Jeddah, April 23, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman co-chaired the second meeting of the India–Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) in Jeddah, marking a significant advancement in bilateral relations. The discussions encompassed key sectors including defense, energy, investment, and cultural cooperation.
During the meeting, both leaders agreed to establish two new Ministerial Committees: one on Defence Cooperation and another on Tourism and Cultural Cooperation, expanding the SPC framework to four committees in total. They also reviewed progress in areas such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and ongoing collaborations in counter-terrorism efforts.
Economic collaboration featured prominently, with agreements to work together on establishing two oil refineries in India. The High-Level Task Force on Investment was recognized for its significant progress, particularly in areas such as taxation, facilitating greater investment flows in the future.
However, Prime Minister Modi had to cut short his visit in light of a tragic incident in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where over 25 individuals lost their lives. He canceled a planned address to the Indian community and a state dinner hosted by the Saudi government, returning to India to oversee the situation.
The talks in Jeddah underscored the commitment of both nations to deepen their strategic partnership and collaborate on regional and global issues of mutual interest.
Source: Siasat.com
