India-Saudi Ties Soar as Modi Calls Saudi Arabia ‘Trusted Ally’

Indian PM Narendra Modi has started a significant two-day visit to Saudi Arabia, referring to the Kingdom as a “trusted friend and strategic ally.” This is his third visit since 2016. Narendra Modi underlined the increasing depth of India-Saudi relations, especially since the 2019 formation of the Strategic Partnership Council.

He commended the Kingdom’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his visionary leadership and commended the bilateral potential in the areas of energy, defence, and emerging technology. As Modi touches down in Jeddah, India’s economic and geopolitical relations with the Gulf clearly are in a new era.

Crown Prince’s Vision Impresses Modi

Narendra Modi eulogized Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership, referring to him as a force driver of deeper connections. He mentioned that the Crown Prince never fails to leave “a deep impression” on him due to his passion and vision-oriented mindset. The Indian PM also embraced Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reform initiative, referring to it as internationally inspiring.

India and Saudi Arabia are broadening defence cooperation. Narendra Modi referred to combined military exercises and increased security conversation as indicators of confidence between the two nations. Modi indicated the partnership keeps strengthening, particularly with global unpredictability at large.

Trade and Tech Head Bilateral Expansion

Narendra Modi pointed out that India-Saudi trade has increased, even in the face of global disruptions. Energy, agriculture, and fertilizers are at the core, but he also called for greater cooperation in green hydrogen and cutting-edge technology. Indian businesses already have a strong foothold in Saudi Arabia, and Modi urged further private-sector connections.

Modi congratulated Saudi Arabia on the successful hosting bids for World Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034. He called these victories a source of pride. He also emphasized the significance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), referring to it as a gamechanger for regional growth and connectivity.

Gulf Diplomacy and India’s Broader West Asia Strategy

This visit is more than just a bilateral engagement. Narendra Modi’s focus on economic corridors and strategic defence partnerships signals India’s broader push in West Asia.

As tensions reshape global alignments, India is positioning itself as a reliable partner not just for energy, but for tech, security, and regional diplomacy.