Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack targeting tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left several people dead and injured. In an official statement issued by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Kingdom expressed its position in the “strongest terms,” reaffirming its opposition to all forms of violence and extremism.

 

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s condemnation in the strongest terms of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir that resulted in many deaths and injuries,” the statement read.

 

It further added, “The Kingdom affirms its firm stance in rejecting all forms of violence, extremism, and targeting of civilians. The Kingdom also extends its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, and the government and people of the Republic of India.”

 

In light of the attack, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his two-day visit to Saudi Arabia. During the visit, he held discussions with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. The Strategic Partnership Council meeting between the two countries commenced with a reference to the attack, and both leaders unequivocally condemned the incident.

 

The Crown Prince expressed his condolences and sympathies to the victims’ families and offered any assistance that may be required.

 

Briefing the media, Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Suhel Ajaz Khan said the Prime Minister’s bilateral meeting with the Crown Prince was “very fruitful, substantial, and forward-looking.” The two leaders discussed the entire spectrum of bilateral ties, including cooperation in energy, defence, trade, investments, technology, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

 

— ANI