Gulf economies, particularly the UAE, have experienced remarkable transformations over recent decades, evolving into key hubs for global connectivity, energy, trade, and even education for India. This progress underscores the deepening of India-UAE relations, with both nations now entering an 'era of new milestones,' as stated by S. Jaishankar, India's Minister of External Affairs, during his Thursday address at the launch of Symbiosis International University Dubai.

Jaishankar highlighted how the UAE's strategic investments in infrastructure have elevated its status as a pivotal player in global air connectivity, making it one of the most accessible and well-connected regions. 'If you are looking at trade, energy, employment, mobility, in every metric, this region is becoming more and more crucial and it is also acquiring a political route which I think is very important for resolving global differences. I think there is a strong case to invest in more energy,' he said. 'If I were to look at the foreign policies over the last few decades across the world, to me the relationship with the UAE is one of the relationships that has changed most dramatically for the better.'

Jaishankar further emphasized that 'India-UAE ties are today truly in an era of new milestones.' He referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic 2015 visit as the first in the century and the swift negotiation of Comprehensive Economic Partnerships (CEPA). The trade and investment levels between the two countries are at new heights and continue to grow annually.

The minister also discussed the need to establish new standards for academic institutions globally, thereby globalizing education. 'With the inauguration of this campus, Symbiosis International University will set a new benchmark in terms of Indian college education,' he noted, adding that there are over 100 Indian curriculum schools in the UAE.

Jaishankar stressed that the energy sector has solidified the Gulf's role as a cornerstone in the global energy landscape, and there is a strong case for continued investment in diversified energy capacities. This aligns with the region's expanding role in global stability and innovation.

He also mentioned the significant presence of Indians in the Gulf, approximately nine million, and how Gulf economies feature prominently among India's top 20 trading partners. 'If you look at air connectivity, energy, they would be among the most intensely connected destinations and be among the most critical energy sectors,' he said.

Jaishankar highlighted how the UAE has not only adapted to changing global needs but has proactively built partnerships that reinforce its position as a diplomatic and economic bridge. 'Fintech linkages like RuPay-Jaywan or UPI-AANE are also the firsts in their domain. In fact, the activities and collaborations that we are constantly expanding -- be it in renewable energy, infrastructure, digital technology, defence or security -- are all pathbreaking in their own way,' he added.

Addressing regional conflicts, Jaishankar emphasized the importance of a strong moral stance and nuanced perspective. 'I think it's important to take a clear stance on certain issues, like terrorism or hostage taking, which should not be justified or rationalised in any circumstance. On the other, when it comes to humanitarian law, what is the answer to the Palestine problem? What is clear is that unless there is a solution there, this is going to be a festering issue,' he said.

Regarding a two-state resolution, Jaishankar outlined a decisive, collaborative approach. 'Realising the vision involves a kind of an immediate, short term, medium term, and something that’s a little bit beyond. Issues which have continued over time need some kind of definitive answer. We favour a two-state solution, we do think that there will have to be a Palestinian state, which co exists alongside Israel. I think the international community's take way from the current situation is that this entire set of issues, the immediate and the not so immediate, must all be worked upon to find the answer,' he concluded.

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