Has UAE accepted Indian claims on Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan?
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The recent G20 Summit in New Delhi unveiled a surprising twist in the geopolitical landscape, as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a long-standing ally of Pakistan, publicly acknowledged the regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir as integral parts of India. This revelation came to light through a video presentation showcased during the summit, a move that was also shared on social media by the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister, Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
In the video, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir, which have been under Pakistan's administrative control, were depicted as integral components of India's territorial map. While the primary purpose of the video was to outline regional plans for fostering economic corridors between India, the Middle East, and Europe, it inadvertently shed light on the UAE's diplomatic stance regarding the Kashmir issue. By depicting these regions within India's borders, the UAE effectively signaled its support for India's territorial claims over the area.
This development not only hints at a strengthening bond between India and the UAE but also underscores the growing divide between Pakistan and the Middle East, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Notably, Saudi Arabia's Prime Minister and Crown Prince, Mohammad Bin Salman, cancelled his official visit to Pakistan prior to attending the G20 summit in India, sending a potent message to Pakistan's political echelons.
Conversely, India, in collaboration with the Middle East and Europe, has entered into an agreement led by the United States, laying the groundwork for a new economic pathway. This route is expected to foster enhanced business ties and connectivity across Asia, the Arabian Gulf, and Europe.
It is worth mentioning that Pakistan had previously anticipated a substantial $50 billion investment from Saudi Arabia and the UAE over the next five years, with each country committing $25 billion. In light of these recent developments, it remains uncertain how Pakistan will respond, given its prior statements on the matter that didn't explicitly name the UAE but may carry a significant diplomatic weight
