India-UAE 13th JDCC | 09 Aug 2025

Source: PIB 

India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) reaffirmed their commitment to deepening defence ties during the 13th Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting held in New Delhi.

Key Outcomes of 13th JDCC Meet: 

• India-UAE enhanced military training and signed an MoU between Indian Coast Guard and UAE National Guard for maritime security, including SAR, anti-piracy, pollution response, and real-time info sharing in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). 
• Advanced joint defence manufacturing through the ICOMM-CARACAL small arms partnership and explored co-development of AI and shipbuilding technologies, including refits and maintenance of shared platforms. 
• Held inter-service (Army, Navy & Air Force) talks to boost joint exercises, training, Subject Matter Expert (SME) exchange, inter-service coordination, and tri-service interoperability.
  

Significance of India- UAE Relations: 

• The UAE is India’s 3rd-largest trading partner and 2nd-largest export destination, while India is UAE’s 2nd-largest trading partner. 
  • India- UAE share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with deepened political, defence, and strategic ties. 
  • It includes petroleum, gems, agriculture, textiles, chemicals, and engineering goods. 
• The UAE is a vital oil supplier and contributor to India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR), crucial for India’s energy security and Gulf stability. 
• India and the UAE have signed an MoU to establish a Local Currency Settlement System and integrated payment systems, facilitating smoother cross-border transactions. 
• UAE’s role in  strategic platforms like I2U2, IMEC and the Abraham Accords strengthens India’s connectivity, economic influence, and energy security. 
• The UAE hosts 3.5 million Indians, and the construction of a Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi reflects strong cultural and economic ties.