Sheikh Nahyan inaugurates IBPG Business Conclave celebrating UAE-India partnership
The Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence highlighted the integral role of generations of Indian professionals in the nation's development, as the Indian Business and Professional Group convened leaders from both nations.
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, has inaugurated the IBPG Business Conclave 2026 in Abu Dhabi, underscoring the profound foundations of the UAE-India relationship. The event, organised by the Indian Business and Professional Group under the theme “Legacy | Leadership | Leap,” brought together senior officials, diplomats, business leaders and entrepreneurs from both nations alongside Dr. Deepak Mittal, Ambassador of India to the UAE.
In his address, His Excellency emphasised that relations between the two countries extend far beyond economic interests, reflecting generations of trust, mutual understanding and constructive cooperation. He recognised the exceptional contributions made by the Indian community across more than three decades, acknowledging their role in establishing businesses, building institutions and fostering productive relationships grounded in integrity.
Reflecting on the conclave’s central pillars, Sheikh Nahyan described legacy as what one generation bequeaths to the next. Indian entrepreneurs, professionals and skilled workers have become integral to the UAE’s narrative, he noted, their achievements in finance, healthcare, education and numerous other sectors earning the nation’s highest appreciation and respect. Under the visionary leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has emerged as a global hub where people from around the world collaborate harmoniously and innovation flourishes.
On leadership, His Excellency affirmed that effective leaders function as agents of change, identifying opportunities and mobilising resources whilst sharing their vision with others. Indian professionals and enterprises embody these principles, creating opportunities, developing talent and supporting innovation that strengthens both economies and societies.
The conclave’s “Leap” pillar addresses emerging opportunities, particularly in artificial intelligence, where the UAE’s substantial investment converges with India’s exceptional depth of knowledge and expertise. Small and medium-sized enterprises represent another avenue for growth, as do the sustained demands of the energy transition sector.
His Excellency announced that the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence would honour this distinguished relationship by designating India as State Guest of Honour at the National Festival of Tolerance. The Indian Business and Professional Group will be recognised as exemplars of tolerance, contributing meaningfully to celebrations of coexistence across the Emirates.
Sharad Bhandari, Vice Chairman of the Indian Business and Professional Group, stated that the conclave marks the commencement of a significant platform for constructive dialogue between business communities. The group aims to establish this as a recurring event, bringing together influential voices to exchange knowledge, deepen partnerships and advance the bilateral relationship.
Source: WAM News Agency