PM Modi Returns Early from Saudi Arabia After Pahalgam Attack, Concludes High-Level Strategic Talks
Prime Minister Modi concluded his Saudi visit early following the Pahalgam terror attack. He co-chaired key strategic meetings with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and met the Muslim World League Secretary General.
Key Highlights:
PM Modi Saudi Arabia Visit concluded earlier than scheduled on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, as the Prime Minister returned to India following the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam. Modi had been on a two-day State visit to Saudi Arabia at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, but chose to skip the official dinner and cut short his trip in response to the attack.
He arrived in New Delhi early Wednesday morning, ahead of his original return schedule.
Strategic Talks Before Departure: SPC Meeting and Bilateral Engagements
Before his early departure, PM Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman co-chaired the second India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) in Jeddah on Tuesday. Both leaders reviewed the ongoing cooperation under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and committed to strengthening multi-sectoral ties.
The discussions spanned critical areas:
- Defence, Trade, and Energy Cooperation
- Investment, Culture, and People-to-People Ties
- Global and Regional Security Concerns
The SPC was expanded with the formation of two new Ministerial Committees:
- Defence Cooperation
- Tourism and Culture Cooperation
Focus Keyword Appears in This Subheading
PM Modi Saudi Arabia Visit: Warm Welcome, Strong Condemnation of Terror
PM Modi was accorded a 21-gun salute and welcomed with fighter jet escort upon entering Saudi airspace — a mark of high diplomatic respect. India’s Ambassador Suhel Ajaz Khan noted the “visible warmth and close personal relationship” between Modi and the Crown Prince.
During the SPC session, Mohammed bin Salman strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and extended his deepest condolences. Both leaders agreed to combat terrorism tooth and nail, with renewed strategic resolve.
Muslim World League Chief Meets PM Modi in Jeddah
On Tuesday, PM Modi also met with Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary General of the Muslim World League. Al-Issa strongly condemned the “ghastly terror attack” and praised India’s multi-religious society.
The Prime Minister appreciated the League’s efforts in promoting moderation, social harmony, and tolerance, and welcomed discussions on a future Diversity and Harmony Summit in India.
Other Engagements: Diaspora and Cultural Outreach
Apart from high-level diplomatic engagements, PM Modi met with renowned Saudi yoga practitioner Padma Shri Nouf Marwaii and members of the Indian diaspora in Jeddah. This visit marked Modi’s third to Saudi Arabia, following his earlier trips in 2009 and 2016.
India’s strong community presence and bilateral engagements in space, health, sports (anti-doping), and postal cooperation were also strengthened with the signing of four key MoUs during the visit.
What This Means for You
- For citizens and travelers, Modi’s early return signals the government’s urgency in addressing national security matters.
- For strategic analysts, the continued expansion of India-Saudi ties despite shortened engagements showcases diplomatic maturity.
- For the Muslim World, Modi’s outreach to Al-Issa highlights India’s emphasis on inclusive international dialogue.
How to Take Action
- Follow MEA and official channels for ongoing updates on India-Saudi agreements.
- Track developments on the proposed IMEEC corridor, which will influence regional trade.
- Engage in civic dialogue about the implications of terror attacks on foreign policy and international relations.
Who Will Be Affected
- Victims’ families and tourists in Jammu & Kashmir, who remain central to the government’s post-attack response.
- Indian business and diplomatic missions, which are expected to fast-track bilateral projects post-visit.
- Religious and cultural bodies, especially those aligned with global peace initiatives, now preparing for India’s Diversity Summit proposal.
India’s Diplomatic Balance: Strategic Depth Amid Crisis
Despite the somber backdrop of the Pahalgam terror attack, the PM Modi Saudi Arabia Visit successfully demonstrated India’s focus on long-term diplomacy, resilience against terrorism, and multilateral cultural engagement.
As India deepens its ties with West Asia through trade, defence, and interfaith partnerships, the visit — though shortened — leaves behind a roadmap for strategic cooperation with Saudi Arabia.
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