1. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India have signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance nuclear power collaboration.
2. The agreement, which outlines the framework for Indian services in the operation and maintenance of UAE nuclear power plants, was signed in New Delhi.
3. Bhuwan Chandra Pathak, Chairman and Managing Director of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), and Mohamed Al Hammadi, CEO of Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC), finalized the MoU.
4. The signing took place during the visit of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India.
5. During the visit, the Crown Prince engaged in high-level bilateral discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
6. The MoU includes collaboration on developing supply chains, sharing expertise, and providing services for nuclear plant operation and maintenance.
7. It also covers nuclear consulting services, human resources development, training, and research and development.
8. NPCIL, operating all civil nuclear power plants in India, and ENEC, owned by the Abu Dhabi Development Holding Company, are the key entities involved.
9. This MoU represents a significant milestone in the strengthening of India-UAE relations in the field of nuclear energy.
10. The partnership aims to boost cooperation in peaceful nuclear uses, enhancing both nations’ capabilities in the energy sector.
11. The agreement highlights the growing strategic collaboration between India and the UAE, setting a precedent for future international energy partnerships.