ON the occasion of India’s 72nd Independence Day, I extend warm greetings to my fellow Indians living in the Western region of the Kingdom.

We achieved our Independence after much struggle and sacrifice by our countless freedom fighters. Their sacrifice motivates all Indians to love our country and be forever willing to sacrifice even our lives for its honor and integrity. This is also an occasion to glorify the great Indian culture and tradition, which has impressed the whole world.

This year, in the context of India’s 72nd Independence Day and as a tribute to our Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhiji, an exclusive exhibition of Khadi products will also be organized at the Consulate premises on Aug. 15 after the flag hoisting ceremony.

As Haj is on its full swing now, on this occasion, I would also like to wish all the Hajis including from India for a pleasant, safe and comfortable Haj.

India and Saudi Arabia enjoy excellent relations reflecting the centuries old economic and socio-cultural ties. With the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Saudi Arabia in April 2016 and consequent high level visits, the level of bilateral engagement between the two countries has reached new heights.

As India was the Guest of Honor country in the 32nd Janadriyah Festival this year, it has also strengthened our relations further. The existence of over 3 million strong Indian expatriate in the Kingdom and out of which about 1.2 million in the Western region has also immensely contributed in economic and socio-cultural ties between the two countries. The increase in mutual business delegations is a welcome trend.

The government and the people of India are grateful to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman and Haj Minister Dr. Benten for making excellent arrangements for Haj-2018. This year, 1,75,025 Indian nationals will be performing Haj, which is the highest number from India so far. Government of India remains committed to partner closely with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to work towards a very successful Haj 2018.

We would also like to thank the Saudi Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Labor, Interior and the Authorities of Zawazat, Tarheel and other concerned agencies who have always provided best possible assistance to us for the welfare of the Indian community in the Kingdom.

The Consulate has also strengthened its grievance redressal mechanism. The Consulate is now able to issue new passports within 3 working days. We remain committed to extend our best possible services to the Indian community in the Western region of Saudi Arabia and also work closely with the Kingdom for an enhanced bilateral relationship between India and KSA.

Jai Hind

Md. Noor Rahman Sheikh

Consul General of India