India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, is currently on an official visit to the UAE with the goal of further enhancing the strong bilateral ties between the two countries. During his visit, Dr Jaishankar attended the inauguration of the Symbiosis International University Dubai and engaged with students and alumni, highlighting the growing academic and cultural connections between India and the UAE.
S Jaishankar speaks at the inauguration of the Symbiosis International campus in Dubai
UAE-India Relations: Stronger Than Ever
Reflecting on the evolution of India-UAE relations over the last decade, Dr Jaishankar remarked, “If I were to look at foreign policy over the last 10 years, since 2014, to me the UAE relationship is one of the relationships that has actually changed most dramatically for the country (India).”
He emphasized the importance of strong political ties, adding, “When there are good political relations, the one consequence of that is an interesting dynamic. A good community promotes good political relations. Good political relations actually help the community.”
UAE’s Support for Indian Community During COVID-19
Dr Jaishankar also discussed the UAE’s exceptional support for its Indian expatriate community during the COVID-19 pandemic. He praised the UAE for its proactive measures in ensuring the welfare of its Indian residents, noting, “We saw during COVID that the manner in which the (Indian) community was taken care of in this part of the world was very different from many other places.”
Comparing UAE’s Response to Europe’s Treatment of Indian Nationals
Drawing a contrast between the UAE’s support and the situation in Europe, Jaishankar stated, “When we looked at people coming back (to India), we actually did not expect that so many people would return from Europe. They were largely left to fend for themselves.” He reiterated how the UAE’s swift action and care for the Indian community stood in sharp contrast to the treatment faced by expatriates in other parts of the world during the pandemic.pol
