India-UAE trade crosses US$100 bn; first India-UAE-US trilateral in Mumbai
Why in the news
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held talks with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Mumbai on 20 October 2026. The same day, India, the UAE and the US held a trilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Key facts
- Trade milestone: Jaishankar said India-UAE bilateral trade has crossed US$100 billion since the CEPA was signed, and two-way investment is rising.
- Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: he said the relationship is living up to its promise, with defence, energy and technology ties gaining a strategic character.
- Trilateral: India, the UAE and the US exchanged views on energy, connectivity and contemporary developments, including regional security.
- Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor attended.
- Jaishankar and Rubio also held a bilateral meeting on energy security and defence cooperation.
- No signed agreements or joint statements were reported.
About the India-UAE CEPA
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Signed | 18 February 2022 (virtual summit) |
| In force | 1 May 2022 |
| Trade FY 2020-21 | About US$43.3 billion (merchandise) |
| Trade FY 2023-24 | US$83.7 billion (merchandise) |
| Earlier target | US$100 billion non-oil trade by 2030 |
Jaishankar had visited the UAE from 14 to 16 October 2026 and attended the Raisina Middle East Dialogue in Abu Dhabi.
Exam angle
- CEPA dates: signed 18 February 2022, in force 1 May 2022.
- UAE Foreign Minister: Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan; US Secretary of State: Marco Rubio.
- Venue of the meetings: Mumbai.