India and Saudi Arabia: A Growing Partnership
Former Indian diplomat Zikrur Rahman, who has served in various Arab countries, highlighted the strong relationship between India and Saudi Arabia. During India Week in Riyadh Season, Rahman expressed optimism about the future of these ties, noting that both nations are working together sincerely. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visits in 2016 and 2019 for strengthening the bilateral relationship.
Strengthening Ties Through Culture
Rahman emphasized the role of culture in bringing India and Saudi Arabia closer. He noted that cultural exchanges, including Bollywood and Indian cuisine, help foster connections between the two countries. This cultural bond can lead to economic and political strengthening.
Vision 2030: A Shared Goal
Both countries are aligned in their Vision 2030 initiatives, aiming for mutual benefits and regional stability. Rahman praised the Global Harmony Initiative launched by Saudi Arabia under its quality of life program.
Middle East Peace Efforts
Rahman, a former ambassador to Palestine, discussed the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s commitment to peaceful solutions and criticized the role of extreme right-wing parties in hindering peace efforts. Rahman stressed that the issue is not religious but about occupation and colonization.
Doubts Revealed
Zikrur Rahman -: Zikrur Rahman is a former Indian diplomat. Diplomats are people who represent their country in other countries and work on international relations.
India-Saudi Arabia Relations -: This refers to the relationship between the countries of India and Saudi Arabia. They work together on things like trade, culture, and politics to help each other.
Vision 2030 -: Vision 2030 is a plan by Saudi Arabia to make their country better by the year 2030. It includes goals like improving the economy and making life better for people.
Prime Minister Modi -: Prime Minister Modi is the leader of India. He is responsible for making important decisions for the country and representing India in other countries.
Middle East conflict -: The Middle East conflict refers to ongoing disagreements and fights in the Middle East region, which includes countries like Israel and Palestine. It often involves issues of land and politics.
Extreme right-wing parties -: Extreme right-wing parties are political groups that have very strong and strict ideas. They often focus on keeping things traditional and may not support changes that promote peace.
Occupation -: In this context, occupation means one country or group controlling an area that belongs to another country or group. It is a major issue in the Middle East conflict.
Humanitarian crisis -: A humanitarian crisis is a situation where many people suffer because of things like war, natural disasters, or lack of resources. It often requires help from other countries to provide food, shelter, and medical care.
