New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the deepening strategic relationship between India and Saudi Arabia, calling the Kingdom a “trusted friend” and highlighting the “limitless potential” of bilateral cooperation. His remarks come ahead of a significant two-day visit to Jeddah, which began on April 22, at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
This marks PM Modi’s third official visit to Saudi Arabia, following trips to Riyadh in 2016 and 2019. Speaking to Arab News before his departure, the Prime Minister expressed pride in the enduring and evolving partnership between the two nations.
“I take great pride in our relations with Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom is one of India’s most valued partners — a maritime neighbour, a trusted friend, and a strategic ally,” said PM Modi. He noted that bilateral ties have seen a remarkable upward trajectory since 2014 and recalled being honoured with The Order of King Abdulaziz by King Salman during his 2016 visit.
“Our connection is not new — it is rooted in civilizational exchanges going back centuries. From trade to ideas, there has been a continuous and rich exchange between our two great nations,” he added.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, PM Modi will meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his visit, and the leaders will hold official talks aimed at deepening cooperation across sectors. The discussions are expected to build on the momentum generated during the Crown Prince’s visit to New Delhi in September 2023, when both countries co-chaired the inaugural meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council.
IMEEC: A Visionary Corridor
In his interview, PM Modi also spoke about the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), a multilateral initiative launched during the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi. He described it as a “transformational project” with the potential to redefine global connectivity.
“This corridor will shape the future of connectivity for generations. It is poised to become a major catalyst for commerce, economic growth, and regional integration — a new Silk Route for the 21st century,” he said.
India is currently conducting feasibility studies for integrating its electricity grid with Saudi Arabia and other parts of the region, further strengthening infrastructure and energy ties.
Congratulating Saudi Arabia’s Global Wins
PM Modi also extended congratulations to Saudi Arabia for securing the hosting rights of two major international events — World Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034. He described these milestones as “a matter of pride,” reflecting the Kingdom’s rising stature on the global stage.
As India and Saudi Arabia continue to expand their cooperation across economic, energy, strategic, and cultural spheres, PM Modi’s Jeddah visit is expected to further elevate the partnership — one that blends historical connections with a shared vision for the future.
