India, Saudi Arabia share mutual concerns on terrorism, trade

Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, today called on President Pranab Mukherjee with the two leaders discussing various issues, including trade and terrorism, during their meeting.
The President told his guest that India shares many security concerns with Saudi Arabia as both countries are vulnerable to the menace of terrorism.
He expressed happiness that the two nations have been cooperating in the fight against terrorism, including in the exchange of information related to terrorist activities involving money laundering, narcotics and arms and human trafficking, Rashtrapati Bhavan spokesperson Venu Rajamony said in a release.
The Crown Prince, for his part, welcomed India's cooperation in fighting terrorism.

"Saudi-India cooperation is mutually beneficial and of benefit to all countries of the world. India has its own weight on the world stage. Relations must be solidified and strengthened," the spokesperson quoted the visiting dignitary as saying.
The President said that bilateral trade between India and Saudi Arabia had grown significantly to cross USD 43 billion in 2012-13.
"There is still a lot that can be achieved together. There is a need to diversify trade relations to non-oil trade sectors. Globally reputed Indian companies, with expertise and competence in infrastructure development, are keen to work in upcoming projects in Saudi Arabia.

"India invites Saudi investors to actively participate in the development of its infrastructure, especially in construction projects for highways, ports, airports, metros, supply chains and warehousing and power plants which are being regularly launched in India," Mukherjee told the Saudi crown prince.