In a significant diplomatic move, Mohammed Bin Salman Al Saud, the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, has chosen to extend his stay in India after attending the New Delhi G20 Summit. This state visit carries immense geopolitical importance, as it underscores the deepening ties between the two nations. Let’s delve into the details of this visit and its implications.
A Bilateral Meeting with President Draupadi Murmu
On Monday, September 11, the Saudi Arabian crown prince, widely known as MBS, is scheduled to have a crucial one-on-one meeting with the President of India, Droupadi Murmu. This meeting is set to address various critical aspects of their bilateral relationship, including economic cooperation, security concerns, and cultural exchanges.
Attended the ceremonial welcome in honour of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. India looks forward to deepening ties with Saudi Arabia across a wide range of sectors. pic.twitter.com/JRe9uuYcYH
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 11, 2023
Strengthening Ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Following his meeting with President Murmu, Crown Prince MBS is slated to hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These discussions are expected to delve into strategic partnerships, trade agreements, and regional stability. The synergy between India and Saudi Arabia is poised to foster growth and development in both nations.
His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and I had very productive talks. We reviewed our trade ties and are confident that the commercial linkages between our nations will grow even further in the times to come. The scope for cooperation in grid… pic.twitter.com/UalSTDmrTY
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 11, 2023
The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor
One of the pivotal developments coinciding with Crown Prince MBS’s visit is the announcement of the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor. Unveiled during the Delhi G20 Summit, this corridor signifies a significant stride in regional connectivity and trade. It is being positioned as a strategic countermeasure to the China-Pakistan Belt and Road Initiative.
Advancing Infrastructure Growth, Enhancing Connectivity!
On the sidelines of the G20 Summit, PM @narendramodi and other leaders joined a special event on Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment & India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
It will facilitate… pic.twitter.com/jb1wnDOIor
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 9, 2023
Geopolitical Significance
While the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor promises prosperity for India, the Middle East, and Europe, it has raised concerns in Pakistan. The economic corridor’s potential to revive the ancient spice route holds immense promise, but Pakistan has expressed reservations about its geopolitical implications.
Pakistan’s Concerns
The announcement of the economic corridor triggered a flurry of discussions on Pakistani social media platforms. Many citizens called upon their government to exhibit greater accountability in managing such geopolitical shifts. Pakistan’s relationship with Saudi Arabia holds utmost importance, especially during these challenging economic times.
The Way Forward
As one Pakistan X user aptly stated on the platform, “High time we get our house in order and set our priorities straight. Wishful thinking and petty politics will get us nowhere. Perhaps reassessing and questioning our limitations might bring about the change our country needs.”
Saudi-India joint statement indirectly blames Pakistan for cross-border terrorism. Muhammad bin Salman & Modi have stressed that countries should not harbor terrorists & work hard to dismantle their infrastructure.
In short,
“Yeh Jo Dehshatgardi Hai…” pic.twitter.com/6tXMDWaVvX
— Fatima (@FatiSpeaks_) September 11, 2023
“The Satanic Verses”
“Salman Rushdie”#لعنتی_یہودی_عطاتارڑ pic.twitter.com/63XaxQvom0— Idris (@haqqeqiazadi) September 2, 2023
In conclusion, Crown Prince MBS’s state visit to India marks a significant moment in the evolving dynamics of regional geopolitics. The discussions and agreements forged during his stay have the potential to shape the future of not only India and Saudi Arabia but the entire South Asian and Middle Eastern regions.