Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the start of his two-day official visit to Saudi Arabia, described the Kingdom as a “force of positivity and stability” in the region. The visit, at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is aimed at strengthening defence, security, energy, and people-to-people ties between the two nations.
In an interview with Arab Times, PM Modi underscored the growing trust between New Delhi and Riyadh, especially in the areas of defence and security. “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,” he said.
He noted that collaboration in security has progressed significantly, encompassing counterterrorism, anti-extremism, the disruption of terror financing, and drug trafficking. “We are also exploring new frontiers of cooperation in cybersecurity, recognizing its growing importance in today’s interconnected world,” the Prime Minister added.
Highlighting key milestones, he mentioned the joint land exercises conducted last year, as well as the successful naval drills, Al-Mohed Al-Hindi , held in 2021 and 2023.
PM Modi also emphasized India’s growing role in global defence manufacturing, noting that Indian-made military equipment now serves over 100 countries. “I am glad that we have been able to meet some needs of the armed forces in Saudi Arabia,” he said. “We would welcome Saudi investment into the defence manufacturing sector in India, which has been opened for private investment.”
On the energy front, PM Modi reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s role as a vital and reliable partner in India’s energy security. “Our cooperation goes beyond a buyer-seller relationship. We are also exploring joint projects in refineries and petrochemicals,” he said.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the Saudi leadership for supporting Indian pilgrims traveling to the Kingdom for Haj and Umrah. “We are grateful to the Saudi leadership for the continued assistance provided to Indian pilgrims,” he said, while also acknowledging the increasing cultural and social engagement between the two nations, including the popularity of yoga, cricket, and Indian entertainment in Saudi Arabia.
(With ANI inputs)
