Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Defense, received here today Indian Defense Minister Arackaparambil Kurien Antony in the presence of Prince Khalid bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Minister of Defense. During the meeting, they held talks and made an in-depth review of aspects of cooperation between the two countries and ways of enhancing bilateral ties. In a statement at the outset of the meeting, Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz hailed Saudi-Indian relations as deep-rooted, saying that they started since the historic visit of the late King Saud bin Abdulaziz to India. Prince Salman also highlighted the visit of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to India in January 2006 that he said boosted further cooperation between the two countries and strengthened the partnership in the framework of mutual interest and the close ties that combine the two countries. Prince Salman stated the visit of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz was culminated into the signing of several agreements which boosted these relations. "Moreover, the meeting of the Saudi-Indian joint committee last month provided ample evidence of the firm desire to continue booting these relationships for the benefit of the two friendly countries," he added. For his part, the Indian Minister of Defense said his visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was important for promoting cooperation between the two countries. He also stressed the keenness of the Indian government to strengthen further relations with the Kingdom.
