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Press Release on conclusion of Visit of Hon’ble Minister of State for Defence and Tourism Shri. Ajay Bhatt to Saudi Arabia.

Posted on: February 08, 2024 | Back | Print

Press Release: Conclusion of Visit of Hon’ble Minister of State for Defence and Tourism Shri. Ajay Bhatt to Saudi Arabia

Hon’ble Minister of State for Defense and Tourism Shri. Ajay Bhatt concluded his visit to Saudi Arabia today. The Hon’ble Minister was on a visit to Riyadh as the head of the delegation for the World Defense Show 2024, being held in Riyadh.

On 07 February 2024, Hon’ble minister along with the delegation visited Saudi Arabian Military Industry (SAMI-AEC) headquarters in Riyadh. Both sides engaged in insightful discussions on future collaboration, strengthening defense ties, and fostering collaboration. Later on, the Hon’ble Minister paid a visited to Diriyah and Al-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Saudi Arabia.

A community event was hosted in honor of the Hon’ble Minister at Embassy of India Riyadh Auditorium. While addressing the gathering, the Minister spoke about Government of India’s focus on empowering women in all fields- ‘Nari Shakti”. A cultural programme was also organized by the students of Indian Schools in Riyadh, which showcased the richness of India’s heritage and spirit of unity across borders.

On 08 February 2024, Hon’ble Minister visited General Authority for Defense Development (GADD), Saudi counterpart of DRDO, and met with its Governor H.E. Dr. Faleh bin-Abdullah Al-Sulaiman. They discussed areas of cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia in the defense sector and avenues for further collaboration. The Minister also extended invitation to GADD to visit India. Later on, Minister along with the delegation visited King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and met with President of KACST H.E. Muneer.M. Al-Desouki. Minister also toured KACST premises, including laboratories and production sites.

A Tri-Service women representation who are part of the visiting delegation, consists of Colonel Ponung Doming, Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth, and Lieutenant Commander Annu Prakash, interacted with more than 700 Indian students from various CBSE affiliated schools in Riyadh. The students asked many questions on opportunities for women in Armed forces in India and they were also thrilled to listen to the stories of grit, passion, and success.

The visit has reaffirmed the inherent strength of bilateral ties, opened new avenues for cooperation and solidified shared commitments towards a safer and prosperous future.

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Riyadh

08 February 2024

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