External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has highlighted the significant expansion of India’s engagement with the Middle East in recent years, calling the region a “extended neighborhood ” and highlighting its crucial role in global connectivity. Speaking at the Raisina Middle East Forum in Abu Dhabi, Jaishankar described the Middle East as an essential partner for India, serving as a key gateway to Africa and beyond.

Jaishankar pointed to the strong ties between India and the Middle East, driven by strong trade, connectivity and people-to-people ties. In an era of rapid global change, India must address challenges and opportunities through a shared agenda and common purpose that it actively pursues with Gulf, MENA and Mediterranean nations.

He also highlighted emerging areas of cooperation, including green technologies such as hydrogen and ammonia, education and manufacturing. Jaishankar noted that India’s deep engagement with the region will help address pressing global issues such as food security, technological advancements and climate challenges.

Jaishankar also discussed the global debates surrounding the balance between progress and tradition, suggesting that attempts to impose universal norms can undermine national sovereignty. He called for greater cooperation between India and the nations of the Middle East in shaping the evolving global order, especially in the face of disruptive global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts.

The Minister pointed out India’s role in important infrastructure projects such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), which aim to enhance regional connectivity. Jaishankar’s visit to the UAE from January 27-29 is part of efforts to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UAE.