External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday met UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, thanking him for the support extended to the Indian community amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia and reaffirming India’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties.During the meeting, Jaishankar conveyed the warm greetings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed appreciation for the UAE leadership’s efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of the large Indian diaspora in the country during the current regional uncertainty.“Deeply honoured to call on the President of the UAE,” Jaishankar said, noting that discussions focused on advancing the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and expanding cooperation across key sectors.The External Affairs Minister also met UAE’s Deputy PM Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, during which he yet again conveyed the Government of India’s appreciation for safeguarding the welfare of the Indian community in Dubai.The visit comes against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions in West Asia, with India intensifying diplomatic outreach to key regional partners to protect its strategic interests and diaspora.Earlier, Jaishankar held talks with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with the discussions focusing on regional security, economic cooperation and evolving geopolitical developments.He further interacted with members of the Indian community, underlining New Delhi’s continued focus on their safety and engagement during a period of instability.The visit underscores the growing momentum in the India-UAE ties, with both countries seeking to navigate regional challenges while deepening their comprehensive strategic partnership.Meanwhile, Minister of State Pabitra Margherita offered solemn respects on behalf of the Government of India at the 40th day (Chehlum) mourning event of Iran’s Supreme Leader, the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, organised by the Iranian embassy in New Delhi.“The India-Iran relations are anchored in deep-rooted civilisational, cultural and people-to-people ties,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.As per the Pakistan High Commission in India, their Chargé d’Affaires, Saad Warraich, also attended the event.


