<h4>Introduction to India-UAE Civil Nuclear Cooperation</h4><p>The visit saw the signing of a significant <strong>Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)</strong> between <strong>India</strong> and the <strong>United Arab Emirates (UAE)</strong>. This agreement specifically focuses on enhancing <strong>civil nuclear cooperation</strong> between the two nations, marking a crucial step in their strategic partnership.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>This <strong>MoU</strong> underscores the growing strategic alignment between <strong>India</strong> and the <strong>UAE</strong>, extending beyond traditional economic ties into critical sectors like energy.</p></div><h4>Key Agreement Details and Participating Entities</h4><p>The core of this agreement involves a collaboration between the <strong>Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL)</strong> from India and the <strong>Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC)</strong> from the UAE. These two entities will work together on specific aspects of nuclear energy.</p><p>The primary focus of this joint effort is the <strong>operation and maintenance (O&M)</strong> of the <strong>Barakah Nuclear Power Plant</strong>. This demonstrates a transfer of expertise and a shared commitment to the safe and efficient functioning of nuclear facilities.</p><h4>The Barakah Nuclear Power Plant: A Landmark Project</h4><p>The <strong>Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant</strong> is a pivotal facility located in <strong>Al Dhafra</strong>, within the <strong>Emirate of Abu Dhabi</strong> in the <strong>UAE</strong>. It holds immense regional significance.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Barakah Nuclear Power Plant:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Location:</strong> Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi, UAE</li><li><strong>Significance:</strong> It is recognized as the <strong>Arab world’s first nuclear power plant</strong>.</li><li><strong>Role in Agreement:</strong> Focus of <strong>NPCIL</strong> and <strong>ENEC</strong> collaboration for <strong>operation and maintenance</strong>.</li></ul></div><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>For <strong>UPSC Mains GS Paper 2 (International Relations)</strong>, understanding such agreements is vital. Highlight how these collaborations contribute to <strong>energy security</strong> and strengthen <strong>bilateral ties</strong>, especially in the context of <strong>India's 'Look West' policy</strong>.</p></div>