Jeddah/New Delhi, Apr 22 (UNI) As he visits Jeddah for bilateral talks with the Saudi leadership, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the “limitless potential” of India’s growing ties with Saudi Arabia.

PM Modi, who is on a two-day visit to Saudi Arabia, his third since 2016, has described the Kingdom as “a trusted friend and strategic ally”, in an interview to Arab News.

He has emphasised how bilateral relations have expanded significantly since the creation of the Strategic Partnership Council in 2019.

“Our partnership has limitless potential,” Modi said. “In a world full of uncertainties, our bond stands strong, as a pillar of stability.”

He praised Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership, calling him “a strong advocate of our bilateral ties” and a visionary who has inspired global admiration through the reforms under Vision 2030.

“Every time I have met him, His Royal Highness has left a deep impression on me. His insights, his forward-thinking vision, and his passion for fulfilling the aspirations of his people are truly remarkable,” he said.

Highlighting shared economic ambitions, PM Modi noted that trade between the two countries had grown even amid global challenges, with energy, agriculture and fertilsers as key sectors.

He welcomed deeper integration of Saudi and Indian businesses, particularly in emerging sectors like green hydrogen and technology. “Indian companies have also maintained a strong presence across various sectors in Saudi Arabia,” he said.

Modi also congratulated the Kingdom for winning the bids to host World Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034, describing the dual successes as a matter of “immense pride”.

He also pointed to growing defense cooperation and landmark joint military exercises as signs of increasing strategic trust.

On the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), launched during the G20 Summit in September 2023, Modi said the project would be “a key catalyst of commerce, connectivity and growth in the entire region.”

“Our relations have been on an upward trajectory since 2014. I fondly recall that in 2016, I had the honor of receiving The Order of King Abdulaziz from His Majesty King Salman.

“I truly believe these are promising times for India-Saudi Arabia ties. And, I must say, the Saudi leadership has played a vital role in strengthening this partnership.

“India and Saudi Arabia will keep moving forward together — for peace, progress and prosperity, not just for our people, but for the entire world.”

On Crown Prince and PM Mohammad bin Salman, the PM said:

“I value the personal warmth and trust we share. And, yes, this personal rapport has naturally translated into how both countries give priority to our partnership. He is a strong advocate of our bilateral ties. He has been a great supporter of the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia and our people living in Saudi Arabia deeply admire him.

“When we talk, we focus on making this partnership future-ready. Jeddah has had a special connection with India. For centuries, this famed city has been one of the principal arteries for our trade and people-to-people exchanges. As a gateway to Makkah, for ages, our pilgrims have walked the by-lanes of Jeddah on their holy journey for Hajj and Umrah.”

PM Modi said the two countries are working on a Bilateral Investment Treaty. “The proposed Free Trade Agreement between India and GCC has immense potential to transform the economic relationship between India and Saudi Arabia, and the region in general.”

Congratulating Saudi Arabia for being chosen as the host for World Expo in 2030 and FIFA World Cup in 2034, PM Modi said the mega events also offer opportunities for Indian companies. “Our companies, as you are aware, have built a global reputation for their quality, competitiveness and efficiency.

“I understand that the Indian companies already have a strong participation in Saudi infrastructure and technology sectors. They are also creating value in various mega and giga projects as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

“I also invite Saudi companies to take advantage of the remarkable opportunities in India as part of our Viksit Bharat journey. They can participate in the growth of India’s next-generation infrastructure, logistics, renewable energy, healthcare, utilities, innovation, start-ups and “blue economy” sectors.

“Deeper engagements and two-way collaborations between companies of both countries will go a long way in strengthening the bilateral economic partnership.”

UNI RN