Visits Saudi- Key Topics in Talks with Crown Prince

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Saudi Arabia for two days. He departed for the kingdom this morning and is expected to sign six agreements during his visit to Jeddah. One of the key agenda items in his discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud will be the Haj quota for Indian pilgrims.

Before departing, Modi tweeted about the deep-rooted and valuable relationship India shares with Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that the bond between the two nations has strengthened in recent years, with cooperation growing in sectors such as defense, trade, investment, and energy. He also stated that both countries are committed to promoting regional peace, harmony, and stability.

This is Modi's third visit to Saudi Arabia, but his first to the city of Jeddah. He will participate in the second Strategic Partnership Council meeting during his trip.

Currently, the Haj quota for Indian pilgrims in 2024 stands at 1,75,025. In 2014, it was only 1,36,020. However, this year, arrangements have been made for only 1,22,518 pilgrims so far. Due to delays in the Haj Group Operators Agreement, nearly 42,000 Indian Muslims may not be able to undertake the Haj pilgrimage this year.

It is worth noting that in 2016, PM Modi was awarded Saudi Arabia’s highest civilian honor. During this trip, he is also scheduled to visit a factory employing Indian workers as part of his engagement with the Indian diaspora.