On April 22, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, marking his third visit to the Kingdom and the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Jeddah in over four decades. Invited by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, this two-day visit underscores the deepening strategic partnership between India and Saudi Arabia.
Key Highlights of the Visit:
- PM Modi's aircraft was escorted by Saudi Royal Air Force fighter jets upon entering Saudi airspace, a special gesture that emphasized the strength of bilateral relations.
- He was welcomed in Jeddah with a 21-gun salute and a warm reception from the Indian diaspora.
- He and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman co-chaired the second meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council, focusing on boosting collaboration across various sectors.
- Six memoranda of understanding were signed during the visit, covering cooperation in space, energy, health, science and technology, culture, and advanced technology.
- Energy discussions included potential joint ventures in refinery and petrochemical projects, as well as conducting feasibility studies for electricity grid interconnectivity between India and Saudi Arabia.
- PM Modi also encouraged Saudi investment in India's growing defense manufacturing sector and explored opportunities to strengthen the current $43 billion trade relationship.
- The two leaders also discussed the Hajj pilgrimage, including arrangements and quotas for Indian pilgrims traveling to Mecca.