Abu Dhabi- Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, stated that UAE-India relations are not only economic or political but have a profound national and popular dimension.

“The fact that UAE-India relations have made it to this strategic level is evidence that these ties are backed by a strong political will from both nations. Therefore, I am certain that the upcoming period will witness a breakthrough in turning our strategic agreements into action programs that serve the interests of both nations,” he said.

Sheikh Mohammed arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday, as part of his visit to attend the 68th Republic Day celebrations of India as a chief guest.Sheikh Mohammed and his accompanying delegation were received by Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and a number of senior government officials.

”I am pleased to be in this great country for the second time in less than a year, and I would like to seize this opportunity to deliver the best wishes of Emirates to Indians. I thank India’s people and government for their hospitable reception,” Sheikh Mohamed said upon his arrival.

Sheikh Mohamed added: “UAE-India relations enjoy a deep history that extends to hundreds of years. The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE, cemented this relationship when he carried out a historic visit to India in 1975, laying the founding stone of modern relations.”

“Today, the UAE, under the leadership of President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, considers ties with India a priority and views India as a pillar of stability in Asia and a major partner in the global efforts towards stability, development and in the battle against terrorism,” he continued.