I2U2 – Israel, India, the United Arab Emirates and the United States – announced a new initiative on space cooperation this month on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session in New York. This four-nation grouping, which some have called the “West Asia Quad,” has attracted attention in recent years. Mint looks at what I2U2 is.
I2U2 – Israel, India, the United Arab Emirates and the United States – announced a new initiative on space cooperation this month on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session in New York. This four-nation grouping, which some have called the “West Asia Quad,” has attracted attention in recent years. Mint looks at what I2U2 is.
How was I2U2 formed?
In 2021, the foreign ministers of the United States, the UAE, India, and Israel met virtually to create a group focused on economic cooperation. In July 2022, leaders of the four countries met virtually to flesh out the gathering and officially name it I2U2.
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How was I2U2 formed?
In 2021, the foreign ministers of the United States, the UAE, India, and Israel met virtually to create a group focused on economic cooperation. In July 2022, leaders of the four countries met virtually to flesh out the gathering and officially name it I2U2.
“I2U2 aims to encourage joint investments in six mutually defined areas such as water, energy, transport, space, health and food security. It intends to mobilize private sector capital and expertise to help modernize infrastructure, low-carbon development pathways for our industries, and improve health,” the leaders said after the meeting. Public sector, and promoting the development of important emerging and green technologies.
What is the background to this?
In 2020, the historic Abraham Accords were signed. This agreement paved the way for the normalization of relations between Israel and two Arab countries: the UAE and Bahrain. Morocco also later normalized relations with Israel in December 2020. The formation of I2U2 was seen as an attempt to build on the foundation provided by the Abraham Accords by strengthening cooperation between Israel and the UAE. The United States was a major partner for both countries, while experts considered India’s accession as a step by West Asian powers to develop cooperation with major Asian capitals such as New Delhi.
Why is India interested in the cluster?
India sees clear, tangible benefits from I2U2, starting with the group’s first two announcements: a $2 billion investment and technology assistance for agricultural initiatives in two Indian states, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh; “And support a hybrid renewable energy project in Gujarat,” wrote Daniel Markey of the US Institute of Peace. India also has an interest in seeing the normalization process between Israel and the UAE succeed.
What does the group have planned next?
Representatives of the four countries met on the sidelines of the seventy-eighth session of the United Nations General Assembly. “Mr. (ER) Damu Ravi attended the I2U2 Sherpa Meeting in New York on the sidelines of the 78th UN General Assembly. The Sherpas unveiled the new I2U2 website, which will strengthen India-Israel-US-UAE cooperation and cross-border partnerships,” said an Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesperson. “They also launched the I2U2 Private Enterprise Partnership.” The four countries also unveiled a new space cooperation programme.