PM Modi cuts short Saudi Arabia visit after Pahalgam terror attack; strategic ties strengthened with key agreements

By  News On Air   Apr 23, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his state visit to Saudi Arabia following a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The Prime Minister was originally expected to return tonight.

Our West Asia correspondent reports that, despite the shortened trip, the Prime Minister’s visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia had several key outcomes. The two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of cooperation, covering energy, defence, trade, investment, technology, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

Progress on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor was also discussed, with both sides reaffirming their shared vision and commitment to accelerating work on the initiative. Four important agreements, including in the areas of space, health and anti-doping, were signed during the bilateral engagements. A significant outcome of the visit was the expansion of the Strategic Partnership Council from two to four committees, underscoring the growing depth of bilateral ties.

The two leaders also welcomed the progress made by the Joint High-Level Task Force on Investments. Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in investing in a wide range of sectors in India, including energy, petrochemicals, infrastructure, technology and fintech.

Prime Minister Modi also expressed his appreciation to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the care and support extended to the 2.7 million-strong Indian diaspora living in the Kingdom.