Growing importance of India in global economy: Sheikh Nahyan

The UAE Minister of Tolerance was addressing the audience at the Wion Global Summit in Dubai.

Leading the conversation with the rising political tensions between India and Pakistan, and the ever-growing South Asia-UAE relations, ministers, thought leaders, and experts have kickstarted a conversation to explore sustainable solutions for promoting peace and prosperity in the region in Dubai.   
The Wion Global Summit titled 'Unleashing the Power of South Asia' kicked off in Dubai on Wednesday, February 20 in Dubai today. The sessions were inaugurated by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance, the chief guest and guest of honour.  
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Sheikh Nahyan said, "There is growing importance of India and South Asia in the global economy to have a strategic approach for unleashing the region's huge potential." He added, "The presence of so many of you in this summit is a testament to cooperation and positive relations with India and other Asian countries." 
He said the UAE plays a critical role in regional and global security. He said, "We are major participants in the global energy sector. Our economy is well situated to function in a global society providing an environment for economic and global cooperation. Furthermore, the UAE is active in promoting social and economic development in the region and the world."
Meanwhile, ambassador of India to the UAE Navdeep Singh Suri said a template is emerging between India - UAE relationship on what is possible to bolster trade, economy, and other sectors. He said a short stretch of water geographically separates India and UAE. "However, there have been new elements to our ties. Beginning with the PM visit in August 2015 and 2017 to the formation of the comprehensive strategic agreement, India is also UAE's largest trading partner."  
Other than trade or business, there have been other significant events that have defined India-UAE relations. He provided examples of the 'remarkable sight of seeing MK Gandhi on Burj Khalifa on Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 last year. Also, seven iconic buildings in Abu Dhabi were lit with the tri-colours on January 26, 2018." The first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, the opening of the Gandhi - Zayed digital museum and the return of some wanted criminals from UAE to India were also markers for India-UAE relations.
dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com