India-Middle East-Europe (IMEE) Economic Corridor; Saudi Crown Prince stressed the importance of concerted efforts to bring this ambitious project to fruition

Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, has emphasised the need of all signatory nations to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEE) working hard to make it a reality. The Crown Prince commended the leaders on the successful organisation of the G20 Summit and the projects completed, notably the economic corridor connecting the Middle East, India, and Europe, during his opening remarks at the Saudi-India Strategic Partnership Council Meeting on Monday. He emphasised the need of coordinated efforts to complete this large-scale initiative and said, "We need to work diligently to make it a reality."

The Crown Prince emphasised the long-standing relationship between Saudi Arabia and India, saying there has never been conflict between the two nations instead always working together to create a happy future for both. He emphasised the substantial agenda they are working on through the council while also highlighting the bright future.

Given that 7% of Saudi Arabia's population is of Indian descent, Prince Mohammed also recognised the important contribution made by the Indian community there. He affirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment to treating them as an essential component of the nation and safeguarding their welfare.

The Crown Prince and Prime Minister Modi reviewed a wide variety of issues for bilateral cooperation during the first Leaders' Meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council, including energy security, commerce and investment, defence and security, healthcare, food security, culture, and community welfare. Modi referred to Saudi Arabia as one of India's most significant strategic allies and predicted that their discussions will strengthen bilateral ties.

Additionally, Modi thanked Prince Mohammed for his work to improve the wellbeing of Indians living in Saudi Arabia.

The Crown Prince and the Indian Prime Minister signed the first meeting's minutes thereafter, reaffirming their commitment to advancing bilateral ties. Over a dozen Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) covering a range of industries, including IT, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and human resources, were also inked between Indian and Saudi Arabian businesses.

A high-level group, comprising ministries and senior officials, followed the Saudi Crown Prince.