May 09: Secretary (CPV&OIA) Shri Muktesh K. Pardeshi concluded an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from 4th to 7th May 2024 aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Saudi Arabia.
During his visit, the Secretary conducted a review of preparations for Haj 2024 in Jeddah and Madinah. He met with Vice Haj Minister H.E. Dr. Abdul Fattah Mashat and discussed logistical arrangements and infrastructure developments aimed at the welfare and comfort of pilgrims. This year, a total of 175,025 Indian pilgrims will visit Saudi Arabia under the 2024 Hajj quota.
In Riyadh, the Secretary held substantive discussions with H.E. Dr. Saud bin Mohammed Al Sati, Deputy Minister for Political Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and reviewed the progress under the Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) in addition to many topics of bilateral and mutual interest. Secretary reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with KSA across various sectors.
On the economic side, the Secretary met with Assistant Minister of Electricity Affairs, H.E. Nasser Al Qahtani, and Assistant Minister for and Petroleum and Gas H.E. Eng. Mohammed Ibrahim in the Ministry of Energy to discuss deepening energy cooperation, including in the field of renewables and grid connectivity. They also discussed facilitating investments between the two countries. In a separate meeting with Dr. Raad Al Barakati, President and CEO of the Saudi Centre for International Strategic Partnerships (SCISP), the two sides reviewed the work under the Economy pillar of the SPC.
Engagement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was an important focus of the visit. The Secretary visited the GCC Secretariat in Riyadh and held a meeting with GCC Assistant Secretary-General H.E Dr. Abdulaziz Aluwaisheg. The two sides discussed strengthening the institutional framework of ties and enhancing relations across various sectors, including in trade, security, energy, and cultural exchange. Both sides exchanged views on the regional and international situation.
During his visit, the Secretary also reviewed the well-being of the 2.4 million-strong Indian community in Saudi Arabia. He appreciated the leadership of the Kingdom for their efforts in ensuring the welfare of the Indian community. He interacted with the vibrant community in both Jeddah and Riyadh. Secretary expressed his appreciation for the contributions of the Indian community to the socio-economic fabric of Saudi Arabia and assured them of the Government of India’s continued support and assistance.
Secretary (CPV&OIA)’s visit underscored the depth and breadth of the relationship between India Saudi Arabia and the GCC, reaffirming commitment to mutual prosperity and collaboration across diverse fields.
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