India's parliamentary delegation meets Saudi officials, underscores strong position against terrorism
RIYADH: An all-party parliamentary delegation from India visited Riyadh to convey the country's firm stance against terrorism and its continued efforts to combat it.
The delegation is visiting various countries to convey India's response to terrorism in the aftermath of the military campaign, 'Operation Sindoor.'
During the Riyadh visit, from May 27-29, the delegation met a cross-section of political dignitaries, government officials, thought leaders and members of the Indian community.
Led by BJP MP Baijayant Panda, the delegation held an extensive interaction with the Indian diaspora organized by the Indian Embassy in Riyadh on Thursday. The delegation shared with them the national consensus in the fight against terrorism.
Praising the Indian community, Panda said: 'Our Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia continues to make India proud through its success, contributions and standing in local society. Today, we are here with you to share India's united national stance, the success of Operation Sindoor, and our unwavering commitment to combat cross-border terrorism with a zero-tolerance approach.'
On Wednesday, the all-party delegation had discussions with Adel Al-Jubeir, minister of state for foreign affairs, and underscored India's position.
The Indian delegation appreciated the support received from the political leadership in Saudi Arabia in condemning the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
Delegates reiterated India's policy of zero tolerance toward terrorism, highlighting what Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his speech earlier this month: 'This is certainly not the era of war but this is also not the era of terrorism.'
It also held a meeting with Dr. Mishaal Al-Sulami, deputy speaker of the Shoura Council, and Maj. Gen. Abdulrahman Alharbi, chairman of the Saudi-India Parliamentary Friendship Committee of the Shoura Council, and conveyed India's strong position against terrorism.
It expressed deep gratitude for Saudi Arabia's strong condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
The delegation also met Dr. Mushabab bin Ayed Al-Qahtani, director general of the Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute of Diplomatic Studies, and held discussions with the Institute on India's approach to countering terror.
In all the meetings, the Indian delegation underlined that India has received unwavering support from Saudi Arabia on issues related to counter-terrorism. Both countries will continue to work together in their efforts toward de-radicalization and curbing extremism.
On Wednesday night, the Indian Embassy hosted a dinner interaction with distinguished personalities from Saudi civil society, which gave an opportunity for further discussions on countering terrorism as well as broader topics related to the India-Saudi bilateral partnership.
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