India Monitors West Asia Closely, Expands Strategic Gulf Engagement: MEA
MEA says India is closely monitoring West Asia developments while strengthening diplomatic outreach to Gulf nations.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on April 27 said that India is closely monitoring developments in the West Asia region while continuing to expand diplomatic outreach with Gulf countries amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The ministry emphasized that safeguarding Indian nationals and strengthening strategic partnerships remain key priorities.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during an inter-ministerial briefing that National Security Advisor Ajit Doval recently visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on April 25–26. During the visit, Doval met UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and conveyed greetings from the Indian leadership. Both sides discussed strengthening the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Officials noted that the discussions also covered regional security developments and issues of mutual interest between the two countries. The MEA highlighted that this was the second high-level visit from India to the UAE within a month. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited the UAE on April 11–12 and held talks with senior leadership there.
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The MEA further stated that India continues to prioritise the safety and welfare of its large diaspora in the Gulf region. A dedicated control room remains operational in the ministry to handle queries from Indian nationals and their families. Indian embassies and consulates are also running round-the-clock helplines and coordinating closely with local authorities.
Additional Secretary (Gulf) Aseem R Mahajan said that missions in the region are actively engaged with Indian communities, including workers, professionals, and seafarers. He added that advisories are being regularly issued regarding travel updates, safety guidelines, and consular assistance. So far, over 13 lakh passengers have travelled from West Asia to India since February 28.
Officials also reported that flight operations across several Gulf countries have gradually improved, with multiple airlines resuming or expanding services to India. However, travel advisories remain in place for certain conflict-affected regions, including Iran. The MEA said India continues to assist citizens abroad while closely tracking evolving security and travel conditions in the region.
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