During his inaugural trip to the Gulf region following the onset of the conflict in West Asia six weeks ago, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held discussions with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. This two-day engagement is particularly significant as dialogue between the United States and Iran is currently taking place in Pakistan.
On the social media platform X, Jaishankar remarked, “It was a genuine pleasure to meet with DPM & FM @ABZayed of UAE in Abu Dhabi this evening. Our dialogue centered on the evolving regional dynamics and their implications.”
He expressed gratitude for the UAE’s efforts in safeguarding the Indian community, stating, “We deeply appreciate your commitment to the well-being of our citizens in the UAE. I am optimistic that our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will continue to strengthen.” Jaishankar began his official visit by engaging with members of the Indian community.
In his post on X, he noted, “I commenced my UAE visit by connecting with the Indian community. I discussed the Government of India’s initiatives aimed at their safety and welfare amidst the West Asia conflict. I acknowledged their contributions to the local society during these trying times, as well as the UAE government’s support in ensuring the welfare of the Indian populace.”
Jaishankar arrived in the UAE on Saturday after completing his participation in the 9th Indian Ocean Conference in Mauritius.
The ongoing conflict in West Asia, coupled with Iran’s control over the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz—a crucial shipping route for one-fifth of the world’s oil—has disrupted shipping operations and caused a spike in global oil prices.
The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, is responsible for approximately 20 percent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments. This region plays a vital role in India’s energy supply chain.
Concerns regarding interruptions in commercial shipping routes through the Strait have been escalating globally, although Iran has permitted vessels from allied nations to navigate the waterway.
In related news, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar announced that a group of 312 Indian fishermen who were stranded in Iran due to rising regional tensions have returned to India via Armenia. This return follows the recent evacuation of 345 Indian fishermen from Iran.
Jaishankar expressed his appreciation to Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan for facilitating the return of the Indian nationals. He stated on social media, “Another 312 Indian fishermen safely evacuated from Iran to India through Armenia. Thank you to the Government of Armenia and my friend @AraratMirzoyan for making this possible.”
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