Antony Meets Saudi King Abdullah
Defence Minister A K Antony had a talk with his Saudi Counterpart on defence cooperation, the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony called on King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud in Riyadh. During the meeting, the two leaders expressed satisfaction that both the countries are pursuing enhanced cooperation in pursuit of the strategic partnership, especially in security, defence, economic and political fields.
Displaying enormous warmth, King Abdullah fondly remembered the role played by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to India-Saudi Arabia Relations. He recalled his visit to India in 2006 when the Delhi Declaration was signed setting forth the vision for the two countries to cooperate in various fields. The reciprocal visit by the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to the Kingdom in 2010 raised the level of bilateral engagements to strategic level by signing the Riyadh Declarations. King Abdullah offered all assistance, including additional supply of crude oil, should India require the same. He expressed eagerness to strengthen relations with India. King Abdullah condemned all forms of terrorism. He paid rich tributes to émigré Indians who have played a significant role in enriching the economy and the social life of Saudi Arabia.
Shri Antony hoped that his discussions with Prince Salman and Prince Khalid will lead to specific initiatives to deepen the defence exchanges to the benefit of both the countries.
