RIYADH, 22 March 2007 — A group of 138 Saudi students set to leave for higher studies in India under the King Abdullah Scholarship Program underwent an orientation course in Riyadh Tuesday night.

The Ministry of Higher Education and Imam Muhammad ibn Saud University conducted the program in cooperation with the Indian Embassy here.

“It is a matter of honor for us that India has been chosen as one of the countries for higher studies of Saudi students,” said Rajeev Shahare, deputy chief of mission at the Indian Embassy.

“India is in a position today to share its achievements and expertise with other countries particularly with whom it has historic and brotherly relations. Saudi Arabia is certainly on top of our list.”

The diplomat recalled that a new chapter was opened in bilateral relations when Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah visited India in January 2006 as the chief guest at the country’s Republic Day celebrations.

“This historic visit opened new vistas of cooperation while further consolidating our firm foundation of friendship,” Shahare told the students and parents who were present at the program.

The diplomat pointed out that education occupied a prime position among the new areas of cooperation envisaged in the landmark Delhi Declaration. “The decision of the government of Saudi Arabia to send students for higher studies to India emanates from this Delhi Declaration which was signed by King Abdullah and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh,” he added.

Shahare told the audience that educational institutions in India are located in specialized areas with salubrious environments.

“We have highly trained faculty in all disciplines,” he said. “Depending upon your area of interest, you can pursue a number of courses simultaneously to enhance your skills. You can, while doing your graduation course, enhance your language and computer skills.”

He pointed out that Bangalore is known as the Silicon valley of India because of its unique achievement in the technical sector.

“This has not happened overnight, it has taken us 50 years to reach this stage,” he said. “The measures that were adopted four to five decades ago are now bearing fruit.”

In his presentation, Datta said India has the second-largest English-speaking population in the world and its educational degrees offered by reputable institutions are globally recognized.

“Those students who arrive in India will be given a 10-day orientation course and they will be assisted by Arabic speaking officials at the beginning,” Datta said.