NEW DELHI: Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, is currently embarked on a momentous three-day state visit to India. During this visit, he is set to engage in substantive discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House, marking a pivotal moment in their diplomatic interaction. Preceding this much-anticipated tête-à-tête, the 38-year-old statesman is slated to partake in an elaborate ceremonial welcome at the esteemed Rashtrapati Bhawan in the national capital, scheduled for 10 AM.

In all likelihood, His Royal Highness will formalize the inaugural meeting of the India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council by appending his signature to the pertinent documents on this consequential Monday.

Subsequently, later in the day, Crown Prince Salman will convene with President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, an event slated for approximately 6:30 PM. Following these significant engagements, he will conclude his visit to New Delhi around 8:30 PM.

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor initiative, unveiled on a prior occasion, has garnered substantial attention. India, in collaboration with the United States and several influential economies, announced this ambitious endeavor. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the imperative of preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations while concurrently promoting initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity.

This novel economic corridor, widely perceived as a potential alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative, was jointly introduced by leaders from the United States, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy, and the European Union during the G20 summit's sidelines.

The enduring and amicable relationship shared between India and Saudi Arabia is underscored by deep-rooted interpersonal ties. In the fiscal year 2022-23, bilateral trade between these nations reached an unprecedented zenith, totaling USD 52.75 billion. India stands as Saudi Arabia's second-largest trading partner, reciprocated by Saudi Arabia occupying the fourth-largest trading partner position for India. Furthermore, the two countries have nurtured a robust partnership in the realm of energy.

Saudi Arabia is home to a thriving Indian diaspora, comprising approximately 2.4 million individuals. Their contributions to the host nation's development and their pivotal role in fortifying the multifaceted bonds between the two nations are held in high esteem. Additionally, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia consistently facilitates the annual Hajj pilgrimage for over 1,75,000 Indian pilgrims, a testament to their dedication to fostering religious and cultural cooperation.

UK PM Rishi Sunak Confident about Inking Free Trade Deal with India this Year

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Visits Akshardham Temple in Delhi