By: Amit kumaR Agarwal
Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi landed in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday for a two-day visit at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. In a special gesture, the Royal Saudi Air Force's fighter jets escorted the PM's aircraft into Saudi Arabia.
In an interview with an Arab news channel ahead of his arrival in the middle-eastern port-city, Jeddah, Modi said, “I look forward to participating in the 2nd Meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council. I will also be interacting with the Indian community there.”
The PM described the middle-eastern country as “one of India’s most valued partners – a maritime neighbour, a trusted friend and a strategic ally”. This is Prime Minister Modi’s third visit to Saudi Arabia in the past decade and the first to the city of Jeddah. The trip follows Mohammed bin Salman’s state visit to India in 2023.
Earlier, PM Modi was welcomed in Jeddah with chants of 'Modi, Modi' from the Indian diaspora who were waving the Indian flag in his honour. A performance of the song ‘Ae Watan’ and a traditional dance performed by Indians was also witnessed.
Upon arrival, the PM stated in a post on X, “Landed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This visit will strengthen the friendship between India and Saudi Arabia. Eager to take part in the various programmes today and tomorrow."
PM Modi along with Crown Prince & PM of Saudi Arabia, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, will co-chair the 2nd Leaders' Meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council during his visit to the country.
Before leaving for Jeddah, Modi said that India values its historic relations with Saudi Arabia and that bilateral ties between the two nations have gained significant momentum in the last decade.