike, an attack that the UAE’s Ministry of Defence attributed to Iran.
Modi acknowledged the challenging circumstances faced by the UAE and praised the leadership’s restraint, courage and wisdom in handling the situation. He also expressed gratitude to the UAE president for the care extended to the Indian community residing in the Gulf nation. The ongoing conflict in West Asia has escalated concerns in India about potential disruptions to the supply of crude oil and gas, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz. (PTI reported that) approximately 20 per cent of the world’s total petroleum supply flows through this strategic chokepoint, and the conflict has severely destabilized global energy markets due to Tehran’s blockade.
The Prime Minister’s comments underscore India’s increasing role as a key player in regional diplomacy and its commitment to fostering stability in the Gulf. The economic and strategic ties between India and the UAE have grown significantly in recent years, with both countries collaborating on various fronts, including trade, investment, and security. India’s offer to support peace efforts in West Asia reflects its broader foreign policy objective of promoting stability and cooperation in its extended neighborhood. The focus on maintaining the Strait of Hormuz as a safe and open waterway highlights India’s concern about energy security and its strategic interests in the region.
Analysts note that India’s engagement in the West Asia peace process aligns with its long-standing policy of advocating for peaceful resolution of conflicts and promoting dialogue among nations. India’s historical ties with countries in the region, coupled with its growing economic and strategic partnerships, position it as a potential mediator and facilitator of peace talks. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on adherence to international laws underscores India’s commitment to a rule-based global order and its belief in the importance of multilateralism in addressing complex international challenges.
The current situation in West Asia presents numerous challenges, including geopolitical rivalries, sectarian conflicts, and the threat of terrorism. India’s proactive approach and its offer to extend all possible support reflect its recognition of the interconnectedness of global security and its willingness to play a constructive role in addressing these challenges. As the situation in the region continues to evolve, India’s engagement and its commitment to peace and stability will be closely watched by the international community.
The discussions between Prime Minister Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed also touched upon various aspects of bilateral cooperation, including trade, investment, and energy security. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership between India and the UAE and to exploring new avenues of collaboration in areas such as renewable energy, technology, and infrastructure. The strong personal rapport between the two leaders is seen as a key factor in driving the continued growth of the India-UAE partnership.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.