Members of the Indian community in Saudi Arabia expressed immense joy and enthusiasm upon meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in Saudi Arabia on an official visit at the invitation of the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman.
The dancers who performed before PM Modi said that they had been waiting for days for this moment. "It was such a wonderful opportunity to perform in front of the Prime Minister of India," they said.
One of those gathered to greet the Indian dignitary said: "It is a great day for us and we are feeling very lucky that PM Modi has come here. His visit has boosted our spirits and morale. We take great pride in how PM Modi is showcasing India to the world."
Another woman expressed her happiness, stating: "We were very happy to see PM Modi. My heart swelled and tears welled up in my eyes as I saw him. I am feeling very, very happy".
Hashim Abbas, a Saudi singer who performed the song Ae Watan for PM Modi, said: "It was great to have PM Modi over here... I have known India for a long time and I have loved India for a long time."
Earlier, in an interview with ‘Arab News’ ahead of the visit, PM Modi has spoken about the 2.7 million strong Indian community in Saudi Arabia.
He said: "For my government, the members of the Indian diaspora are the ‘rashtradoots’ (national ambassadors). The 4Cs – Care, Connect, Celebrate and Contribute – is the motto of our engagement with our diaspora. Their safety, welfare and wellbeing is paramount for us."
PM Narendra Modi, along with Crown Prince and the PM of Saudi Arabia, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, will co-chair the second Leaders' Meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council during his visit to the country.
Anil Malpani encapsulated the diaspora’s excitement as he spoke of the “aura of Modiji”.
He said: "It was wonderful to meet PM Modi, we came to raise the issue about having a consulate built in Dammam, so hopefully the dream will come true.
"We can't put our feelings and excitement into words… We are very happy that PM Modi came here and we got to spend this time with him".
(*With ANI Inputs)
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