UAE Envoy and IACCIA Chief set stage for strategic cooperation and regional prosperity
New Delhi
The India & Arab Countries Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (IACCIA) Acting Secretary General Dr. Waiel Awwad paid a courtesy visit to Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to India, His Excellency Dr. Abdulnaser Alshaali at the UAE Embassy in New Delhi.
Representing IACCIA, Dr. Awwad engaged in a constructive dialogue with H.E. Dr. Alshaali, focusing on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, innovation, and sustainable development between India and UAE.
During the discussions, both sides reflected on the strong and time-tested partnership between India and the UAE—one of the most dynamic bilateral relationships in the region. India conducts more business with the UAE than with any other Arab nation, making the UAE India’s third-largest trading partner globally and the second-largest export destination. The two countries share a robust Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which has significantly boosted bilateral trade and reduced tariffs, especially in key sectors such as gems and jewelry, petroleum products, food processing, and technology.
Dr. Awwad highlighted the vital role played by the India-Arab economic corridor in fostering mutual growth and prosperity. He noted that the trade volume between India and Arab countries exceeds $240 billion annually, reflecting the strength and potential of this historic partnership.
“The India-Arab partnership is built on a foundation of trust, shared values, and a common vision for inclusive development. Our dialogue with H.E. Dr. Alshaali reaffirmed our commitment to deepening this relationship across multiple sectors,” said Dr. Awwad.
He further expressed gratitude for the UAE’s visionary leadership and steadfast support in promoting regional integration and economic diplomacy. Both parties agreed on the need to explore new avenues for collaboration, particularly in areas such as clean energy, agritech, digital innovation, infrastructure, and tourism.
The meeting marked a significant step forward in IACCIA’s efforts to strengthen institutional and business linkages between India and the Arab region, with the shared goal of building resilient economies and promoting long-term strategic cooperation.