ABU DHABI, 28th April 2025 (WAM) -- Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture of India, emphasised that the close relationship between India and the UAE extends far beyond traditional trade exchanges. It is deeply rooted in historical cultural bonds and a shared civilisational heritage connecting the two friendly nations over time.

In statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) during his participation in the "Culture Summit Abu Dhabi 2025," Shekhawat noted that the UAE today stands as India's largest trading partner, highlighting the vital and influential role played by the Indian expatriate community in the UAE. "With an estimated population of around five million, this community significantly contributes to advancing comprehensive economic development across various vital and strategic sectors within the UAE."

He further explained that the UAE is India's third-largest global trading partner, underscoring the strength and resilience of their economic and strategic ties.

India's Minister of Culture stressed the paramount importance of further enhancing and developing this partnership to serve the mutual interests of both countries.

During his active engagement in the Summit sessions, Shekhawat pointed out that discussions primarily focused on two critical themes shaping today's global cultural landscape: the growing impact of artificial intelligence on various aspects of the cultural field and the pivotal role of culture in fostering global peace and enhancing intercultural understanding.

He noted that participants expressed a combination of concern over the potential challenges posed by rapid AI developments to cultural identity and human creativity, alongside cautious optimism regarding the vast opportunities AI offers to enrich the global cultural scene and open new horizons for creative expression.

He also stressed that promoting the role of culture has become an urgent necessity in light of the current geopolitical landscape, which in the past three years has witnessed a significant escalation in regional conflicts and tensions. He underscored the critical importance of employing culture as a civilisational bridge to bridge divides and strengthen bonds of understanding and communication among nations.

Minister Shekhawat also reiterated the strength and depth of the longstanding cultural ties between India and the UAE, considering close cooperation in this vital field a strategic pillar for achieving sustainable development goals and establishing the foundations of global peace and stability.