In his first Gulf visit since the West Asia war erupted six weeks ago, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. Their conversation focused on the evolving regional situation and its implications. Jaishankar expressed appreciation for UAE's support to the Indian community.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on Saturday evening. Jaishankar posted on X, "A real pleasure to meet DPM & FM @ABZayed of UAE in Abu Dhabi this evening. Our conversation focused on the evolving regional situation and its implications."
He conveyed deep appreciation for ensuring the well-being of the Indian community in the UAE and expressed confidence that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will advance further. Jaishankar began his visit by interacting with members of the Indian community, discussing the Government of India's efforts for their well-being and security amid the West Asia conflict. He appreciated their contributions to local society and the UAE government's support.
This two-day visit comes amid US-Iran talks in Pakistan. The West Asia war and Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz—a vital waterway carrying 20 percent of global oil and LNG—have halted shipping and driven up oil prices. West Asia is a major source of India's energy.
Additionally, Jaishankar announced that 312 Indian fishermen stranded in Iran amid escalating tensions have been safely evacuated to India via Armenia. He thanked Armenian counterpart Ararat Mirzoyan for the assistance. This follows the evacuation of 345 fishermen a week earlier.
