External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar is set to travel to Israel late on Monday, December 15, immediately following his engagement in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The visit is aimed at holding bilateral consultations with his Israeli counterpart.
UAE Engagement (December 15)
Before flying to Israel, EAM Jaishankar is scheduled to participate in high-level diplomatic meetings in Abu Dhabi today:
- Joint Commission & Strategic Dialogue: He will co-chair the 16th Joint Commission Meeting and the 5th Strategic Dialogue with H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE. These meetings are expected to include a comprehensive review of India-UAE bilateral cooperation.
- Sir Bani Yas Forum: Jaishankar recently concluded his participation in the annual 16th Sir Bani Yas Forum, held from December 12 to 14. This high-level platform brought together policymakers and global experts, including participants from the Gulf, Europe, and Asia, such as Egypt’s foreign minister Badr Abdelatty and Pakistan’s deputy prime minister Ishaq Dar, to discuss major regional and international security issues.
Israel Visit
Following the UAE leg, the EAM will travel to Israel to hold bilateral consultations with his counterpart, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar.
- Timing: The visit follows Jaishankar extending warm wishes to Gideon Sa’ar and the people of Israel on the occasion of Hanukkah on Sunday.