Unity Celebrated: Iftar from Dubai to India
Peaceful Coexistence Celebrated: Iftar from Dubai to India
The holy month of Ramadan is not only a time of inner renewal and communal unity for the Muslim world, but also an opportunity for cultural dialogue and deepening international relations. This spirit was reflected in the iftar organized at the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy in New Delhi. The event showcased not only food and drink but also the deep cultural and economic ties between the two countries.
The iftar dinner was hosted by the UAE Ambassador to India, welcoming numerous high-ranking diplomats, government officials, and business leaders. The event was aimed not just at sharing a traditional Ramadan meal but also at demonstrating how two countries can strengthen their relationships based on shared values. As the Ambassador expressed, "Events like these reinforce the common values of peace, patience, and mutual respect that transcend borders and religions. The UAE is committed to promoting cultural cooperation and social understanding with Indians."
A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
The iftar menu reflected the rich cultural traditions of both countries, allowing guests to explore each other's cultures through flavors and aromas. Beyond the meal, the event offered participants the opportunity to engage in direct dialogue with the Ambassador. Discussions covered various important topics, including political, economic, investment, and cultural cooperation between the two nations. These dialogues not only strengthened current relationships but also paved the way for new opportunities.
Dynamics of Economic Relations
The relationship between UAE and India has significantly developed over recent years, characterized by numerous high-level visits and collaborations. One of the most important steps was the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two countries in February 2022. This agreement was not just a symbolic gesture but delivered concrete economic results. The trade volume between the two countries nearly doubled from $43.3 billion in 2020-21 to $83.7 billion in 2023-24. In the first ten months of the current year, trade already reached $80.5 billion.
CEPA played a particularly crucial role in expanding non-oil trade. In 2023-24, non-oil trade reached $57.8 billion, indicating that UAE and India are well on their path to achieving the $100 billion target by 2030. These figures not only demonstrate the strength of the economic ties between the two nations but also show that the UAE is India's second-largest export market, third-largest trading partner, and fourth-largest investor.
Promise of the Future
The iftar event was more than just a dinner; it was a symbolic gesture reflecting the deep and lasting relationship between the two countries. The connection between UAE and India is based not only on economic cooperation but also on shared values and cultural understanding. The holy month of Ramadan provided a perfect occasion to celebrate this relationship.
As both countries move toward shared goals, events like this iftar remind us that peace and prosperity are not just questions of economic indicators, but also founded on a culture of mutual respect and cooperation. The relationship between UAE and India clearly demonstrates that building a common future is possible across borders and cultures.
