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Prime Minister Narendra Modi shortened his two-day official visit to Saudi Arabia and returned to New Delhi on Wednesday following the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
Invited by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, PM Modi had visited Saudi Arabia to co-chair the second meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) in Jeddah.
However, the Prime Minister returned ahead of schedule, skipping the official dinner hosted in his honour, following the deadly attack on Tuesday.
Before his return, PM Modi held comprehensive talks with Crown Prince Salman.
Both leaders led discussions during the SPC meeting, reviewing progress across key areas and planning deeper collaboration.
The Prime Minister invited the Crown Prince to visit India for the next SPC session.
The two leaders explored new possibilities to enhance cooperation, especially under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
They also exchanged views on regional and global matters of shared concern.
Crown Prince Salman condemned the Pahalgam attack and extended condolences to the victims’ families. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fight terrorism in all its forms jointly.
They also took note of the increasing momentum in bilateral engagement since their last meeting in New Delhi in September 2023.
The review highlighted the role of frequent ministerial-level exchanges in reinforcing mutual trust and cooperation.
Ministry Of External Affairs Statement On The Visit
Commenting on the visit, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X, “PM @narendramodi and Crown Prince HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman held extensive talks & co-chaired the 2nd India–Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) in Jeddah at the Royal Palace. HRH Crown Prince strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack & expressed his deepest condolences on the innocent lives lost.”
“Discussions focused on exploring avenues across domains, including defence, trade, investment, energy and people-to-people ties, to further deepen the multi-faceted India–Saudi Arabia bilateral relations. They also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest & the ongoing India–Saudi Arabia cooperation under the IMEEC initiative. The two leaders reviewed the progress of the work under the SPC framework & discussed ways to strengthen the strategic partnership. They welcomed the expansion of the SPC with the addition of two new Ministerial Committees – on Defence Cooperation & Tourism and Culture Cooperation,” the post further added.
PM @narendramodi and Crown Prince HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman held extensive talks & co-chaired the 2nd India–Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) in Jeddah at the Royal Palace. HRH Crown Prince strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack & expressed his deepest… pic.twitter.com/PBxfi9DEF4
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) April 22, 2025
In a separate meeting in Jeddah, PM Modi met the Secretary General of the Muslim World League, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, who also denounced the Pahalgam terror attack.
The Prime Minister appreciated the League’s efforts in promoting moderation, tolerance, and social unity.
The MEA noted, “Prime Minister recalled his meeting with the Secretary General in July 2023 in New Delhi. He appreciated the role of the Muslim World League in promoting tolerant values, advocating moderation and advancing social cohesion and harmony.”
“Recalling India’s age-old philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam [the World is one Family], Prime Minister noted that India, as a multi-cultural, multi-lingual, multi-ethnic and multi-religious society, celebrates unity in diversity. India’s incredible diversity is a valuable strength that has given shape to its vibrant society and polity. He commended the firm stand of the Muslim World League against extremism, terrorism and violence,” the statement further added.
21-Gun Salute & Escort By Saudi Fighter Jet
India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Ajaz Khan, highlighted the special honours accorded to PM Modi during the visit.
A Saudi fighter jet escorted Prime Minister Modi’s aircraft as it entered Jeddah’s airspace, where he received a 21-gun salute.
Khan emphasised the close ties between PM Modi and Crown Prince Salman. He called the visit a reflection of the strategic importance Saudi Arabia places on its relationship with India.
During a special press briefing on PM Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia, Khan remarked, “As you know, the Prime Minister shares a very warm, close, and personal relationship with His Royal Highness Crown Prince, and the warmth and close friendship were very visible during this visit. We are also grateful for the warm welcome given to the Honourable Prime Minister on his arrival in Jeddah. As you know, he was accorded special honours, including a 21-gun salute.”
“The aircraft of the Prime Minister was escorted by a Saudi fighter jet when it entered the Jeddah airspace. These elements exemplify the importance that Saudi Arabia attaches to its relations with India. The Saudi official delegation comprised several senior ministers, including the Minister of Energy, Minister of Sports, Interior, National Guards, Foreign Affairs, Commerce, Investment, Deputy Governor of Mecca and also the governor of the Public Investment Fund,” he further added.
Khan also noted PM Modi’s meetings with yoga promoter Padmashri Nouf Marwaii and members of the Indian community.
This marked PM Modi’s third visit to the Kingdom, following previous trips in 2016 and 2009.
His visit followed the Crown Prince’s trip to India in 2020.
Also Read: PM Modi Returns To Delhi; Holds Emergency Briefing After Pahalgam Terror Attack
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