Jaishankar Lands in UAE for High-Level Energy Talks

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday, marking the first visit by an Indian minister to the Gulf region since the outbreak of the Iran-related conflict. The visit is centered on strengthening India’s energy security amid rising geopolitical tensions.

The trip coincides with Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri’s ongoing engagement in Qatar, where India is working to secure additional LNG supplies after disruptions in production linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. Qatar currently accounts for nearly 4% of India’s total LNG imports, making it a key energy partner.

During the Indian Ocean Conference in Mauritius earlier this week, Jaishankar highlighted India’s efforts to finalize a government-to-government agreement for oil and gas supply with Mauritius. This move positions India as an emerging regional energy security provider while simultaneously managing its own supply requirements.

Jaishankar’s UAE visit comes at a sensitive diplomatic moment, as India carefully balances relations amid heightened West Asia instability. He has also clarified that India does not have any blanket arrangement with Iran regarding safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, addressing speculation over recent developments involving Indian energy shipments.

The visit is taking place alongside diplomatic discussions in the region, including Iran–US engagements aimed at reducing tensions. It also reflects India’s focus on ensuring the safety of its nationals and strengthening coordination with UAE authorities, particularly after recent disruptions that left several Indian citizens stranded due to sudden flight cancellations during the conflict period.

During the visit, Jaishankar is expected to hold bilateral talks with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other senior officials. The discussions are likely to focus on energy cooperation, regional stability, and the welfare of the Indian community in the UAE.

The visit follows recent high-level exchanges between India and the UAE, including the brief visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India and subsequent engagements by senior Emirati officials, reflecting the continued strengthening of bilateral ties.