ON the occasion of 61st Republic Day of India, let me offer my warm greetings to my fellow Indians, Persons of Indian Origin and all our friends in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. At the outset, on behalf of the government of India, let me congratulate all the Saudi agencies for their excellent management of Haj pilgrimage, which resulted in a smooth and safe conduct of Haj 2009 (1430AH). The government of Saudi Arabia provided the best possible facilities to the guests of God. The threat of swine flu was effectively handled by the Saudi authorities. This Haj has also been one of the smoothest Haj for the Indian side. We take this opportunity to thank various Saudi agencies for extending their complete cooperation and support to the Indian Haj Mission.
Bilateral relations between India and Saudi Arabia experienced a perceptible level of upgradation after the historic visit of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah to India. Political relations, trade and people-to-people interactions have gained momentum in the past few years. The exchange of a series of high-level visits between the two countries is expected to further boost our bilateral ties. There has been a healthy growth in India’s bilateral trade with the Kingdom, which now exceeds $23 billion.
The year gone by was an eventful year for India. We undertook the largest democratic exercise in the world during the general elections that were held in May 2009. These elections have reinforced India’s core values of pluralism, tolerance and secularism. During this period Indian economy also weathered the unprecedented economic and financial crisis faced by the world. The rapid growth of India’s economy in the last few years has helped lift the living conditions of millions of people. India has been able to expand access to education, health care and economic opportunities to a vast majority of the population.
The Indian expatriate community in the Kingdom has played a pivotal role in enhancing the image of our country. I take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all Indian expatriates. I also take this opportunity to acknowledge their contribution and to look forward to such positive initiatives from different sections of the Indian community for the general good of all.
The Consulate General of India, Jeddah, remains committed to extend its best possible services to the Indian Diaspora in the Western Province of Saudi Arabia. The well-being of the Indian community remains our top priority.
Jai Hind.
Sayeed Ahmed Baba
Consul General of India
