NEW DELHI, Sep 12 (KNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held separate bilateral meetings with the leaders of the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Vietnam and Ethiopia on the sidelines of the ongoing 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, with discussions focusing on strengthening strategic ties and cooperation in key sectors, including defence, energy, trade, critical minerals, semiconductors, food security and connectivity.

During his meeting with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Modi discussed the current situation in West Asia and ways to further advance the India-UAE strategic partnership.

The prime minister said the two sides discussed expanding cooperation in defence, artificial intelligence, space, critical minerals, energy, food security and connectivity.

"In the current period of uncertainty in West Asia, a strong India-UAE partnership is a symbol of stability, prosperity and peace," Modi said.

Modi also met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

The discussions covered trade and investment, defence and security, semiconductors, infrastructure, digital economy, energy and fintech.

Anwar informed India that Malaysia has agreed to the establishment of an Indian Consulate General office in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Modi appreciated Malaysia's continued support in strengthening India-ASEAN relations.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest and reaffirmed their commitment to further advancing the India-Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

In his meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung, Modi laid particular emphasis on bilateral trade and investment ties.

The two leaders reviewed progress in India-Vietnam relations, discussed regional and global issues, and reiterated their commitment to strengthening the partnership.

The Ministry of External Affairs said India-Vietnam ties reflect a longstanding friendship based on shared civilisational heritage, mutual trust and understanding.

Modi also held talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali on ways to further strengthen the bilateral strategic partnership.

The discussions included a review of progress in economic cooperation, defence and security, defence partnership and capacity building.

The meetings took place against the backdrop of growing global tensions and emerging challenges to the stability of trade, energy, food security and supply chains.

The bilateral engagements on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit underline India's efforts to expand strategic and economic partnerships with key countries, officials said.(KNS)