External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee meets His Majesty King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz

Apr 19, 2008

External Affairs Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee called on His Majesty King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz. They had a cordial and friendly meeting lasting for about 40 minutes. EAM recalled the close ties between the two countries, including the several high level visits. King Abdullah recalled his very successful visit to India with warmth and the momentous signing of the Delhi Declaration. EAM recalled that the landmark visit had opened up possibilities of cooperation in political, economic and cultural fields.

EAM also recalled his participation in the Indo-Arab Investment Projects Conclave and possibilities of private sector participation, particularly in petroleum, gas, petrochemicals. Indian economy requires huge investments, particularly in infrastructure and can absorb $500-600 billion. Deputy Chairman Planning Commission is visiting Saudi Arabia next month – opportunity for working together on infrastructure as well as in petroleum sector. It can change our buyer-seller relationship to a more participatory one for mutual benefit.

EAM thanked His Majesty for excellent conditions in which 1.6 million Indians stay here and for excellent Haj arrangements for 157,000 Indian pilgrims. They also discussed cooperation to combat terrorism and exchanged views on regional and international issues, particularly on Middle East Peace Process. EAM noted that PM was looking forward to his visit to Saudi Arabia on mutually convenient dates.