India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to UAE leaders during his April 11-12 visit for prioritizing the welfare of over 3.5 million Indian expatriates amid West Asia’s escalating tensions, following the collapse of US-Iran ceasefire negotiations in Pakistan.
In meetings with UAE Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and community interactions in Abu Dhabi, Jaishankar highlighted UAE’s support during the conflict, including safe evacuations like 312 fishermen from Iran via Armenia. He reviewed bilateral ties, energy security, and regional stability post-JD Vance’s announcement of no deal over nuclear and Strait of Hormuz issues.
Strategic Energy Diplomacy
The visit aligns with Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri’s Qatar trip to secure LNG/LPG flows after Hormuz disruptions spiked prices; UAE reaffirmed supply continuity despite Israeli-Lebanon strikes straining the truce. Jaishankar praised Indian contributions to UAE society amid global flux.
Broader Context
PM Modi previously thanked UAE President for diaspora safety; this underscores India’s non-aligned push for energy resilience as Trump vows Hormuz reopening by force if needed, with oil dipping below $100 on transit news.