Abu Dhabi, UAE: UAE’s Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, highlighted the significance of the Indiaspora’s Forum for Good (IFG) 2025 Summit in Abu Dhabi, emphasizing its role in deepening the enduring friendship between the people of India and the United Arab Emirates.

Speaking at the plenary session at the Grand Hyatt in Abu Dhabi on February 24, 2025, Al Nahyan stated, “It is a delight to be in the presence of such imaginative, talented, and dedicated global leaders… I thank all of you for your efforts to improve human condition and to sustain the development and progress of society.”

He emphasized the summit’s importance in generating ideas and exchanging knowledge on major global challenges. According to him, the delegates embody a strong belief that shared values and ideas between both countries can unite them and help address today’s global challenges effectively.

“Our dialogue and cooperation within a global community encourage the development of new ideas and initiatives that will benefit everyone. Your presence here in Abu Dhabi is an indication of the special relationship between our two countries,” he added.

Reflecting on the long-standing ties between India and the UAE, he noted that many Indians working in the UAE enjoy “respect and prosperity,” contributing significantly to the country’s social and economic fabric.

He reiterated that the UAE regards India as a special partner and looks forward to enhancing mutual understanding, cooperation, and joint ventures between both nations.

The summit has brought together global stakeholders to mobilize efforts in addressing key issues such as business, technology, healthcare, ethics, spirituality, culture, environment, security, education, and leadership. 

Al Nahyan remarked, “This is our good fortune that we do not have to solve those global issues by the end of your three-day conference. However, when the summit ends, you will have fresh and powerful ideas as well as new relationships with other participants.”

He encouraged delegates to engage in meaningful discussions, explore diverse perspectives, and leverage networking opportunities to foster collaboration. The knowledge gained during this summit will help shape their views on global issues, benefit their lives and careers, and provide opportunities to ask the right questions and explore promising ideas, he added.

Expressing his appreciation, he said, “I am delighted that you are having this growth and education experience here in Abu Dhabi,” highlighting the UAE’s commitment to lasting international partnerships.

“We have become a global force for prosperity and peace. We have transformed our landscape and provided a safe and stable environment that nurtures imaginative innovation. The United Arab Emirates is a land of opportunity,” he conveyed. 

He credited UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s “wise leadership” for the nation’s achievements across various fields. The UAE, he emphasized, is deeply engaged in global economic and political matters, playing a crucial role not only in its own development but also in addressing international challenges.

Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, hailed Sheikh Nahyan as the “greatest friend of India and the Indian community in the UAE.” He welcomed diaspora leaders representing the 32-million-strong global Indian community to Abu Dhabi.

Ambassador Sudhir emphasized today India is perceived very differently as compared to 10 years ago. It’s not just India’s contribution to world economy as the fastest growing economy in the world, but India’s role is much deeper. Today, India’s voice is heard and is a factor of peace and progress in the world.

Ambassador Sudhir highlighted India’s evolving global stature, noting that it is not only the fastest-growing economy but also a key player in global peace and progress. He pointed out India’s independent foreign policy, balancing relations with major global powers while ensuring the well-being of its citizens worldwide.

India’s proactive role in global humanitarian efforts was also emphasized, including evacuations from conflict zones and vaccine distribution to over 100 countries.

He acknowledged the UAE’s leadership in artificial intelligence and innovation, positioning itself as a global hub for business and diaspora engagement. He also noted the success of the BAPS Hindu temple, which attracted over 2.2 million visitors in its first year.

Speaking on the economic partnership between the two nations, he revealed that their bilateral trade surged to $5 billion in 2022, making India the UAE’s largest trading partner and the UAE India’s third-largest trading partner.

He underscored the strengthening ties between India and the UAE, citing recent high-level visits. Over the past 18 months, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has visited thrice to the UAE, while President Zayed has visited India twice. In September, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, visited India, reinforcing the generational continuity in the relationship between the two nations.

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