PM Modi Ends Saudi Visit Early After Terror Attack in J&K, Meets Muslim World League Chief in Jeddah
During his visit to Saudi Arabia, PM Modi met Muslim World League Secretary General Sheikh Al-Issa, who condemned the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The Prime Minister cut short his trip and returned to India.
Key Highlights:
PM Modi Saudi Arabia Visit came to an early conclusion on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, after the Prime Minister decided to cut short his diplomatic engagement following the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region. The decision came after key bilateral and multilateral meetings, including a significant interaction with Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary General of the Muslim World League, in Jeddah.
The Secretary General extended deep condolences on the lives lost in the ghastly attack and strongly condemned terrorism in all forms. This powerful statement drew appreciation from Prime Minister Modi, who praised the League’s ongoing role in advocating moderation, promoting tolerant values, and enhancing social cohesion.
Focus Keyword Appears in This Subheading
PM Modi Saudi Arabia Visit: Dialogues on Diversity, Peace and Strategic Cooperation
The high-level meeting was held in Jeddah on Tuesday and was attended by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and other senior Indian officials. In a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), PM Modi said:
“India appreciates the stand of the Muslim World League against extremism and violence. Our multicultural, multilingual, and multi-religious society thrives on unity in diversity.”
Recalling their previous meeting in New Delhi in July 2023, PM Modi emphasized India’s philosophical ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The world is one family). He also supported the idea of a Diversity and Harmony Summit in India, as proposed by Sheikh Al-Issa during their meeting.
Terror Attack in Jammu and Kashmir Prompts Immediate Return
As news of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam emerged, PM Modi opted to cut short his state visit and skipped the official dinner hosted by the Saudi authorities. Government sources confirmed that the Prime Minister departed Jeddah on Tuesday night, earlier than scheduled.
“PM @narendramodi concludes his State Visit to Saudi Arabia and has emplaned for India,” posted MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on X.
The swift return highlighted the Indian government’s prioritization of national security amid rising tensions in Jammu and Kashmir.
India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Talks Co-Chaired in Jeddah
Before his early departure, PM Modi held bilateral talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and co-chaired the second India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC). Discussions spanned energy cooperation, digital infrastructure, investment, counterterrorism, and cultural exchange.
This was PM Modi’s third visit to Saudi Arabia, following earlier visits in 2009 and 2016. He extended a formal invitation to Mohammed bin Salman for the third SPC meeting to be hosted in India in the near future.
What This Means for You
- For Indian citizens, this visit underscores India’s emphasis on strategic diplomacy while responding swiftly to internal security threats.
- For the global Muslim community, the Muslim World League’s condemnation reinforces cross-faith solidarity against terrorism.
- For diplomatic observers, India’s balancing of multilateralism and domestic vigilance sets a precedent for leadership under crisis.
How to Take Action
- Stay informed through MEA briefings and verified diplomatic sources for updates on bilateral developments.
- Support peacebuilding initiatives and interfaith dialogue at the local level to echo India’s diplomatic messaging.
- Engage with cultural summits and academic panels that may emerge from the proposed Diversity and Harmony Summit in India.
Who Will Be Affected
- Families of the Jammu and Kashmir terror attack victims, whose plight has been brought to global attention through this diplomatic move.
- India-Saudi stakeholders in trade, defense, and cultural affairs, awaiting follow-up after the truncated visit.
- Religious and peacebuilding organizations aligned with the Muslim World League, which now see India as a potential host for wider dialogue.
Strengthening Ties While Facing Tragedy: Modi’s Visit Concludes on a Serious Note
While PM Modi’s Saudi Arabia visit was designed to strengthen strategic partnerships, it concluded on a somber note due to the situation back home. However, the symbolic significance of the meeting with Sheikh Al-Issa — and the proposed Diversity and Harmony Summit — reflects India’s continued global engagement on values of peace, diversity, and anti-extremism.
As India and Saudi Arabia continue their partnership, the events of this visit may shape future diplomatic, cultural, and counterterror efforts in the region.
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