Rajnath, UAE minister discuss key strategic partnership

New Delhi

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a meaningful meeting on Tuesday with Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, who also serves as the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence. The talks, held in New Delhi, focused on strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UAE, which Singh described as a matter of immense priority for India.

Sharing his thoughts on social media, Singh mentioned that the discussions were productive, highlighting key areas of cooperation such as defence collaboration, co-production, and co-development of projects. He also expressed India's interest in working more closely with the UAE in fields like innovation and technology in the coming years. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace and prosperity.

Earlier in the day, Sheikh Hamdan also met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who welcomed him warmly. Jaishankar noted the Crown Prince’s positive views about the strong and wide-ranging cooperation between the two nations, appreciating the vibrant and growing relationship.

Sheikh Hamdan arrived in India on April 8, 2025, for a two-day official visit, invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Upon his arrival, he was given a ceremonial welcome and greeted by Union Minister of State for Tourism and Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi. This visit marks his first official trip to India in his role as Crown Prince of Dubai.