India, US, UAE and Saudi Arabia Discuss Infrastructure Initiatives

• 09 May 2023

For Prelims: I2U2 initiative, Abraham Accords

For Mains: Groupings and Agreements including India and affecting India’s interest

Why in News?

Recently, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosted a special meeting of the National Security Advisers (NSAs) of India, the US, and the UAE.

What are the Key Highlights of the Meeting?

• The discussions aimed to strengthen relations and ties between the countries in a way that enhances growth and stability in the region.
• The meeting focused on regional initiatives on infrastructure.
• The meeting sought to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world.
• Among the projects discussed, a plan to connect Gulf countries via a railway network and connect to India via shipping lanes from "two ports" in the region is highlighted.
  • This is meant to provide a counter to China's Belt and Road initiative and other inroads in the region.
• The idea for the initiative came up during talks held over the past 18 months by the I2U2.
  • The I2U2 Quad, works on connecting "South Asia to the Middle East to the United States in ways that advance economic technology and diplomacy".

What is the I2U2 Quad?

• About:
  • I2U2 is a new grouping formed by India, Israel, the UAE, and the US.
  • It is also referred to as the West Asian Quad.
• Objectives:
  • It is focused on expanding economic and political cooperation in the Middle East and Asia.
  • The framework aims to foster support and cooperation in infrastructure, technology and maritime security.
• Formation of I2U2:
  • I2U2 was initially formed in October 2021 following the Abraham Accords.
    • The Abraham Accords normalized relations between Israel and a number of Arab Gulf countries.
• First Summit of I2U2:
  • The first virtual summit of I2U2 took place on July 14, 2022.
  • The summit focused heavily on the global food and energy crisis resulting from the conflict in Ukraine.

What will be the Significance of I2U2 for India?

• Advantage from Abraham Accords:
  • India will get advantage of the Abraham Accords to deepen engagement with Israel without risking its ties with the UAE and the other Arab states.
• Benefit Market:
  • India is a massive consumer market. It’s a massive producer of high-tech and highly sought-after goods as well. India will benefit from this grouping.
• Alliances:
  • It will help India in building alliances — political alliances, social alliances.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question  

Q. How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (2022)

Source: TH