Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a comprehensive six-day tour covering the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. This high-level diplomatic mission underscores India’s growing footprint across both the Middle East and Europe.
First Leg: The United Arab Emirates
The Prime Minister’s first stop is the UAE, marking his eighth visit to the nation. He is scheduled to meet with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss a wide array of bilateral and international issues.
Key Focus Areas:
- Energy Security: Strengthening the long-standing petroleum and gas partnership.
- Regional Stability: Deliberating on the “unprecedented developments and challenges” currently facing the region.
- Strategic Cooperation: Expanding ties in technology and investment.
The Energy Pillar: By the Numbers
According to Aseem Mahajan, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, energy remains the bedrock of the India-UAE relationship. The partnership has seen significant milestones recently:
- Crude Oil: Last year, the UAE was India’s fourth-largest source of crude oil, fulfilling approximately 11% of India’s total requirement.
- LPG Imports: India sources nearly 40% of its Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from the UAE.
- LNG Contracts: Indian companies have secured long-term contracts for 4.5 million metric tonnes of LNG per year from the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC).
- Mutual Investment: Indian firms have significantly invested in UAE-based oil companies, signaling a shift from a simple buyer-seller dynamic to a deep-rooted strategic partnership.
Looking Ahead: Europe and Beyond
After his engagements in the UAE, the Prime Minister will travel to the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. These visits are expected to focus on:
- Innovation and Green Energy (particularly with the Nordic countries).
- Trade and Economic Ties with the Netherlands and Italy.
- Global Governance and multilateral cooperation.