New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the growing ties between India and Saudi Arabia in an interview to Arab News a few hours ago. The Indian Prime Minister, who is on a visit to Saudi Arabia, described the latter as ‘a trusted friend and strategic ally’, emphasising the significant expansion of bilateral relations since the creation of the Strategic Partnership Council in 2019. This was shared by the PMO in a statement on its official ‘X’ handle.
The Ministry of External Affairs has, meanwhile, released photographs and videos of Royal Saudi Arabian Air Force fighter jets escorting PM Modis’ aircraft after it enters that country’s air space.
“I take great pride in our relationship with Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is one of India’s most valued partners – a maritime neighbour, a trusted friend and a strategic ally. I truly believe these are promising times for India-Saudi Arabia ties. The Saudi leadership has played a vital role in strengthening this partnership,” Modi has been quoted as saying by the PMO.
In his interview to Arab News, the Prime Minister is quoted as saying: “India and Saudi Arabia will keep moving forward together – for peace, progress and prosperity, not just for our people, but for the entire world. Jeddah has had a special connection with India. For centuries, this famed city has been one of the principal arteries for our trade and people-to-people exchanges.”
On the investment front, Modi says: “Today, the Indian growth story offers immense opportunities for Saudi majors to invest and partner: from space economy to global supply chain collaborations. India is moving ahead with an ambitious target for green transition. We are confident of achieving a 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030. We consider Saudi Arabia as a force of positivity and stability in the region. As maritime neighbours, India and Saudi Arabia share a natural interest in safeguarding peace and stability in the region.”
Saudi Arabia has emerged as a leading importer of military hardware from India. On this front, the Prime Minister says: “We are not just fulfilling our own needs. India has also emerged as an important supplier of defence equipment to more than 100 countries around the world. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor will define the future of connectivity in all forms for centuries to come.”
For members of the Indian Diaspora that prepared a grand welcome for Modi, he said: “For my government, the members of the Indian Diaspora are the ‘rashtradoots’. The 4Cs – Care, Connect, Celebrate and Contribute – is the motto of our engagement with our Diaspora. Their safety, welfare and well-being is paramount for us.”
On the rising popularity of Yoga in Saudi Arabia, the Indian PM said: “Yoga has gained considerable popularity in Saudi Arabia over the recent years, thanks to the encouragement and support of the Saudi government.”
