JEDDAH, 19 May 2007 — An Indian defense delegation was highly impressed with the rapid economic, social and educational developments taking place in the Kingdom, the professionalism of the Royal Saudi Armed Forces and the warm hospitality extended to them by the Kingdom.
The 13-member delegation of National Defense College (NDC) led by Air Vice Marshal Shankar Mani interacted with Saudi officials. After six days of its stay in the Kingdom, the NDC team found that there are numerous avenues for cooperation in the fields of economy, energy, science and technology and defense to further cement the historic relationship between the two countries, a press release from the Indian Consulate said.
During an informal interaction with reporters here, Mani said, “Our trip to Saudi Arabia’s was very fruitful and it will certainly give a boost to further strengthen ties between the two countries.”
One of the team members Brig. S.K. Jha said, “Our visit has completely changed the stereo-type image of Saudi Arabia, mostly projected by some section of media. We got a soothing feel of its rich social-cultural and religious ethos and values. We are highly impressed to see their security system and its effective day-today enforcement.”
During its stay in Riyadh, the delegation called on the deputy chief of general staff, commander, royal Saudi land forces and commander, Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces in the Ministry of Defense and Aviation.
“The high point of the visit at Riyadh was an interaction with the Committee on Security Affairs at the Shoura Council,” said Mani.
In Jeddah, Consul General Ausaf Sayeed briefed the team on the history of the two Holy Mosques, Haj and growing Indo-Saudi relationship.
Earlier on Thursday, India Forum hosted a reception and cultural program for the visiting dignitaries.
