PM Modi Highlights Strong India-Saudi Ties in Key Visit

During his two-day visit to Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Kingdom as a “force of positivity and stability” in the region. He emphasized India’s deepening ties with Saudi Arabia, especially in defence, security, and energy sectors.

“India and Saudi Arabia, as maritime neighbours, share a strong interest in keeping the region peaceful and stable. Our growing defence and security cooperation shows the deep trust between our nations,” said PM Modi.

He mentioned that both countries have made progress in areas such as counterterrorism, stopping terror funding, fighting extremism, and drug trafficking. The countries have also begun working together in cybersecurity. Highlighting defence ties, he noted the first joint army drills and two successful rounds of joint naval exercises in 2021 and 2023.

PM Modi expressed happiness that India is helping meet some of the Saudi military’s needs. He also invited Saudi investments in India’s growing defence manufacturing sector.

India, he added, now makes a wide range of defence equipment, from ammunition and tanks to helicopters, drones, and submarines. “India has become a key defence supplier to over 100 countries,” he noted.

Energy was another major topic. PM Modi said, “Saudi Arabia is a trusted energy partner and one of our top oil suppliers. We’re now exploring joint refinery and petrochemical projects.”

He thanked the Saudi government for supporting Indian Muslims traveling for Haj and Umrah and noted the rising popularity of yoga and cricket in the Kingdom.

PM Modi also expressed gratitude for the care given to the Indian community during COVID-19. “Our people are law-abiding, hardworking, and respected wherever they go. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman even said Indians are part of the Saudi family,” Modi added.

The Prime Minister said he looks forward to meeting members of the Indian diaspora during his visit. The External Affairs Ministry called the visit a chance to deepen the strong partnership and discuss key regional and global matters.