PM Modi embarks on Saudi Arabia visit to bolster strategic ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to begin a significant two-day official visit to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, following an invitation extended by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.

This marks Modi’s third visit to the Gulf kingdom, after his earlier trips in 2016 and 2019.

The visit comes against the backdrop of intensifying bilateral cooperation between New Delhi and Riyadh, particularly in areas such as energy security, trade, investment, and regional stability.

Prime Minister Modi’s trip follows Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s State Visit to India in September 2023, during which he attended the G20 Summit and co-chaired the inaugural session of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council.

In an interview with Arab News ahead of his departure, Prime Minister Modi described Saudi Arabia as “a force of positivity and stability in the region,” underscoring shared maritime interests and a common vision for peace in West Asia.

“India and Saudi Arabia share close and friendly ties rooted in deep historical, socio-cultural, and commercial connections,” Modi stated.

A release from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated that the bilateral relationship has transformed into a robust strategic partnership over the past decade. "The two nations are engaged in wide-ranging cooperation, from political dialogue and defence to technology, education, health, and cultural exchanges," the statement read.

The MEA emphasized that Prime Minister Modi’s visit is a reflection of the importance India places on its ties with Saudi Arabia. It will serve as a platform to further solidify an already multi-dimensional partnership and to deliberate on pressing regional and global issues.

Guided by the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, the Modi government continues to view Saudi Arabia as one of India’s most vital strategic allies in its extended neighbourhood.