New Delhi: Muktesh K Pardeshi, Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs (Consular, Passport, Visa, and Overseas Indian Affairs), conducted a comprehensive review of the preparations for the Hajj pilgrimage scheduled for 2024 in Jeddah and Madinah.
During his visit, Secretary Pardeshi convened a meeting with Abdul Fattah Mashat, Vice Minister of Hajj for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to discuss logistical arrangements and infrastructure developments aimed at enhancing the welfare and comfort of pilgrims.
In a statement released by the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia, it was emphasized that the meeting between Shri Muktesh Pardeshi and Vice Minister Dr. Abdul-Fattah bin Sulaiman Mashat centered on ensuring the provision of optimal services to Indian pilgrims during the forthcoming Hajj pilgrimage.
The visit of Muktesh K Pardeshi to Saudi Arabia, spanning from May 4 to May 7, was highlighted by the Ministry of External Affairs as an endeavor to bolster the strategic partnership between India and Saudi Arabia. Notably, it was announced that a total of 175,025 Indian pilgrims are expected to visit Saudi Arabia under the 2024 Hajj quota.
In addition to discussions with Vice Minister Mashat, Secretary Pardeshi engaged in talks with Saud bin Mohammed Al Sati, Deputy Minister for Political Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focusing on the progress achieved under the Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) and various bilateral interests. Pardeshi reaffirmed India’s commitment to enhancing cooperation across sectors with Saudi Arabia.
Furthermore, during his visit to Riyadh, Secretary Pardeshi met with Nasser Al Qahtani, Assistant Minister of Electricity Affairs, and Mohammed AIbrahim, Assistant Minister for Petroleum and Gas at the Ministry of Energy, to deliberate on deepening energy cooperation, particularly in renewable energy and on-grid connectivity, aiming to facilitate investments between the two nations.
Moreover, discussions with Raad Al Barakati, President and CEO of the Saudi Centre for International Strategic Partnerships (SCISP), revolved around reviewing the economic aspects of the SPC, as highlighted in an MEA press release.
The engagement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was another significant aspect of the visit, with Secretary Pardeshi visiting the GCC Secretariat in Riyadh for discussions with Assistant Secretary-General H.E Dr. Abdulaziz Aluwaisheg. The discussions aimed to fortify the institutional framework of ties and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in trade, security, energy, and cultural exchange, while also exchanging perspectives on regional and international developments.
Secretary Pardeshi also dedicated attention to reviewing the well-being of the approximately 2.4 million-strong Indian community residing in Saudi Arabia, commending the leadership of Saudi Arabia for their efforts in ensuring the welfare of the Indian diaspora.
In interactions with the Indian community in Jeddah and Riyadh, Secretary Pardeshi expressed appreciation for their contributions to the socio-economic landscape of Saudi Arabia and assured them of the continued support and assistance of the Government of India.
In summary, the visit underscored India’s commitment to strengthening its multifaceted relationship with Saudi Arabia, encompassing strategic, economic, and cultural dimensions, while also reaffirming its dedication to the welfare of the Indian diaspora abroad.
