PM Modi Receives Royal Welcome in Jeddah with 21-Gun Salute and Fighter Jet Escort
Jeddah: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Jeddah on Monday for a two-day official visit to Saudi Arabia, receiving a ceremonial 21-gun salute and a warm reception that underlined the strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. As a mark of honor, his aircraft was escorted by F-15 fighter jets of the Royal Saudi Air Force upon entering Saudi airspace.
This high-level visit, made at the invitation of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, marks PM Modi’s third trip to the Kingdom, further reflecting the strategic depth of Indo-Saudi relations.
Taking to social media, Prime Minister Modi expressed his enthusiasm for the visit, stating that it would deepen the friendship and cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia.
Landed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This visit will strengthen the friendship between India and Saudi Arabia. Eager to take part in the various programmes today and tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/Y1HNt9J4nG
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2025
He shared excitement about his participation in various bilateral programmes scheduled over the next two days.
In his departure statement, PM Modi emphasized the long-standing historic ties between the two nations, noting that they have evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership in recent years. He also looked forward to engaging with the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia, calling them a “living bridge” that continues to fortify cultural and people-to-people connections.
وصلتُ إلى جدة، المملكة العربية السعودية. ستُعزز هذه الزيارة الصداقة بين الهند والمملكة العربية السعودية. أتطلع للمشاركة في مختلف البرامج اليوم وغدًا. pic.twitter.com/icYwEKq583
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2025
In an interview with Arab News, the Prime Minister described Saudi Arabia as a “trusted friend and strategic ally”, commending Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 for economic and social transformation. He also highlighted emerging collaborations in energy, agriculture, green hydrogen, technology, and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
PM Modi congratulated Saudi Arabia on securing World Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034, calling it a testimony to the Kingdom’s growing global stature. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to enhancing cooperation across all spheres.
