PM Narendra Modi’s UAE visit, first by an Indian Prime Minister in 34 years

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Sources said Modi will hold talks with the leadership there on key issues of trade and security and address the Indian community. Though no formal announcement has been made about the visit, official sources said Modi will travel to Abu Dhabi and Dubai during his visit, which is expected to further boost the strong economic, cultural and social ties between India and the second largest Arab economy.

Modi’s visit also assumes significance given that there has been very little progress in implementing various pacts, particularly in the field of counter-terrorism and enhancing maritime security.

“The PM’s visit is expected to give a fillip to bilateral cooperation in key areas and boost trade and investment ties, which are the cornerstone of the UAE-India partnership,” a source said.

According to official data, UAE is the second largest export destination of India with exports of over $30 billion in the year 2013-14.

The Indian expatriate community is the largest ethnic community in the UAE.