Abdulnasser Alshaali, the UAE Ambassador to India, emphasized the growing economic relations between India and the UAE, especially through initiatives like the UAE-India CEPA Council. This council was established during the Vibrant Gujarat Summit on January 10, 2024, and is designed to ensure that both countries’ business communities fully capitalize on the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which has been in effect since May 2022.
Ambassador Alshaali pointed out that the UAE and India have been actively organizing business events and roundtables across India to enhance bilateral trade and foster entrepreneurship. He specifically mentioned the importance of engaging with women entrepreneurs, noting that in the UAE, 23,000 women manage $30 billion in assets. He highlighted that India is also seeing women achieving great success in various sectors, building successful businesses with innovative ideas.
The Ambassador praised the contributions of Indian women in business and stressed the importance of recognizing their achievements in strengthening bilateral relations and expanding economic ties. He also shared that the focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs would be crucial for future growth in the relationship between India and the UAE.
Regarding the role of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ambassador Alshaali noted that PM Modi’s strong bond with the UAE and its leadership has provided momentum to the bilateral relationship. He highlighted the significance of high-level visits and engagements in driving the India-UAE relationship forward.
Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Alshaali reflected on the historical and ancient nature of the India-UAE relationship, with deep cultural and business ties dating back centuries. He expressed gratitude for the leadership of PM Modi and UAE’s Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who are propelling the relationship to new heights.
