On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud held the first leaders’ meeting.
During the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council, they discussed energy security, trade and investment, defence, healthcare and food security.
Modi said that talks with the Saudi Arabian leader would strengthen ties between the two countries.
For India, Saudi Arabia is one of its most important strategic partners. Today’s talks will provide new energy and direction to our relations.
The Indian Prime Minister said the collaboration would inspire countries to work together for the welfare of humanity. He also noted the importance of economic cooperation to ensure stability in the region.
“This corridor [between India, West Asia and Europe] will not only connect two countries but also help in providing economic growth, and digital connectivity between Asia, West Asia and Europe. Under your leadership and vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has seen tremendous economic growth, and I congratulate you for that.”
During the G-20 summit, India, US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The document refers to the creation of the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor.
The Crown Prince arrived at the summit in New Delhi along with the Saudi Prime Minister. They were also accompanied by a high-level delegation consisting of ministers and officials. Mohammed bin Salman congratulated India for a successful G20 presidency.
Well done India, a lot of announcements made that will benefit both our countries, the G20 countries and the whole world. So I want to say to India well done, and we will work to create a future for both countries.
The two countries are connected historically, economically and ethnically. In the fiscal year 2022-2023, bilateral trade reached a record level of 52.75 billion US dollars.
