PM Modi Praises India–Saudi Strategic Ties

In a recent exclusive

In an interview with @arabnews, PM @narendramodi highlighted the growing ties between India and Saudi Arabia. He described Saudi Arabia as “a trusted friend and strategic ally,” emphasising the significant expansion of bilateral relations since the creation of the Strategic…

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 22, 2025

with Arab News, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shed light on the strengthening partnership between India and Saudi Arabia, calling the Gulf nation a “trusted friend and strategic ally.” The Prime Minister’s remarks underscore the significant strides taken in bilateral relations, particularly since the establishment of the India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council in 2019.

This high-level council has served as a cornerstone in enhancing cooperation between the two countries, catalyzing progress across key sectors such as energy, trade, investment, security, culture, and technology.

Strategic Partnership Council: A Milestone in India–Saudi Relations

Formed in 2019 during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to India, the Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) has marked a turning point in Indo-Saudi ties. The council was designed to institutionalize regular high-level dialogue and deepen cooperation across various domains of mutual interest.

Under the SPC framework, India and Saudi Arabia have launched multiple joint working groups focusing on:

• Energy security and renewables
• Investment and infrastructure development
• Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
• ICT and emerging technologies
• Culture and tourism

The, in his interview, emphasized how the SPC has not only formalized the bilateral engagement but also fast-tracked implementation of cooperative projects.

A Relationship Built on Shared Interests and Trust

PM Modi’s choice of words—“trusted friend and strategic ally”—echoes the transformation of India–Saudi Arabia relations from a transactional dynamic to a broad-based, strategic partnership rooted in shared values, economic synergy, and regional cooperation.

India has emerged as one of the largest trading partners of Saudi Arabia, while Saudi Arabia continues to be a top energy supplier to India. The robust people-to-people ties, with over 2.4 million Indians living and working in the Kingdom, further add strength and warmth to this relationship.

In an interview with @arabnews, PM @narendramodi highlighted the growing ties between India and Saudi Arabia. He described Saudi Arabia as “a trusted friend and strategic ally,” emphasising the significant expansion of bilateral relations since the creation of the Strategic…

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 22, 2025

Economic Ties: A Growing Pillar of Bilateral Relations

PM Modi pointed out the significant expansion in bilateral trade and investment flows. In recent years:

• Bilateral trade has surpassed $43 billion, placing Saudi Arabia among India’s top trading partners.
• Indian companies have increased their presence in Saudi Arabia, particularly in IT services, construction, and engineering.
• Saudi investment in Indian sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and retail continues to grow, with marquee projects in the pipeline.

The establishment of the India–Saudi Investment Forum has further reinforced efforts to facilitate private-sector partnerships and joint ventures.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks in the Arab News interview reaffirm India’s deepening relationship with Saudi Arabia—a bond grounded in strategic trust, growing economic interdependence, and vibrant cultural ties. Since the creation of the Strategic Partnership Council in 2019, both nations have expanded their bilateral agenda with remarkable speed and mutual respect.

As India strengthens its footprint in West Asia and Saudi Arabia diversifies its global partnerships under Vision 2030, the trajectory of Indo-Saudi ties remains optimistic, impactful, and exemplary in the global arena.