NEW DELHI: India, renowned for its multicultural and multireligious fabric, proudly embraces diversity, with over 200 million Muslims residing within its borders. This staggering figure positions India as the second most populous Muslim nation globally, as emphasized by President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday. During a meeting with Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, the Secretary General of the Muslim World League, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Murmu expressed India's admiration for the league's efforts in promoting values of tolerance, fostering interfaith dialogue, and cultivating an enlightened mindset.

Highlighting India's rich tapestry of cultures, languages, ethnicities, and religions, President Murmu underscored the nation's commitment to celebrating unity in diversity, as stated in an official release by Rashtrapati Bhavan. She remarked, "Our more than 200 million Indian Muslim brothers and sisters contribute significantly to our status as the second most populous Muslim nation worldwide."

President Murmu emphasized the deep-rooted bilateral ties between India and Saudi Arabia, acknowledging the mutual condemnation of terrorism in all its forms. Both countries advocate for "zero tolerance" against terrorism and share the belief that combating terrorism and violent extremism necessitates a comprehensive approach that involves engaging with moderate ideologies. The president commended Al-Issa for his firm stance against extremism, terrorism, and violence, expressing confidence that his visit would pave the way for enhanced collaboration between India and the Muslim World League.

Notably, the president emphasized the enduring history of friendly relations between the two nations, characterized by trade and people-to-people connections. She added, "Both India and Saudi Arabia possess invaluable teachings that can enrich the global community."

Al-Issa's current visit to India marks his inaugural official trip, during which he met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday.

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