Muktesh K Pardeshi, Secretary for Consular, Passport, Visa, and Overseas Bharatiya Affairs, has concluded his official visit to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step in bolstering the strategic partnership between the two Countries.
The visit aimed to strengthen ties and foster mutual prosperity across various fields, highlighting the deep-rooted relationship between Bharat, Saudi Arabia, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
During his visit, Pardeshi conducted a comprehensive review of preparations for the annual Haj pilgrimage in Jeddah and Madinah. He met with Vice Haj Minister Abdul Fattah Mashat to discuss logistical arrangements and infrastructure developments aimed at ensuring the welfare and comfort of pilgrims.
This year, a total of 175,025 Bharatiya pilgrims are expected to visit Saudi Arabia under the 2024 Hajj quota.
Amb. Dr Suhel Khan hosted a community reception in honour of Secretary (CPV&OIA) Shri Muktesh Pardeshi at the India House. Representatives of various diaspora organizations & cross section of the Indian community members attended the event and warmly welcomed Secretary (CPV&OIA). pic.twitter.com/X8Vxmzwbl2
— India in Saudi Arabia (@IndianEmbRiyadh) May 6, 2024
Additionally, Pardeshi also focused on the well-being of the 2.4 million-strong Bharatiya community residing in Saudi Arabia. He lauded the Kingdom’s leadership for its efforts in safeguarding the welfare of the Bharatiya expatriate community, underscoring the importance of their contributions to the socio-economic fabric of Saudi Arabia.
Shri Muktesh Pardeshi, Deputy Minister/ Secretary (CPV&OIA) @MukteshPardeshi had a meeting with H.E. Dr. Saud bin Mohammed Al Sati, Deputy Minister for Political Affairs@KSAmofaEN. They reviewed bilateral relations and discussed issues of mutual interests. pic.twitter.com/6uvsB2VCcg
— India in Saudi Arabia (@IndianEmbRiyadh) May 6, 2024
In Riyadh, the Secretary engaged in substantive discussions with Saud bin Mohammed Al Sati, Deputy Minister for Political Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They reviewed the progress made under the Strategic Partnership Council (SPC), reaffirming Bharat’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Saudi Arabia across various sectors.
On the economic front, Pardeshi met with key officials including Assistant Minister of Electricity Affairs, Nasser Al Qahtani, and Assistant Minister for Petroleum and Gas Eng. Mohammed A Ibrahim.
As part of developing and strengthening the Kingdom’s international strategic partnerships, Eng. Raad AlBarakati, President and CEO (interim) of #SCISP received H.E Mr. Muktesh Pardeshi, Secretary (CPV&OIA) of #India, and H.E Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, Ambassador of the Republic of… pic.twitter.com/XpzsIZAk88
— Strategic Partnerships (@scisp_ksa) May 6, 2024
Discussions centered on deepening energy cooperation, particularly in renewables and grid connectivity, as well as facilitating investments between the two nations. A separate meeting with Raad Al Barakati, President and CEO of the Saudi Centre for International Strategic Partnerships (SCISP), focused on reviewing work under the Economy pillar of the SPC.
The visit also emphasized engagement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Pardeshi visited the GCC Secretariat in Riyadh and held discussions with GCC Assistant Secretary-General Abdulaziz Aluwaisheg.
Both sides deliberated on strengthening the institutional framework of ties and enhancing relations across various sectors, including trade, security, energy, and cultural exchange, while also exchanging views on regional and international developments.
Throughout his visit, Pardeshi interacted with the Bharatiya community in both Jeddah and Riyadh, expressing appreciation for their contributions to Saudi Arabia’s socio-economic landscape. He assured the Bharatiya expatriate community of the Government of Bharat’s continued support and assistance, reinforcing the enduring bond between the two countries.
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