Delegation Led by Shrikant Shinde Highlights Fight Against Terrorism in UAE
An Indian All-Party Parliamentary Delegation, led by Shiv Sena MP Dr. Shrikant Shinde, visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of India’s ongoing diplomatic outreach following Operation Sindoor, a recent counterterrorism initiative. The UAE is the first stop in a broader four-nation diplomatic mission launched to reinforce India's global message of zero tolerance towards cross-border terrorism.
|
Image Source: MEA/FM on X |
The delegation began its visit by paying floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. This symbolic gesture reflected India’s enduring commitment to the values of peace, non-violence, and tolerance—principles central to India’s foreign policy and legacy on the global stage.
Key engagements included a meeting with Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE’s Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. He expressed deep condolences over the Pahalgam terror attack and assured that the UAE stands in solidarity with India. Both sides reiterated their commitment to working together to counter terrorism, extremism, and promote peaceful coexistence.
The delegation also met with Dr. Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Defence, Interior & Foreign Affairs Committee of the Federal National Council. He called terrorism a threat to all humanity and underlined the importance of decisive, coordinated global action. The Indian delegation detailed the purpose and scope of Operation Sindoor, describing it as a proportionate and precise response to the April 22 Kashmir attack that killed multiple tourists.
In a focused media and diplomacy dialogue, the delegation met with Dr. Jamal Al Kaabi, Director General of the UAE’s National Media Office. Indian officials raised concerns over disinformation campaigns—particularly from Pakistan—and presented documented evidence to counter false narratives affecting India’s global image. The exchange emphasized the need for credible public diplomacy to combat propaganda and radicalism.
As part of its forward-looking engagements, the delegation visited the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy in Abu Dhabi. During discussions with Director General Nikolay Mladenov, the two sides exchanged views on strengthening India-UAE ties, with special focus on counter-terrorism, radicalisation, and multilateral cooperation. The meeting was described as “visionary” by Shinde, who said it would deepen bilateral trust and policy collaboration in security and foreign affairs.
Responding to a media query in Abu Dhabi, Shinde acknowledged the role of social media in shaping public opinion. “Negativity spreads faster than positivity,” he remarked, adding that the 13–14 day global campaign will also help reshape narratives and increase visibility of India’s efforts. “Truth can’t be silenced—no matter how much it is suppressed—we will put our 100% efforts,” he said.
The delegation includes a cross-section of Indian political leaders: BJP MPs Bansuri Swaraj and Atul Garg, Rajya Sabha MP Manan Kumar Mishra, IUML MP E.T. Mohammed Basheer, BJD MP Sasmit Patra, former Union Minister S.S. Ahluwalia, and former ambassador Sujan Chinoy.
The All-party delegation led by @DrSEShinde interacted with the members of the Indian Community in Abu Dhabi.
— India in UAE (@IndembAbuDhabi) May 22, 2025
The delegation conveyed 🇮🇳’s national consensus and collective resolve against terrorism. pic.twitter.com/nBajXyyKjl
#WATCH | Abu Dhabi, UAE: When asked if there will be some initiative taken to promote India's fight against terrorism on social media, Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde says, "Negativity spreads faster than positivity... We will put our 100% efforts" pic.twitter.com/46jFoTcwiy
— ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2025
Today, we visited the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy in Abu Dhabi. Our all-party delegation held detailed discussions with the Director General Mr. Nikolay Mladenov. The dialogue focused on strengthening bilateral relations between India and UAE. https://t.co/j74WK7vRgZ
— Dr Shrikant Lata Eknath Shinde (@DrSEShinde) May 23, 2025
In a community outreach event, the delegation also met with members of the Indian diaspora in Abu Dhabi. Lawmakers praised the community’s contribution to India-UAE ties, and urged continued unity against extremist narratives.
The UAE visit is part of a broader diplomatic campaign involving seven Indian delegations across 33 countries, aiming to build global understanding of India’s counter-terrorism objectives, reaffirm its position as a responsible power, and strengthen strategic partnerships amid rising regional and global security challenges.
Related reading: