Dubai: Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, along with Sunjay Sudhir, India’s Ambassador to the UAE, and numerous diplomats and dignitaries from the Indian community in the UAE, participated in the Diwali celebrations at Zabeel Park, Dubai. Organised by “Emirates Love India,” with support from the UAE Government Media Office and participation from Dubai Police, the event attracted approximately 60,000 attendees, emphasizing Indian folklore, culture, and art while strengthening the ties between the Indian community and the UAE.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Nahyan expressed pride in the strong and friendly relations between India and the UAE, highlighting the Diwali celebrations as a testament to the UAE’s appreciation of Indian culture and arts. He emphasized the special friendship and trust between the two nations, envisioning a future of continued collaboration under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The event featured
a diverse program, including handicraft showcases, children’s entertainment, musical performances, folk dances, and traditional art displays, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to cross-cultural cooperation. Several prominent Indian personalities were honoured for their achievements in the UAE, including Harish Tahiliani, Nilesh Ved, and Sunny Varkey, among others.
The UAE-India relationship, established in 1972, has seen significant growth, with over 96 bilateral agreements signed. Notable visits by leaders of both countries, such as Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit to India in 2017 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visits to the UAE, have strengthened ties. The Joint Vision Statement of February 2022 marked a new era in their comprehensive strategic partnership, focusing on key areas like economy, culture, energy, and more.
