Jeddah [Saudi Arabia], April 22 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman a 'strong advocate of bilateral ties' who is 'deeply admired' by the Indian diaspora. The Prime Minister was speaking to the Arab Times in an interview.

'Every time I have met him, His Royal Highness has left a deep impression on me. His insights, his forward-thinking vision, and his passion for fulfilling the aspirations of his people are truly remarkable,' he said.

'Under his leadership, Saudi Arabia has undergone tremendous social and economic transformation. The reforms he has undertaken have not just inspired the region, but also caught the attention of the entire world. One can see the transformational changes in the country under Vision 2030 in a very short period. I value the personal warmth and trust we share. And, yes, this personal rapport has naturally translated into how both countries give priority to our partnership. He is a strong advocate of our bilateral ties. He has been a great supporter of the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia and our people living in Saudi Arabia deeply admire him,' the Prime Minister added.

Prime Minister Modi also congratulated the Kingdom for winning the bids to host World Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034, describing the dual successes as a matter of 'immense pride.'

'As a close friend, India rejoices in Saudi Arabia's stellar achievements. I would like to congratulate the people of Saudi Arabia and its leadership for being chosen as the host for World Expo in 2030 and FIFA World Cup in 2034. It is a matter of immense pride for any country to host two marquee global events within a span of four years. It speaks volumes of the leadership of His Royal Highness and his vision,' he said.

'These mega events will boost the local economy. They offer opportunities for Indian companies as well. Our companies, as you are aware, have built a global reputation for their quality, competitiveness and efficiency. I understand that the Indian companies already have a strong participation in Saudi infrastructure and technology sectors. They are also creating value in various mega and giga projects as part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030,' the PM added.

PM Modi also invited Saudi Companies to take advantage of opportunities in India.

'I also invite Saudi companies to take advantage of the remarkable opportunities in India as part of our Viksit Bharat journey. They can participate in the growth of India's next-generation infrastructure, logistics, renewable energy, healthcare, utilities, innovation, start-ups and 'blue economy' sectors. Deeper engagements and two-way collaborations between companies of both countries will go a long way in strengthening the bilateral economic partnership,' he said.

Speaking about Saudi Arabia's role as a key supplier of crude oil and petroleum products to India, the Prime Minister said that the two countries are exploring joint projects in refineries and petrochemicals.

'Energy has been an important pillar of our economic partnership. Saudi Arabia has been a strong and reliable energy partner for us. It is one of our top suppliers of crude and other petroleum products. As India seeks to become a developed country, our energy demands will continue to grow. And Saudi Arabia will remain a close partner in our energy security. As strategic partners we agree that our energy cooperation is not limited to mere buyer-seller relationships. We are also exploring joint projects in refineries and petrochemicals,' the PM told Arab Times.

'The world is also witnessing a gradual shift toward cleaner and more sustainable energy resources. India is moving ahead with an ambitious target for green transition. We are confident of achieving 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030. Even in this journey, there is an immense scope of collaboration with Saudi Arabia. This includes the areas of supply chains, circular economy, energy efficiency and green hydrogen. As partners in the International Solar Alliance, both countries can work toward innovative solutions for future energy needs,' PM Modi added.

On the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), launched during the G20 Summit in September 2023, PM Modi said the project would be a key catalyst of commerce, connectivity in the entire region.'

'This corridor will define the future of connectivity in all forms for centuries to come. It will become the key catalyst of commerce, connectivity and growth in the entire region. The corridor will enhance connectivity in all its forms, be it physical or digital. It will facilitate development of resilient and dependable supply chains, increase trade accessibility and improve trade facilitation. The corridor will increase efficiencies, reduce costs, enhance economic unity, generate jobs and lower greenhouse gas emission, resulting in a transformative integration of Asia, Europe and the Middle East,' he said.

PM Modi said that this initiative has a transformational potential for humanity. It can be the new Silk Route of the 21st century that will bring benefit to the generations to come. (ANI)