Saudi foreign minister calls on Modi

Just weeks ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s path-breaking and keenly-awaited visit to Saudi Arabia early next month, Saudi foreign minister Adel Bin Ahmed Al Jubeir on Tuesday called on him during which they expressed keenness to elevate ties between the two countries to a strategic level by boosting cooperation in key areas of trade, security and counter terrorism.

“Both leaders exchanged views on further strengthening bilateral relations, including in the fields of trade, investment, energy, and security cooperation. They also discussed the regional situation.”

“They agreed that the two countries have shared interest in peace and stability in the region,” a statement said.

Emphasising that India attached high importance to its close and friendly relations with Saudi Arabia, the Prime Minsiter also expressed confidence that his forthcoming visit there would provide an opportunity to elevate the bilateral strategic partnership to a new level.