The age-old ties that bind Indian subcontinent and Arabian Peninsula are manifested in a string of similarities that exist within the realm of culture, traditions and norms of the two regions. Trade and commerce provided means of uninterrupted continuum in mutual interaction throughout the history of the two regions. The mutually beneficial trade not only enhanced the collective understanding of the peoples of the two lands, but also produced a unique and distinct symbiotic relationship, which only got strengthened and reinforced with the passage of time. In the 20th century, the role played by the leadership of the two countries in shaping political landscape in their respective countries evoked a shared sense of respect and mutual admiration. In India, there is a deep sense of appreciation for the historic role played by the founder of the Kingdom, King Abdul Aziz Al-Saud, in unifying the peninsula and restoring peace to it. India and Saudi Arabia established diplomatic relations soon after the independence of the former in 1947. The Indian government has supported efforts by the Saudi leadership to improve the overall aspects of Haj management, which has made the pilgrimage for the Muslims across the world a more organized, safe, comfortable and pleasant experience. A significant number of Indians perform Haj and Umrah annually. There has been an unwavering commitment on the part of the leadership of the two countries to intensify bilateral relations in recent times. The two historical visits in the first decade of this century have re-defined the nature of the bilateral engagement and provided a fresh impetus to it. The two documents viz. Delhi Declaration and Riyadh Declaration committed the two countries to pursue a joint strategic vision to promote bilateral relations for mutual benefit as well as for peace, stability and development of the entire region. It further elevated the engagement to the level of strategic partnership and articulated their commitment to promote ties in political, economic, security, defense and cultural spheres. The trade relations between the two sides witnessed unprecedented growth in the last few years. The two-way India-Saudi trade stood at $36 billion in 2011-12. Indian exports to the Kingdom during April-November 2012 grew from $3.5 billion to $6 billion over the corresponding period in 2011. Saudi exports to India during April-November 2012 increased to $21 billion from $20 billion over the corresponding period in 2011. Saudi Arabia is the fourth largest trading partner of India and is also the largest supplier of crude oil. India represents the fifth largest market for Saudi exports, accounting for 7.55 percent of its global export. In terms of investment, there are 426 licenses issued to Indian companies for joint ventures/100 percent-owned entities till 2010, which is expected to bring over $1.6 billion worth of investments in Saudi Arabia. These licenses are in the diverse sectors such as management and consultancy services, construction projects, telecommunications, information technology and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, several Indian companies have established collaboration with Saudi companies and are already operating in the Kingdom. The presence of a large number of Indian expatriates in the Kingdom, who while living in peace and harmony, contribute in a significant way to the overall growth and development of Saudi Arabia. An increasing number of Indians are engaged in technical and professional activities in different parts of the Kingdom. There is also enhanced cultural interaction between the two sides. The presence of political will at the top echelons of the two countries represent the common desire of the peoples of the two countries to strengthen the relationship at all levels. In the last few years, there is an increase in high-level bilateral political exchanges; enhanced interactions between the business communities of the two sides; increased cooperation in defense and counter terrorism; and more cultural exchanges. The recent trends in the India-Saudi relations point toward increasing cooperation and collaboration in all fields of activity, to the betterment of peoples of the two great nations.
