Saudi Foreign Minister calls on PM Modi

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia next month, its Foreign Minister Adel Bin Ahmed Al Jubeir on Tuesday called on him, during which they expressed keenness to elevate ties between the two countries to strategic level by boosting cooperation in key areas of trade, security and counter terrorism.

“Both the leaders exchanged views on further strengthening bilateral relations, including in the fields of trade, investment, energy, and security cooperation. They also discussed regional situation. They agreed that the two countries have shared interest in peace and stability in the region,” a PMO statement said.

Emphasising that India attached high importance to its close and friendly relations with Saudi Arabia, Modi expressed confidence that his forthcoming visit to the Gulf nation would provide an opportunity to elevate the bilateral strategic partnership to a new level. Modi will travel to Saudi Arabia on a two-day State visit from April 2.