ON the occasion of the 69th Republic Day of India, I extend my best wishes to all my fellow Indian citizens residing in the Western Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

India and Saudi Arabia enjoy cordial and friendly relations reflecting the centuries old economic and socio-cultural ties. With the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Saudi Arabia in April 2016, the level of bilateral engagement between the two countries has reached new heights. The existence of over 3.25 million strong Indian expatriate in the Kingdom — out of which about 1.3 million are at 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 Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, deputy premier and minister of defense, and Haj Minister Dr. Benten for making excellent arrangements during Haj-2017. For the year 2018, 1,75,025 Indian nationals will be coming for Haj. The Indian side remains committed to partner closely with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to work towards a very successful Haj 2018.

We are grateful to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, for giving amnesty to overstayers last year. 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. The Consulate facilitated exit of more than 10,000 Indian nationals by availing this facility.

The Consulate has also strengthened the grievance redressal mechanism. The Consulate makes best efforts to issue new passports within 3 working days. We remain committed to extend best possible services to the Indian community in the Western Province of Saudi Arabia.

Jai Hind!

Md. Noor Rahman Sheikh

Consul General of India