Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep appreciation for the 2.7 million-strong Indian community residing in Saudi Arabia, calling them a “living bridge” between the two nations. In an exclusive interview with Arab News ahead of his official visit to the Kingdom, PM Modi praised the Indian diaspora’s role in fostering bilateral ties and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to their welfare.
PM Modi, who departed for Saudi Arabia today at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is making his third visit to the country following earlier trips in 2016 and 2019.
“We are deeply grateful to Their Royal Highnesses, King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for the patronage they have provided to the Indian community in Saudi Arabia,” PM Modi told Arab News. “We can never forget how they took care of the Indians as one of their own during the difficult times of the Covid pandemic.”
Referring to the diaspora as “rashtradoots” (national ambassadors), PM Modi highlighted the values of empathy, compassion, and professionalism that Indians bring with them wherever they go. He reiterated his government’s diaspora engagement strategy based on the “4Cs” — Care, Connect, Celebrate, and Contribute — underscoring that the safety and well-being of Indian citizens abroad remains paramount.
Reflecting on the initiatives launched by his government over the past decade, PM Modi cited programs including insurance schemes, scholarships for children of overseas Indians, skilling initiatives, and mechanisms for safe and legal migration. These efforts, he said, are aimed at ensuring support and opportunity for the Indian community in Saudi Arabia.
“The 2.7 million vibrant Indian community in Saudi Arabia is a living bridge connecting our two countries. I commend them for not only preserving their values and traditions but also promoting them. I eagerly look forward to reconnecting with the Indian diaspora during this visit,” he added.
PM Modi also underscored the growing cultural, religious, and educational links between India and Saudi Arabia. He noted the long-standing tradition of Indian pilgrims traveling to the Kingdom for Hajj and Umrah, and expressed gratitude to the Saudi leadership for facilitating these visits.
Highlighting the expanding cultural exchange, the Prime Minister mentioned the rising popularity of yoga, cricket, and Indian cinema in the Kingdom. “Yoga has gained considerable popularity in Saudi Arabia over recent years, thanks to the encouragement and support of the Saudi government,” he said. “Arab broadcasters now run dedicated channels with Indian content, and Indian films and actors enjoy a wide following.”
As part of ongoing efforts to boost cultural ties, PM Modi extended an invitation to Saudi Arabia to participate in the upcoming World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit, set to be held in Mumbai from May 1–4. “We look forward to strong participation from Saudi Arabia so that we can give new wings to our cultural and entertainment collaboration,” he said.
(With ANI inputs)