-->
File Photo
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent interview with ‘Arab Times’, praised Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his visionary leadership and his strong commitment to enhancing ties with India.
PM Modi also noted the admiration the Crown Prince commands among the Indian diaspora.
“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,” PM Modi stated.
The Prime Minister applauded the transformation Saudi Arabia has witnessed under the Crown Prince’s leadership, especially through Vision 2030.
PM Modi further said the progress achieved has drawn global recognition.
“Under his leadership, Saudi Arabia has undergone tremendous social and economic transformation. The reforms he has undertaken have not just inspired the region but also caught the attention of the entire world. One can see the transformational changes in the country under Vision 2030 in a very short period. 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,” Prime Minister Modi asserted.
PM Modi went on to congratulate Saudi Arabia for securing the rights to host the World Expo in 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034, calling both events sources of ‘immense pride’.
“As a close friend, India rejoices in Saudi Arabia’s stellar achievements. I would like to congratulate the people of Saudi Arabia and their leadership for being chosen as the host for the World Expo in 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034. It is a matter of immense pride for any country to host two marquee global events within a span of four years. It speaks volumes of the leadership of His Royal Highness and his vision,” the Prime Minister remarked.
PM Modi further noted, “These mega events will boost the local economy. They offer opportunities for Indian companies as well. 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 the Saudi infrastructure and technology sectors. They are also creating value in various mega and giga projects as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.”
Highlighting the growing role of Indian firms in Saudi projects, PM Modi said these events will further open doors for Indian companies, especially those already active in infrastructure and technology.
The Prime Minister invited Saudi businesses to invest in India. He further emphasised opportunities in infrastructure, renewable energy, healthcare, and innovation.
“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,” PM Modi remarked.
On energy cooperation, PM Modi noted that Saudi Arabia remains one of India’s top energy suppliers.
Additionally, the Prime Minister mentioned that the partnership is moving beyond the buyer-seller dynamic to include joint ventures in refineries and petrochemicals.
“Energy has been an important pillar of our economic partnership. Saudi Arabia has been a strong and reliable energy partner for us. It is one of our top suppliers of crude and other petroleum products. As India seeks to become a developed country, our energy demands will continue to grow. And Saudi Arabia will remain a close partner in our energy security. As strategic partners, we agree that our energy cooperation is not limited to mere buyer-seller relationships. We are also exploring joint projects in refineries and petrochemicals,” PM Modi told Arab Times.
The Prime Minister further added, “The world is also witnessing a gradual shift toward cleaner and more sustainable energy resources. India is moving ahead with an ambitious target for green transition. We are confident of achieving the 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030. Even in this journey, there is an immense scope for collaboration with Saudi Arabia. This includes the areas of supply chains, circular economy, energy efficiency and green hydrogen. As partners in the International Solar Alliance, both countries can work toward innovative solutions for future energy needs.
Discussing the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), unveiled during the G20 Summit in 2023, PM Modi called it a historic step towards greater regional integration.
“This corridor will define the future of connectivity in all forms for centuries to come. It will become the key catalyst of commerce, connectivity and growth in the entire region. The corridor will enhance connectivity in all its forms, be it physical or digital. It will facilitate the development of resilient and dependable supply chains, increase trade accessibility and improve trade facilitation. The corridor will increase efficiencies, reduce costs, enhance economic unity, generate jobs and lower greenhouse gas emissions, resulting in a transformative integration of Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Prime Minister Modi stated.
PM Modi further added that the initiative holds the power to transform humanity.
The Prime Minister further described it as a 21st-century Silk Route that could benefit future generations.
Also Read: PM Modi Calls India-Saudi Ties A ‘Pillar Of Stability’ Ahead Of Saudi Arabia Visit
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps
