Strengthening bilateral relations

The two-day official visit by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to India leading a high-level delegation marks another step in fortifying the relationship between the two countries. Bilateral ties are expected to be expanded as well as strengthened during the trip which begins today.

For decades, the UAE and India have enjoyed historic relations, not only in the political arena but also in the economic field.

The late Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan set the framework when he visited India in 1975, paving the way not only for the establishment of strong relations between the two countries but also making it possible for business to steadily grow.

Shaikh Mohammad's visit is expected to culminate in the signing of a number of key agreements. Needless to say, both the UAE and India enjoy expertise and proficiency in a variety of fields which are beneficial and necessary for both sides to utilise.

On the one hand, the UAE has successfully converted its economy from one that is dependent on oil to one that is able to generate income through non-oil activities.

This diversification has proven the country's innovative measures to find alternative sources of income. In addition, the country has been able to build a state-of-the-art infrastructure capable of catering to an increasing number of people.

The UAE has gained knowledge and expertise in the areas of property, project management and capital investment, among others. India in turn could also offer its know-how in many areas, which would prove beneficial to the UAE. This is especially so in technology, industry and manufacturing. Shaikh Mohammad's visit is certain to develop relations further between the two countries.