External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met UAE Ambassador to India Abdulla Saif Al Nuaimi in New Delhi, with discussions focusing on further strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing the strategic partnership between India and the United Arab Emirates.

The meeting reflected the continuing high-level engagement between the two countries, which have significantly expanded cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, energy, connectivity, technology and cultural exchanges.

Sharing details of the interaction on X, Jaishankar highlighted the importance of deepening ties between the two nations. He stated, "Glad to receive Ambassador H.E. Abdulla Saif Al Nuaimi of the UAE today. We discussed deepening our bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership."

The discussion comes at a time when India and the UAE continue to maintain strong diplomatic and economic relations. In recent years, bilateral ties have been strengthened through frequent leadership-level exchanges, expanding commercial engagement and collaboration on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Earlier this month, Ambassador Al Nuaimi participated in his first Diwali celebrations in India, hosting a special gathering at the UAE Embassy in New Delhi alongside embassy staff and their families.

The celebrations featured traditional festive decorations, including illuminated displays, a large floral Rangoli and Diyas, reflecting the spirit of one of India's most widely celebrated festivals. Embassy personnel were also seen lighting Diyas together and taking part in group photographs during the event.

Recalling the occasion, Al Nuaimi said, "My first Diwali in India was made all the more special with a lovely and warm celebration alongside members of the UAE Embassy in New Delhi. It was a wonderful opportunity to share in the joy, festive spirit and beautiful traditions of this special occasion. Wishing everyone a very Happy Diwali!"

The ambassador's participation underscored the strong people-to-people links between India and the UAE, an important pillar of the broader bilateral relationship.

India and the UAE share a comprehensive strategic partnership that spans economic, diplomatic, cultural and people-centric cooperation. The relationship has continued to grow in both scope and depth, reinforcing the two countries' commitment to closer engagement and long-term collaboration.

ANI