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US, UAE Back India-Europe Corridor, Expand AI & Trade Ties

The United States and the United Arab Emirates have reaffirmed their strong support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a key project for regional connectivity. During their latest Economic Policy Dialogue, both nations agreed to deepen cooperation in artificial intelligence, advanced technology, and critical minerals. The discussions highlighted robust bilateral trade, with the UAE as the US's largest Gulf trade partner and a commitment to invest $1.4 trillion in the US over the next decade. Officials also agreed to explore further collaboration within the I2U2 framework on energy, water, and mineral security.

Key Points: US-UAE Boost India-Mideast Corridor & AI Cooperation

  • Reaffirmed IMEC corridor as priority
  • Deepened AI & advanced tech cooperation
  • UAE's $1.4 trillion US investment pledge
  • Non-oil trade exceeded $38 billion in 2024
  • Focus on critical minerals & supply chains
2 min read

US, UAE back India corridor, expand AI ties

US and UAE reaffirm support for India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and deepen ties in AI, trade, and critical minerals at policy dialogue.

"The UAE is the largest U.S. trade partner in the Gulf region, a position it has held for nearly two decades. - Joint Statement"

Washington, Jan 27

, The US and the UAE have reaffirmed support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor while deepening cooperation on trade, investment, and artificial intelligence at their latest Economic Policy Dialogue held in Abu Dhabi early this month.

The two sides said the corridor, known as IMEC, is a priority for boosting regional connectivity, with a focus on expanding port and rail capacity linking India to Europe through the Middle East.

The eleventh U.S.-UAE Economic Policy Dialogue took place on January 15 and was co-chaired by UAE Minister of State Saeed Mubarak Al Hajeri and U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg, according to a joint statement released Tuesday.

Officials stressed the strategic importance of bilateral trade and investment. They noted that the UAE is the largest U.S. trade partner in the Gulf region, a position it has held for nearly two decades. The US maintains a significant trade surplus with the UAE.

Both sides said open markets and clear regulatory pathways have helped make trade and investment more productive for both economies. They highlighted growing cooperation in critical minerals, advanced technology, energy, manufacturing, and life sciences.

The delegations reiterated the UAE's commitment to invest $1.4 trillion in the United States over the next decade. The pledge reinforces the UAE's position as America's largest regional economic partner.

Al Hajeri highlighted the scale of economic ties. He said the total non-oil trade between the two countries surpassed $38 billion in 2024. Preliminary data for 2025 showed bilateral non-oil trade of $19.3 billion in the first half of the year. That reflected year-on-year growth of 3.4 per cent and supported U.S. industries such as energy, aviation, and technology.

Helberg emphasised the need to strengthen economic security and secure trusted supply chains.

He highlighted shared interests in advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, energy abundance, and digital infrastructure. He said these areas can strengthen alignment between the economy and national security.

The delegations agreed to explore areas of cooperation among I2U2 countries. These include energy security, critical minerals, and water security.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While the corridor sounds promising, I hope the benefits actually reach our local industries and create jobs here. Sometimes these mega-projects only help big corporations. Let's ensure our MSMEs and manufacturing sector get a fair share of the opportunities this connectivity brings.
R
Rohit P
The AI partnership is the real headline for me. If we can collaborate with the US and UAE on cutting-edge technology, it will accelerate our own startup ecosystem. Jai Hind!
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Sarah B
Interesting to see the I2U2 group (India, Israel, UAE, USA) being mentioned. This is a new kind of diplomacy that skips traditional blocs. As an expat in India, I see how this pragmatic, economy-first approach is really working.
V
Vikram M
Connectivity is key. A reliable rail and port link from India to Europe via the Middle East will make our exports more competitive. It's not just about trade numbers, it's about strategic autonomy. Good move by the government.
K
Kavya N
I appreciate the focus on 'trusted supply chains' and critical minerals. After the pandemic disruptions, we need this resilience. Hoping for more such collaborations that make our economy stronger and more secure.

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