New Delhii: Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt, who is on a visit to Saudi Arabia, held talks with the Defence Minister and Assistant Defence Minister of Saudi Arabia to further consolidate bilateral cooperation in multifarious sectors.
Ajay Bhatt held meetings with the Defence Minister of Saudi Arabia, Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, on Tuesday and discussed various aspects of bilateral defence cooperation, an official statement said here on Wednesday.
He also held talks with the Assistant Minister of Defence, Dr. Khaled Al-Bayari, and discussed ways to further strengthen the long-standing and multi-faceted defence cooperation between the two countries. The discussions centred around exploring avenues for collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including increasing the scope of joint training exercises, technology transfer, and the exchange of expertise.
Moreover, Bhatt also held a meeting with the Governor of Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, and discussed the way ahead towards collaborating in varied areas of defence production, research and development, and niche technologies.
He also visited the pavilion of Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) on the sidelines of the World Defence Show 2024 (WDS 2024).
Both sides, in all discussions, shared a deep understanding of the evolving security landscape and resolved to increase bilateral defence cooperation in multifarious sectors while also recognising the mutual benefits of a strong partnership in safeguarding regional security.
The MoS Defence expressed confidence that the India-Saudi Arabia partnership will continue to grow from strength to strength, contributing significantly to regional stability and global security.
Besides, he also interacted with the representatives of Indian defence companies participating in the Defence Show and congratulated them for their impressive cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions. The participation by Indian defence companies will not only contribute to an increase in footprint but also further develop the defence industry in both countries by forming lasting partnerships.
Ajay Bhatt also witnessed the signing of an MoU between Munitions India Limited and its local partner on the sidelines of WDS 2024. He also attended a business networking event with leading Indian and Saudi business personalities in Saudi Arabia.
India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and Saudi Arabia’s ‘Vision 2030’ are national programmes that can be mutually beneficial to both sides. Both initiatives prioritise technological advancements, indigenous capabilities, and knowledge sharing. As highlighted by both sides, there is immense potential for collaboration in these areas, particularly in the co-development and joint production of defence technologies.
The visit has reaffirmed the inherent strength of bilateral ties, opened new avenues for cooperation, and solidified shared commitments towards a safer and more prosperous future.
