RIYADH, 13 February 2003 — Minister of Interior Prince Naif has accepted an invitation from India’s Deputy Prime Minister L.K.Advani to visit India to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kingdom to combat crime and terrorism.
The invitation was extended at a meeting between Prince Naif and India’s Union Minister for Civil Aviation Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, according to Zikr-ur-Rehman, first secretary at the Indian Embassy.
The Indian minister voiced New Delhi’s concern over growing extremism and violence in the Kashmir region.
Prince Naif said he shared his concern and hoped that both India and the Kingdom would be able to cooperate in combating extremism and terrorism.
Referring to the current tension in the Middle East, the minister asked Prince Naif to look after the welfare of Indians in the region, especially in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, should they cross the border as a result of the deteriorating situation in Iraq.
Prince Naif assured him that the Kingdom, in line with its traditions and customary practice, provides necessary facilities to all expats, including Indians.
Shahnawaz paid tribute to Saudi authorities for taking exceptional care of the pilgrims, who as a result were able to perform Haj in ease and comfort.
