Context

During Sheikh Khaled, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi's visit to Delhi this week, one particular engagement held symbolic importance for both him and the relationship between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India.

Overview

• During his visit to Rajghat, His Highness planted a tree in honour of Mahatma Gandhi, following in the footsteps of his father, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, who did the same in 2016, and his grandfather, the founding president Sheikh Zayed, who planted a tree there in 1992.
• The three trees planted by leaders from three generations will stand together as a symbol of the enduring and evolving relationship between our two countries. Despite stark differences—India’s vast size and population compared to the UAE’s, and contrasting economic foundations—our strongest connections lie in our shared interests and values, which are enriched by our diverse strengths and differences.

Strong bonds, rooted in both people and progress.

• Unique relationship: The success and uniqueness of the UAE-India relationship stem from its deep roots in affinity, trust, and respect, built over generations of human connections. Much like trees rely on strong roots to access water and nutrients for growth and stability, international partnerships require these fundamental qualities to flourish.
• Core of relationship: Our relationship has always centered on people and progress. Trade links between the Arabian Gulf and India date back thousands of years, with people, goods, and ideas flowing across the ocean. Archaeological finds in Abu Dhabi, such as pottery connected to the Indus Valley civilizations from over four millennia ago, highlight these ancient ties.  Today Many Emiratis sought medical treatment in India

Strength of expatriate

• The UAE hosts over 3.5 million Indians: The largest expatriate community , Our success is driven by our leaders' visionary dedication to tolerance, inclusion, and the empowerment of women and minorities. We deeply appreciate the significant role Indian nationals play in enhancing the strength and dynamism of our economy. The strong connection between our nations is evident in the fact that more than 1,500 flights operate between the UAE and India each week.
• Based on respect and true partnership: Relationships can achieve remarkable things. In February 2022, India was the first country to sign a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the UAE. Unlike typical lengthy and sometimes stalled negotiations, we reached this agreement in just six months due to our strong mutual trust. In its first year, our bilateral trade increased by over 15%, and we’ve secured billions in additional investments, with more ambitious goals ahead.
• Recent event: Sheikh Khaled recently attended the inauguration of the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi Abu Dhabi, the university's first international branch. We have signed agreements on vital areas like health innovation and renewable energy. During the Crown Prince’s visit, we will also finalize additional cooperation agreements, including one on civil nuclear technology. India's research on nuclear desalination for clean water, crucial for a desert nation like the UAE, highlights the many opportunities our partnership offers in green energy, medical technology, scientific research, and more.

Ties that will thrive

Following his grandfather’s example, Sheikh Khaled planted an amaltas tree (Cassia fistula), while his father, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, planted the moulsari tree (Mimusops elengi). The amaltas tree, which grows rapidly, represents opportunity and renewal, whereas the slower-growing moulsari symbolizes stability and patient trust. As the UAE and India continue to strengthen our comprehensive strategic partnership, these trees reflect our approach. We are confident in our mutual respect and long-standing connection, while also committed to continuous growth and innovation, renewing our partnership and discovering new ways to thrive together.

Conclusion

the recent visit of Sheikh Khaled to Delhi and the symbolic act of planting trees at Rajghat underscore the deep-rooted and evolving relationship between the UAE and India. This enduring partnership, built on a foundation of respect, trust, and shared values, continues to flourish through dynamic collaboration and mutual growth. The significant historical ties, robust economic interactions, and ongoing cooperation in key areas like technology and renewable energy exemplify the strength and potential of our bond. As we move forward, the symbolic trees—representing renewal, stability, and patient trust—serve as a testament to our commitment to nurturing this relationship and exploring new opportunities together.

Source : THE HINDU