PM Modi's Saudi Arabia visit: A relationship built on trust and value

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take a historic two-day official Saudi Arabia visit as his third Kingdom visit since 2016. In an Arab News exclusive interview, PM Modi invited Saudi Arabia as a dear friend, a strategic partner, and one of India's best partners. During the visit, the bilateral relation between the countries will be intensified further and opportunities for new partnerships will be seen.

A strong partnership

PM Modi spoke about his appreciation for the cooperation between Saudi Arabia and India as he noted that the two nations have "limitless potential" to develop their ties further. He complimented Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman on his initiative and dynamism, especially during the Vision 2030 reforms. The attempts of the Crown Prince in pushing economic diversification and modernization in Saudi Arabia have been received well, and PM Modi's visit is likely to take this forward.

Civilizational exchanges

PM Modi referred to the centuries-old connection between India and Saudi Arabia, mentioning civilizational exchanges going back centuries. He underlined that the relationship has been on the right track since 2014 and is robust despite worldwide uncertainties. The two countries have a strong economic relationship, with Saudi Arabia being one of India's biggest trading partners.

IMEEC initiative

The Prime Minister also addressed the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) programme, launched in September 2023. According to him, the corridor will define the future of connectivity in the region and foster development, trade, and economic integration. The IMEEC programme seeks to increase connectivity across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, and both India and Saudi Arabia are key players in making it a success.

Key areas of cooperation

PM Modi is likely to talk on different fields of cooperation with Saudi Arabian leaders during his visit, such as trade, investment, energy, and security. The two countries have already solidified a robust cooperation in the field of energy, with Saudi Arabia as one of India's biggest crude oil suppliers. PM Modi's visit is likely to further develop this cooperation and new avenues of cooperation.

Saudi Arabia is a huge leap towards improving the bilateral relations

PM Modi's first-ever visit to Saudi Arabia is a huge leap towards improving the bilateral relations between the two countries. The visit will augment the momentum of the current partnership and seek fresh areas of collaboration. With the IMEEC initiative, India and Saudi Arabia have a one-of-a-kind chance to set the course for the future of connectivity in the region and help spur economic integration. The visit is an indication of the excellent and developing relationship between the two countries, and it is likely to positively influence the region and the globe.