UAE, India ink major nuclear energy deal

The UAE and India have signed a major agreement to enhance cooperation on nuclear power during Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's official visit to New Delhi. The deal, focused on operations and maintenance of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, was part of a series of five agreements aimed at deepening bilateral ties between the two nations.

Sheikh Khaled, in his first visit to India in his current role, met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, signaling a new phase of strategic collaboration.

The agreements, according to Indian news agency ANI, underline the deepening ties between the two nations.

The key MoUs include::

1. A partnership on Barakah Nuclear Power Plant operations between Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).

2. A long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply deal between Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).

3. A strategic agreement between ADNOC and India Strategic Petroleum Reserve Limited (ISPRL).

4. A production concession deal for Abu Dhabi Onshore Block 1 between Urja Bharat and ADNOC.

5. An agreement between the Government of Gujarat and Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company PJSC (ADQ) on developing food parks in India.

Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled and President Murmu also held discussions on the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between the UAE and India. During the meeting, Sheikh Khaled emphasized the commitment of both nations' leadership to strengthening their long standing economic ties and leveraging their respective strengths for mutual prosperity.

He underscored that the meeting reflects the shared vision of both countries to expand cooperation in areas like trade and investment, while exploring new opportunities for sustainable growth and future collaboration.